Patent attributes
A ring binder mechanism that retains loose-leaf pages and has ring members that readily lock together, preventing accidental loss of pages. The mechanism comprises a housing that supports two hinge plates for pivoting motion, bringing the ring members to either an open position or a closed position. The mechanism further comprises a control structure, which includes an actuator moveable relative to the housing for controlling pivoting movement of the hinge plates. The actuator is connected to a travel bar that is moveable by the actuator into position for blocking pivoting motion of the hinge plates when the ring members are closed. The connection of the travel bar to the actuator permits the actuator to move in a range without actuating corresponding movement of the travel bar.