[go: up one dir, main page]
More Web Proxy on the site http://driver.im/

WO2010005448A1 - Agrafeuse de zone médiane - Google Patents

Agrafeuse de zone médiane Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2010005448A1
WO2010005448A1 PCT/US2008/075909 US2008075909W WO2010005448A1 WO 2010005448 A1 WO2010005448 A1 WO 2010005448A1 US 2008075909 W US2008075909 W US 2008075909W WO 2010005448 A1 WO2010005448 A1 WO 2010005448A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
stapler
arm
base
handle
cover
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2008/075909
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
William C. Zolentroff
Original Assignee
Zolentroff William C
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Zolentroff William C filed Critical Zolentroff William C
Publication of WO2010005448A1 publication Critical patent/WO2010005448A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
    • B25C—HAND-HELD NAILING OR STAPLING TOOLS; MANUALLY OPERATED PORTABLE STAPLING TOOLS
    • B25C5/00—Manually operated portable stapling tools; Hand-held power-operated stapling tools; Staple feeding devices therefor
    • B25C5/02—Manually operated portable stapling tools; Hand-held power-operated stapling tools; Staple feeding devices therefor with provision for bending the ends of the staples on to the work
    • B25C5/0221—Stapling tools of the table model type, i.e. tools supported by a table or the work during operation
    • B25C5/0242—Stapling tools of the table model type, i.e. tools supported by a table or the work during operation having a pivoting upper leg and a leg provided with an anvil supported by the table or work
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
    • B25C—HAND-HELD NAILING OR STAPLING TOOLS; MANUALLY OPERATED PORTABLE STAPLING TOOLS
    • B25C5/00—Manually operated portable stapling tools; Hand-held power-operated stapling tools; Staple feeding devices therefor
    • B25C5/16—Staple-feeding devices, e.g. with feeding means, supports for staples or accessories concerning feeding devices
    • B25C5/1689—Staple-feeding devices, e.g. with feeding means, supports for staples or accessories concerning feeding devices with means for indicating the number of staples remaining

Definitions

  • This invention relates to manually powered pressing tools that reduce the force necessary for operation by using compound leverage to create mechanical advantage It includes pressing tools such as staplers, hole punches, and embossing tools that modify sheet material
  • the simple leverage stapler just extends a handle beyond the point where the staple exits This would be considered a second class lever because the input of force is at the end of the lever while the output is in the middle of the lever
  • a common variation has an extending handle that pivots off a different axle than the stapler's axle
  • the problem with these solutions is that the stapler must be quite large in order to get a substantial increase in leverage
  • the simple lever staplers are suitable for copy room or specialized uses, but are too large to be used as desktop staplers Simple Leverage
  • the simple lever has another disadvantage: it blocks visibility of the area being stapled This is particularly problematic in staplers that are not tall The less vertical distance between the simple lever and the staple cinching anvil, the more the view is blocked
  • the Swinglme model 3786x stapler by Acco Brands Inc is a prime example of this problem ⁇ No patent number ⁇
  • the second method of improved leverage is the compound leverage stapler, which involves two levers interacting with each other
  • the first lever is the stapler assembly itself, a third class lever with the output and fulcrum on each end and the input in between
  • the second lever is a second class lever with the input and fulcrum on each end and the output in between
  • the output from the second lever becomes the input into the first lever, creating a compound lever
  • the fulcrums of both levers connect to the stapler' s base Compactness is a major advantage of using a compound lever It allows the second lever to stay within the length footprint of the stapler, by putting its output behind the point of stapling.
  • the first two, GB853,556 and GB792, 108 are holders designed to hold an existing stapler.
  • the most significant flaw with these two patents is that the push levers pushes to the back of the stapler, causing three problems: 1) The activation forces are away from the actual stapling operation, making the stapling operation more awkward and unstable; 2) Users, expecting to push down on the front of the stapler, must rehabituate themselves; and 3) The back is more difficult to reach Additionally, the holders cost nearly as much to make as the staplers, must be stapler specific, and result in a larger and bulkier solution Furthermore, both staplers confine the lever pivot point to the front of the stapler, in order to in order to open the holders and remove the staplers This limits the design potential.
  • the Aoki US 6,550,661 patent shows improvement over the previous patents in that the compound leverage system is a permanently integrated part of the stapler and has a push lever that pushes down in front However, it has a very serious flaw, a rotationally supporting shaft 16 and a pm 17 are too close to the axle 8 at the rear of the stapler Because of Aoki's use of compound leverage, this creates a huge concentration of force on shaft 16 and pm 17. This large force creates two problems
  • the first problem is that the concentration of force causes disfigurement of the pivot points and cam surfaces
  • a second problem is a significant increase in friction.
  • the third problem is that smaller movements require greater precision and higher tolerance manufacturing
  • the stapler can be opened to insert new staples but it appears that it cannot be used to staple in the opened-up tacking configuration used, e g , to staple at a sheet of paper to the wall
  • the rotational supporting shaft 16 would interfere with the upward rotation of the magazine member 2
  • Patent JP2004,209,619 is the fourth example of compound leverage staplers It suffers the same problem as the Aoki patent US 6,550,661 It does not move the lever' s axle far enough forward, away from the staple axle However, it is attempting a somewhat different objective it wants to center the pushing force in the middle of the stapler Thus the handle has to be near the center, putting the lever fulcrum and pivot at the rear of the stapler Rather than focusing on the reduction of operating force, this design creates a dome shape to accommodate the palm of the hand This allows users to push harder, i e increase the operating force
  • the MID-ZONE STAPLER has four major components
  • the first two, a base and a stapling assembly, are typical of existing staplers and are pivotally connected at the rear, or second end, by a common transverse shaft
  • the staple is ejected at the front, or first end, of the stapling assembly
  • the remaining two major components are an arm and a pair of cantilevers
  • the pair of cantilevers extends forward from each side of an uppermost rear portion of the base
  • Each arm has a handle on the distal end, has a proximal end, and a middle portion in between
  • a first coupling connects each middle portion to the stapler assembly by an axle, cam or link
  • a second coupling connects each proximal end to the cantilever by an axle, cam or link
  • a gap between each cantilever and the lower portion of the base allows the two couplings to be placed near the middle of the stapler
  • the mid-zone stapler components, and their arrangement, provide a smooth, reliable, and inexpensive stapling action with an approximately 300% gam in leverage
  • One of the two couplings is optionally releasable, allowing the handle to rotate up and back, in turn allowing the stapler assembly to open.
  • a coupling table shown in table 1, is provided organizing and specific outlining thousands of combinations of alternative arm couplings to the stapler assembly and base using a variety of pivots, cams, and links
  • the mid-zone stapler refers generally to a class of staplers comprising the staplers disclosed in this patent
  • a 1 st pivot stapler and a 2 nd pivot stapler reference two classes of staplers with two different pivot placements
  • a cover pivot stapler refers to a specific 1 st pivot stapler first introduced in Fig. I
  • a base pivot stapler refers to a specific 2 nd pivot stapler first introduced in Fig 46
  • cantilever 12 becomes cantilever 12A and cantilever 12B
  • this disclosure will use a different system
  • the figure number of the stapler is used to delineate alternate embodiments of subcomponents
  • a forward slash mark is followed by a numeral representing the number of the figure where the particular component is first shown
  • cantilever 12/1 is used for cantilever 12 which is first shown in Fig 1
  • the alternate embodiment stapler is referred to as the Fig 18 stapler and the cantilever is referred to as cantilever 12/18
  • cantilever 12 /1 is a component of the cover pivot stapler shown m Fig 1
  • cantilever 12 /46 is a component of the base pivot stapler shown in Fig 46
  • Cantilever 12 /# would be used to refer to both of them and the design features that they have m common Cantilever 12, without a forward slash, would be used if there were only one example of this component and no figures of alternative components
  • An example of this from Fig 1 is view-port 54, which doesn't have any disclosed alternatives Note in the following list of reference numerals, the ones followed by a slash mark and # indicate there are multiple embodiments of it
  • Fig 1 shows a perspective view of a Fig 1 stapler, also called a cover pivot stapler
  • the cover pivot stapler like most existing staplers, has two mam assemblies a base assembly 10/1 and a stapler assembly 24/1 As shown in Figs 1 and 3, these two assemblies are pivotally connected by a common shaft 46 which is a metal rod
  • the two main assemblies are oriented longitudinally, while shaft 46 is aligned in the transverse direction It can also be said that shaft 46 is orthogonally oriented to the two mam assemblies
  • the front of the cover pivot stapler is also referred to as the first end, while the rear is referred to as the second end
  • Base assembly 10/# and stapler assembly 24/# are collectively called a stapler body 25
  • base assembly 10/1 is made of two subcomponents, a base 11/1 and an anvil 18/1
  • Base 11/1 is one piece of cast metal, but is functionally comprised of three portions: a platform 16/1, a pair of assembly holders 15/1, a pair of supports 14/1, and a pair of cantilevers 12/1
  • platform 16/1 is the bottom portion of Base 11/1 It has an essentially elongated rectangular cubic form, similar to many staplers
  • Platform 16/1 is longitudinally oriented, and has a front foot 36/1 at its front or first end, a back foot 38 at its rear or second end, and a clearance arch 40 in between
  • a longitudinally extending space between stapler assembly 24/1 and platform 16/1 is a paper slot 34/1.
  • paper slot 34/1 is the area between the lower surface of magazine 26/1 and the upper surface of platform 16/1.
  • m Figs. 2 and 12 are a rectangular hole, an exit 55, in the lower front portion of magazine 26/1, for the passage of a staple being ejected. Supports & Assembly Holders
  • two supports 14/1 extend vertically, one from each side, of the rearward portion of platform 16/1.
  • Each support 14/1 is a transversely flat planar shape, whose outside and back surfaces are continuous with the outside and back surfaces of platform 16/1.
  • two assembly holders 15/1 extend vertically, from the rearward portion of platform 16/1.
  • Assembly holders 15/1 are somewhat similar to supports 14/1 in shape, size, bilateral symmetry, and general position. The exception being that assembly holders 15/1 are transversely positioned further inboard from supports 14/1. More specifically, the pair of assembly holders 15/1 are transversely positioned inboard from cover 28/1 and outboard from magazine 26/1. This allows assembly holder 15/1 to limit the transverse movement of magazine 26/1 and also to support shaft 46.
  • each cantilever 12/1 shown in Fig. 1, are longitudinal forward projections from the upper front portions of each support 14/1.
  • each cantilever 12/1 is a planar shape and is in the same plane as support 14/1 sharing the same top, inside and outside surfaces.
  • Cantilever 12/1 defines a longitudinally extending gap in between itself and platform 16/1, which is a gap 35/1.
  • gap 35/1 has an opening facing towards the front of the stapler.
  • a portion of the bottom surface of cantilever 12/1 that faces platform 16/1 is a cam surface 30/1.
  • gap 35/1 remains static, while the vertical dimension, or angle, of paper slot 34/1 changes depending on the rotational position of stapler assembly 24/1, as shown in Figs. 8 and 9.
  • paper slot 34/1 and gap 35/1 overlap each other, meaning paper slot 34/1 extends longitudinally from assembly holder 15/1 to the front of magazine 26/1. As such, it crosses through the open area of gap 35/1.
  • Gap 35/1 is limited to the length of cantilever 12/1.
  • the purpose of gap 35/1 is providing deep access to sheets of material. Note, as shown in Fig. 8, the vertical dimension of 35/1 is larger than the paper slot's 34/1 vertical dimension, when the cover pivot stapler is in a ready configuration
  • anvil 18/1 Shown in Figs. 1 and 7A, the other subcomponent of base assembly 10/1 is anvil 18/1.
  • anvil 18/1 Common to most staplers, anvil 18/1 has a curving mset portion that bends the rammed staple upon contact Anvil 18/1 is a stamped metal part.
  • Anvil 18/1 again typical of many staplers, sits in a cavity in platform 16/1. It is attached to platform 16/1 by a cylindrical rod extending from the bottom of anvil 18/1 The cylindrical rod goes through a hole in platform
  • Assembly 24 has three major components with a common pivot: shaft 46 As shown in Fig 1, the first, a magazine 26/1, is the bottom component Second is a cover 28/1, which is the top component of the three and acts as a cover and a force transmitter. The third is a pressure member 44/1 that lies between cover 28/1 and magazine 26/1, shown in Fig 3. Magazine 26/1 holds a staples 56, which is a strip of staples Pressure member 44/1 holds staples 56 down against magazine 26/1. Arm
  • arm 22/1 Another key component of the cover pivot stapler, as shown in Figs 1, is arm 22/1. It is comp ⁇ sed primarily of a set of two mirror-image arm sides 21/1 connected to each other on their distal ends by a handle 23/1. Each arm side 21/1 is generally flat and transversely thin with a long gently curved shaped outline or perimeter that narrows at as it approaches handle 23/1. Handle's 23/1 two largest sides are generally planar and parallel to each other. Handle 23/1 is transversely sized to allow the set of arm sides 21/1 to span cover 28/1. Also, in the cover pivot stapler, handle 23/1' s transverse span is sized such that arm sides 21/1 are coplanar with cantilever 12/1
  • a pair of mirror-image cylindrical metal pins, axles 20/1 extend transversely from each cover sidewall 29/1, pivotally connecting each arm 22/1 to each cover sidewall 29/1
  • This connection is also known as the first coupling
  • the proximal end, or tip, of each arm side 21/1 has protrusion called a finger 32/1 Finger 32/1 contacts cam surface 30/1 creating a contact point 31/1
  • This connection is also known as the second coupling It could more broadly stated to say that the first coupling provides contact between arm 22/1 and stapler assembly 24/1, and that the second coupling provides contact between arm 22/1 and base 11/1
  • a view-port 54 a hole in magazine 26/1 that enables the viewing of the staples to determine when they have been depleted.
  • a bumper 61 attached to the underside surface of handle 23/1, to soften the impact between handle 23/1 and stapler assembly 24/1.
  • stapler assembly 24/1 is the operative part of the stapler and is typical of many staplers in present use Nevertheless, to be thorough, the components and subcomponents of stapler assembly 24/1 will be detailed as follows.
  • Magazine 26/1 is essentially a longitudinally extending u-channel with the front of the channel closed off to form a rectangular open box shape Its opening faces vertically upward, away from base assembly 10/1, or put another way, faces outside relative to the overall stapler
  • This component is made of bent sheet metal
  • Cover 28/1 is made of cast metal; however injection molded plastic or bent sheet metal are also common options Cover 28/1 is essentially a long rectangular box shape with the opening facing vertically downward, toward base assembly 10/1, or put another way, facing inside relative to the overall stapler Cover 28/1 is somewhat wider and longer than magazine 26/1, and accordingly fits over it
  • a cover sidewall 29/1 denotes each longitudinally extending side of the box shape of cover 28/1.
  • Pressure member 44/1 is essentially a longitudinally extending u-channel with the largest opening facing downward toward base assembly 10/1. Pressure member 44/1 is made of bent sheet metal. Pressure member 44/1 is narrower and shorter than magazine 26/1, and accordingly fits within it in order to make contact with the staples
  • stapler assembly 24/1 There are three other semi-major components in stapler assembly 24/1 shown in Fig. 3 that are typical of many staplers.
  • the first is an advancer 48, which pushes the staples to the front Advancer 48 is an injection-molded rectilinear block of plastic Advancer 48 fits snugly inside magazine 26/1 and is held in place by an advancer guide 49.
  • Advancer guide 49 is a metal pin running transversely through advancer 48 and travels longitudinally in an advancer track 50
  • Advancer track 50 is a longitudinally oriented opening in each sidewall of magazine 26/1
  • the second component is an advancer spnng 51, not shown One of its ends is attached to advancer guide 49. The other end is attached to a hook on the rear of pressure member 44/1.
  • Advancer spring 51 travels behind and around a metal pin, a spring pin 59, which is transversely attached to the front portion of pressure member 44/1
  • the third component is a ram spring 41, a piece of spring metal bent in two places, creating an approximately 90° extension in front, called a ram 42, and an approximately 15° extension in the rear, called a pressure spring 43.
  • Ram spring 41 is attached to the upper inside surface of cover 28/1, by two posts extending from that surface Ram 42 is adjacent to, and approximately parallel to, the front of pressure member 44/1
  • the lowermost edge of ram 42 is the part of the stapler that contacts the top of the staple being ejected
  • Pressure spring 43 acts as a leaf spring providing pressure from cover 28/1 to keep pressure member 44/1 pressed against the staples
  • buttons or detents protruding through each cover sidewall 29/1.
  • the more rearward button is a catch button 74
  • the more forward button is an auxiliary catch button 75/1.
  • the catch buttons help position arm 22/1. Before explaining this, the details of arm 22/1 will be disclosed more fully using Figs. 4, 5A, and 5B.
  • a transversely oriented hole known as an arm axle hole 19 is located between the distal and proximal ends The area between arm 22/1's distal and proximal ends is also referred to as a mid-arm. To restate, arm axle hole 19 is placed in the mid-arm portion of arm side
  • Finger 32/1 in Fig. 5B, is an upward curving, and vertically narrower, portion of the proximal end of arm side 21/1 As such, it shares common inner, outer, and lower surfaces with, and is made of the same material as, arm side 21/1
  • the vertical narrowing and most of the upward curving shape of finger 32/1 is due to a concave contoured recess, a finger cavity 33/1.
  • finger cavity 33/1 is adapted to receive the distal end of cantilever 12/1 when finger 32/1 contacts cam surface 30/1
  • finger cavity 33/1 is needed to prevent interference from the rounded tip of cantilever 12/1 du ⁇ ng arm 22/1's staplmg operation rotation, allowing finger 32/1 to maintain contact
  • a finger shape and contour recess could be on cantilever 12/1 instead of arm side 21/1, or some amount of shaping could be imparted to cantilever 12/1 and arm side 21/1, creating mutual areas of noninterference Finger 32/1, arm side 21/1, and cantilever 12/1 are all generally in the same plane as each other.
  • One advantage of this is that it reduces the overall width of the cover pivot stapler.
  • a low- friction powder-coat paint is used to coat finger 32/1 because it slides along the surface of cam surface 30/1 If greater durability is required, an injection molded nylon sleeve will be molded over finger 32/1, not shown Arm Detail: Spring Cavity
  • each arm side 21/1 has an essentially cylindrical cavity: a spring cavity 64, which is concentric to arm axle hole 19
  • Spring cavity 64 has a larger diameter than arm axle hole 19, and they share a common wall A portion of the exterior wall of arm axle hole 19 being the interior wall of spring cavity 64
  • a spring hole 68 is a transverse hole in lever side 21/1, proximate to the exterior wall of spring cavity 64
  • an arm spring 60 is a cylindrical spirally biased spring with its ends bent at 90°
  • the body of arm spring 60 fits concentrically into spring cavity 64. Relative to arm 22/1, both the spring's axis and its ends are transversely oriented.
  • One end, a arm spnng end 65 is inserted into spring hole 68
  • the other spring end, a body spring end 66 is inserted into a body hole 69, a transverse hole in cover 28/1.
  • Body hole 69 as shown in Fig 10, is sized and located to accommodate body spring end 66.
  • arm 22/1 to cover 28/1 is achieved by placing each of an axle 20/1 into a hole in its respective cover sidewall 29/1 and then spot-welded it in place. This arrangement allows arm 22/1 to rotate about axle 20/1 As arm spring 60 pushes on arm 22/1, it rotates handle 23/1 downward and forward about axle 20/1 until finger 32/1 encounters cam surface 30/1 on the underside of cantilever 12/1.
  • handle 23/1 has a rear handle surface 25 facing arm axle hole 19, which closer to axle 20/1 than the front surface of cover 28/1 is to axle 20/1. Accordingly, handle 23/1 cannot rotate below cover 28/1. In other words, the underside surface of handle 23/1 overlaps with, and collides into, the outer surface of cover 28/1
  • Bumper 61 mitigates the collision's impact
  • Bumper 61 is a short cylindrical elastomeric injection molded unit
  • Bumper 61 is flat on one side to match the underside surface of handle 23/1, where it is attached by adhesive
  • Bumper 61 is positioned so that it lies close to the front of cover 28/1 and in between the underside surface of handle 23/1 and the outer surface of cover 28/1
  • bumper 61 could just as easily be attached to cover 28/1
  • a catch groove 78 and an auxiliary catch groove 79 are on the inside of each arm side 21/1.
  • Both grooves are concentric with arm axle hole 19 and are modifications of the inside surface of arm side 21/1.
  • Auxiliary catch groove 79 is a simple groove that has openings at both of its ends, above and below arm side 21/1
  • Catch groove 78 is a more complex groove with an opening at the upper end of the groove, but a closed-end at the bottom end. Additionally, a bottom portion of catch groove 78 sinks deeper into the material than the rest of the groove Catch groove 78 matches the position of catch button 74, while auxiliary catch groove 79 matches the position of auxiliary catch button 75/1.
  • catch buttons 74 and auxiliary catch buttons 75/1 are each attached to a catch spring 72, which is a thm vertical wall.
  • Catch spring 72 is attached orthogonally to a catch body 73, which is horizontally oriented.
  • the two catch buttons 74, two auxiliary catch buttons 75, four catch springs 72, and one catcher body 73 form a complete unit: a catch 70.
  • Catch 70 has an overall u-channel shape and is longitudinally symmetric There is a slot between the forward and rear catch springs 72 that allows them to spring independently from each other Catch 70 is an injected molded nylon part
  • catch button 74 and auxiliary catch button 75/1 there are two holes, sized to accommodate catch button 74 and auxiliary catch button 75/1 in each cover sidewall 29/1.
  • the more rearward hole is a catch hole 76.
  • the more forward hole is an auxiliary catch hole 77.
  • Catch buttons 74 and 75/1 fit into their respective catch holes 76 and 77, holding catch 70 in place Mid-zone & Mid-base
  • contact point 31/1 is positioned, in a mid-zone
  • the mid-zone is most of the length of the stapler assembly 24/1 in the longitudinal direction More precisely, the mid-zone covers from 12 5% to 99% of assembly 24/1's length from the rear end of stapler assembly 24/1 towards the front. Restated, the mid-zone is the portion of assembly 24/1 that starts 12 5% from the rear of assembly 24/1 and ends 1% from the front of assembly 24/1 where 100% is the full-length of assembly 24/1
  • contact point 31/1 is slightly forward from the center of stapler assembly 24/1.
  • a mid-base is the term used to refer to the mid-zone when referring to base 11/1. To restate, the mid-base constitutes a longitudinal portion of base 11/1 measured as 12.5% to 99% of the assembly 24/1 's length from the rear end of the stapler assembly 24/1 when the stapler is in the ready configuration.
  • cover pivot stapler The basic operation of the cover pivot stapler is similar, in many ways, to most manually operated standard staplers. Manual pressure is applied to the top of the stapler, which results in ramming a staple through exit 55. The staple then passes through the items intended to be stapled together, typically sheets of paper. The rammed staple is forced into anvil 18/1 and, as a result, is crimped closed.
  • a standard stapler and the cover pivot stapler receives the manual pressure on handle 23/1 instead of directly on cover 28/1.
  • the downward motion of handle 23/1 during the stapling operation is also referred to as a first end input. So called because the manual force is being input into the cover pivot stapler's compound lever system near the front, or first end, of the cover pivot stapler.
  • the manual pressure from handle 23/1 is transmitted by arm 22/1, to cover 28/1 through axle 20/1.
  • the downward motion of cover 28/1, and resulting downward motion of the entire stapler assembly 24/1 results in the ejection and crimping of a staple.
  • This is also referred to as a stapling assembly output or an operative assembly output.
  • Fig. 15 shows the cover pivot stapler in a ready configuration.
  • Fig. 16 shows the cover pivot stapler in a stapling configuration.
  • Fig. 17 shows the cover pivot stapler in a stapled configuration.
  • Phase 1 closing gap, starts with Fig. 15, with the cover pivot stapler in the ready configuration and ends with Fig 16, with the cover pivot stapler in the stapling configuration.
  • Phases 2 and 3 piercing and crimping, start with Fig. 16, with the cover pivot stapler in the stapling position and end with Fig. 17, with the cover pivot stapler in the stapled configuration.
  • Contact point 31/1 moves rearward along cam surface 30/1 during the stapling operation.
  • the cover pivot stapler's primary resting position is the ready configuration as shown in Fig. 8 and also Figs. 1 and 15 From this position finger 32/1 can be selectively pivoted into and out of engagement with cam surface 30/1, as shown in Figs. 8 and 9. That is to say, handle 23/1 is ready either to operate by rotating down into the stapled configuration as shown in Fig. 17, or to disengage by rotating up into a disengaged configuration as shown in Figs. 9-11. Once handle 23/1 and finger 32/1 have moved into the disengage configuration, the cover pivot stapler can be opened into either a staple access configuration as shown in Fig. 11, or a tacking configuration as shown in Fig 12 Tacking
  • the tacking configuration shown in Fig. 12 has stapler assembly 24/1 rotated 180°, up and back, behind base assembly 10/1. Exit 55 can now be placed directly on the surface of an item to be stapled. When fired, the staple will not be crimped.
  • a typical use of the tackmg configuration is stapling sheets of material to a wall.
  • the cover pivot stapler acts like an ordinary stapler and does not provide any improved leverage. This is because the manual pressure is applied directly to the top of cover 28/1 and arm 22/1 is disengaged from cam surface 30/1.
  • arm 22/1 rotates all the way up and back until rear surface of handle 23/1 contacts cover 28/1. As shown in Fig. 12, this allows better access to the front portion of cover 28/1.
  • cover pivot stapler for top loading staples, only cover 28/1 and pressure member 44/1 are rotated up and back as shown in Fig. 11.
  • the cover pivot stapler in a staple access configuration is similar to the stapler in the tacking configuration of Fig 12, except that magazine 26/1 remain stationary, approximately parallel to base assembly 10/1 This provides access above magazine 26/1, thus allowing staple loading from the top.
  • Top loading staple access is common in most standard staplers. Top loading staple access is desirable because of its familiarity, ease-of-use and access to jammed staples. Use 1 : Tabletop
  • the cover pivot stapler's compound leverage mechanism There are two methods that users can employ to apply manual pressure when using the cover pivot stapler's compound leverage mechanism.
  • the first has the cover pivot stapler resting on a stable, essentially horizontal, surface such as a tabletop.
  • the sheets of material to be stapled are brought to the stapler and placed into paper slot 34/1.
  • the palm or fingers of the hand pressed down on handle 23/1 to provide the movement and power for the stapling operation.
  • Front foot 36/1 and back foot 38 provide the connection between platform 16/1 to the work surface.
  • Clearance arch 40 provides clearance if the stapler is set on an uneven surface.
  • the second method for using the compound leverage mechanism is handheld.
  • the cover pivot stapler is held with arm 22/1 in the palm of the hands and fingers running under, and around, clearance arch 40.
  • the stapler is brought to the sheets of material to be stapled.
  • the materials are then placed into paper slot 34/1.
  • Squeezing action by the hand moves handle 23/1 and platform 16/1 towards each other to provide the movement and power for the stapling operation.
  • clearance arch 40 provides a more ergonomic grip of platform 16/1 and makes the cover pivot stapler easier to pick up.
  • the lever and cam actions can be selected to greatly improve the leverage force or power transmission ratio imparted to stapler assembly 24/1, and hence ram 42, and therefore the stapling action.
  • the power transmission ratio is the amount of leverage increase or decrease imparted from handle 23/1 to ram 42. Or put another way, when the leverage is increased, handle 23/1 moves down faster than ram 42.
  • the power transmission ratio is controlled by four variables.
  • the first two variables apply to arm 22/1 as a simple lever.
  • the second two variables are aspects of a compound lever system. More specifically, they apply to contact point 31/1 as a cam, and to the distance between shaft 46 and axle 20/1.
  • the first variable is the length of arm 22/1, from axle 20/1 through handle 23/1. The greater the length, the greater the leverage.
  • Second is the length of arm 22/1, between axle 20/1 and contact point 31/1 The shorter the length, the greater the leverage
  • the third vanable is the distance between axle 20/1 and shaft 46 The greater this distance, the greater the leverage.
  • the fourth variable, cam action depends on the shape and angle of the cam surface. A cam surface 30/1 that allows finger 32/1 to move up during the stapling operation increases leverage This cover pivot stapler design allows these four variables to be interchangeably chosen or altered in order to optimize performance.
  • the leverage improvement desired It is particular to the design of the cover pivot stapler that all these variables can be chosen from a large range of possibilities, particularly the third variable
  • the third variable is more important because it does not just change the leverage, it changes the amount of stress placed upon the cam components finger 32/1 and cam surface 30/1.
  • the progressively further shaft 46 is from axle 20/1, the progressively less stress less stress on the cam components and shaft 46 as well.
  • cover pivot stapler allows the forward/rearward positioning of contact point 31/1, and consequently axle 20/1, to be independent of the longitudinal depth of paper slot 34/1 or gap
  • Cam Ratios The fourth leverage variable, cam action, is uniquely suited to create different leverage at different phases of operation during the stapling process During the initial phase of the stapling process, closing the gap, the bottom of magazine 26/1 is brought to the top of the items being stapled During this phase almost no pressure is required, so generating large amounts of leverage is a waste of manual motion, hi this embodiment a leverage ratio in the range of one to one is more desirable In the second and third phases of piercing the items to be stapled and crimpmg the staple, a greater leverage is desirable
  • the cover pivot stapler has about a three to one leverage ratio during these phases. Restated, handle 23/1 is moving down three times faster than ram 42 Note: that a changing cam ratio is optional, not required Cam Position
  • the sliding distance during the cam action depends on the longitudinal placement of contact point 31/1.
  • the further back contact point 31/1 is located, the shorter the sliding distance and hence the greater degree of precision needed to make cam surface 30/1 work well.
  • cam surface 30/1 becomes shorter, its shape becomes limited by the diameter or thickness of fmger 32/1.
  • the force being imparted to fmger 32/1 is increasing, making a larger diameter finger 32/1 desirable. Accordingly, contact point 31/1 is ideally near the middle of the cover pivot stapler or further forward.
  • Arm spring 60 maintains a forward rotational pressure on arm 22/1 This keeps cam surface 30/1 in contact with finger 32/1, unless altered by either of two catch buttons 74 and 75/1.
  • catch button 74 performs two functions.
  • the first limits arm 22/1 from rotating up, out of the ready configuration, towards the disengaged configuration. With sufficient manual pressure the limit is overcome, arm 22/1 can be rotated, and then it pops into the disengaged configuration
  • catch button 74 performs its second function keeping arm 22/1 in the disengaged configuration
  • auxihary catch button 75/1 performs a single function of keeping arm 22/1 rotated all the way back, to get it out of the way for open stapling.
  • bumper 61 is placed between the two.
  • Link Stapler Fig. 18
  • Many variations of the mid-zone stapler are possible, including the types of coupling from arm 22/# to either the stapler assembly 24/# or base 11/#
  • This arm coupling includes three main types: pivot, cam, or link. The first two these, the pivot and cam, have been demonstrated in the cover pivot stapler. The third, the link, can replace much of the functionality of the cam.
  • the next embodiment of the mid-zone stapler will be the Fig. 18 stapler, which uses a link for one of its arm 22/# couplings
  • a link 122/18 connects a proximal end of an arm 22/18 with a cantilever 12/18.
  • Link 122/18 is similar to a link in a bicycle chain. As shown in Fig 25, it has two sidewalls, link sides 123/18, connected to each other by two rods 124. The link sides 123/18 are parallel with each other. They are also parallel with, and adjacent to, the sides of arm side 21/18 and cantilever 12/18.
  • One rod 124 pivotally connects one end of link 122/18 to cantilever 12/18
  • Each sidewall of link 122/18 is a stamped sheet metal part.
  • Rod 124 is a metal rod press fit into the holes in each sidewall of link 122/18 What had been axle hole 19 m the cover pivot stapler is now opened into an indent 125/18 as shown in Fig 18 By opening this hole into a notch, arm 22/18 becomes disengageable and can rotate up. Accordingly, arm 22/18 is movable from a ready configuration into a disengaged configuration
  • the primary advantage of the Fig 18 stapler is durability, because the lever action uses only pivoting action instead of sliding cam action. Because of additional parts, the Fig 18 stapler might be more expensive to manufacture. However, because of improved durability, it's also possible that the Fig 18 stapler would require less material and manufacturing precision and therefore be less expensive to manufacture
  • link 122/# can be used instead of either a pivot or cam That is, it can be substituted for axle 20/# or contact point 31/# Furthermore, it can be used to create a fixed or releasable coupling. Additionally, the link 122/# can be used in configurations where it's in compression and other configurations where it's in tension.
  • a Fig. 21 stapler exchanges axle 20/# and link 122/# with each other
  • arm 22/21 is connected to cantilever 12/21 by axle 20/18 instead of by a link 122/#.
  • the rear coupling uses a pivot.
  • Link 122/18 now connects arm 22/21 to stapler assembly 24/21
  • the front coupling uses link 122/18 Notice that link 122/18 is in compression. That is to say, when arm 22/21 is pushed down, it pushes down on link 122/18 to push down stapler assembly 24/21.
  • arm 22/21 and link 122/18 are fixed, i e., they cannot be moved up or down independently of stapler assembly 24/21.
  • a Fig 22 stapler has a releasable link 122/32 This embodiment reverts to having arm 22/22 pivotally connected to stapler assembly 24/22, but the pivoting coupling is fixed To make arm 22/22 releasable, link 122/32 is releasable Similar to the Fig 21 stapler, the Fig. 22 stapler also has its link 122/32 in compression.
  • link 122/32 is releasable in two places This is achieved by opening one end of link 122/32 to create a notch facing away from the center of link 122/32
  • the other release point is in cantilever 12/22, which is a notch facing platform 16/22
  • This arrangement means that the link 122/32 is not fixably connected to either arm 22/22 or cantilever 12/22
  • link 122/32 will fall out of place Accordingly, it would need to be held in place by another method
  • the fully free link 122/32 could be useful allowing replacement or exchange with another link 122/#
  • One example of usefulness is that exchanging one size link 122/# with another could allow a change in ready or stapled positions to accommodate different sizes staples
  • a Fig 23 stapler is similar to Fig 21 stapler in that link 122/18 is used for the front coupling and is fixed It differs because link 122/18 is used in tension instead of compression Fig 24
  • a Fig 24 stapler also uses a link 122/# in tension, in this case a link 122/27 Fig 24 stapler is similar to Fig 22 stapler in being releasable and using link 122/# for the rear coupling It differs because there's only one point of releasability the coupling between arm 22/24 and link 122/27 is releasable, while the coupling between link 122/27 and cantilever 12/24 is fixed Also note that the opening in link 122/27 that makes it releasable is facing forward
  • Figs 51 through 54 are only a few of the possible alternative configurations using link 122/# as a means of arm 22/# coupling
  • link 122/26 has only one link side 123/18 Like link 122/18, link 122/26 is fixed
  • Any fixed link 122/# can still be used in a releasable coupling, if rod 124 releases from any of three stapler components, stapler assembly 24/#, arm 22/#, and/or base l l/#
  • the first rod 124 is fixably connected to link 122/32 and releasably connected to cantilever 12/22 because of indent 125/22 This is denoted as a releasable coupling, not a releasable link 122/#
  • the second rod 124 is fixably connected to arm 22/22 and releasably connected to
  • Figs 27 and 28 show the same link 122/27 in different orientations, one facing forward and one facing rearward
  • Fig 29 shows link 122/29, which is similar to link 122/27 in being a releasable link and a tension link
  • Link 122/29 differs by having both ends releasable instead of one end that is releasable and one end that is fixed
  • both ends of link 122/29 share a common opening
  • link 122/30 is also a releasable style link at both ends.
  • each recess 126/30 faces in opposite directions, one forward and one rearward.
  • link 122/31 is similar to link 122/27 because it's releasable on one end and fixed on the other end.
  • the other similarity is that the opening in the link, which makes it releasable, also opens in a sideways direction.
  • the first difference between the two is that link 122/31 is a compression link.
  • the second difference is that a recess 126/31 in link
  • a recess 126/27 is a right angle recess, initially horizontal at the opening and then turning 90° to vertical. What both recess 130/#'s have in common is that the vector of force from the stapling operation seats rod 124 into the bottom, and away from the opening, of recess 130/#.
  • link 122/# that are tension links
  • links 122/# that are compression links
  • the vector of force is towards the center of the link.
  • link 122/3 l's recess 126/31 angles slightly above horizontal, away from the center of the link.
  • link 122/32 has a recess 126/32 that angles completely away from the center to a full vertical orientation.
  • link 122/33 has two recesses 130/32, one at each end, ensuring double releasability.
  • tension link 122/30 can also use an angled recess 126/30 as long as it is an angled below horizontal, towards the center of the link.
  • compression link 122/#s can use the right angle style of recess provided that the vertical portion runs down towards the center of the link, instead of up and away from the center as shown in recess 126/27
  • rod 124 can sometimes be an identical part to, and connected in the same fashion as, axle 20/# or some fingers 32/# This is because they are all cylinders extending horizontally from stapler assembly 24/#, base l l/#, and/or arm 22/#. Also note a pivoting motion must occur between the link and the stapler component that it is connected to. However, the pivoting motion can be between rod 124 and link 122/# and/or between rod 124 and stapler assembly 24/#, base ll/#, or arm 22/#.
  • cam type couplings between arm 22/# and stapler body 25 there are also many different kinds of cam type couplings between arm 22/# and stapler body 25.
  • cams There are four kinds of cams that can be used to construct alternate embodiments of the mid- zone stapler. The first uses two cam surfaces 30/#, while the remaining three use one cam surface 30/# and finger 32/#.
  • the difference between the surface of finger 32/# and cam surface 30/# is that the curvature of finger 32/# is at least an order of magnitude smaller than the curvature of cam surface 30/#.
  • the resulting difference is the way that contact point 31/# moves along either surface. In the case of the cover pivot stapler, contact point 31/1 moves primarily along cam surface 30/1.
  • the three types of cams using a combination of finger 32/# and cam surface 30/# are simple, roll, and slide cams
  • the cover pivot stapler is an example of the simple cam. Simple refers to the simple one part construction of cam finger 32/1. As cam finger 32/1 of the cover pivot stapler slides along cam surface 30/1, it also rotates slightly. Finger 32/1 accommodates and is involved in the combined action of cam sliding and rotation As shown in Fig 40, by contrast, the finger 32/40 pivotally engages a slide 27/40 so that there is only a rotational interface between the two. The slide 27/40 slides against cam surface 30/40 so that there is only a sliding interface between these last two. Restated, the pivoting and sliding cam actions are separated by slide 27/40.
  • Rolling Cam The third type of cam is a roll cam. Shown in Fig. 14, finger 32/14 is a hub 58/14 with an outer concentric wheel, roller, or bushing 57/14 that is free to spin or rotate. Contact point 31/14 becomes the point of connection between bushing 57/14 and cam surface 30/14. Accordingly, fmger 32/14 rolls instead of sliding along cam surface 30/14.
  • finger 32/14 is a nylon bushing 57/14 on a metal pin.
  • the metal pin, hub 58/14 is press fit into a hole in cover sidewall 29/14 as a means of attachment
  • the mid- zone staplers with roll cams shown in Figs. 76, 77 A and 77B will be discussed in greater detail in later text
  • the cam can have two similar cam surfaces 30/# and no finger 32/#, depending on the movement requirements and ensuing curvatures Accordingly, a cam can be thought of as arm 22/# having one cam surface and base 11/# or stapler assembly 24/# having a second cam surface.
  • a fmger 32/# can be on the surface extending vertically or horizontally. As shown in Fig. 1, finger 32/1 is the vertical extension from the proximal end of the arm 22/1. In Fig. 35, finger 32/35 is a horizontal extension from the proximal end of arm 22/35. Accordingly, all fingers 32/# can be vertical or horizontal extensions, or become cam surfaces 30/#.
  • Fig. 25 are both links-H. Note that the distinction between them is not in the coupling table.
  • Fig. 27 is a lmk-D-I-R-U.
  • Fig. 28 is a link-D-I-R-T.
  • Fig. 29 is a link-D-I2-R-R-T-T.
  • Fig. 30 is a lmk-D-I2-R-R-T-U.
  • Fig. 31 is a link-C-I-R-T
  • Fig. 32 is a link-C-I-R-V.
  • Fig. 33 is a link-C-I2-R-R-V-V.
  • Fig. 34 stapler is an example of a cam-A-E-I-J-O-pivot-H-K-L stapler.
  • This stapler is an example of a vertically extending, -O- type, finger 32/34 on an arm 22/34 Notice that finger 32/34 is an integral part of arm 22/34, extending downward towards platform 16/34.
  • Cam surface 30/34 extends from the surface of cover 28/34, creating a point of mutual engagement, a contact point 31/34.
  • Fig. 35 stapler is an example of a pivot-H-K-L-cam- A-F-I-J-L stapler.
  • This stapler is an example of a horizontal outwardly extending, -L- type, finger. It has a finger 32/35, which differs from 32/34 by being an essentially cylindrical structure transversely extending from the exterior surface of an arm side 21/35.
  • Finger 32/35 is a metal rod surrounded by a nylon bushmg The metal rod connects to arm side 21/35 through a hole in arm side 21/35 and is secured by a spot weld The metal rod can also be a continuous part of arm side 21/35.
  • Fig. 36 stapler is an example of a cam-A-F-H-K-L-pivot-H-K-L stapler.
  • This stapler is an example of a fixed, -H- type, cam.
  • a base 11/36 with no cantilever 12/# is also an example of a base 11/36 with no cantilever 12/#.
  • Another change from the Fig. 34 stapler is that a finger 32/36 is connected to a cover sidewall 29/36 of the stapler.
  • arm 22/36 has a cam slot
  • cam slot 120/36 in it, opening horizontally and extending along part of the length of arm 22/36
  • a cam surface 30/36 is on the upper surface of cam slot 120/36, facing generally downwards towards platform 16/36 when arm 22/36 is in the stapled position
  • Finger 32/36 extends through cam slot 120/36, limiting both arm 22/36's clockwise and counterclockwise rotation.
  • Finger 32/36 is a metal pm surrounded by a cylindrical nylon bushing Finger 32/36 connects to a cover 28/36 through a hole in cover sidewall 29/36 and is secured by a spot weld.
  • Fig. 37 stapler is an example of a pivot-H-K-L-cam-A-F-I-K-L stapler.
  • This stapler is an example of a cam surface 30/37 on the proximal end of an arm 22/37, providing an upward facing surface.
  • Cam surface 30/37 is a molded or machined continuous portion of arm 22/37.
  • This stapler also has a roll cam -F- that is similar to the roll cam in Fig. 76, except that a finger 32/37 is supported on only one side and is connected to a cantilever 12/37.
  • finger 32/37 extends below it to engage a cam surface 30/37
  • finger 32/37 extended inwardly, -N-, instead of outwardly, -L-, it wouldn't have to extend below cantilever 12/37
  • cam surface 30/37 is connected to arm 22/37
  • Fig. 37 stapler's notation primarily the cam's "-K-" notation, indicating finger 32/37 is attached to base 11/37 Fig.
  • cam surfaces 30/# are mset to limit the finger 32/38's travel With their open insets, these cams provide the stapler with two releasable couplings
  • arm 22/38 can be removed by simply lifting handle 23/36 up and back
  • a removable arm means that it can be removed, replaced, and/or exchanged This can provide better storage or prevent unauthorized use It also would allow changing arms 22/#.
  • the same arm 22/# with multiple connection points could be used in different configurations. The last two points, not shown, would allow a change of leverage or adjustment for different size staples.
  • One way to more securely attach arm 22/38, but maintain releas ability, could employ a magnetic means of securement. Fig.
  • stapler is an example of a pivot-H-K-L-cam-B-I stapler.
  • This stapler is an example of a single cam with a second cam surface: a -B- type cam.
  • One cam surface 30/39A somewhat similar to the cover pivot stapler's cam surface 30/1, is on the downward facing surface of cantilever 12/39
  • the other, cam surface 30/39B being on the proximal end of arm 22/39, is somewhat similar to the cam surface 30/37.
  • This stapler has no finger 32/#.
  • FIG. 40 An example of pivot-H-K-L-cam- A-G-I- J-L is shown in Fig. 40.
  • This Fig. 40 stapler is an example of a slide cam, -G- type, stapler.
  • axle 20/40 creates the same pivot as the cover pivot stapler Finger 32/40, however, differs from 32/1 by being an essentially cylindrical structure transversely extending from the exterior surface of an arm side 21/40.
  • Finger 32/40 is a metal rod that attaches to arm side 21/40 through a hole in arm side 21/40 and is secured by a spot weld. Note: the metal rod could molded or machined as an integral part of arm side 21/40.
  • Finger 32/40 is releasably connected to a slide 27/40.
  • slide 27/40 is an injection molded nylon part that is slidably attached to cantilever 12/40.
  • a channel in slide 27/40 accommodates the width of cantilever 12/40.
  • a slot in slide 27/40 fits over a short horizontal extension in the cantilever 12/40 as a means of slidable attachment
  • FIG. 41A and 41B An example of cam-A-G-I-J-N-pivot-H-K-L is shown in Figs. 41A and 41B
  • This Fig. 41 A stapler is an example of a slide cam stapler with slide 27/41 connected to cover 28/41. It has a slide 27/41 with a channel that accommodates the width of cover 28/41. Slide 27/41 is slidably connected to cover 28/41 and placed into an opening in cover 28/41. Arm 22/41 has a finger 32/41 that releasably connects to slide 27/41. As shown in Fig. 44, slide 27/41 is an asymmetric part with a thicker portion on one side. The thicker portion is placed between cover 28/41 and arm 22/41.
  • FIG. 42 An example of cam-A-G-H-K-L-pivot-I-J-L is shown in Fig. 42.
  • a slide 27/42 is slidably connected to cover 28/42 in a manner similar to Fig. 41A stapler.
  • the difference, shown in Fig. 45, is finger 32/42 extending from slide 27/42 instead of from arm 22/41
  • slide 27/42 is symmetric except for finger 32/42
  • a slide 27/40, shown in Fig. 43 can be categorized as a slide-H-J.
  • Fig. 44 can be categorized as a slide-I-J.
  • a slide 27/42 shown in Fig. 45, can be categorized as a slide-H-K-LN.
  • the -LN notation means finger 32/42 is horizontally oriented, allowing either -N- or -L- configurations, but not allowing a vertical -O- configuration. In other words, the part prohibits an -O- configuration, but choice between the -N- or -L- configurations can only be determined when the part is used in the assembled mid-zone stapler.
  • An alternate embodiment of the mid-zone stapler is a base pivot stapler, which could also be called a Fig 46 stapler As shown in Fig. 46, it has the same compound leverage system as the cover pivot stapler. However, the placement of the axle 20/46 and cam surfaces are different.
  • the base pivot stapler's arm 22/46 is pivotally connected to a cantilever 12/46 instead of to stapler assembly 24/16.
  • a cam surface 30/46 is on an arm 22/46, not cantilever 12/46.
  • a finger 32/46 is connected to a stapler assembly 24/46 instead of arm 22/46.
  • the table 1, coupling table's notation for the base pivot stapler is cam-A-F-I-K-L-pivot-H-K-L stapler. Arm 22/46 rotates on the pan- of axles 20/46. However, as shown in Fig. 46, each axle
  • each axle 20/46 is located at the proximal end of an arm side 21/46.
  • Each axle 20/46 connects its respective arm side 21/46, to its respective cantilever 12/46 As a method of attachment, each axle 20/46 is placed into a hole in its respective cantilever 12/46 and is then spot- welded in place. Finger
  • finger 32/46 is similar to finger 32/36. Accordingly, it extends outwardly from its connection to a cover sidewall 29/46 of the base pivot stapler.
  • a cam surface 30/46 is the surface on the underside of an arm side 21/46, in the mid-arm portion of arm side 21/46. When arm 22/46 is in the stapled position, cam surface 30/46 faces platform 16/46.
  • finger 32/46 is a metal pin surrounded by a cylindrical nylon bushing. Finger 32/46 attaches to a cover 28/46 through a hole in cover sidewall 29/46 and is secured by a spot weld.
  • Axle 20/46 is a metal pin secured to cover 28/46 by spot weld or press fit.
  • An a ⁇ n 22/46 is a cast metal part Shown in Fig 47, arm 22/46 has a handle 23/46 and arm sides 21/46, which together are sized to allow handle 23/46 to clear cover 28/46 as arm 22/46 rotates forward or backward. Notice how this provides clearance, unlike handle 23/18 seen in Fig 18 As shown in Fig 47, the base pivot stapler, like the cover pivot stapler, has an arm spring
  • base pivot stapler has a catch button 74/46 that holds arm 22/46 back in the disengaged configuration despite the forward rotational spring pressure from arm spring 60
  • catch button 74B is a part of base assembly 10/16 and that handle 23/46 is rotated all the way back behind the stapler when it's in a disengaged configuration
  • Fig 47 shows arm 22/46 in a see-through phantom style to show arm 22/46 in both the ready configuration, rotated towards the front, and the disengaged configuration, rotated towards the rear of Fig. 46 stapler.
  • Fig. 48 shows the cover pivot stapler's arm 22/1 in the same see-through style, in the same ready and disengaged configurations Operation of the Base Pivot Stapler
  • the base pivot stapler's stapling operation is the same as the cover pivot stapler.
  • handle 23/46 starts in essentially the same place.
  • users push handle 23/46 down in the same way, moving the stapler assembly 24/16 down with a similar increase in leverage
  • handle 23/46 must rotate up to allow staple access and open stapling.
  • the difference between the two mid-zone staplers is not the general way the cam surfaces and axle 20/46 work, but where they are positioned.
  • axle 20/46 For handle 23/46 to rotate behind the stapler, axle 20/46 must be placed at or behind the middle of the base pivot stapler The exception to this is if arm 22/46 is made longer Then axle 20/46 can move forward, but handle 23/46 will extend, by the same amount, beyond the front of the stapler
  • a variation of the 2nd pivot type stapler is a Fig. 51 stapler with a cam-A-E-I-J-N-pivot-H-K-L notation.
  • This embodiment has a fmger 32/51 connected to an arm 22/51, extending transversely inwards, and has a cam surface 30/51 as an upward facing surface of a slot in a cover sidewall 29/51.
  • cam surface 30/51 could also be an upward facing surface of a protrusion extending transversely from the exterior surface of cover sidewall 29/51
  • a Fig 53 stapler is a variation of the base pivot type stapler.
  • Fig. 53 stapler is an OEM stapler 86 in a carrier 88/53, which together form a cam-A-F-I-J-M-pivot-
  • H-J-L stapler This design allows the use of an OEM, i e. a pre-existing, stapler or one made especially for this purpose to be placed inside a carrier 88/53.
  • This combination provides a functionality similar to the base pivot stapler
  • cam surface 30/53 is the top of OEM stapler 86.
  • a finger 32/53 is a metal rod running between each arm side 21/53 and attached by spot welding.
  • a nylon bushing surrounds the metal rod.
  • Fig. 54 stapler As shown in Fig 54, a variation of the 2nd pivot type stapler is Fig. 54 stapler, which has a handle 23/54 that is pushed backwards. In this configuration, axle 20/54 is in front of finger 32/54 In the ready configuration, handle 23/54 is at the back of the Fig 54 stapler
  • the Fig. 54 stapler is a cam-A-E-I-K-L-pivot-H-J-L stapler Note: this is the one drawing showing an alternate embodiment of the mid-zone stapler that has axle 20/# in front of cam finger 32/54.
  • Figs 55 and 56 show a Fig 55 stapler as an example of a pivot-H-K-L-cam-A-E-I-J-O stapler with an alternate embodiment of a finger cavity 33/55
  • Fmger cavity 33/55 differs from 33/1 because it has the addition of a retainer wall 90
  • Retainer wall 90 is a flat wall of material extending across much of the interior portion of finger cavity 33/55
  • the transversely innermost surfaces of an arm side 21/55 and retainer wall 90 are in the same plane with each other
  • the two largest surfaces of retainer wall 90 are parallel with each other
  • the outer shaped portion of retainer wall 90 is generally a continuation of the shape of arm 22/55
  • the retainer wall 90 reduces the transverse depth of fmger cavity 33/55, but with sufficient room to provide clearance for the end of cantilever 12/55 Retainer wall 90 eliminates lateral or transverse misalignment between fmger 32/55 and cam surface 30/55 by hindering the transverse motion of finger 32/55
  • the following alternate embodiments of the mid-zone stapler apply equally well to 1 st pivot or 2 nd pivot type staplers
  • Another alternate embodiment of the 1 st pivot or 2 nd pivot stapler is a single spring stapler, not shown This stapler has one arm spring 60 instead of two
  • the asymmetry of the spring action is fairly inconsequential, with the advantage that the single spring stapler is somewhat less expensive, because it has one less part
  • Fig 58 Fig 58 shows a Fig 58 stapler as a variation of the cover pivot stapler with an asymmetric arm 22/#
  • an arm 22/58 has one arm side 21/58 instead of two bilaterally symmetric arm sides 21/1 in the cover pivot stapler Handle 23/1 is asymmetrically supported on one side by one arm side 21/58, such that it is a cantilever
  • the Fig 58 stapler also has one finger 32/58, one axle 20/58, and one cantilever 12/58
  • the advantage of this embodiment is that it provides an interesting and distinctive design It also reduces somewhat the amount material and space required
  • Fig 59 Figs 59 and 60 show a Fig 59 stapler as a variation of a cover pivot stapler with an alternative resting position, a Fig 59 stapler Resting horizontally, as seen in Fig 60, the front portion of a platform 16/59 extends transversely on each side creating a pair of approximately symmetric and identical extensions, braces, feet, or struts called vertical feet 80 An inward curving negative space on the front edge in between them, a vertical clearance arch 82, provides clearance Restated, the vertical foot 80 is fundamentally a widening of a front foot 36/59
  • the front-most surface of a handle 23/59 has a flattened plane which is a handle foot 84
  • the front most surface of each of the vertical feet 80 and handle foot 84 are generally in the same plane as each other
  • the Fig 59 stapler uses catch button 74 and catch groove 78 to releasably keep arm 22/59 from rotating up and back
  • this catch button 74 can be overcome by sufficient manual force, allowing arm 22/59 to rotate into the disengaged configuration when desired Fig 61
  • Figs 61 and 62 show a Fig 61 stapler as a variation of a cover pivot stapler with a hood 92 to create a Fig 61 stapler
  • a hood 92 pivots on shaft 46
  • Hood 92 removably covers cantilever 12/1 and stapler assembly 24/1 Having an open-box, rectangular form, hood's 92 rough geometry consists of a top, two sides and a front, with a hollowed out interior Not having a backside allows hood 92 to rotate open, allowing the stapler to be moved into the staple access configuration or tacking configuration
  • the manual force usually applied to top of handle 23/# of the mid-zone stapler is applied to the top of hood 92.
  • the force is then transferred directly to the top of handle 23/61, which in turn transfers the force to cover 28/61 in the same ways typical of mid-zone staplers.
  • Fig. 61 stapler The purpose of the Fig. 61 stapler is to make a stapler with a solid looking form that's more similar to standard staplers, rather than presenting users with an arm sticking out. This would make the Fig. 61 stapler more familiar to some users.
  • Another possible advantage to this embodiment is that a point of sliding contact between handle 23/1 and hood 92 creates a cam surface.
  • cam surface 30/1 there could be a second cam surface on the inside upper surface of hood 92 as well as the previously existing one, cam surface 30/1.
  • Fig. 63 Figs. 63-68 show a Fig. 63 stapler as a variation of a cover pivot stapler with an add-on hole punch 96 to create a Fig. 63 stapler.
  • Platform 16/63 differs from platform 16/1 by having a hole 109/63 in its top surface. Hole 109/63 is placed in front of anvil 18/63, and its axis is vertically oriented.
  • a metal cylinder, called a cylinder 100/63 rests in-line above hole 109/63 and is sized to the same diameter.
  • the bottom surface of cylinder 100/63 is vertically dimensioned to allow sufficient clearance for multiple sheets of material between it and the top surface of platform 16/63.
  • cylinder 100/63 is a part of hole punch 96 and extends vertically from the center of the upper surface of a rectilinear block, a punch body 98.
  • a smaller rectilinear block, a bridge 102 extends longitudinally from the center of the rear surface of punch body 98.
  • a somewhat larger rectilinear form, a backer 104 extends a relatively short distance, longitudinally, from the rearward surface of bridge 102.
  • the resulting space between the rear surface of punch body 98 and the front surface of backer 104 is a slot 106.
  • a somewhat smaller rectilinear form, a punch block 110 extends longitudinally from one side of the rearward face of backer 104.
  • the hole punch 96 is one piece of cast metal except for cylinder 100/63, which is a metal rod pressed into a hole in punch body 98.
  • the lower portion of the front wall of a cover 28/63 has a notch 108.
  • Notch 108 is a transversely centered, downward opening, rectilinear cut out.
  • Notch 108 is sized to accommodate bridge 102.
  • Slot 106 is sized to accommodate the thickness of the front wall of cover 28/63.
  • the front and back surfaces of the front wall of cover 28/63 are flat and parallel. All this allows hole punch 96 to slidably attach, with the vertical motion, to the front wall of cover 28/63.
  • hole punch 96 can be attached with cylinder 100/63 facing either up or down When cylinder 100/63 is facing down, the Fig.
  • the Fig. 63 stapler can punch a hole into a sheet of material.
  • the Fig. 63 stapler works only as a stapler and not as a hole punch
  • Preventing the Fig. 63 stapler from both stapling and hole punching when cylinder 100/63 is in the downward position is the purpose of punch block 110 and a staple block 112.
  • the staple block 112 is a small rectilinear form that extends longitudinally from the front face of a magazine 26/63
  • staple block 112 is positioned to interfere with the upward movement of punch block 110 when cylinder 100/63 is in the downward position.
  • hole punch 96 moves magazine 26/63 up as it slides into position on front of cover 28/63
  • magazine 26/63 remains up, preventing staples from moving forward and thereby preventing stapling.
  • Figs. 69 and 70 show a Fig. 69 stapler as a variation of a cover pivot stapler with a built-in hole punch to create a Fig 69 stapler.
  • the two main components that have changed are a cover 28/69 and a base 11/69.
  • the exterior side surface of a cantilever 12/69 and, to some extent, support 14/69, has a transversely extending convex form called a side base 116 Its top and bottom surfaces are essentially flat and horizontal
  • a hole 109/69 is a hole with a vertical axis that cuts through the approximate middle of side base 116
  • a side body punch 114 is nearly identical in form to side base 116 and is directly above it.
  • Side body 114 extends transversely from the exterior sidewall of cover 28/69.
  • a metal cylinder, cylinder 100 extends downward from the lower surface of side body 114, matching the position and diameter of hole 109/69.
  • the bottom surface of cylinder 100/69 is vertically dimensioned to allow sufficient clearance for multiple sheets of material between it and side base 116.
  • Fig. 70 when the Fig.
  • 69 stapler is in the stapled configuration, the bottom surface of side body 114 is vertically dimensioned to allow sufficient clearance for multiple sheets of material between it and side base 116
  • the side body 114 is part of the same cast metal part as cover 28/69
  • Side base 116 is a part of the same cast metal part as base 11/69
  • Cylinder 100/69 is a metal rod press fit into a receiving hole in the bottom side of side body 114
  • the Fig. 69 stapler operates m the same fashion as the cover pivot stapler, but additionally and simultaneously it pushes cylinder 100/69 through hole 109/69 to allow it to punch a hole into a sheet, or sheets of material.
  • Fig. 71 Figs. 71 and 72 show a Fig. 71 stapler, which is a variation of the Fig. 35 stapler.
  • Fig. 71 stapler has a partially enclosed cam slot 120/71
  • the Fig. 71 stapler has a finger retainer 118, which is an extension of a cantilever 12/71. Finger retainer 118 is a downward and then rearward extension of the distal portion of cantilever 12/71.
  • Cam slot 120/71 is the resulting cavity defined on three of four sides by cantilever 12/71 above and by finger retainer 118 in front and below. The fourth side is a rearward opening of cam slot 120/71 that allows the entrance and exit of finger 32/71.
  • the Fig. 71 stapler's cam slot 120/71 allows handle 23/71 to selectively be prevented from, or allowed to, rotate up and back. This allows fmger 32/71 to selectively pivot into and out of engagement with cam surface 30/71. As shown in Fig. 71, cam slot 120/71 limits the downward and/or forward movement of fmger 32/71 while cam surface 30/71 limits the upward movement of fmger 32/71.
  • handle 23/71 can be rotated upward and rearward only after it has been pushed downward and forward into the stapled configuration. In this position, as show in Fig.
  • this cam is a position-dependent releasable cam. It is either fixed or releasable depending on its position, hence the -HI- fixed/free coupling table notation found in table 1.
  • cam slot 120/71 confers several advantages to the Fig. 71 stapler. The first is that it could eliminate the need for catch button 74 by replacing its function to limit the upward and rearward rotation of handle 23/71. Additionally, cam slot 120/71 provides a more secure mechanism of limiting the upward and rearward rotation of handle 23/71. This is particularly useful for staplers such as the Fig. 59 stapler. Fig 73
  • Figs. 73, 74 and 75 show an example of a cam-A-E-I-K-L-pivot-H-J-N stapler with a cantilevered arm 22/73 to create a Fig. 73 stapler.
  • This stapler does not have a cantilever 12/# in its base 11/73 Instead, the cantilever is in an arm 22/73.
  • axle 20/# above paper slot 34/# Axle 20/# can be placed lower, but it interferes with paper slot 34/#
  • the Fig. 73 stapler has axle 20/73 in a platform 16/73 below paper slot 34/73.
  • Arm 22/73 includes a pair of arm sides 21/73 symmetrically placed on each side As shown in Fig 75, each arm side 21/73 is generally flat, transversely thm, and comprised of three segments A lower segment 127 connects to axle 20/73 and extends rearwards From there, a vertical segment 128 extends upwards and from there, an upper segment 129 extends forwards such that a portion of the upper segment 129 is directly above axle 20/73 These three segments define three sides of a handle space 130 Handle space 130 is open towards the front.
  • the base of the stapler 85/73 has to be thick enough to accommodate both the axle 20/73 and the lower segment 127 of arm side 21/73. Additionally, the base has to be thick enough to accommodate the changing angle of the lower segment 127 as arm 22/73 moves from the ready to the stapled position.
  • the Fig 73 stapler has functionality and performance characteristics similar to the base pivot stapler The first exception is that the minimum distance between axle 20/73 and fmger 32/73 is not as short. Inherently, the vertical distance must span paper slot 34/73 and magazine 26/1 Secondly, the Fig 73 stapler must be picked up in order to rotate arm 22/73 all the way up and back so that the cover 28/73 can open.
  • Possible advantages include using the movement of the lower segment 127 relative to the lower portions of the Fig. 71 stapler for some other function, such as shearing, staple removing, hole punching, etc.
  • the thicker base also can be used for staple storage or other storage of other small items
  • Fig. 76 Figs. 76, 77A and 77B show a Fig. 76 stapler as a variation of the 1 st pivot stapler.
  • Fig. 76 stapler is similar to the Fig 14 stapler in having a bushing 57/76 on a hub 58/76 to create a fmger 32/76
  • hub 58/76 is supported on both sides and an arm side 21/76 is in the same plane as a cantilever 12/76 shown in Fig 76.
  • the Fig. 76 stapler has a finger cavity 33/76 somewhat similar to finger cavity 33/55, shown in Fig. 55.
  • cavity 33/76 accommodates a cantilever 12/76, but differs because its boundary is not limited by finger 32/55.
  • Finger wall 91A, of Fig. 77B is very similar to retainer wall 90, of Fig. 55.
  • the Fig. 76 stapler also has a second finger wall 91/#, a finger wall 9 IB creating a boundary to cavity 33/76.
  • Finger wall 9 IB is similar to finger wall 9 IA, except its placement is transversely on the outside portion of arm 22/55, instead of the inside.
  • Finger 32/76 is placed in finger cavity 33/76, with its metal pin pressure fit, on each side, into a hole in each of finger walls 91A and 91B. Being held on each side gives the finger 32/76 an -M- coupling table notation. There are three advantages to this arrangement. Finger 32/76' s metal pin is supported on both sides, as opposed to one side, as shown in Fig. 77B.
  • a Fig. 78 stapler is an alternate embodiment of the 2nd pivot stapler.
  • Fig. 78 stapler is part of a class of staplers called tool staplers.
  • Tool staplers take advantage of a heretofore unused portion of arm 22/#'s rotation.
  • an arm 22/78 is rotated rearward instead of forward, it can engage and power a pressing tool called an insert 132/79
  • Insert 132/79' s utility can include such functions as a hole punch, an embossing tool, or a stamping tool.
  • Insert 132/79 is so named because it is removably insertable into the Fig 78 stapler, as shown in Fig. 78.
  • platform 16/78 is modified to accommodate insert 132/79, longitudinally rearward of axle 20/78. It has a receptacle 150/78 that is a cavity, shaped so that insert 132/79 can drop into it. The lower portion of receptacle 150/78 also extends in a circular fashion beyond the sidewalls of platform 16/78.
  • interstice 152 the area between the top surface of anvil 18/78 and the bottom of surface magazine 26/1. It is necessary to name this because this area is no longer the same dimension as paper slot 34/78.
  • deflector 140 Another new feature seen in Fig. 78 is deflector 140.
  • the purpose of deflector 140 is to guide the sheets or the sheets of material down and into the opening in insert 132/79. This is necessary because of the raised top surface of anvil 18/78.
  • insert 132/79 has two round subcomponents: a top 142/78 and a bottom 144/78. These two subcomponents are separated by a separation 147, with top 142/78 positioned over bottom 144/78.
  • both top 142/78 and bottom 144/78 are both short, wide cylinders, made of cast aluminum alloy.
  • a connector 146 connects these two subcomponents to each other.
  • Connector 146 is a bent piece of spring steel with one end cast into top 142/78 and the other end cast into bottom 144/78.
  • Connector 146 holds top 142/78 and bottom 144/78 apart, creating a sufficiently large gap to allow sheets of material to enter
  • top 142/78 has two bilateral protrusions or ridges, called a pair of ridges 136/78, extending vertically from it. As seen in Fig. 78, these are laterally positioned to provide clearance for the width of magazine 26/1 and cover 28/1. This lateral or transverse centered clearance space between ridges 136/78 is called a clearance void 137.
  • the lateral positioning of ridges 136/78 also matches the width of arm 22/78. This allows arm 22/78 to make contact with cam inserts 136/78.
  • An approximately right angle extension of a portion of each arm side 21/78 called insert an insert finger 134/78 is the portion of arm 22/78 that makes contact with the ridges 136/78.
  • insert finger 134/78 is about the same distance from axle 20/78 as cam surface 30/78. Or to restate, insert finger 134/78 is located on the opposite side of arm side 21/78 from cam surface 30/78.
  • the top surface of ridges 136/78 where contact is actually made are called ridge surface 138/78 Insert- Positioner
  • bottom 144/78 has two positioners 145/78.
  • positioner 148/78 is a rectilinear shape extending longitudinally from the curved side of bottom 144/78.
  • positioners 145/78 There are two positioners 145/78, one extending from the front portion of bottom 144/78 and one extending from the rear portion.
  • Receptacle 150/78's sidewalls are shaped to match the sidewall perimeter of bottom 144/78 such that bottom 144/78 drops into receptacle 150/78 like a piece of a jigsaw puzzle.
  • positioner 148/#'s function is to limit the longitudinal, transverse, and rotational movement of positioner 148/# relative to base ll/# Note that some aspects of this function can be performed by bottom 144/# For example, bottom 144/78 is round and fits into a round receptacle 150/78 As such, bottom 144/78 limits in the longitudinal and transverse movement of bottom 144/78 Positioner 148/78 is only needed to limit the rotational movement
  • bottom 144/# is a square shape then longitudinal and rotational movement are prevented If the square shape extends transversely beyond receptacle 150/# then positioner 148/# is needed to limit the transverse movement If the square shape of bottom 144/#does not extend beyond receptacle 150/#, then no positioner 148/# is needed In this case either bottom 144/# and positioner 148/# can been considered the same part, or positioner 148/# can be considered nonexistent
  • connector 146 can be used as a positioner 148/# Also because the side walls of both bottom 144/# and positioner 148/# are similar, either can be used to hold the snap bumps or detents
  • positioner(s) 148/# can vary considerably in number, size, and shape So long as the combination of bottom 144/# and positioner 148/# provide the appropriate geometry to the limit longitudinal, transverse and rotational movement, the function of positioner 148/# is satisfied Correspondingly, there must be a reciprocal shape in receptacle 150/# or platform 16/# Note that positioner 148/# can also be a negative space, hole or dent in bottom 144/# The positioning function requires a reciprocal positive shape in receptacle 150/# or platform 16/#
  • insert 132/# doesn't have to be removable It could be permanently attached to the mid-zone stapler, or be a portion of existing parts of the mid- zone stapler
  • Fig 80 shows the Fig 78 stapler in an initiating configuration This shows that the operational use of insert 132/79 in the Fig 78 stapler is initiated by rotating arm 22/78 rearward This brings insert finger 134/78 into contact with cam surface 138/78 As arm 22/78 rotates further rearward, top 142/78 is pressed down into contact with bottom 144/78 It is this pressing action that causes insert 132/79 to function as a pressing tool When top 142/78 contacts bottom 144/78, as shown in Fig 81, the Fig 78 stapler is m a pressed configuration. The manual pressure providing the downward and rearward rotation of arm
  • insert finger 134/78 and top 142/78 are also called second end input.
  • insert output The resulting downward movement of insert finger 134/78 and top 142/78 is also referred to as insert output.
  • ridge 136 is optional; the design can utilize two, one or none. Insert Fig.134/78 could contact the top surface of top 142/78 instead. This would make inset cam surface 138 the same surface has the top surface of top 142/78. Conversely, taller ridges 136 could be used such that their laterally outer surfaces could match the laterally inner surfaces of cantilever 12/78. These parallel and adjacent surfaces could limit the transverse and torsional movement of top 142/78 during the pressing operation. Note: if ridge 136 is taller, then insert finger 134/78 can be shorter, and vice versa.
  • Fig. 81 arm 22/78 rotates into a position where a handle 23/78 is behind a cover 28/78, although handle 23/78 is shown more clearly in Fig. 80.
  • axle 20/78 is very close to the longitudinal center of the Fig. 78 stapler. To move axle 20/78 further forward would require lengthening arm 22/78 so that handle 23/78 can still pass behind cover 28/78.
  • Fig. 82 if arm 28/78 remains the same length, one solution to maintaining a top loading stapler is to create a lid 154. Lid 154 is a separate piece from a cover 28/82, but covers most of the top area formerly covered by cover 28/78.
  • Each side of the rearward portion of lid 154 has rearward extensions to allow lid 154 to be pivotally attached by a pole 156 to cover 28/82.
  • a pressure member 44/83 is also attached to pole 156, allowing it to rotate up with lid 154. This allows access to the staples through the top of a stapler assembly 24/82.
  • One reason to move axle 20/78 forward is to create more room for insert 132/79.
  • Fig. 83 another way to create more room for insert 132/79 is to increase gap 35/83.
  • Fig. 84 there's another way to keep arm 22/78's length constant while moving axle 20/# forward. This involves cutting away an upper and somewhat rearward portion of a cover 28/84, creating a cut 158. As shown in Fig. 85, this provides clearance for a portion of handle 23/78, thereby allowing cover 28/34 to rotate into a vertical position for staple access. Notice that unlike the Fig. 80 and 83 staplers, the Fig. 84 stapler's arm 22/78 is in the initiating configuration when cover 28/84 is opened. For Fig. 80 and 83 staplers, arm 22/78 is in the pressed configuration. Also notice an insert 132/84 operates as a hole punch.
  • retainer 162 also serves a second purpose As shown in Figs 85 and 86, it releasably attaches axle 20/84 to cantilever 12/84 Axle 20/84 fits into an indent 125/84 Indent 125/84 is a slot in the distal end of cantilever 12/84 This differs from many of the other mid-zone stapler configurations where axle 20/# fits into a hole in the distal end of cantilever 12/84, creating a more permanent connection Accordingly, retainer 162 keeps axle 20/84 from falling out of indent 125/84 Yet because retainer 162 is a spring, it gives way when sufficient manual pressure pushes down on axle 20/84, releasing axle 20/84 and thereby arm 22/84
  • Retainer 162 is a piece of spring steel bent approximately 270° on one end The other end is attached to a cantilever 12/84 by a retainer block 164 Retainer block 164 is a transverse extension of cantilever 12/84 and made of the same material This method of controlling the position of arm 22/84 has two advantages The first is that it's very simple The second is that one moving part retainer 162, can be used to hold arm 22/78 in multiple positions by having multiple scallops 160
  • the Fig 87 stapler can have a second pressing tool function in its front portion, forward of axle 20/87
  • a die 168 is releasably attached to the front portion of the Fig 87 stapler More specifically, there are two points of attachment
  • the lower portion of die 168, a lower die 170 is releasably attached to the front portion of platform 16/87
  • An anvil 18/87 can also releasably attached to the same front portion of platform 16/87, allowing the two parts to be interchangeable Using a Fig 87 stapler for a stapling function requires anvil 18/87 to be in place
  • die extension 174 attaches upper die 172 to cover 28/87 When upper die 172 is attached, it holds magazine 26/87 up against cover 28/87, in a position similar to its stapled configuration This prevents the stapler function of the Fig 87 stapler from operating during die 168's use.
  • die 168 and insert 132/# are both powered by arm 22/#, only insert 132/#is powered by direct contact with arm 22/#.
  • Die 168 is powered indirectly. The operational force from arm 22/#is transmitted to cover 28/# and then from cover 28/# to die 168.
  • Fig 87 stapler in an alternate embodiment of the Fig 87 stapler, another insert 132/# could be used instead of die 168, depending on their particular embodiments. Conversely, in an alternate embodiment of Fig 87 stapler, another die 168 could be used in place of insert 132/# In each case there would be two identical inserts, reducing manufacturing costs To clarify, the pressing surfaces of the two identical inserts would be different while everything else is the same. For example, one insert is an embossing tool while the other another is an ink- stampmg tool, or an embossing tool with a different embossed pattern Also note that die 168 can be a permanent fixture transforming the Fig 87 stapler into a pressing tool. That is to say, the pressing tool would not operate as a stapler, but would have two pressing functions, one behind axle 20/87 and one in front of it.
  • Insert 132/79 is shown as a round shape typical of embossing tools However, it could be square or any number of other shapes. For example, as an ink stamping tool, rectangular would a very workable in shape If insert 132/# were a double hole punch, it would need to extend further transversely As such, either an oval or rectilinear form would be more appropriate than circular
  • first and second input in the tool staplers are mutually exclusive.
  • Fig 78 stapler's arm 22/78 cannot make contact with finger 32/78 and ridge 136 at the same time.
  • handle 23/78 is proximate, the first end it contacts finger 32/78.
  • handle 23/78 is proximate, the second end it contacts ridge 136.
  • Handle 23/78 is not in contact with either when it's in transition between them
  • a tool stapler can be made with two arms 22/# One arm 22/# providing the first input while the other provides the second input simultaneously No example of this is shown.
  • the rack and pinion stapler uses a pinion gear and rack to achieve functionality similar to the cam or the link staplers Put another way, it provides a coupling mechanism that allows the downward movement of an arm 22/89 to move a cover 28/89 downwards
  • Fig 89 shows a rack 180/89 attached to the sidewall of cover 28/89
  • Rack 180/89 is a cast metal part formed as part of cover 28/89
  • a pinion 182/89 is a pmion gear, which is made with an axle 20/89 as a single cast metal part Axle 20/89 is then press fit into arm 22/89, after it has passed through the hole in a cantilever 12/89
  • the portion of axle 20/89 that is fit into pmion 182/89 has a flat chamfer in it
  • the hole in pinion 182/89 also has a corresponding flat
  • the stapling operation of the Fig 89 rack and pmion stapler is similar to any mid-zone stapler To be more specific, it fits into the category of a 2 nd pivot stapler with a cam type first coupling
  • the rack and pmion act as a series of cams with the connecting surfaces of the gear teeth sliding and rotating against each other The main difference is there are multiple teeth instead of a single cam
  • the multiple teeth change the way the Fig 89 stapler is moved into the disengaged configuration
  • arm 22/89 cannot be rotated up into the disengaged configuration without cover 28/89 also moving up at the same time From that initial disengagement configuration, the two can operate independently Accordingly, arm 22/89 can then be rotated backwards into the disengaged configuration, and cover 28/89 can then rotate rearwards into either a staple access or tacking configuration
  • rack 180/91 can also be a series of posts, each one called a rack post 184/91 and extending from cover 28/91
  • Each rack post 184/91 is placed in a similar orientation and spacing, effectively replacing each tooth of rack 180/89
  • the teeth in pinion 182/91 can catch at least one rack post 184/91 and thereby force cover 28/91 downward during the stapling operation
  • Each rack post 184/91 is a cylindrical metal rod pressure fit into a hole in the sidewall of cover 28/91
  • rack 180/92 is a part of a base 11/92.
  • rack 180/92 is attached to the distal end of a cantilever 12/92.
  • Rack 180/92 is made of cast metal and is formed as part of cantilever 12/92.
  • a pinion 182/92 is similar to pinions 182/89 and 182/91. The difference is that pinion
  • a finger post 186 extends from the distal and of arm 22/92, which is similar in size and position to finger 32/71 of Fig. 71, but a square instead of round. Pinion
  • the rack and pinion mechanism is not shown in the coupling table of table 1. If it were, it would be categorized under the cam section, not the pivot or link sections. As mentioned, this is because the gear teeth on both the rack and pinion in many ways act as serial cams. Like the "-E- Simple" cam, the connecting surfaces of the gear teeth also slide and rotate against each other. In a similar fashion to the cam category, the ends of one set of teeth could have rollers in them, making it more of a "-F-RoIl” style rack and pinion. Clearly, rack 180/91' s series of posts could have rotating sleeves or rollers on them as well, providing an "-F-RoIl” style rack.
  • An additional advantage of the mid-zone stapler is that staples don't jam as easily as a standard stapler. The reason is that stapler assembly 24/# is isolated from transverse movement during its downward rotation. When a standard stapler jams, it's because the front of a standard stapler doesn't just move straight down, it moves slightly diagonally. This causes the staple to collapse and then jam. This is a response to the common slightly diagonal vector of the manual pressure. The compound lever system in the mid-zone stapler does not transmit much, if any, horizontal force when transmitting vertical force to the stapler assembly 24/#.
  • the Fig. 88 stapler has a cantilever 12/88 similar in function to the base pivot stapler's cantilever 12/46. However, its appearance is quite different. Notice that arm 22/88 and cantilever 12/88, together, create a single arcing form. That is to say, the arcing form of cantilever 12/88 is continued by arm 22/88 when the Fig. 88 stapler is in the resting position. While the reason for this is mostly aesthetic, notice the advantageous depth of paper slot 34/88. Scope: Reverse Components
  • any mid-zone stapler subcomponent- A acting on any subcomponent-B the acting and receiving subcomponents can generally be reversed: I.e., subcomponent-B acting on subcomponent-A.
  • any stapler subcomponent pivoting on an axle can rotate relative to the axle, or be attached to the axle and therefore rotate with the axle.
  • stapler subcomponents are capable of acting on each other, one is chosen to simplify the description. This should not be taken to limit the mid-zone stapler's subcomponent design, configuration, or action.
  • axis orientations should not be taken as absolutes, but rather as being relative to the mid-zone stapler. Accordingly, when the mid-zone stapler's front foot 36/# and back foot 38 are placed on a horizontal surface such as a tabletop, the longitudinal, or z- axis, and the transverse, or x-axis, are parallel to the tabletop. The y-axis is orthogonal to the tabletop. If the mid-zone stapler is tipped over 90° onto its side, the longitudinal, or is z-axis, and the vertical, or y-axis, are parallel to the tabletop while the transverse, or x-axis, is orthogonal to the tabletop.
  • Scope Coupling table Note: the coupling table of table 1 shows many possible permutations of mid-zone stapler designs. Because there are so many, only a handful have been shown. For example, a link in combination with a cam has not been shown, but is definitely an option.
  • Scope Staples Note: the mid-zone stapler is not designed for a specific size staple For example, different mid-zone staplers could accommodate different size staples Additionally, one stapler could accommodate different size staples. Staples wouldn't have to be top loaded; they could be loaded from the rear or in some other fashion Note: if the stapler is rear loading, cam slot 120/71 could fully enclose finger 32/71. Scope: Measurement
  • the longitudinal position of a cam is measured at the point of rotatable contact.
  • contact point 31/# For slide 27/# this is the center of the cam finger 32/#or the closest equivalent. Scope: mid-zone and mid-base ranges.
  • the mid-zone or mid-base covers from 12.5% to 99% of assembly 2AIYs length from the rear end of stapler assembly 24/1 towards the front In this the maximum range of the mid-zone or mid-base. Many other more limited ranges are possible.
  • a majority of the mid-zone staplers have the second coupling very close to the center stapler assembly 24/#. Accordingly, a mid-base range of 40% to 60% of assembly 24/1 's length from the rear end of stapler assembly 24/1 towards the front is sufficient.
  • the 2 nd pivot stapler needs to be close to the center so that its handle 23/# can't have it past the rear end stapler assembly 24/#. As such, and mid-base range of 45% to 55% is sufficient. However, having a larger range of mid-zone or mid-base ranges allows for more design options.
  • a mid-base range of 34% to 65% would allow a large range of options and still keep the mid-zone stapler' s compound lever system within a good operating range
  • mid-base range of 26% to 76% provides a still larger range of options, allowing the second coupling's longitudinal position to range within the center one half of stapler assembly 24/#'s length
  • a mid-base range of 26% to 86% provides a still larger range of design options
  • a mid-base range of 21% to 89% provides a still larger range of design options.
  • a mid- base range of 15% to 95% provides a still larger range of design options.
  • Optional Optional items in the mid-zone stapler include a changing cam ratio, an overlapping handle 23/1, bumper 61, spring 60, catch button 74, and auxiliary catch button 75/1. That is, the mid-zone stapler can function without them.
  • Scope Tools Other than a Stapler
  • the functionality of insert 132/# and die 168 can be applied to any tool that functions using a pressing action.
  • any tool that would benefit from the mechanical advantage, compact size, or reasonable manufacturing costs of the mid-zone stapler's compound lever mechanism Examples include bending, cutting, forming, shearing, stamping, marking, labeling, printing, punching, coining, crimping, pumping, hole punching, multiple hole punching, nailing, and stapling tools
  • the pressing tool portion using the compound leverage system of the mid-zone stapler, moves the non-pressing tool portion towards or away from its work surface.
  • the compound leverage mechanism moving a drill bit or circular saw blade down into a piece of wood while the rotary motion is provided by an electric motor
  • Other examples include boring, broaching, drilling, facing, grinding, lathe, milling, planing, press drill, sawing, shaper, tapping, and threading machines.
  • pressing tools in the first category can be called single y-axis tools. Accordingly, the input that pushes downward on handle 23/a # can be called a single y-axis input and its output can be called a single y-axis output.
  • the tools in the second category are referred to as multiple axis tools Extra Features
  • mid-zone stapler and its variations could be combined with other features such as a staple remover, staple storage, or other office and desk related items. No examples are shown.
  • a latch could hold the handle down in the stapled position. No examples are shown.
  • Anvil 18/# could be modified or removed to allow the staple to pass through and not be crimped Additionally, by modifying the platform 16/# or using an extra attachment, platform 16/# could be attached to a large surfaced element that is at least as thick as the depth a staple can penetrate The mid-zone stapler's compound leverage mechanism could then staple sheets of material to the element, such that the ends of the staple are buried into the element uncrimped No examples are shown.
  • mid- zone stapler provides a substantial mmprovement in utility That is to say, it achieves a considerable increase in leverage without a considerable increased in cost and without losing any features of the standard stapler. This isn't just a design that is possible to construct, it's a real world solution that's viable from all perspectives, mechanical, ergonomic, manufacturing, and commercial.
  • insert 132/#'s functionality further mc ⁇ reases utility and adds commercial aftermarket possibilities.
  • mid-zone is defined as a percentage of assembly 24' s length from the rear end of stapler assembly 24 towards the front
  • a new definition of mid-zone, a mid-zone-B is to measure from shaft 46 towards the front of stapler assembly 24 and ending at exit 55
  • the measurement between shaft 46 and exit 55 is 100% of the length of stapling assembly 24 with regard to mid-zone-B
  • the reason to measure between these two points is they control the functional length of stapler assembly 24 as a lever Shaft 46 is the pivot point for the rotation of stapler assembly 24 Exit 55 is where the staple exits, therefore this is where the leverage forces culminate
  • Mid base B must also be updated from mid base Accordingly, mid base B constitutes a longitudinal portion of base 11 measured as a percentage of the stapling assembly 24' s length from shaft of 46 toward exit 55 when the stapler is in the ready configuration And stapling assembly 24' s length being measured as a distance from shaft of 46 to exit 55
  • an arm 22/100 is shown in its simplest form as a parallelogram
  • arm 22/101 shown in figure 101, has two improvement features
  • the first feature is that arm 22/101 is tapered It's narrower at its distal end and wider at its proximal end This is because arm 22/101 is a lever Accordingly, the distal end receives greater stress, requires greater strength and hence is wider Conversely, the proximal end can be narrower, saving material, thereby reducing cost and weight
  • This difference of angle between the two provides a better manual interface for handle 23/101, by allowing the angle for handle 23/101 and arm 22/101 to be chosen independently More than half a degree of angle constitutes the definition for determining that the angles for handle 23/101 and arm 22/101 are different from each other, although a difference of 2° or 5° is more noticeable
  • there are two problems with arm 22/101 Firstly, the change in angle between a handle 23/101 and arm 22/101 creates a sharp transition on the outer, or top, surface This is an outside corner 201/101 which can cut, abrade, or otherwise cause discomfort during manual use
  • the second problem with a sharp transition is that it creates higher mechanical stress at the transition
  • One solution is the use of radii, larger being better
  • a continuously curving form of an arm 22/102 is best Note when talking about angle of a curve it becomes somewhat
  • Figure 103 shows front view of arm 22/100 with a rectangular cross-section Note that this is a front view when arm 22/100 is horizontal, not as shown in figure 100 angling at approximately 45°
  • the bottom portion of an arm 22/104 is hollow, as shown in figure 104
  • arm 22/104 is composed of a top- wall and two side-walls This represents a significant reduction in material, hence weight and cost, compared with arm 22/100
  • an outer corner 201/104 creating a manual hazard
  • Adding radii improves the situation as shown by arm 22/105 shown in figure 105
  • the best solution lies in the continuously curving form of an arm 22/106, as shown in figure 106
  • Arm 22/100 is shown again in figure 107, this time as a top view, relative to figure 103 Again it is a rectangular form
  • An arm 201/108 is shown with a cut out 202/108 opening to the proximal end
  • This cut out 202/108 defines two additional features a handle 23/108 and two arm sides 21/108 Again the problem of sharpness of an outer corner 201/108 and the stress concentration of an inner corner 200/108 is seen
  • the solution using radii is again demonstrated by an arm 22/109 shown in figure 109
  • the superior solution of a continuously curving form is shown by an arm 22/110 in figure 110 Notice however, there is an additional benefit to this form
  • the surface between the parabolic curve of arm 22/110's outer and inner perimeters creates a tapering form: a longitudinal handle extension 203/110. This is valuable not only for the lateral strength imparts to arm 22/110, but also for the extension of handle surface area towards the proximal end. This is valuable particularly when the stapler is operated in handheld mode This is because
  • cut out 202/110 achieves similar benefits of less material and weight, while restoring lateral strength and important usable surface area.
  • the parabolic shape on the outside perimeter of arm 23/110 is primarily responsible for the smoothness that would be noticed during manual use.
  • an arm 22/112 shows a handle 23/112 that is wider. That extra width is called a lateral handle extension 204/112.
  • the lateral handle extension 204/112 extends the surface of handle 23/110 to be wider than the average width of arm 22/112.
  • the lateral handle extension 204/112 is wider than the outside dimensions of the two arm sides 21/112. Notice the concave curvature in the transition from
  • lateral handle extension 204/112 to arm side 21/112 is very gradual, i.e. large radius, in order to be consistent with the rest of the form, minimize stress and maximize smoothness.
  • Quasi-Parabolic or Q-P will referred to parabolic curves and multiple curves geometries that approximate parabolic curves: curves having variable radii or multiple tangential curves with different radii.
  • the curvatures of figure 110 are an example of this Q-P category.
  • Quasi-Radial or Q-R will refer to large simple curves with a single radius, or multiple curves that approximate that. Arm 22/102 of figure 102 is an example of this Quasi-
  • Q-R and Q-P have in common with the look and feel of gradual and smooth parameter and surface transition. In some cases they can be used interchangeably, and other cases used together. Accordingly, Q-P-R will refer to both the Q-P and Q-R categories collectively.
  • Q-P-R and its subcategories Q-P and Q-R referred to curvature profiles in which the curvature is a dommant feature and any straight or linear sections are minor or subordinate That is to say that the profile would generally be described as curved rather than straight.
  • an arm 22/A combines the Q-P-R curvature principles in all three dimensions simultaneously. This provides a combination of the smoothest, most ergonomic, lightest, strongest and least expensive solution possible. Arm 22/A is used instead of arm 22/113 because this is the arm 22 from a stapler [A] to be introduced later Note arm 22/A has a pad 212/A, an axle hole 213/A, a cam cut out 210/A, and a cam insert cut out 21 I/A. These will be discussed later.
  • FIGURE 120 SIDE VIEW
  • the following stapler [A] is derived largely from the US provisional application US 61/080, 095, titled IMPROVEMENTS ON MID-ZONE STAPLER, AND OTHER STAPLERS OR PRESSING TOOLS, filing date 07/11/2008 by William C Zolentroff.
  • the average angle of support top surface 223/A is steeper than the average angle of handle top surface 222Ih.
  • 223 is generally 28° or more below horizontal, or that is, above parallel with the bottom surface of base 11/A Stapler [A]'s angle is 34°, while figure 88 stapler's angle is 28°. Smaller angles are possible, such as 25°, 20°, 15° or even 10° below horizontal, however they impinge
  • axle 20/A As high or as far rearward. Larger angles are also possible such as 60°, 75° and up to 89° above parallel with the bottom surface of base 11/A and even vertical 90°.
  • the average angle of arm bottom surface 225 is 16° or more below horizontal, or that is, above parallel with the bottom surface of base 11/A.
  • Stapler [A]'s angle is 19°, while figure 88 stapler's angle is 16°. Smaller angles are possible, such as 15°, 10°, or even 5°.
  • the average angle of support bottom surface 227/A is 32° or more below horizontal, or that is, above parallel with the bottom surface of base 11/A.
  • Stapler [A]'s angle is 45°, while figure
  • 20 88 stapler's angle is 32°. Smaller angles are possible, such as 30°, 25°, 20° or even 15° and larger angles are also possible such as 60°, 75° and up to 89° above parallel with the bottom surface of base 11/A and even vertical 90°.
  • cantilever 12/A comprises a half round shape that reduces sharp edges that is called intersection flap 234/A Additionally, and minimizes pinch points by 25 overlapping arm 22/A, see figure 102.
  • the concave Q-P-R curvature of clearance arch 40/A improves ability to grasp stapler, improves grasp comfort, and also improves resting stability if desktop surface is irregular
  • a stapling assembly 20/A and arm 22/A are distinct entities with a lever gap 23 I/A between them
  • the lever gap to 3 I/A is vertically larger than the vertical thickness of Arm 22 This reduces material use compared to a design with extending portions of arm 22 or stapling assembly 20 such that they appear to be overlapping portions of a relatively solid looking or continuous form
  • An example of overlapping continuous forms is the typical way in which most stapler's cover 28 overlaps their magazine 26 to create the relatively solid looking, continuous form of stapler assembly 24
  • FIGURE 121 VERTICAL ORIENTATION SIDE VIEW
  • the center of gravity in figure 121 would appear to be halfway between handle foot 84/A and vertical foot 80/A, referred to as a visual center of stability 242/A
  • the actual center of gravity is located closer to front foot 36/A, referred to as a true center of stability 242/A
  • the reason for this is that the Vertical Footing is a tripod having 3 feet: one Handle Foot 84 and two Vertical Feet 80.
  • the triangular footing means the tripod center of stability or gravity in this figure is to the right of the visual center of stability 242/A.
  • cover 28/A also curves in towards base bottom surface 220/A to move center of gravity in that direction. Additionally this provides clearance to open stapler into the tacking configuration shown later in figure 131 Also note that the front portion of cover 28/A also curves in towards base bottom surface 220/A moving the center of gravity in that direction
  • stapler [A]'s center of gravity is too close to base bottom surface 220; A it can be moved away from there and back towards handle foot 84/A, by tilting stapler [A] that direction, as shown in figure 121 This is accomplished by shortened arm 22/ A the desired amount to create a tilt moving base bottom surface 220; 'A away from vertical.
  • a clearance arch 40/A also helps by reducing mass on the right hand side. Also helping slightly is a small portion of the backside, a base backside 246/A of base 1 I/A which is tapered towards the center of gravity above Back Foot 38.
  • FIGURE 122 TOP VIEW
  • base front 250/A This wider stance provides improved lateral stability in both the horizontal and vertical orientations.
  • the lateral stability when the stapler [A] is in the horizontal orientation is also improved by the relative narrowness of the front portion of handle 23/A
  • the narrower handle 23/A the more centered the downward manual pushing force. Notice the gentle and smooth transition of the Q-P-R type curvature in the transition between base front 250/A and the rest of base 1 I/A.
  • FIG. 122 also shows to longitudinal handle extensions 203/A providing smooth transitions between handle 23/A and each arm side 2 I/A.
  • this provides more surface area, and a greater range of surface area, to push against The improvement of lateral strength and minimized stress points where a crack could form is mostly due to an inner arm perimeter 252/A.
  • An outer arm perimeter 253/A is a more significant part of the smooth surface/contour that doesn't cut or catch or create pressure points during manual use and operation. Note the use of the Q-P-R geometry here.
  • a lateral handle extension 204/A is a widened portion of handle 23/A that is wider than the rest of the handle 23/A This creates a ' spoon" shape that increases the handle 23/A surface area and is also ergonomically superior.
  • a handle pad 25 I/A is seen in figure 122 just inside of the handle 23/A parameter outline. The shape matching the Q-P-R curves of handle 23/A maximizes the surface area.
  • FIG. 122 shows the distal end of each cantilever 12/A overlapping each arm side 21/A.
  • intersection flaps 234/A are outboard of arm sides 21/A to maximize base 11 /A's width.
  • this could be reversed by putting an intersection flap 234 on each and arm side 21, instead, and putting both cantilevers 12 inboard of the arm sides 21's intersection flaps 234.
  • a retention hole 254/A allows stapler to be hung on a peg for storage or hung by a cord for storage and retention.
  • Retention cord groove 255/A allows stapler [A] to open fully to the tacking configuration without interference from a retention cord See figure 131: stapler in tacking configuration.
  • Drawing artifact A 233/A is also visible in figure 122.
  • Cross section AA is taken from figure 122 and shown in the following page as figure 123.
  • FIGURE 123 CROSS-SECTION VIEW
  • a cross-section of stapler [A] shown in this figure 123 is derived from figure 122.
  • the primary purpose of this figure 123 is to show the construction of stapler [A]' s second coupling.
  • Figure 124 shows this coupling in greater detail.
  • the second coupling is a cam.
  • stapler [A] switches the position of a finger 32/A and a cam surface 30/A.
  • finger 32/1 is a part of arm 22/1
  • cam surface 30/1 is a part of cantilever 12/1.
  • Finger 32/A is a part of cantilever 12/A and cam surface 30/A is a part of arm 22/A
  • finger 32/A is a separate part, a cam finger insert 260/A. More specifically, it is a tubular piece of Teflon or Delrin/ Acetyl bearing The bearing has been cut in half, approximately 180° to 220°. It is then slid horizontally into a cavity that traps it but leaves enough exposed to act as a cam finger. This allows the use of an off-the-shelf part with superior low friction and durability properties If base 1 I/A and particularly cantilever 12/A are made of materials, which have the appropriate durability and friction properties than the shape would simply be molded into this portion of cantilever 12/A
  • cam surface 30/A can simply be a surface on arm 22/A. Again for superior friction durability properties it may be desirable to insert a different material, an arm cam insert 26 I/A.
  • arm cam insert 26 I/A is basically a flat piece of steel, but with a chamfer on the front This provides a low-friction sliding surface and added structural strength
  • arm cam insert 26 I/A can be plastic, i e Teflon, improving only the surface properties. Also see figure 48.
  • arm cam insert 26 I/A can be extended further forward beyond axle 20/A towards handles 23/A.
  • the extended portion of arm cam insert 26 I/A must curve, angle or step downward before it comes too close to the top surface of Arm 22.
  • a distal face of cantilever 12/A is a cantilever stop face 264/A. It forms part of a handle stop 262/A which stops arm 22/A from rotating upward when stapler [A] is in the Ready Configuration.
  • Handle stop 262/A is comprised of a handle stop face 263/A, found on arm 22/A, meeting cantilever stop face 264/A. The meeting of the two faces limits arm 22/A's upward rotation. To allow arm 22/A to be released upward stapler - a must first be pushed down into the Stapled Configuration. From there, arm 22/A can be rotated upward.
  • detent not shown, to limit the upward rotation of arm 22/A is probably simpler and less expensive in production.
  • the detent method is a typical method used by many staplers to limit upward rotation of their stapler assemblies and covers.
  • cam cut out 266/A is also noticeable in the cross-section view shown in figures 123 and 124.
  • This cam cut out 266/A provides room for the proximal end of arm 22/A.
  • the taper width of this distal portion of cantilever 12/A is sufficiently wide to cover the proximal end of arm 22/A and all of the cam components.
  • Intersection flap 234/A at the distal end of cantilever's 12/A not only covers the cam components and prevents pinching, but also provides structural strength to support the forces pushing against cam finger insert 266/ 'A.
  • the front portion of cover 28/A curves down to a desirably low profile to accommodate the downward rotation of arm 22/A.
  • the average arm 22/A angle here is about 13° or less.
  • a larger average arm 22/A angle of 15% or 17% is also workable.
  • An even larger average arm 22/A angle of 20% or 25% is possible if the curvatures increased to keep handle top surface 222/A within 15° of parallel to the bottom of base 11/A.
  • An average handle top surface 222/A angle within 10° is better, while staying withm 5° is still preferable
  • Stapler [A]'s average arm 22/A angle is 16°, with an average bottom surface angle of 13° and average of top surface angle of 19°
  • Figure 88 stapler's average arm 22/88 angle is a 14 5°, with an average bottom surface angle of 13° an average top surface angle of 16°
  • Stapler [A]'s average handle top surface 222/A angle is 3°, with an average handle bottom surface 226/A angle of 13°
  • Figure 88 stapler's average handle top surface 212IA. angle is 9°, with an average handle bottom surface 226/A angle of 12°
  • a g ⁇ p span of less than 3 4 inches is ergonomically desirable, however 3 7 inches up to 4 inches is acceptable, but becomes more difficult for smaller hands
  • FIGURE 125 FRONT VIEW
  • This axis 245/A is a simplistic XYZ axis approximation of the vertically oriented stapler [A]'s actual tipping dynamic.
  • the actual pivoting axis of vertical stapler tipping is either one of the long triangle legs 280/A Accordingly, it can be seen that the location of true center of
  • Arm 22's cutout 202Ih as seen through lever gap 23 I/A demonstrates the minimal use of material in this design.
  • FIGURE 126 BACK VIEW
  • lever gap 23 I/A is visible through cut out
  • top groove 285/A is evident as a concave groove running along the top surface of cover 28/A Because it runs the length of cover 28/A it's also visible in figure 125
  • the concave nature of top groove 285/A makes it more intuitively evident that the convex surface of the top of handle 23/A is the place to push to operate the stapler
  • Retention hole 254/A and retention cord groove 255/A are visible in this figure 126 rear 20 view Also evident, is a retention cord bottom groove 256/A, which provides clearance between the stapler and desktop when a retention cord is attached here
  • a tacking ramp 287/A is also visible in figure 126. This provides clearance for cover 28/A to open more than 180° into the tacking configuration. Also see figures 131 and 132.
  • Base-sidewall radius 230/A is too large fit as a fillet in the width of base 1 I/A However, a
  • FIGURE 127 FRONT PERSPECTIVE VIEW
  • Figure 127 is the first three-dimensional view of stapler [A], showing its front side and top. As such, this is an appropriate place to explain the use of Q-P-R geometric principles in designing stapler [A] Firstly, flat and straight geometry, and specifically planar surfaces are used minimally. Secondly, when used, planar surfaces are generally bounded by Q-P-R geometnes wherever possible, and particularly where they may encounter manual contact, i e the outer edges. This allows the planar surfaces to still be the softest, smoothest, and safest edges possible in keeping with the Q-P-R geometric principles
  • planar surfaces there are times when planar surfaces must be used Notably, in top profile, all the distal portions and most of the rest of both cantilevers 12/A are planar Also, both proximal ends of arm sides 2 I/A are planar in top profile. Additionally, all of these planar portions, just mentioned, are parallel with each other. This allows a close fit between cantilevers 12/A and arm sides 21/A, and also between cantilevers 12/A and stapler assembly 24/A, without interference du ⁇ ng the rotational movement of stapler operation
  • all of these planar portions are bounded by Q-P-R geometry curves. In the aggregate, they appear and feel more smooth and curved than flat and planar. For example the way that much of the flat planar surface of cantilever 12/A is bounded by the Q-P-R curvatures of support top surface 223/A and support bottom surface 221IA.
  • Lever gap 23 I/A as seen through cut out 202/A. Note that if the side walls of Arm 22 extended further downwards, eliminating the lever gap 23 I/A, or if the top surface of Arm 22 was filled in, this visual pass-through would be blocked by needless material.
  • a prototype artifact-C 237/A the final product would have a smooth transition between the top form and the side form, unlike the sharp edged and disjointed geometry seen here.
  • Prototype artifact-A 232/A and drawing artifact-A 233/A are also visible in figure 127 Note use of area in front of anvil 18/A on the upper surface of base 1 I/A for a logo 290/ A.
  • FIGURE 128 BOTTOM PERSPECTIVE VIEW
  • FIG 128 we see a bottom and side perspective view of stapler [A] Again we see the planar portions of cantilever 12/A and arm 22/A bounded on the parameters by the Q-P-R geometry curves. Seen in previous views, here we also see, moving down along base 11/A: retention cord bottom groove 256/A, retention hole 254/A, back foot 38/A, front feet 36/A, and vertical feet 80/A However, along the bottom side of base 11/A there are three new items 1 a prototype artifact-D 233/A, a finger stop 300/A, and a finger groove 302/A Finger groove 302/A as a concave groove running along the middle and front portions of the bottom side of base 11/A It can be said that this groove funds most the length of clearance arch 40/A.
  • Finger groove 302/A provides and resting spot for fingers when the user's hand is grasping the stapler [A] . This provides superior comfort, fit and control However, to prevent the fingers from sliding too far rearward, finger stop 300/A provides a distinct end to finger groove 302/A This feature is utilized when stapler is grasped in vertical orientation Finger stop 300/A can also simply be the end of the finger groove 302/A a continuation of the non-grooved convex surface portion of base 11/A rather than a raised surface
  • a platform 304/A This platform provides a place for attaching a bumper 6 I/A, a rubber cylinder, if desired Bumper 61 /A acts as a cushion to stop the downward motion of arm 22/A at the end of the stapling operation
  • FIGURE 129 STAPLED CONFIGURATION
  • Figure 129 shows stapler [A] in this stapled configuration with handle 23/A pushed downward towards base 11/A
  • the downward rotation of arm 22/A is limited by the height, curvature and curvature angle of the front portion of cover 28/A This can also be referred to as lowest position of arm travel 212/ A
  • a stapled handle angle 310/A which is ideally less than 5° Stapled handle angle 310/A of 7° or 10° are less efficient but workable, with 15° as more marginally acceptable
  • the small amount of space between cover 28/A and handle 23/A generally less than half of an inch
  • the average angle of forward cover portion311/A should be more than 8° below parallel with base bottom 220/ 'A, measured when stapler [A] is in the stapled configuration However 12° or 15° or more is preferable
  • FIGURE 110 BOTTOM VIEW
  • the width of different portions of base 11/A are most visible
  • the width at the rear portion of base 11 /A is determined by the span required between the two cantilevers 12/A This is a cantilever outside span 315/A
  • the width of base front 250/A is wider than cantilever outside span 315/A
  • Two minimize grip circumference and grip span the middle portion of of base 11/A is narrower than cantilever outside span 315/A
  • this narrowness is also a three- dimensional extension of clearance arch 40/A Notice the Q-P-R curvature creating a smooth transition of widths between the front, middle and rear portions of base 1 I/A
  • fmger stop edge 319/A that delineates the end of fmger groove 302/A and the beginning of fmger stop 300/A, has been shown as planar But it would quite likely be a concave form as represented by the curved line running tangent to the planar fmger stop page
  • FIGURE 131 TACKING CONFIGURATION
  • FIG 131 shows stapler [A] opened up into the tacking configuration Notice that because of the way that cantilever 12/A extends downward in this configuration, that stapler
  • [A] must open more than 180° to be able to drive staples straight into a surface Opening by more than 180° is possible because of two things As previously mentioned the rear portion of cover 28 curves downward, eliminating material that would get in the way Also material is relieved from base 11/A by the tackmg ramp 287/A, not visible in this view To see tacking ramp 287/A refer to figure 126
  • arm 22/A When using stapler [A] in the tacking configuration, arm 22/A can be swung away from the front of cover 28/A to allow direct pushing on the top surface of cover 28/A
  • FIGURE 132 PARTIAL ASSEMBLY
  • base 11/A and arm 22/A are shown together as an assembly without stapler assembly 24/A This is a three-quarter rearview perspective Without stapler assembly 24/A presents it is quite clear that there is a large gap between the front portions of base 1 I/A and arm 22/A.
  • This large gap is comprised of three gaps: the previously discussed lever gap 23 I/A, an arm gap 325/A, and a cantilever gap 327/A.
  • Arm gap 325/A is the area between base 11/A and arm 22/A It is larger than, and encompasses, lever gap 23 I/A.
  • Cantilever gap 327/A is the area between the lower portion of base 11/A and cantilever 12/A.
  • cantilever gap 37.1IK which allows paper slot 34/A to have maximum rearward extension without having paper slot 34/A prematurely shortened by base 11/A.
  • an additional reason it reduces the amount of material used and hence weight and cost.
  • the amount of open space encompassed by the three gaps demonstrates how little material is being used in constructing the base 1 I/A and arm 22/A.
  • both inner surfaces are approximately planar with each other. Slightly inboard from those planar surfaces is a washer 33 I/A. Washer 331/A extends inboard from the inner surface of arm side 21/A. Washer 331/A helps keep the other inner surfaces of arm 22/A from touching cover 28/A and interfering with arm 22/A's rotation.
  • the cam surface insert 261/A is approximately the same width as this distal end of arm side 21/A. Additionally, cam fmger insert 266/A is the same width as cam surface insert 261/A. This maximizes the width of contact point 3 I/A.
  • FIGURE 133 EXPLODED VIEW
  • FIG. 133 is an exploded view of stapler [A] built exactly as a prototype Some changes would be made in manufacturing the stapler Accordingly the distinction is made here between existing off-the-shelf parts and custom-designed and created parts, as follows
  • This is stapler is built from a combination of existing stapler components (denoted as B440 parts, derived from a Stanley Bostitch B440 stapler) and designed/created components (denoted as New parts)
  • the New parts are stereolithography parts (denoted as New-SLA) or modified stock materials (denoted as New-Stock)
  • New-SLA stereolithography parts
  • New-Stock modified stock materials
  • New-SLA cover 28/A and B440 cover 28/A would become one unified cover 28/A
  • a manufactured arm 22/A would be very similar to its corresponding SLA part
  • a manufactured base 11/A would be very similar to its corresponding SLA part, except that it would probably be split in half, as mentioned previously
  • Another difference between base 1 I/A and arm 22/A is that base 1 I/A is replacing the base from the B440 stapler
  • arm 22/A is a part that is new to this invention and does not have a corollary component on the B440 stapler
  • all the New Stock parts do not have any corollary components on the B440 stapler
  • the three SLA parts would most likely be manufactured as either cast metal parts and/or injection molded plastic parts (also bent or stamped sheet metal are possibilities)
  • the Stock parts would probably still be made from stock material, unless they become incorporated into the other parts Part list as follows
  • New SLA base 1 I/A New SLA arm 22/A New-SLA cover 28/A B440 cover 28/A
  • stapler [A] represents a fairly direct design progression from the Cover Pivot Stapler described in US patent application number 11/748,780, titled MID-ZONE STAPLER
  • a stapler [D] is similar to stapler [A] in the position and use of axle 20/d and can finger 32/d.
  • Stapler [D] is different because a cam slot 340/d in arm 22/d is a closed slot This prevents arm 22/d from rotating upwards, which then prevents cover 28/d from rotating upwards, which in turn eliminates the ability to top load staples
  • the front tray 342/d is shown as one method of loading staples from the front Staples could also be loaded from the rear, not shown, using a tray similar to this Additionally, other methods of rear loading used by existing staplers would work.
  • a stapler [E] has a closed cam slot 340/e and finger 32/e is in the mid- zone However, it does not have a cantilever 12, but instead has an axle 20/e in a cantilever remnant 350/e Cantilever remnant 350/e is much like a truncated portion of cantilever 12. Conversely, arm 22/e is much longer than arms previously seen. Arm 22/e's is as long as cantilever remnant 350/eis a short, such that handle 23/e remains in the same position as earlier staplers
  • Stapler [E] 's cam slot is also quite different Functionally, it has two distinct portions.
  • a short slot 352/e's providing a method of improved leverage during stapler operation, by use of angle.
  • a long slot 354/e provides a method of opening Cover 28 As arm 22/e rotates upwards and backwards, finger 32/e travels in long slot 354/e, causing cover 28/e to rotate upwards and backwards as well. This allows access from the top for staple loading or removal.
  • long slot 354/e is much longer than short slot 352/e.
  • the side profile shape of long slot 354/e is determined by the motion of finger 32/e relative to the required movement of cover 28/e, which in turn are governed by the relative positions of 5 finger 32/e, axle 20/e, and shaft 46/e.
  • a stapler [Fl] differs in at least four ways from the Fig 21, 22, 23, and 24 link staplers disclosed earlier.
  • stapler [Fl] has no cantilever 12.
  • axle 20/Fl is not in the Mid- Zone, it's closer to shaft 46/Fl.
  • the arm rod 359 /Fl that connects link 122/F1 to arm 10 22/Fl is closer to shaft 46/Fl then the other cover rod 358 /Fl (connected to cover 28/F1).
  • link 122/F1 is longer. The result of these four differences is that stapler [Fl] not only provides improved leverage due to this four bar linkage, but also provides a means of directly opening cover 28/Fl. This is shown in figure 175.
  • link 122/F1 has been placed between magazine 26/Fl and cover 28/Fl to 15 prevent pinch points and ergonomically unfriendly geometry.
  • an opening in cover 28/Fl is necessary to allow arm rod 359 /Fl to connect from link 122/F1 to arm 22/Fl. This opening is called a rod access hole 360/F1 as shown in figures 173 and 175.
  • the figure 175 section view shows stapler [Fl] in an open configuration that allows access to magazine 26/Fl from the top for loading staples. Note that Cover 28 could be opened further if rod access hole 360/F1 is larger or opens through the lower portion of cover 28/Fl .
  • the stapler [F2]'s rear portion has an even lower side profile than stapler [Fl]. This is accomplished by lowering cover rod 358/F2 below the bottom of cover 28/F2, which is possible because of a rod cover extension 370/F2. Because cover rod 358/F2 is lower, arm rod 359/F2 can be lowered and consequently the rear portion of arm 22/F2 can be lowered, reducing the side profile of the junction area between arm 22/F2 cantilever remnant 350/F2.
  • Cover 28/F2 has two cover sidewalk 371/F2 on each lateral side
  • Rod cover extension 370/F2 is a downwardly extending portion of cover sidewall 371/F2. Rod cover extension 370/F2 extends below the bottom of cover 28/F2 allowing cover rod 358/F2's placement to be closer to magazine bottom 364/F2. Rod cover extension 370/F2 and/or link 122/F2 can even extend somewhat into paper slot 34/F2, depending on paper slot 34/F2's dimensions Stapler [F2] demonstrates a greater range of possible rod 124/F2, shaft 46/F2 and axle 20/F2 placement due to the rod cover extension 370/F2 and shaft cover extension 366/F2. This, in turn, providing greater design freedom over all.
  • link 122/F2 is shown between cover 28/F2 and arm 22/F2 for clarity and to demonstrate it as a possibility Naturally, it could also be placed between cover 28/F2 and magazine 26/F2 as demonstrated in stapler [Fl] Also because this side profile is so low, there is more reason to lower the rear portion of Cover 28 side profile, as shown here in figure 176. Note, the CAD model of this area is rough: i.e missing some filleting.
  • Handle 23 is the distal arm 22 end.
  • a strip of staples 56, a bar of staples or a staple bar are all the same thing
  • Stapling assembly 24 and stapler assembly 24 have been used interchangeably and have the same meaning and refer to the same assembly of stapler components.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Portable Nailing Machines And Staplers (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention porte sur une agrafeuse de zone médiane, qui comprend une base et un ensemble d'agrafage, lesquels sont reliés à pivotement au niveau de l'arrière par un axe transversal. Une paire de bras est reliée aux extrémités distales par une poignée commune. Un premier accouplement relie une partie médiane de chaque bras à l'ensemble d'agrafage par un axe, une came ou une liaison. Un second accouplement relie les extrémités proximales de chaque bras à une partie médiane de la base par un axe, une came ou une liaison. Une poussée de la poignée vers le bas fait pivoter les bras, amène les accouplements à venir en prise et transmet une force vers le bas concentrée à l'avant de l'ensemble d'agrafage. Une paire de bras en porte-à-faux peuvent s'étendre vers l'avant à partir de chaque côté d'une partie arrière supérieure de la base. Les bras en porte-à-faux permettent une plage de dispositions d'accouplement, tout en préservant la profondeur d'entrée pour des matières à agrafer. Les accouplements sont facultativement libérables.
PCT/US2008/075909 2008-07-11 2008-09-10 Agrafeuse de zone médiane WO2010005448A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US8009508P 2008-07-11 2008-07-11
US61/080,095 2008-07-11

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2010005448A1 true WO2010005448A1 (fr) 2010-01-14

Family

ID=41507339

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2008/075909 WO2010005448A1 (fr) 2008-07-11 2008-09-10 Agrafeuse de zone médiane

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2010005448A1 (fr)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8172119B2 (en) 2008-11-04 2012-05-08 Staples The Office Superstore, Llc Parallel motion stapler
JP2017536992A (ja) * 2014-12-11 2017-12-14 ニンポー デリ ビングイング イキップメント カンパニー リミテッドＮｉｎｇｂｏ Ｄｅｌｉ Ｂｉｎｇｉｎｇ Ｅｑｉｐｍｅｎｔ Ｃｏ．， Ｌｔｄ ステープラー

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2002001679A (ja) * 2000-06-19 2002-01-08 Kokuyo Co Ltd ステープラー
US6942136B2 (en) * 2003-10-21 2005-09-13 Apex Mfg. Co., Ltd. Stapler apparatus to staple stacks of paper with different thicknesses
US7021515B2 (en) * 2002-01-11 2006-04-04 Isaberg Rapid Ab Stapler with bending arms which cut the staple legs against a pad
US20070108251A1 (en) * 2005-02-23 2007-05-17 Worktools, Inc. Stapler safety device to limit motion of striker

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2002001679A (ja) * 2000-06-19 2002-01-08 Kokuyo Co Ltd ステープラー
US7021515B2 (en) * 2002-01-11 2006-04-04 Isaberg Rapid Ab Stapler with bending arms which cut the staple legs against a pad
US6942136B2 (en) * 2003-10-21 2005-09-13 Apex Mfg. Co., Ltd. Stapler apparatus to staple stacks of paper with different thicknesses
US20070108251A1 (en) * 2005-02-23 2007-05-17 Worktools, Inc. Stapler safety device to limit motion of striker

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8172119B2 (en) 2008-11-04 2012-05-08 Staples The Office Superstore, Llc Parallel motion stapler
JP2017536992A (ja) * 2014-12-11 2017-12-14 ニンポー デリ ビングイング イキップメント カンパニー リミテッドＮｉｎｇｂｏ Ｄｅｌｉ Ｂｉｎｇｉｎｇ Ｅｑｉｐｍｅｎｔ Ｃｏ．， Ｌｔｄ ステープラー

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7963429B2 (en) Mid-zone stapler or pressing tool
US7584878B2 (en) Paper tool drive linkage
US6038723A (en) Foldable tool with removable tool cartridged mechanism for securing tool cartridge
US20080149681A1 (en) Mini desktop stapler
GB2095155A (en) Hand-operated stapler-punch combination
EP1626843A2 (fr) Agrafeuse de bureau a ressort
US20090159637A1 (en) Stapler having power mutliplying mechanism
CN1333109A (zh) 钉书机的助推机构
WO2010005448A1 (fr) Agrafeuse de zone médiane
CN103372849A (zh) 纸张处理装置
US6807738B1 (en) Blade gripping mechanism in a heavy duty artistic knife
US7240819B2 (en) Stapling device having rear housing opening
US8356739B2 (en) Stapler
EP2476522A1 (fr) Agrafeuse
US7014090B1 (en) Stapling device
EP1954451A1 (fr) Agrafeuse et poinçonneuse combinées
US7549561B2 (en) Stapler with improved base construction
USD499622S1 (en) Multipurpose hand tool with folding pliers
US20070187450A1 (en) Pliers type stapler
USD497094S1 (en) Handle with margin inserts, for a folding multipurpose tool
USD501127S1 (en) Handle for a folding multipurpose hand tool, with margin inserts and latch lever
USD497093S1 (en) Asymmetric handle for a folding multipurpose hand tool, with margin inserts and latch lever
JP3925634B2 (ja) ステープラー
US8172119B2 (en) Parallel motion stapler
USD497532S1 (en) Folded multipurpose hand tool

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 08821934

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 08821934

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1