Patent Publication Number: US-6708360-B2

Title: Multipurpose hand-held implement

Description:
This application is a con of Ser. No. 09/355,252 Mar. 14, 2000 U.S. Pat. No. 6,493,893 which is a 371 of PCT/EP98/100446 Jan. 28, 1998. 
    
    
     The invention relates to a multipurpose hand-held implement, in particular for office work, which in a stored position forms an elongate, essentially closed parallelepipedic body which is delimited by front surfaces, top surfaces and lateral surfaces and has functional elements of a stapler and/or a hole puncher, and is provided with at least one insertion slot, which runs inward from one of the front surfaces, for material which is to be stapled or punched. 
     Such a hand-held implement forms the subject-matter of our earlier European Patent Application 96927627.8, which was not published before the priority date. The implement described in that document comprises a first member and a second member which are connected to one another in an articulated manner and the relative movement of which actuates a stapler and a hole puncher. Furthermore, various utensils, such as knives, cutters, scissors and so on, which are preferably accommodated in a slidingly movable manner in channels of the implement and are pushed out of these channels in order to be used, are provided on or in the implement. For stability reasons, these sliding guides have to be of relatively solid design, which makes the implement relatively large and heavy. 
     The object of the invention is to provide an implement of the type outlined in the introduction which, while being highly stable, is relatively lightweight and small. 
     The way in which this object is achieved can be gathered from patent claim  1 . 
     The invention also relates to modules which are suitable, as assemblies, for the implement according to claim  1 . 
     The invention additionally relates to a stapler mechanism which is suitable for use in the implement according to the invention. 
     Finally, the invention relates to a hole puncher mechanism which is suitable for use in the implement according to the invention. The invention also relates to an implement of the construction mentioned in the introduction in the case of which a sliding utensil is provided in addition to swing-out utensils. 
    
    
     Exemplary embodiments of the subject matter of the invention are explained in more detail hereinbelow with reference to the attached drawings. 
     FIG. 1 shows, in perspective, a first embodiment of an implement according to the invention, 
     FIG. 2 is a longitudinally sectioned illustration of the implement according to FIG. 1, 
     FIG. 3 shows, similarly to FIG. 2, a modification of the implement, 
     FIG. 4 shows, in perspective, a second embodiment of an implement according to the invention, 
     FIG. 5 shows a utensil module of the implement according to FIG. 4, 
     FIG. 6 is a side view of the implement according to FIG. 4, 
     FIG. 7 is a longitudinally sectioned illustration of the implement according to FIG. 4, 
     FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional illustration of the implement according to FIG. 4, 
     FIG. 9 shows an exploded illustration of the implement according to FIG. 4, 
     FIG. 10 shows details of the stapler mechanism in an exploded illustration, 
     FIGS. 11 to  13  show sectional views of the skeleton of the lower part of the implement, with the module attachment means and parts of the stapler mechanism, 
     FIG. 14 shows a plan view of the bottom part of the implement according to FIGS. 11 to  13 , 
     FIG. 15 shows, in longitudinal section, details of the hole puncher mechanism, 
     FIGS. 16 to  18  show, partially in section, a chad container in various functional positions, 
     FIGS. 19 to  21  show, similarly, a modified chad container, 
     FIGS. 22 to  25  illustrate, partially in section, details of a stapler-release mechanism, 
     FIG. 26 shows an exploded illustration of a further implement according to the invention, 
     FIG. 27 is a longitudinal section of the implement according to FIG. 26, 
     FIGS. 28 and 29 show details of the anvil and support stage in plan view, 
     FIGS. 30 and 31 show, in longitudinal section, details of the anvil arrangement and of the support stage, 
     FIGS. 32 to  34  show, in longitudinal section, configurations of the punch, 
     FIG. 35 shows another configuration of the stapler-release arrangement, in longitudinal section, 
     FIG. 36 illustrates, in longitudinal section, a further configuration of the chad container, 
     FIGS. 37 to  40  illustrate, in schematic longitudinal sections and cross sections, the construction of the module according to the invention, 
     FIGS. 41 to  47  show alternative configurations of individual members, 
     FIG. 48 shows an alternative to FIG.  12 . 
    
    
     Two basic concepts are provided, namely an “integrated” variant and a “modular” variant. In the case of the integrated variant, all the members are installed one after the other in an order determined by the most expedient operating sequence. In the case of the modular variant, a stapler and/or hole puncher module and a utensil module are each individually pre-installed, attached and provided with coverings. 
     FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an implement  800  according to the invention, comprising two members  1 ,  2  including a stapler and hole puncher mechanism, in the transportation state, i.e. the state in which it is closed with all the utensils in the swung-in position. While the stapler and hole puncher mechanism will be explained at a later stage in the text, the tools knife  802 , scissors  804  and staple remover  806  can be swung out of a receiving space, provided in the lower part of the implement, about a common pivot pin  808 . The receiving space for the utensils is covered by a cover  812 , which is essentially flush with the outer contour of the implement. Normally, only one tool is swung out and, for the purpose of simplified handling, the cover is closed. It is only to aid understanding that FIG. 2 shows the cover open, the knife  802  swung out and the staple remover  806  pivoted through only 90°. Springs (not shown) may be provided in order to keep the tools biased to their storing position and/or their working position. In FIG. 3, the implement is modified such that the cover  820  pivots about an axis which is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the implement. The spring  822  biases the cover into the open position, and the locking means  824  secures it in the closed position. It would also be possible for the cover to be omitted or designed as a sliding cover, e.g. a shutter-like cover. 
     An exemplary embodiment of a modular implement having a stapler/hole puncher assembly and a utensil module, which is inserted as a separate assembly into said stapler/hole puncher assembly, will now be explained with reference to FIGS. 4 to  25 . FIG. 4 shows the complete implement in a perspective view with the knife swung out, FIG. 5 shows the utensil module as a separate entity, FIG. 6 shows a side view of the implement, FIG. 7 shows a longitudinal section and FIG. 8 shows a cross section. FIG. 9 is an exploded illustration in which, in many cases, reference can also be made back to details of the above-described integral construction and/or of the abovementioned earlier application. 
     First, FIGS. 7 to  14  are considered together. 
     Provided in the upper shell  2000 , made of plastic, are cutouts for the passage of an opening button  2002 , of a stapler-release button  2004  and of a staple-magazine button  2006 . The opening button  2002  interacts with a leaf spring  2008  which is guided in a longitudinally displaceable manner on the upper part  2010  and keeps the two members locked in their first position. In this respect, reference may be made to the disclosure of the abovementioned earlier application. The upper shell has a curved top surface  2001  and planar lateral walls  2003 , which are set back somewhat and covered by screens  2012 . The upper part  2010  has lugs  2014  with bearing bores  2016 , through which the main pivot  2018  passes in the installed state. The locking hook  2020  for the stapler-release button  2004  is mounted on the upper part  2010  by means of pin  2022 , in front of which the staple driver  2024  is fastened. The upper part  2010 , which is in the form of an upside-down U in cross section, receives the staple channel  2026 , which can likewise be pivoted about the main pin  2018  and in which the staple magazine  2028  is guided in a longitudinally displaceable manner. The upper element of the stapling mechanism is completed by the rod  2030 , pressure-exerting element  2032  and compression spring  2034  for advancing the staples; the details of the construction can be gathered from the abovementioned earlier application. Also mounted on the staple channel, pivotably about pin  2038 , is the unblocking lever  2036  of the “flat-clinch mechanism”, said lever being biased into the blocking position by spring  2040 . Finally, the staple channel also has aligned slots  2042 , in which the unblocking pin  2044  is guided displaceably. The unblocking pin  2044  engages into the catch  2046  of the staple magazine  2028  and can be displaced into the release position by the tilting lever  2048 , which is normally retained in the blocking position by spring  2050 , if the staple-magazine button  2006  is pushed. The tilting lever  2048  is also mounted on the main pin  2018 . 
     The upper member is supported on the lower member via the staple channel and the main spring  2052 . 
     The lower member comprises the lower part  2054  which is angled in the form of an upside-down U and, moreover, has an offset in height between the stapler side and the hole puncher side. Formed on the stapler side is an aperture  2056  for receiving the stapler support stage  2058  and the anvil  2060 . Provided beneath the aperture is a supporting plate  2062  on which the anvil is supported. The blocking slider  2064  projects with its fork-shaped front end  2066  into the space between the supporting plate  2062  and lower part  2054 . The release button  2068  projects through the corresponding aperture  2070  of the stapler support stage. Finally, the actuating arms  2072  of the blocking slider extend upwards, through the apertures  2074  of the lower part, into the path of the unblocking lever  2036  when the latter is deflected. 
     The construction of the “flat-clinch arrangement” in the lower member is illustrated in more detail in FIG.  10 . As is known, the stapler support stage  2058  in such an arrangement ensures that, when a staple is ejected from the staple channel, its legs first of all pass through the stapling material without striking against the anvil; it is only when the unblocking lever, which senses the relative angle between the upper part and staple channel, has displaced the blocking slider  2064  inwards that the fork-shaped end  2066  of the latter yields inwards and thus permits the stapler support stage to tilt downwards and the staple to come into contact with the anvil  2060 . 
     The tilting articulation of the stapler support stage  2058  is defined by the inner end of the stapler support stage, the said end being designed as a fork  2076  and being pushed over the inner transverse edge  2078  of the aperture  2056 . This permits longitudinal displacement of the stapler support stage during tilting. For reasons which will be clarified from the description of FIGS. 28 and 29, the through-passage opening  2080  of the stapler support stage is of approximately oval form, adapted to the outline of the bead-like thickened head  2082  of the anvil  2060 . This gives linear contact between the head and the inner wall of the through-passage opening  2080 , which makes it possible for the gap between the two to be kept minimal over the entire pivot path, in order that the risk of a staple jamming between the two is low. The stapler support stage is pushed upwards by a spring  2084  which is plugged onto the post  2086  of the supporting plate  2062  and a mating post  2087  of the stapler support stage. The upper end position is defined by the stops  2088  resting, in the through-passage opening  2080 , against the underside of the head  2082 . Clamped in between a lower projection  2090  of the stapler support stage and an upwardly projecting extension  2092  of the blocking slider  2064  is a compression spring  2094  which, on the one hand, keeps the stapler support stage  2058  in engagement with the front edge of the head  2082  of the anvil  2060  and, on the other hand, pushes the blocking slider  2064  into its blocking position. During installation, the anvil  2060  is inserted through the through-passage opening  2080  and riveted in an aperture  2096  of the supporting plate  2066 . 
     The U-base  2100  of the lower part  2054  has a first planar section  2102  with the aperture  2056 , a second planar section  2104 , which is at a lower level than the first planar section and is parallel thereto, and a sloping section  2106 , which connects the other two sections and in which there is formed a hollow  2108  in which the main spring  2052  (if it is designed as a coil spring in accordance with FIG. 7) is positioned and supported on an inner flange  2110 . 
     A bearing bracket  2112  is fastened on the U-base  2100 . The block is a part which has been formed by punching and bending and has a U-shaped contour. The U-base comprises an inner transverse web  2114 , a central aperture, through which the main spring  2052 , which is designed as a coil spring, also extends, and an outer transverse web  2116  with a smaller aperture, into which a guide bush  2118  for the punch  2120  is inserted. The two transverse webs of the block are located in a common plane, with the result that a gap for receiving papers which are to be punched is produced between the second planar section  2104  and the outer transverse web  2116 . The contour of the lower border of the U-legs  2122  follows the slope of the section  2106 , but has in each case one fastening tab  2125 , which is bent inwards through 90° and is parallel to the sloping section  2106 , and one double hook  2126  on both sides. Above the double hooks, the contour of the block forms a stop for the purpose of positioning papers which are to be punched. During installation, these double hooks are inserted through in each case one slot  2124  of the lower part, and then the block is pushed outwards until the outer hook sections  2128  of the double hooks engage beneath the second planar section  2104 . In this position, the inner transverse web  2114  and the fastening tabs  2125  are connected to the lower part, e.g. by spot welding. 
     Inwardly angled tabs  2170  are integrally formed on the upper free edges of the U-legs, and the upper part  2010  has lateral hollows  2172  into which in each case one integrally formed hook  2174  projects. The tabs and the hooks form stops and mating stops which delimit the opening angle between the upper part and the lower part. 
     The planar section  2104  of the lower part also has an aperture  2130 , into which the light guide  2132  intended as a positioning aid for the hole puncher projects, as well as the hole die  2134  which interacts with the punch  2120 . The details can be seen in FIG.  15 . Unlike the configuration in the earlier application which has already been mentioned a number of times, the punch  2120  is held in position, by a leaf spring  2136 , against the curvature  2138  of the upper part in order that said punch does not project into the hole puncher gap  2139  even when the stapler is activated, that is to say the staple channel  2026  is lowered. The hole puncher gap for papers which are to be punched is terminated at the top by a thin covering plate  2140 . 
     Finally, the lower member further comprises the utensil module  2180 , which is fitted on the supporting plate  2062  via front fitting means  3002  and on the inner end sections  5500  of the double hooks  2126  via rear fitting means  3004 , and also comprises the lower plastic shell  2142  with the cover  2144  for the compartment for receiving the chads, referred to here and below as “confetti”, punched out by means of the punch  2120 . 
     As can be seen in FIG. 8, free spaces are provided between the outer walls of the module and the inner sides of the U-legs of the lower part  2054 , and additional functional parts of the module are located in these free spaces. The lower plastic shell engages around the free edges of the U-legs and the free edges of the module outer walls and covers the free spaces towards the outside. At the locations where the utensils are to be swung out of the module, the lower plastic shell has cutouts, so as to define a plane for the purpose of setting down the implement. 
     In the case of the above-described embodiment, the division of space is of particular importance, since the dimensions of the implement can be optimized as a result. The graduation in height of the lower member makes it possible to provide the necessary displacement for the punch above the hole die, while the height requirement for the chad container may be relatively low. On the other hand, the utensil module requires more height, and the anvil-side members of the stapler, in particular when the latter is provided with a “flat-clinch arrangement”, also require a certain amount of space in the lower member, while the space requirement for the staple channel and the staple driver as well as the locking mechanism, in contrast, is relatively low. In addition, fastening tabs of the bearing bracket and the supporting means for the main spring, which biases the two members in the opening direction, are located above the module. Consequently, the module is fitted at a distance from the base surface of the second member. This construction also results in different planes for the purpose of positioning the papers which are to be stapled, on the one hand, and the papers which are to be punched, on the other hand. 
     Without the offset in height presented here, the implement would end up being significantly higher without gaining any functional advantages therefrom. 
     In addition, in an embodiment with a stapler and a hole puncher, there is an optimum utilization of space in the longitudinal extent of the lower member, with the receiving space for the assembly of the utensils on one end side and the receiving space for the chads from the hole puncher on the other end side, which spaces adjoin one another, and with the option of installing a positioning window for the hole puncher between the two receiving spaces. 
     Three configurations of the confetti compartment and its cover are illustrated in FIGS. 16 to  21 . The principle consists in signalling to the user that it is necessary for the compartment to be emptied before the cover is forced open by the accumulated confetti. 
     FIG. 18 shows, in section, the confetti compartment with the cover  2144  closed. In each case one leaf spring or wire spring  2146  on both sides of the light guide  2132  pushes on the projections  2145  integrally formed on the cover and keeps the cover closed. If the confetti pushes on the cover on the inside, said cover is first of all lifted off from the confetti compartment somewhat counter to the spring bias, as is shown in FIG. 17, as a result of which it is brought to the user&#39;s attention that the compartment is full; the sealing lip  2148 , however, ensures that confetti does not drop out, since the cover is still kept closed by the springs  2146 . The springs have bulged-out sections  2150  which the projections  2145  have to run over before the cover springs, under the action of the springs  2146 , into the open position according to FIG.  16 . These bulged-out sections then also keep the cover in the open position, which is illustrated in FIG.  16 . 
     In the embodiment according to FIG. 19, use is made of leg springs  2152  which constantly push the cover into the closed position, thus ensuring that the cover is always closed following the opening operation. 
     While in the case of the two embodiments described here the cover is articulated about a pin  2154  on the housing, it is the case for the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 20 and 21 that the ends of the leg springs  2156  are angled and themselves bear the cover. This is logistically advantageous and makes it possible for the cover to be pivoted open through almost 180°, as is shown in FIG.  20 . 
     FIGS. 22 to  25  illustrate the means for activating the stapler as well as the interaction of the stapler button  2004  with the locking hook  2020 . FIG. 22 shows the initial position. Button  2004  can be pivoted about pin  2158  against the bias of a spring (not shown here) and has articulated on it a lever  2160  which, biased by spring  2162 , is held in position against a stop (not shown). The locking hook  2020  is biased by spring  2164  into the locking position and secures the locking pins  2166 , provided on the staple channel, and thus the staple channel itself in its upper position. When pressure is exerted on the button, the locking hook releases the pins  2166  and pivots back into its initial position even if the button  2004  is kept pressed down; if the button is kept pressed down during stapling, it is nevertheless possible for the hook to pivot back into its initial position, in which case it deflects the lever  2160  somewhat; this is shown in FIG.  24 . If the button is released once the locking hook  2020  has been pivoted back into its initial position, the lever can pass the locking hook, with deflection against to the bias of the spring  2162 , into the correct initial position according to FIG. 22, as is shown in FIG.  25 . If, for any reason, the staple channel is jammed in the upper part, the locking lever can only be deflected until it strikes against the staple channel, in which case it remains in the open position as a result of the button being pressed; this is shown in FIG.  23 . Manipulation, for example using a tool or the like, of the angled section  2168  allows the staple channel to be released, since the locking hook has already released the pins  2166  to the extent where the staple channel can move. 
     FIGS. 26 and 27 relate to an inventive implement of integrated construction, as defined above. FIG. 26 is an exploded illustration, while FIG. 27 illustrates a central longitudinal section. In the case of this implement, one of the utensils, namely the staple remover, cannot be swung out but instead is guided displaceably on the underside of the implement, while in each case at least one further, swing-out utensil is accommodated in lateral channels. The advantage of this configuration is that the staple remover thus immediately moves into a convenient working position. 
     FIG. 26 shows the skeleton of the implement. From top to bottom, the implement comprises an upper plastic shell  910  with a curved top surface  912  and planar lateral walls  914  which are set back somewhat, a cavity being delimited as a result. Metallic screens  916  engage over the side walls  914 . An upper part  918  and an outer channel  920  are installed pivotably on the main pin  922 . The outer channel  920  retains the staple carrier  924 . The upper part  918  has a section  926  for the actuation of the punch  928 , which is guided in a bore  932  of a sliding bearing  930 , the latter being made preferably from aluminium or magnesium. The sliding bearing  930  is pressed into a corresponding opening of the block  934 . The block  934  is installed on a combined base  936  by means of three rivets, the holes of which are marked by  938 . 
     The lower part  936  comprises a base part  940  and a covering part  942 , the latter being fastened rigidly on the base part, for example by means of spot welding. The base part  940  comprises a bottom wall  944 , a top wall  946  and side walls  948  which connect the top wall and the bottom wall, thus forming a rigid channel-like profile. The top wall  946  is recessed for receiving the anvil  950  and support stage  952  (FIG.  27 ). The bottom wall is recessed for receiving the confetti compartment  954 , which is formed integrally with the lower plastic shell  956 . The bottom wall  944  has an elongate slot for guiding a staple remover  966 , and in each case one utensil can be swung out of the channels formed between the side walls  948  and the covering part. 
     The staple remover  966  has a grip piece with a contour which is complementary to a recess  968  of the lower shell  956 . The staple remover latches in its rest position and can be released by means of a push button  967 . A nose  957  interacts with the staple remover in order, when the staple remover is pushed in, to eject a removed staple which is seated on said staple remover. The lower shell  956  is installed on the bottom wall  944  by means of a screw  970  and snap-on arms  972 . Furthermore, the top wall  946  has an integrally formed tubular rivet  960 , which also retains the lower shell  956 , in the vicinity of the punch  928 . 
     Looking now at FIGS. 28 to  36 , alternative configurations of individual parts or assemblies will be explained. 
     The punch  928  (FIG. 26) or  2120  (FIG. 9) expediently comprises a tube part  962  and a plastic cap  964  with a cylindrically curved upper side, which are connected to one another by a snap-in action (FIGS.  27  and  34 ), a moulding-on operation (FIG. 32) or a press-fit connection (FIG.  33 ). This achieves linear contact between the rounded head of the cap and bead  926 . At lateral projections  929  of the cap (FIG.  26 ), the stapler channel  920  engages beneath the punch and thus draws it upwards following a punching operation. 
     FIGS. 28 to  31  show devices that can largely prevent the jamming of staples or, if a staple actually does jam, can remove the latter again conveniently. 
     If a staple jams between the anvil  950  (FIG. 26) and the support stage, the removal of a staple which has jammed in this way is facilitated in that a recess  1000  is provided in the support stage  952  such that the blocking part  1002  is accessible. A projection  1004  of the part  1002  expediently extends into the recess  1000 . The blocking part  1002  can thus be displaced manually in order that the support stage  952  can be pushed down manually and the jammed staple is freed. Alternatively, or additionally, the adjoining surfaces of the anvil and support stage may be contoured instead of being planar, and thus prevent the penetration of staples. As an example, FIG. 29 shows serrated contours of the anvil  950 , which interact with a complementary opening of the support stage. It would also be possible for a curved contour (FIG. 28) to serve the same purpose. When a staple is clamped in, the support stage may be jammed in its pushed-down position. Release of the support stage is then facilitated by the provision of a nose  1006  and a recess  1008  in the base plate  942 , which recess permits access to the nose  1006  from beneath in order thus for the support stage  952  to be drawn out (FIGS. 28 to  31 ). 
     Similarly, according to FIG. 35 a staple could jam in the staple channel  920  if a user were to try stapling very hard material and the channel were to remain hanging in the upper part  918  (FIG. 26) although the button  1010  has been pushed down. In order to simplify manipulation of the channel, the button  1010  and the lever  1012  may be formed such that the lever has a projection  1014  which acts directly on the channel  920  in order, when the button  1010  is pressed, to displace said channel downwards out of the upper part and thus to release the jamming. It would also be possible for a nose  1011  to be provided on the end side of the staple channel  920 , so that said channel could be drawn down by the nose in the event of jamming. 
     FIG. 36 is a partial longitudinal section for the purpose of illustrating a modified design of the receiving compartment for the chads of the hole puncher, i.e. of the cavity in which paper chads, which have been punched out by means of the punch  928 , are collected. The design differs from those described above in that the cover  1016  is connected in an articulated manner to the body of the lower shell  956  by means of a polypropylene strip  1018  which is joined to the cover or the rear wall  1020 . The correct fit of the cover when it is closed is ensured by arms  1022 , which engage in openings of the rear wall  1020  to the side of a light guide (which can be seen in FIGS.  9  and  27 ), and by the two-position locking means  1024 . A rib  1026 , which is arranged beneath the hole die in the receiving compartment, deflects incoming paper chads, in order thus to render the filling of the receiving compartment more uniform. 
     With reference to FIGS. 37 to  40 , the utensil module will now be explained. In this exemplary embodiment, said module comprises two planar congruent outer walls  3000  each with two assembly hooks  3002  and  3004 , respectively. The hooks  3002  are fitted on the supporting plate  2062  (FIG.  9 ), while the hooks  3004  are brought into engagement with the double hooks  2126  of the block. Laterally projecting projections  3006  (FIG. 5) keep the module centred in the lower part (FIG.  5 ), and said module is secured in the installed position by virtue of lugs  3008  being bent out (FIG.  11 ). As in the exemplary embodiment, the space between the outer walls can be subdivided, by thinner intermediate walls  3010 , into individual compartments for in each case at least one utensil. 
     The utensils can be swung out about a common pin  3012 , and the blade of a knife  3014  is shown in FIGS. 37 to  40  as an example for the purpose of explaining the functions. Leaf springs  3016  rest with their head  3018  against the foot  3020  of the relevant utensil and keep the latter either in the swung-in position, as is shown in FIG. 37, or in the swung-out position according to FIG.  39 . During the swinging movements, sliding friction acts between the spring head and utensil foot (FIG.  38 ). In this respect, there is similarity with pocket knives, from which it is also possible to derive the geometry of the outline of the spring head, on the one hand, and of the utensil foot, on the other hand. The springs are designed as two-armed levers; their articulations are formed by rivets  3022 , and the lever arm  3023  which is directed away from the head  3018  is supported on the rivet  3024 . 
     In the mounted state, the utensils, and any lamellae  3010  provided between them are located, with essentially congruent contours, in a recessed position with respect to the plastic shell. Close to the swing-out axis, the module is laterally supported by protrusions on the insides of the U-legs of the lower part  2054 , for example rivet heads  3025  (FIG.  5 ), in order to avoid torsional deformation. 
     A number of variants on the exemplary embodiments described above will be explained with reference to FIGS. 41 to  47 . 
     FIGS. 41 and 42 show, in partial longitudinal section, the stapler support stage  4000  and the blocking angle piece  4002  with the support stage in the supported and pressed-down positions, respectively. The blocking angle piece has angled sections  4004  which from below are pushed through and then over the base surface of the lower part  2054  through the slots  4006 , which have been somewhat extended for this purpose. The aperture  4008  of the support stage then engages over the projection  4010  of the blocking angle piece and forms the stop for the release position of the blocking angle piece (FIG.  42 ), in which the angled sections are still supported. 
     FIG. 43 shows a partial longitudinal section in the area of the hole puncher. The main spring is in this case designed as a powerful bent double-wire spring  4020  which is supported on one side against the lower part  4022  and on the other side against the upper part  4024  and penetrates through the block  4026 , cf. also FIG.  9 . 
     FIG. 44 shows, in partial longitudinal section, a modified form of the punch. Its cutting part is delimited by a ground-in groove  4030 . As a result, confetti which has been cut out can become trapped in this groove, particularly if relatively sturdy material is being punched. To prevent this, the punch contains an ejector  4032  which projects into the groove and presses on the centre of the chad before its outer contour has been completely cut through, thus directing the chad towards the confetti compartment. Consequently, after the cutting operation has finished, it is forced away from the punch by dint of its own elasticity. Advantageously, the ejector is formed integrally with the cap  4034  and is press-fitted into the hollow punch. 
     FIG. 45 shows a partial longitudinal section and FIG. 46 a partial cross section of a preferred configuration of the receiving compartment for the chads from the hole puncher. The compartment  5000  is moulded onto the lower plastic shell and is provided with a flap of U-shaped cross section  5002 , which flap can be displaced out of a closed position into the emptying position illustrated in the drawings by powerful articulations  5004 ; the open limit position is fixed by the stop arrangement  5006  between compartment and flap. The closed position is secured by the fact that the boss  5008  latches into the latching notch  5010 ; in this position, the flap is biased by the leg spring  5012 . 
     When the compartment fills up, the chads exert pressure on the flap until it is released from the latching notch  5010  counter to the spring force. However, the flap only opens through a small angle, since the boss  5008  latches into a second latching notch  5014 . In this position of the flap, it is still impossible for any chads to fall out of the compartment, since the side walls  5016  of the flap and its end side still cover the opening gap. However, the fact that the flap is no longer flush with the body of the implement provides the user with a warning that it is time to empty the compartment. In order to ensure that the side walls  5016  bear securely and that the flap latches into the latching positions over a prolonged period, so as to protect against the penetration of chads, a metal spreader member  5018  is fitted in the flap, which spreader member is U-shaped in cross section and presses outwards by means of its U-legs. 
     Finally, FIG. 47 shows how a jammed staple channel  4062  is released by means of a tool  4060 , for example a screwdriver, by pressing on its nose  4064 . Of course, this only works when the stapler-release button is depressed; otherwise, the implement would be damaged. In this case, the release button  4066  is provided with a nub  4068  which, as seen from the staple channel, lies beyond the button articulation  4070 , so that when the tool is brought into contact with the nub  4068  from below, the button is rotated clockwise and thus moves into the release position. 
     Where the above description uses the term “utensils”, this term is to be understood in the broadest possible sense and comprises tools, measuring implements, illumination devices and other equipment which is desirable and useful in particular for office work. 
     The invention can be used for various implements, some of which are defined below: 
     Multipurpose hand-held implement, in particular for office work, having a first member and a second member which are connected movably to one another and can be moved between a first position, in which they form together, with essentially congruent contours, an elongate, essentially closed-off cuboidal body, in the case of which the two members are located one above the other with base surfaces directed towards one another, and a second position, designed in such a manner that 
     one of the members has a staple magazine and a staple driver of a stapler and the other member has an anvil for bending round the ends of ejected staples, and/or 
     one of the members has a punch and a hole die of a hole puncher, and the other member has a pressure lever for actuating the punch, 
     in the second position, the members form a free space between the base surfaces, for working with the stapler and/or hole puncher, by relative movement of the members, 
     at least one of the members is designed as a hollow body in which further tools are accommodated in such a manner that they can be displaced out of a storing position into a working position, and 
     means are provided for securing the members, in a manually releasable manner, in the first position, in which they together form a grip for handling the further tools. 
     As an alternative, the implement may be a multipurpose hand-held implement, in particular for office work, having a first member and a second member which are connected movably to one another and can be moved between a first position, in which they form together, with essentially congruent contours, an elongate, essentially closed-off cuboidal body, in the case of which the two members are located one above the other with base surfaces directed towards one another, and a second position, designed in such a manner that 
     one of the members has a staple magazine and a staple driver of a stapler and the other member has an anvil for bending round the ends of ejected staples, and/or 
     one of the members has a punch and a hole die of a hole puncher, and the other member has a pressure lever for actuating the punch, 
     in the second position, the members form a free space between the base surfaces, for working with the stapler and/or hole puncher, by relative movement of the members, 
     means are provided for securing the members, in a manually releasable manner, in the first position, in which they together form a grip for handling the further tools. 
     A further variant is a multipurpose hand-held implement, in particular for office work, having a first member and a second member which are connected movably to one another and can be moved between a first position, in which they form together, with essentially congruent contours, an elongate, essentially closed-off cuboidal body, in the case of which the two members are located one above the other with base surfaces directed towards one another, and a second position, designed in such a manner that 
     one of the members has a staple magazine and a staple driver of a stapler and the other member has an anvil for bending round the ends of ejected staples, 
     the members, in the second position, form a free space between the base surfaces for stapling by means of relative movement of the members, 
     after each stapling operation, the stapler is automatically deactivated and can be manually activated, and 
     means are provided for securing the deactivated stapler, in a manually releasable manner, in the first position of the members. 
     Another variant is a multipurpose hand-held implement, in particular for office work, having a first member and a second member which are connected movably to one another and can be moved between a first position, in which they, form together, with essentially congruent contours, an elongate, essentially closed-off cuboidal body, in the case of which the two members are located one above the other with base surfaces directed towards one another, and a second position, designed in such a manner that 
     the two members are designed as shell-like hollow bodies with essentially mirror-symmetrical outer contours which are delimited by a base surface, a top surface, two lateral surfaces and two front surfaces, the base surfaces of which, in the first position, are spaced apart from one another and delimit a chamber which is accessible from both front surfaces, 
     the two members are connected in such a manner that they can pivot about a pin which runs parallel to the base surfaces and perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the member, 
     means are provided for locking the members, in a manually releasable manner, in the first position. 
     The implement may also be a multipurpose hand-held implement, in particular for office work, having a first member and a second member which are connected movably to one another and can be moved between a first position, in which they form together, with essentially congruent contours, an elongate, essentially closed-off cuboidal body, in the case of which the two members are located one above the other with base surfaces directed towards one another, and a second position, designed in such a manner that 
     the second member comprises a support stage with a hole die, a punch guide with a punch and a stop which limits the depth to which material to be punched can be pushed in, and the first member has a pressure ram for actuation of the punch, 
     one of the members has a window through which it is possible to see the area of the support stage between hole die and stop, for the purpose of lateral positioning of material which is to be punched, 
     means are provided for locking the members, in a manually releasable manner, in the first position. 
     The implement may also be a multipurpose hand-held implement, in particular for office work, having a first member and a second member which are connected movably to one another and can be moved between a first position, in which they form together, with essentially congruent contours, an elongate, essentially closed-off cuboidal body, in the case of which the two members are located one above the other with base surfaces directed towards one another, and a second position, designed in such a manner that 
     the first member contains functional elements of a first tool and the second member contains further functional elements of both tools, 
     both members can move in guided fashion relative to one another in order for the tools to be actuated and can be displaced out of the second position into the first position counter to spring preloading, 
     means are provided for securing the members, in a manually releasable manner, in the first position, the said means comprising a first unlocking member, actuation of which activates one of the tools and deactivates the other which, however, can be activated by actuation of a second actuating member. 
     Finally, the implement may be a multipurpose hand-held implement, in particular for office work, having an elongate, essentially closed-off cuboidal body which has functional elements of a stapler and/or a hole puncher, which implement is designed in such a manner that 
     the body has at least one insertion slot for material which is to be stapled or punched, which slot is accessible from one end side, 
     an actuation member for stapler and/or hole puncher can be displaced out of a first position, in which it is essentially flush with the contour of the body, into a second position under spring preloading, and 
     means are provided for securing the actuation member, in a manually releasable manner, in the first position. 
     FIG. 48 shows part of a structure as is illustrated in a similar manner in FIGS. 11 to  14 . The bearing bracket  6000  has a lug  6002 , which is pushed through an associated slot  6004  of the base plate  6006 , on each of its two U-legs. Both lugs are provided with a cutout  6008  which is open in the direction of the chamber which is provided for the hole puncher chads and into which laterally projecting projections  6010  of the relevant outer wall of the module are fitted. The bearing bracket is fastened by spot-welding the inwardly angled projections  6012  onto the base plate.