Dual Binding System for Multi-Format Document Attachment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing components such as folders, notebooks, and binders are often configured to be coupled to only a single type of binding mechanism, limiting their versatility in attaching to different types of binding systems.

Innovation Solution

A dual binding system comprising a first binding system fixedly coupled to a component and a second movably coupled system, allowing the component to be easily attached to either a three-ring binder or a spiral bound notebook by sliding the second binding system between retracted and extended positions, exposing or concealing the respective binding holes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a component is configured to be coupled to only a single type of binding mechanism, then the binding structure is simple, but the adaptability to different binding mechanisms is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different binding mechanismsVSAvoidbinding system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The binding system incorporates both a first binding system (with first holes) and a second binding system (with second holes) on the same component, enabling it to be coupled to multiple types of binding mechanisms (e.g., three-ring binders and spiral binders). This multi-functionality allows a single component to serve universal binding purposes without requiring separate components for each binding type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The binding system is divided into separate functional modules: a first binding system configured for one type of binding mechanism and a second binding system configured for another type. These segmented binding systems can be independently designed and positioned on the component, allowing each to optimize for its specific binding mechanism while coexisting on the same component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a dual binding system is implemented with both fixed and movable binding systems, then the versatility increases, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebinding mechanism compatibilityVSAvoiddual binding system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The second binding system is configured to be movable relative to the component between a retracted position (where it does not interfere with the first binding system) and an extended position (where it is accessible for binding). This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt its structure based on which binding mechanism is being used, reducing interference while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The movable second binding system can be positioned within or alongside the structure of the component and first binding system. When retracted, the second binding system is nested or concealed within the component structure, minimizing its visual and physical presence. When extended, it becomes accessible for use with spiral or other binding mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Adaptability or versatility

If binding holes are exposed for multiple binding types, then the adaptability improves, but the interference between binding systems increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-binding capabilityVSAvoidbinding system interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The second binding system is designed to move between a retracted position (where binding holes are concealed and interference is minimized) and an extended position (where binding holes are exposed for use). This dynamic positioning ensures that when one binding system is used, the other does not interfere, while still maintaining the capability to use either system as needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The movable configuration of the second binding system acts as an intermediary mechanism that resolves the conflict between exposing binding holes for multi-binding capability and preventing interference. By controlling the position of the second binding system, it mediates between the need for accessibility and the need to avoid interference with the first binding system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10730335B2Dual binding system
Publication Date: 2020.08.04 ACCO BRANDS CORP
  • US10730335B2 patent drawing
  • US10730335B2 patent drawing
  • US10730335B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A component system comprising a component and a first binding system coupled to the component and configured to be coupled to a first type of a binding mechanism. The system further includes a second binding system movably coupled to the component and configured to be coupled to a second type of binding mechanism that is different from the first type of binding mechanism.