EP3609719B1 - Paper clip system with improved holding capacity - Google Patents

Description

THE TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a paper clip system according to the preamble of claim 1.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Paper clips have been in use for many years in a variety of shapes and sizes.

The most common are paper clips that are bent from a wire. Less common are paper clips that are punched from thin sheet metal or made of plastic and will not be referred to separately below, even though they can of course also be used in principle for the system according to the invention.

The capacity of how many sheets of paper or other objects a paper clip can hold together varies widely. The capacity depends heavily on the size of the paper clip and its wire thickness.

Such paper clips cause problems especially where it is necessary to hold several different stacks of related papers together.

One possibility so far is to attach a small paper clip to each individual stack of paper and then hold the several such stacks of paper together with another paper clip.

However, the different paper clips easily get caught in each other and may then be pulled out unintentionally, so that in the worst case the order of the papers initially created by the paper clips is disturbed or at least the user has to be very careful, making handling extremely uncomfortable.

Difficulties also arise when the user only has paper clips of a single type or capacity on hand and wants to hold together stacks of paper or objects that exceed the capacity of each individual paper clip.

Paper clips in a wide variety of shapes and sizes have been in use for many years. The most common type of paper clip is one that is made from a wire. The capacity of how many sheets of paper or other objects a paper clip can hold together varies widely. The capacity depends heavily on the size of the paper clip and the thickness of the wire.

If several different stacks of related papers are to be held together, each individual stack of papers must be provided with a small paper clip, which can then be held together with another paper clip if necessary. It can happen that the different paper clips get caught in one another and can then be pulled off accidentally, so that in the worst case the order of the papers initially created by the paper clips is disturbed or at least the user has to be very careful, making handling extremely uncomfortable.

Difficulties can also arise when the user only has paper clips of a single type or capacity on hand and wants to hold together stacks of paper or objects that exceed the capacity of each individual paper clip.

In addition, paper clips are usually stored loosely in a storage box in large numbers, and the paper clips can get caught in this loose arrangement. If a user wants to remove a paper clip from the storage box, it often happens that several paper clips are inadvertently removed from the storage box. The user then has to manually separate the paper clip intended for use from the other paper clips, which is time-consuming and sometimes inconvenient.

The US 2011/258813 A1 shows a one-piece paper clip with several loops. The disadvantages of this paper clip are the different loop sizes, including different clamping forces, and the laborious process of threading paper into the desired, singular loop of the paper clip.

The US 4 521 035 A shows U-shaped paper holders, but no paper clips with loops.

THE PROBLEM UNDERLYING THE INVENTION

In view of this, the object of the invention is to create a system that can hold together larger quantities of paper than a single paper clip of the system without the need to use paper clips with significantly different clamping forces or clamping capacities, and also to create a system that allows different stacks of to keep related papers securely together without causing unwanted snagging.

THE INVENTIVE SOLUTION

The solution according to the invention is achieved with the paper clip system of claim 1.

Accordingly, a paper clip system is proposed as a solution, which consists of at least two paper clips positioned directly on top of each other in the same direction (i.e. in the same orientation and in projection completely or at least substantially on top of each other). The paper clips belonging to the system each have a large loop and a small loop that lies completely or at least substantially in the inner area delimited by this large loop. In addition to the at least two paper clips, the system consists of a connecting element for each two paper clips that connects the said loops to each other.

In other words, the system according to the invention is characterized in that, in addition to the at least two paper clips which do not merge into one another as one piece but are physically separate from one another, the system includes a connecting element which holds the small loop of one paper clip in the area delimited by the large loop of the other paper clip, and on one side of the loops lying one inside the other, a free large loop of one clip lies over the longitudinal broad side thereof, and on the other side of the loops lying one inside the other, a free small loop of the other clip lies over the longitudinal broad side thereof.

Further design options, modes of operation and advantages emerge from the following description of the embodiments based on the figures.

Advantageously, a further solution is proposed in the form of a paper clip system, which preferably consists of at least two paper clips in the same direction (i.e. in the same direction and in projection completely or at least substantially superimposed) paper clips positioned directly on top of each other. The paper clips belonging to the system each have, individually, a large loop and a small loop that lies entirely or at least essentially in the inner area delimited by this large loop. In addition to the at least two paper clips, the system consists of a connecting element for every two paper clips that connects the said loops to one another.

The connecting element is advantageously a sheath with two flat large surfaces, i.e. on the inside and outside, which are essentially flat, usually in the manner of a flattened tube. Each of the two paper clips is inserted with one of its loops into the interior delimited by this sheath in such a way that the two paper clips are held in position by the sheath in such a way that their other loop is ready to clamp an object to be held between it and the outer surface of the large surface of the sheath facing it. A large surface is essentially flat if a loop of a paper clip can lie completely against it, whereby punctual, purely local non-adherence is harmless.

The two loops of the paper clips inserted into one and the same sheath are arranged separately one above the other. Because each of the two paper clips, one loop of which is inserted into the sheath, clamps a large area between its loops, the two loops inserted into the sheath are not nested within each other within this sheath. Instead, they are placed "in tiers" one above the other and are usually separated from each other by an imaginary (fictitious) dividing plane that runs parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sheath. One of the loops in question lies completely on one side of the imaginary dividing plane, while the other loop lies completely on the opposite side of the imaginary dividing plane. This prevents or makes it significantly more difficult for the loops of the paper clips located in the same sheath to get caught on each other. This creates a paper clip system whose connection can be easily made and dismantled again.

FIGURE LIST

• Fig. 1 bis Fig. 2
• Fig. 3 bis Fig. 5
• Fig. 6 bis Fig. 7
• Fig. 8 bis Fig. 10
• Fig. 11 bis Fig. 12

erläutert. Die Bedeutung der einzelnen Figuren erschließt sich ohne weiteres anhand der nachfolgenden Beschreibung der Ausführungsbeispiele.The system-related paper clips and the implementation examples are based on the

• Fig. 1 to Fig. 2
• Fig. 3 to Fig. 5
• Fig. 6 to Fig. 7
• Fig. 8 to Fig. 10
• Fig. 11 to Fig. 12

The meaning of the individual figures is readily apparent from the following description of the embodiments.

Further examples are given below. Fig. 28 to 51 The meaning of the individual figures is readily apparent from the following description of the embodiments.

PRELIMINARY REMARKS ON THE IMPLEMENTATION EXAMPLES

The Fig.2 and the corresponding exploded view in the form of the Fig.1 show a double-loop paper clip of the commonly known type.

Preferably, the paper clip system according to the invention is also based on such a paper clip.

How best to see from the cut and exploded representation of the Fig.1 As one can see, such a paper clip 1 consists of a large loop 2 and a small loop 3.

The large loop 2 consists of two legs 4 and 6, which form the long sides of the loop 2. The two legs 4 and 6 are connected to one another in one piece via a tip 5, preferably on the front narrow side of the loop. The tip 5 is preferably triangular, as in Fig.1 can be seen, but can alternatively be evenly rounded or designed in the form of two 90° bends with a straight connecting piece, so to speak rectangular. The long sides of the loops are usually longer than the narrow sides of the loops.

The small loop 3 consists of two legs 7 and 8, which are connected to one another in one piece by a point 9. What has already been said for point 5 applies to point 9, as well as to the narrow and long sides.

How best to use the Fig.2 can be seen, the two loops 2 and 3 are connected to one another on their narrow side facing away from the tips 5 and 9 respectively via a connecting section 10 - in such a way that the small loop 3 lies in the interior space delimited by the large loop 2 of the same paper clip 1 and essentially in a common plane with the large loop 2. The two loops are usually located one inside the other in such a way that the outer sides of the two legs 7, 8 of the small loop 3 touch the inner sides of the legs 4, 6 of the large loop 2, at least essentially.

The paper clips in question here are usually made from one piece. They are usually made from wire, which is preferably passivated, i.e. galvanized, painted or coated with plastic. The wire typically has a diameter of between 0.3 mm and 1.5 mm.

The following should be noted regarding the system of reference symbols: The addition ".1" or ".2" indicates whether the area mentioned is on the first or second paper clip in the system. For example, the connecting section between the small and the large loop of one and the same paper clip is generally designated with the reference number 10. If the relevant connecting section on the first paper clip is mentioned, then this is referred to as "10.1". On the second paper clip this connection section is referred to as "10.2".

FIRST EXAMPLE OF IMPLEMENTATION The paper clips used for the system

The first embodiment of the paper clip system according to the invention is characterized by the Figures 3 to 5 shown.

To form the first embodiment of the invention, at least two paper clips 1.1 and 1.2 of the type just described with reference to the paper clip 1 are used.

The two paper clips 1.1, 1.2 are preferably used as they are, i.e. they are not or not significantly plastically deformed compared to their original state.

First, the large loop 2.1 of the first paper clip is inserted into the interior of the sheath 11, over the open narrow front side 12 of the sheath 11, as the Figure 3 The small loop 3.1 of the first paper clip is placed on the outside of the Figure 3 lower large surface 16 of the vagina 11.

The Figure 4 makes this even clearer, with the Figure 4 This is a look at the Figure 3 constellation shown, but seen from below.

To complete the system, the small loop 3.2 of the second paper clip is then inserted into the sheath 11, so that the Figure 5 shown constellation. In this constellation, the system is ready for connection as follows:
The small loop 3.1 of the first paper clip can clamp an object, and in particular one or more sheets of paper, between itself and the lower large surface 16 of the sheath 11.

The large loop 2.2 of the second paper clip can clamp an object, and in particular one or more sheets of paper, between itself and the upper large surface 16 of the sheath 11.

If the capacity of the system is not yet sufficient, it can be expanded as required. For example, by inserting one or both loops 2.2 and 3.1 of the paper clips located outside the sheath 11 into other sheaths of the same type (not shown here) in order to continue the system according to the same pattern until it has reached the desired capacity. The sheaths 11 can also be pre-assembled and locked to the paper clip. To lock it in place, it can be a good idea to fold or fold the part of the sheath where the sheath protrudes over the free end of one leg of the paper clip. Alternatively, you can also consider gluing, heat shrinking or knurling. This is intended to prevent the sheath from moving on the paper clip.

The connecting element designed as a sheath

As already mentioned, the system of this embodiment includes not only the two paper clips 1.1 and 1.2, but also the sheath 11 Connecting element, the preferred design details of which are described below.

The sheath 11 is contoured to match the paper clips 1.1 and 1.2 used.

As in Fig.3 marked in detail, it has an open front narrow side 12, a closed or preferably also open front narrow side 13, longitudinal narrow sides 14 and 15, and two large surfaces, of which Fig. 3 and 5 only the upper large area 16 can be seen because the other large area is on the bottom. However, this other large area shows the Fig.4 .

The sheath 11 is dimensioned in such a way that the two loops of the two paper clips can be accommodated independently of one another in the sheath, without one loop having to be inserted into the inner area delimited by the other loop. This provides the crucial advantage that the two loops lying directly next to one another inside the sheath 11 do not get caught in one another or hinder one another when being pushed into or pulled out of the sheath.

The clear internal cross-section of the sheath 11 is dimensioned accordingly. It preferably corresponds approximately to a rectangle, the length of the long sides of which corresponds to the maximum distance between the two large legs of a paper clip and the length of the short sides of which corresponds approximately to twice the wire thickness of the paper clips belonging to the system, if necessary with a tolerance allowance of max. 1/3 of the wire diameter of the paper clips belonging to the system. The same applies analogously to an oval cross-section or an elliptical cross-section with respect to its major and minor axes.

In other designs, the clear internal cross-section of the sheath is deliberately larger. Here, the dimensions of the rectangle are such that its long sides correspond in length to the maximum distance between the two large legs of a paper clip. However, its narrow sides are longer or higher. In length, they correspond to twice the wire thickness of the paper clips belonging to the system plus a height allowance of 5/10 to 12/10 of the wire diameter of the paper clips belonging to the system.

The sheath can be made of different materials. It is conceivable, for example, to make the sheath as a flattened tube made of a rigid material, such as metal or a stiff plastic.

However, it has proven ideal to make the loop from a thick-walled plastic tube with a wall thickness of around 0.5/10 mm to a maximum of 12/10 mm, or better still, up to a maximum of 8/10 mm. Not only is such a plastic tube easy to process, for example to be shaped into the required form using hot air, but it is also very advantageous in that it is inherently quite flexible. This makes inserting the loops of the paper clips into the sheath 11 it forms particularly easy, especially if the user only wants to extend the paper clip system at the moment when it is already clamping paper or other objects.

The sheath 11 can be fixed to the loop of the paper clip by pressing its two main surfaces together in the area between the two legs of the loop, namely at or near the tip, and gluing or welding them together, which is not shown figuratively here.

Preferably, the sheath has an open second narrow end face 13, as already mentioned above. It can then be cut very easily from an endless extruded tube, for example.

In other cases, the sheath is closed at the second narrow end face 13. This narrow end face can then optionally correspond on the inside to the contour of the tip 5 of a large loop 2 of the paper clips 1 to be used in the system. It then offers the large loop increased support.

It has proven to be particularly advantageous if the sheath has a simple bevel 17 on the front side, ie on a narrow front side and there on a main surface, ideally the lower main surface, as can be clearly seen from the Figure 4 to recognize where on the narrow front side 13 the single bevel 17 is provided, ie the narrow front side provided with such a bevel 17 is preferably the one that points towards the tip of a paper clip, in the fully assembled state. This bevel 17 makes it easier to attach the relevant paper clip or the system to a stack of paper or a stack of objects to be held. Alternatively, a double bevel can also be present here.

It has proven particularly advantageous if the sheath has a double bevel 18 on the front side, ie on a narrow front side and there on a main surface, ideally the upper main surface, as can be clearly seen from the Figures 3 and 5 can be seen. The narrow front side 12 provided with such a double bevel 18 is preferably the narrow front side that is diametrically opposite the narrow front side provided with a single bevel 17. This ideally means that one large surface 16 of the sheath 11 has a single bevel 17 on one narrow front side 13 and the other large surface 16 of the sheath 11 has a mostly double bevel 18 on the other narrow front side 12, as can be seen from a summary of the Figures 4 and 5 can easily be imagined. Alternatively, there can also be a simple bevel.

For some applications it may be advantageous to provide one of the above-mentioned bevels on both main surfaces.

Instead of or in addition to the bevel(s), the material of the sheath can also be folded outwards on the narrow front side of a main surface in order to ensure easier insertion of the other paper clip. It should also be noted that the sheath 11 for the paper clip system can also be modified if necessary, as is particularly the case with the Figure 6 and also the Fig.7 show.

In order to achieve better support on the held stack of paper, the sheath 11 can optionally and preferably be provided on both sides with wings or support surfaces 20 which extend transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the sheath 11 away from it. These wings or support surfaces 20 prevent the papers held beneath the support surfaces between the sheath 11 and the loop of the respective paper clip can all too easily twist out of the clamp grip.

The holding effect can be improved by providing one or preferably several support surfaces with self-adhesive properties or by a friction-increasing coating or corrugation of the support surfaces.

In addition or instead, the sheath can also be equipped with a tongue 20a which projects beyond the sheath 11 in the direction of the longitudinal axis L of the sheath.

Such a tongue 20a makes it easier to release individual papers or objects held by the system from the assembly. By pulling on the tongue 20a accordingly, the respective sheath 11 can be easily pulled off the paper clips, so that the assembly is released.

In addition, at least one support surface 20 can have an extension 20* which, for example, projects outwards from the outside of the sheath in the direction of the longitudinal axis L of the sheath and thus provides a tab which facilitates the clear organisation of the papers held clamped by the system. In the area in which the support surface merges into the extension 20* next to the paper clip, the extension 20* is preferably provided with a window-like cutout 100. This ensures that a paper clip can be inserted into the sheath 11 without hindrance, cf. Figure 6 .

In general, it is particularly advantageous if at least one large surface 16 of the sheath 11 and/or one wing 20 and/or the tongue 20a and/or the extension 20* can be printed on or labeled. This makes it very easy to convey advertising. In addition, this may make organization much easier, as the user can, for example, use the extensions 20* as individually labeled tabs that make orientation in the stack clamped by the paper clip system easier.

Further design options for the sheath arise from the further embodiments described below.

SECOND EXAMPLE

The Figures 8 to 10 The second embodiment shown is a slight modification of the first embodiment. Therefore, what is said there also applies without restriction to the second embodiment.

The modification consists in the fact that the clear inner cross-section of the sheath is deliberately larger, as already mentioned above.

Both Fig. 8 to 10 the dimensioning of the said rectangle, which marks the clear internal cross-section of the sheath 11 in the unloaded state, is such that its long sides LS correspond in length to the maximum distance between the two large legs of a paper clip. However, its narrow sides KS are longer or higher. In length, they correspond to twice the wire thickness of the paper clips belonging to the system plus a height allowance of 5/10 to 12/10 of a wire diameter of the paper clips belonging to the system, cf. in particular. Fig.8 .

THIRD EXAMPLE

The Figures 11 and 12 The third embodiment shown is a modification of the second embodiment. Therefore, what is said there also applies without restriction to the third embodiment.

The modification here is that an additional tongue 20a is provided, as already described in more detail above. In addition or instead, In this embodiment, wings or support surfaces or extensions (tabs) not shown here may be provided, as already mentioned above.

FOURTH EXAMPLE The paper clips used for the system

To form the fourth embodiment of the invention, two paper clips 1.1' and 1.2' of the above ( Fig. 1 and 2 ) using the paper clip 1 described method.

The two paper clips 1.1', 1.2' are preferably used as they are, i.e. they are not or not significantly plastically deformed compared to their original state.

The two paper clips 1.1' and 1.2' can be placed on top of each other as the Fig. 28 shows.

They are then joined together with the sheath 11'. The small loop 3.1' of the lower paper clip 1.1' comes to lie in the same plane as the large loop 2.2' of the upper paper clip 1.2', specifically within the said large loop 2.2'. This means that the smaller loop 3.1' of the paper clip 1.1', after being inserted into the sheath, lies at least essentially completely within the space and the plane that is delimited and spanned by the large loop 2.2' of the upper paper clip 1.2'.

For the sake of completeness, it should be mentioned that the assembly just discussed only in principle is preferably carried out in practice by inserting the large loop 2.1' of a first paper clip into the sheath 11' and then sliding the unit thus formed onto a sheet of paper, which is held clamped between the small loop 3.1' of this paper clip and the sheath. Then the small loop 3.2' of a second paper clip is pushed into the sheath and the large loop of the first paper clip already there, so that it comes to rest in the middle of the said large loop in the manner already described above. The large loop 2.2' comes to rest on the outside on the large area of the sheath 11' that was previously free. Then one or more sheets of paper can be clamped between the loop 2.2' and the sheath.

The connecting element designed as a sheath

As already mentioned, the system of this embodiment includes not only the two paper clips 1.1' and 1.2', but also the connecting element designed as a sheath 11', the preferred structural details of which are described below.

The sheath 11' is contoured to match the paper clips 1.1' and 1.2' used.

It has an open front side 12', a closed front side 13', longitudinal narrow sides 14' and 15', and two large surfaces, of which Fig. 28 only the large area 16' can be seen because the other large area is on the underside.

Preferably, the sheath has a closed narrow front side 13' which, at least on the inside, corresponds to the contour of the tip 5' of a large loop 2' of the paper clips 1' to be used in the system (cf. Fig. 26) and therefore offers these large loops increased support.

In a modification not shown here, the tip of the sheath is missing, ie it is "cut off" so to speak. The sheath then represents a flat tube, see also Fig. 39 .

A complete, preferably - as described above - successive insertion of the two paper clips into the sheath 11' in the manner shown in Fig. 27 then leads to an ensemble such as the Figures 29 to 32 show.

What is particularly striking here is the Fig. 29 to call.

One can see how the blackened large loop 2.2' of the upper paper clip 1.2' together with the small loop 3.1' of the lower paper clip 1.1' have come to rest almost completely in the sheath 11', usually only a small piece protrudes, preferably less than 1/3 of the length of each paper clip in the direction of its legs.

It is also easy to see how the blackened small loop 3.2' of the upper paper clip 1.2' - forced by the thickness of the paper(s) Pa' held - came to lie on or (here in action) at a distance above the upper large surface of the sheath. Furthermore, it can be seen that the large loop 2.1' of the lower paper clip came to lie in a corresponding manner on or under the influence of the paper(s) Pa' held above the lower large surface of the sheath.

The last two loops 3.2' and 2.1' are therefore available - either to clamp one or more sheets of paper between themselves and the sheath and to or to serve as an additional link for a corresponding chain, e.g. by means of another such sheath and another such paper clip.

The situation can also be clearly seen from the Fig. 30 . For the sake of clarity, the upper paper clip 3.2' is shown blackened.

The Fig. 30 shows the situation just described as seen from the closed narrow front side 13' of the sheath 11'. The stacks of paper Pa' are also clearly visible.

A further illustration of the same situation is provided by the Figures 31 and 32 , whereby the free small loop 3.2' and the free large loop 2.1' preferably lie on the respective large surface of the vagina, where they are ready to be clamped.

Further design options for the sheath

Preferably, the clear inner cross-section of the sheath is designed such that it essentially corresponds to the width and/or height of the large loop of the paper clips that are intended to be part of the paper clip system. The design is ideally such that at least the large loop in question is held in a frictional and/or positive manner between at least two, preferably 2 × 2, opposite inner surfaces of the sheath.

Noteworthy are the or - preferably - the locking organs 17' and 18' on the sheath 11'.

How to use the Figures 28 , 31 and 32 recognizes, the locking member or the locking members 17', 18" are preferably designed as depressions which preferably extend inwards in a plate-like or lens-like manner from the outer surface of the large area 16' of the sheath 11', so that corresponding locking projections, e.g. locking lugs or locking lenses, are formed on the inside of the large area 16' of the sheath.

Such locking elements 17', 18' can either be attached to just one large surface 16' or to both opposing large surfaces, possibly also to one or both longitudinal narrow sides 14' or 15' of the sheath with a corresponding design of the legs 4', 6', 7' and/or 8', in order to achieve a force and/or form fit. In this case, it is particularly advantageous if the sheath is made of plastic, since the respective loop can then elastically push the locking projection(s) aside or press them apart as it is pushed in until it or they spring back behind the loop and lock into place. It is particularly advantageous if paper clips with a triangular or possibly round tip are used in this context, which makes it easier to push the locking projection(s) aside or press them apart.

How easy it is to understand, for example, by looking at the Fig. 31 , the locking element 17' is inserted into the area on the inside of the tip of the large loop 2.2' when the upper paper clip is fully inserted. In a similar manner, the locking element 18' is inserted into the area on the inside of the tip of the small loop 3.1'. If only one locking element is to be provided, then the locking element 18' is preferably designed for the small loop. Because as soon as this is positively locked it simultaneously holds the large loop trapped between it and the sheath 11'.

It should also be noted that the sheath 11' for the paper clip system can also be modified if necessary, as the Figures 36 and 37 show. In order to achieve better support on the stack of paper held, the sheath 11' is preferably provided with support surfaces 20' on both sides. These prevent the papers held below the support surfaces between the sheath 11' and the loop of the respective paper clip located there from turning out of the clamp handle too easily.

The holding effect can be improved by a self-adhesive finish on one or preferably several support surfaces or by a friction-increasing coating or corrugation.

At least one support surface 20' may have an extension 20*' which, for example (as shown by Fig. 38 shown) extends outward away from the tip of the sheath, providing a writable tab that facilitates the clear organization of the papers clamped by the system.

Another modification essential to the invention is shown in the Fig. 38 .

Here too, the sheath 11' is provided along part of its longitudinal narrow sides with support surfaces 20' projecting laterally beyond it, which have the purpose already described above.

The support surfaces go, as can be seen from the Fig. 38 can be seen at the level of the insertion opening of the vagina 11' into an extension 20*' which, as already described above, protrudes outwards as a tab and is then available for organizing the stapled papers. It is noteworthy that the extension 20*' has a window FE' through which a leg of a system-related paper clip can be pushed into the area of the (here lower) outside of the large surface of the sheath.

Also clearly visible is the optional pull extension 20**', which makes it much easier to pull on the sheath when a pad that is clamped with the system needs to be removed.

FIFTH EXAMPLE

The Figures 33 to 35 The fifth embodiment shown is a slight modification of the tenth embodiment. Therefore, what is said there also applies without restriction to the fifth embodiment.

The variation is that the free end of the small loop is bent slightly inwards, preferably by 30° to 60° and ideally by 45° +/- 5°.

Is in Fig. 35 easily recognizable by the small loop 3.1'.

The free end thus forms a bend 19'. This bend 19' facilitates the release of the small loop of the first paper clip from the embrace of the large loop of the second paper clip, with which the first paper clip is inserted together in the sheath 11'. on Fig. 33 and Fig. 34 , the latter showing the assembly from the open narrow front side of the sheath 11'.

It should also be noted that the bend 19' can optionally also be attached to those of the embodiments to be described below which have a comparable free end on the small loop.

SIXTH EXAMPLE OF IMPLEMENTATION

A sixth embodiment of the invention shows the Fig. 39 .

The sixth embodiment of the invention essentially corresponds to the fifth embodiment of the invention. Therefore, what is said there also applies here, except for the differences expressly described below.

Compared to the fourth embodiment, there is the following difference:
The sheath is of reduced design in this embodiment. This means that the connecting element no longer represents a complete sheath, but is represented only by a circumferentially closed retaining ring 21', which is open on both narrow front sides. As can be clearly seen, the retaining ring 21' is held displaceably on a first paper clip 1.1'. The maximum extent of its inner cross section in two mutually perpendicular directions preferably corresponds essentially to the large loop of the paper clip, so that the retaining ring 21' essentially can be pushed back and forth on the large loop of the paper clip without play.

For this embodiment of the system according to the invention, undeformed paper clips are preferably used, as already described above.

The assembly is also carried out as described above as the preferred variant.

The starting point is the Fig. 39 shown arrangement, in which the retaining ring 21' is shown in its state pushed onto an undeformed paper clip.

Next, at least one piece of paper is clamped between the small loop 3' and the large loop 2'.

As a result, the small loop 3' is elastically moved downwards out of the area delimited by the large loop 2' and is held away from there by the paper (not shown in the drawing).

Now the retaining ring 21' is pushed further in the direction of the arrow and its marking P' towards the other end of the paper clip. Then the small loop of a second paper clip is inserted into the area delimited by the large loop of the first paper clip and through the clear cross-section of the retaining ring 21'. Its large loop ends up lying outside or above the large area of the retaining ring 21'. The result is the system configuration previously explained using the example of the sheath 11'.

In this respect, there is no difference to the tenth embodiment.

This in turn means that the small loop of the first paper clip between itself and the retaining ring 21' offers the possibility of clamping one or more sheets of paper or similar objects. This also means that the large loop of the second paper clip between itself and the retaining ring 21' also offers the possibility of clamping one or more sheets of paper or similar objects.

SEVENTH EXAMPLE OF IMPLEMENTATION

A seventh embodiment of the invention shows the Fig. 40 .

This embodiment essentially corresponds to the sixth embodiment, so that what is said there, also with regard to the reference back to the fourth embodiment, also applies here.

This embodiment differs from the sixth embodiment in that the retaining ring 21' is broken open and now only represents a C-shaped holder 25'.

The C-shaped holder 25' is displaceable in the direction of the double arrow P' and can therefore be moved on the paper clip in a direction in which it holds together the two nested loops of the paper clips involved in the system.

The holding effect is less pronounced than in the embodiment according to Fig. 39 , but may meet the requirements under certain circumstances.

EIGHTH EXAMPLE OF IMPLEMENTATION

An eighth embodiment of the invention shows the Fig. 41 .

This embodiment essentially corresponds to the sixth embodiment, so that what is said there, also with reference to the fourth embodiment, also applies here.

The eighth embodiment differs from the sixth embodiment in that the connecting element has been reduced even further. The connecting element is designed here in the form of a double claw 22', which consists of a main claw part 23' that bridges the plane spanned by a large loop between its two legs. Claw-like grips 24' are connected to the main claw part 23' on both sides of the legs, each of which grips around a leg of a large loop. In this way, the double claw 22' is fixed to a large loop in a captive but movable manner.

It is also noteworthy that in this embodiment the respective paper clips have an additional plastic deformation or special design, which in Figure 41 is also not shown in the drawing.

The fact is that the legs of the large loop and the small loop of a paper clip in this embodiment must maintain a certain minimum distance in the direction of the black arrow MA'. This ensures that the claw-like grips 24' find the necessary space to be inserted between the legs of a large loop and the legs of a small loop received in it, so that the double claw 22' can be moved into its holding position, which corresponds to the holding position of the retaining ring 21' already described.

The function of the double claw 22' is the same as that already explained above for the retaining ring 21', to which reference is made.

NINTH EXAMPLE

A ninth embodiment of the invention shows the Fig. 42 .

The ninth embodiment essentially corresponds to the seventh embodiment, so that what is said there, including the references to other embodiments, also applies here.

The only difference is that the connecting element is designed differently.

The C-shaped holder of the fourth embodiment has been further reduced and now consists only of a plate 26', which is provided with at least one, preferably both legs of a large loop 2', preferably welded.

TENTH EXAMPLE OF IMPLEMENTATION

A tenth embodiment of the invention shows the Fig. 43 .

This tenth embodiment essentially corresponds to the ninth embodiment, so that what is said there, including the references to other embodiments, also applies here.

The only difference is that the connecting element is no longer a plate, but is instead formed by preferably two, possibly several cross brackets 27'.

The crossbars 27' are ideally made of the same wire as the paper clip itself.

The crossbars 27' are again, as already described in the previous embodiment for the plate, attached, preferably welded, to at least one, preferably both legs of the large loop of the paper clip.

The two crossbars preferably run at an angle of 90° to the legs of the loops, but an inclined position is possible.

ELEVENTH EXAMPLE

An eleventh embodiment of the invention shows the Fig. 44 .

The eleventh embodiment essentially corresponds to the tenth embodiment, so that what is said there, including the reference to other embodiments, also applies here.

The difference between the eleventh embodiment and the tenth embodiment is that in the eleventh embodiment, for reasons of simplification or material saving, only a single cross bar 27' is provided.

This is designed as described for the crossbars 27' of the previous embodiment.

TWELFTH EXAMPLE

The twelfth embodiment is from the Fig. 45 shown.

This is a particularly close modification of the eleventh embodiment. What was said there, including references to other embodiments, therefore also applies here.

In this embodiment, the free section 30' of the large loop 2', which is found in the eighth embodiment between the crossbar 27' and the free end of the large loop 2', has been omitted, ie it is no longer found as such on the paper clip. Instead, it is an integral part of the crossbar 27'. as long as it was created by bending the corresponding leg of the large loop of the paper clip.

This not only saves material, but also has the advantage that only one welding point 28' is required for the cross bar 27', because the cross bar 27' has a bending point 29' on the opposite side, and is therefore an integral part of the corresponding leg of the large loop 2'. This makes production more effective.

THIRTEENTH EXAMPLE

A thirteenth embodiment of the invention shows the Figure 46 .

This is a modification of the eleventh and twelfth embodiments. What was said there, including the reference to other embodiments, therefore also applies here.

In this embodiment, the crossbar 27' is only connected on one side, as already briefly explained above using the example of the Fig. 42 for plate 26'.

Preferably, it is an integral part of the free leg of the large loop 2'. In order to produce the crossbar 27' of the type in question here, the said leg of the large loop 2' is simply made somewhat longer and then bent by at least 1 × 90°, preferably 2 × 90°, into the position which Figure 46 shows.

Here too, an inclined course of the cross bar could be provided as an alternative, as already mentioned above.

FOURTEENTH EXAMPLE

A fourteenth embodiment of the invention shows the Figure 47 This is a very close variation of the thirteenth embodiment, so what was said there also applies here without restriction.

The difference between the thirteenth and the fourteenth embodiment is that the crossbar 27' is designed here as a multiple bending section, which preferably has a U-shaped configuration, as the Figure 47 or, alternatively, a substantially V-shaped configuration. A crossbar 27' designed in this way offers particularly good support.

Theoretically, the cross bar 27' could be designed as a welded section, but ideally it is connected from the beginning in one piece to the free leg of the large loop 2' and is created by appropriate, multiple bending.

FIFTEENTH EXAMPLE

A fifteenth embodiment of the invention is shown in the Figures 48 to 51 .

It should be pointed out again that undeformed paper clips are also used in this embodiment, in the manner already described for the fourth embodiment, compare Fig. 49 .

This embodiment is characterized by the fact that it is particularly simple in that it does not require an additional, separate connecting element and costly welding points can also be dispensed with. Instead, the crossbar 27' is a completely integral part of a paper clip.

How best to use the Fig. 48 sees, it is the case here that a V-shaped or C-shaped locking recess 32' has been integrally bent or embossed or introduced by so-called "notching" into one leg of the large loop 2' of a paper clip.

This locking recess 32' receives the end of the opposite leg of the large loop 2'.

For this purpose, the opposite leg of the large loop 2' is made longer and is bent at the bending point 29' by approximately 1 × 90° or preferably 2 × 90°, i.e. it is guided across the large loop. In this way, it forms a crossbar 27'.

The crossbar 27' thus formed is provided with a bend 31' at its free end. The bend 31' is designed such that it can be hooked into the locking recess 32' on the opposite leg of the large loop 2'.

This design has particular advantages in terms of production technology. Apart from an appropriately designed wire bending machine, nothing else is required for assembly and production.

Alternatively, the crossbar could be designed to run at an angle, as already mentioned above.

Claims (15)

1. Paper clip system comprising at least two paper clips physically separated from one another and positioned directly one above the other, with a large loop (2') and a small loop (3') lying in the inner region delimited by the latter, and at least one connecting element, characterized in that in that the connecting element holds the small loop (3') of one paper clip in the region delimited by the large loop (2') of the other paper clip and a free large loop (2') of one paper clip lies on one side of the interlocking loops (2, 3') over the longitudinal broad side thereof and a free small loop (3') of the other paper clip lies on the other side of the interlocking loops (2, 3') over the longitudinal broad side thereof.
2. Paper clip system according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting element is a sheath (11) with two flat large surfaces, into which each of the two paper clips (1) is inserted with one of its loops in such a way that the two paper clips (1) are held in position by the sheath (11), that its other loop is ready for clamping an object to be held between it and the outer surface of the large surface of the sheath (11) facing it, wherein the two loops of the paper clips inserted into one and the same sheath are arranged separately one above the other.
3. Paper clip system according to claim 2, characterized in that the sheath (11) is open on both of its narrow ends (12, 13).
4. Paper clip system according to claim 2, characterized in that the sheath (11) is a flexible tube segment.
5. Paper clip system according to claim 2, characterized in that the finished clear cross-section of the sheath (11) is dimensioned and embodied so that two loops of two different paper clips (1) can be accommodated independently of one another in the sheath (11) without one loop having to be inserted into the inner region enclosed by the other loop.
6. Paper clip system according to claim 2, characterized in that the sheath (11) has a single chamfer (17) on the end of at least one large surface (16).
7. Paper clip system according to claim 2, characterized in that the sheath (11) has a double chamfer (18) on the end of at least one large surface (16).
8. Paper clip system according to claim 2, characterized in that the sheath (11) has a tongue (20a) which projects beyond the longitudinal axis (L) of the sheath (11) in the direction of the latter.
9. Paper clip system according to claim 2, characterized in that the sheath (11) has at least one, preferably two wings (20) which extend away from the sheath (11) in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis (L) of the sheath (11).
10. Paper clip system according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting element is a sheath (11'), into which the large loop (2') of one paper clip is inserted together with the small loop (3') of the other paper clip, which is inserted into the inner region delimited by it, via an open first narrow end (12') of the sheath (11').
11. Paper clip system according to claim 10, characterized in that the clear internal cross-section of the sheath (11') is designed in such a way that the large loop (2') of the paper clip inserted into it rests frictionally on the inside against the longitudinal narrow sides (14, 15') of the sheath (11') at least in the region of its tip (5') and/or rests frictionally on the inside against the longitudinal wide sides of the sheath (11').
12. Paper clip system according to claim 10, characterized in that the sheath (11') has a second, likewise open, narrow end opposite its open first narrow end (12').
13. Paper clip system according to claim 10, characterized in that the free end of the small loop (3') is bent slightly inwards, preferably by 30° to 60° and ideally by 45° +/- 5°, thereby forming a bend 19.
14. Paper clip system according to claim 10, characterized in that the sheath (11') is designed as a retaining ring (21') which is closed in itself in the circumferential direction and which is open on both narrow end faces.
15. Paper clip system according to claim 10, characterized in that the connecting element is designed in the form of a double claw (22') which consists of a claw main part (23') which bridges the plane spanned by a large loop (2') between its two limbs (4, 6'), claw-like handles (24') being connected to the claw main part (23') on both limb sides and each engaging around a limb (4, 6') of a large loop (2').

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