Importance

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Abstract

A hybrid binder-folder utilizing a foldable ring system for holding pages, which affords the advantage of easy page manipulation of ring binders with the advantage of flat folding of folders. The binder-folder has two side members which are mutually foldable along the centerline therebetween. Two, three or more foldable rings of flat, thin cross-section and of substantially semicircular shape are connected with the side members adjacent with and transverse to the centerline. When the two side members are mutually folded closed, the foldable rings fold along three folds: adjacent each connection with the two side members and at the ring apex. As a result of this foldability feature, the foldable rings are able to flatly fold, thereby permitting the binder-folder to be substantially flat when closed. When the side members are folded open, the rings unfold along the three folds to become substantially semicircularly shaped rings for guiding pages trapped on the foldable rings in the manner of a conventional ring binder. Removal and insertion of pages with respect to the foldable rings is achieved by a ring connection mechanism which is releasable with respect to one or both of the side members of the binder-folder, or else the foldable rings may be structured to be selectively openable at other than the ring apex.

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First Claim