Patent attributes
A reinforcement ring applicator for sequentially applying a plurality of reinforcement rings about prepunched holes in a sheet of paper employs a removable and replaceable cartridge containing a stack of reinforcement rings releaseably attached to the lower end of a plunger. The cartridge is equipped with a pressure pad or plate for exerting downward pressure on the stack of reinforcement rings, a collar secured to the top of the pressure pad and releaseably coupled to the plunger, and a central core. The lower extremity of the cartridge core has a plurality of outwardly directed toes that support the stack of reinforcing rings from beneath. The upper portion of the core has a plurality of barbs inclined downwardly and outwardly. With each downward stamping action of the plunger, the core is forced incrementally upwardly, thus releasing the lowermost reinforcement ring which is applied by pressure sensitive adhesive to a sheet of paper about a prepunched hole therein. With the application of each reinforcing ring, the core is pushed upwardly through a gripping flange on the cartridge collar. Once all of the reinforcing rings have been depleted a fresh cartridge with a fresh supply of reinforcing rings is attached to the lower end of the plunger.
