HK1085701B - Retractable writing instrument - Google Patents

Description

Telescopic writing tool

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to writing instruments, and more particularly to writing instruments configured such that a writing tip can be extended or retracted from a body. The present invention is particularly useful in the field of fluid ink markers.

Background

Marker writing instruments are common in the art. These markers typically include an elongated body from one end of which a tip projects. The elongated body is configured for hand grasping and the nib is configured for delivering ink to a writing surface. More specifically, as is understood by those skilled in the art, the tip is typically made of a porous or fibrous material that utilizes capillary action to direct or allow the flow of liquid ink. The ink is typically stored in a reservoir located inside the body, with the nib in fluid contact with the reservoir.

Once transferred to the writing surface, the ink is typically allowed to dry quickly. However, one disadvantage of using such inks is that: the ink can easily evaporate into the environment causing the marker to dry. To prevent drying out, the conventional solution is to provide a removable cap that can be snapped onto the end of the marker to close the tip. For writing, the cap is simply removed, exposing the tip. But a problem with this removable cap solution is that it is easy to forget where to place the cap. It will be appreciated that without the cap, the marker is again easily dried. Another problem with removable caps is that: for infants and small children, who are often the likely users of the marker, they may present a risk of choking the infant and small child.

Therefore, there is a need for a retractable marker (marker) that can sealingly close the retractable tip.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention provides a retractable writing instrument designed to overcome the problems of the prior art. In particular, the writing instrument may be a marker designed to contain a fluid ink and deliver the ink to a writing surface. The inventive marker comprises: an outer barrel serving as an outer body; an ink reservoir located inside the outer barrel; and a tip for transferring ink to a writing surface. The marker is configured so that the nib can extend and retract through an aperture located at the forward end of the barrel. To prevent the retracted nib from drying when not in use, the marker further includes: a sealing member sealingly closing the aperture. When the nib is extended, forward movement of the nib engages the seal, causing the seal to provide access to the aperture. To prevent ink transfer from the nib to the seal, which could disrupt the ability of the seal to function properly, the nib itself does not directly contact the seal with which it is engaged.

In one embodiment, the sealing member is a slit-type or duckbill valve member made of a resilient material that is capable of opening and closing as the nib is extended or retracted. To open the valve element, the nib is slidingly received within the movable sleeve. During the initial stage of extension when the nib is moved toward the aperture, the sleeve moves with the nib to engage the valve element. This engagement causes the slit to open, thereby opening the aperture. After the valve is opened, the sleeve includes a catch that prevents further forward movement of the sleeve. By sliding through the cannula, the tip can continue to move forward, extending through the aperture.

In another embodiment, the seal is a sliding door made of a pliable material located inside the outer barrel. When retracted, the sliding door sealingly covers the aperture and closes the nib. A sliding door is also attached to the tip. Thus, forward movement of the nib toward the aperture adjusts the sliding door to provide access to the aperture. Thus, the tip can be extended from the marker barrel for writing.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the inventive marker in an extended configuration;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the marker of FIG. 1 in a retracted configuration;

FIG. 3 is an exploded view showing components of the marker of FIG. 1;

figure 4 is a perspective view of a resilient, duckbill valve member;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the marker of FIG. 1 showing the assembled marker in its retracted configuration;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the marker of FIG. 2 showing the marker as the sleeve engages the valve element;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the marker of FIG. 2, showing the marker in its extended configuration;

FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view showing the sleeve and coupling;

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a retractable marker using a different sleeve;

FIG. 10 is an exploded view showing the components of the marker embodied in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled marker embodied in FIG. 9, showing the marker in its retracted configuration;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled marker embodied in FIG. 9, showing the marker in its extended configuration;

FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view showing the sleeve and coupling of the marker embodied in FIG. 9;

FIG. 14 is a perspective cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the retractable marker when assembled and designed to include a spring;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the marker embodied in FIG. 14 in its retracted configuration;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the marker embodied in FIG. 14 in its extended configuration;

FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a retractable marker including a sliding door shown in an extended configuration;

FIG. 18 is an exploded view showing components of the marker embodied in FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of the sliding door;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the marker embodied in FIG. 17, but showing the marker in its retracted configuration;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the front of the marker in a retracted configuration;

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the marker embodied in FIG. 17, showing the marker in its extended configuration;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the front of the marker when in its extended configuration;

FIG. 24 is an exploded view showing the components of an embodiment of the retractable marker using a sleeve and valve and having a different type of cartridge design;

FIG. 25 is an exploded view showing the components of an embodiment of the retractable marker using a sliding door and having a different type of cartridge design;

FIG. 26 is a side view showing another embodiment of a retractable marker designed with buttons for facilitating extension and retraction;

FIG. 27 is an exploded view showing components of the marker of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the marker of FIG. 26, showing the assembled marker in a retracted configuration;

FIG. 29 is a side view showing another embodiment of a retractable marker designed to use a free ink system;

FIG. 30 is an exploded view showing components of the marker of FIG. 29;

FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the marker of FIG. 29, showing the assembled marker in a retracted configuration;

FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a retractable marker designed to be incorporated into a free ink system using a chamber and shown in a retracted configuration with a valve closing an interior volume;

FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a retractable marker designed to incorporate a free ink system using a separate chamber and shown in a retracted configuration with a sliding door enclosing an interior volume;

FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a retractable marker designed to be incorporated into a free ink system using a valve system and shown in a retracted configuration with the valve closing an interior volume;

FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a retractable marker designed to incorporate a free ink system using a sheet and shown in a retracted configuration with a sliding door enclosing an interior volume;

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a retractable marker designed to incorporate a free ink system using a chamber and shown in a retracted configuration with a sliding door enclosing an interior volume;

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a retractable marker designed to incorporate a free ink system using a separate chamber and shown in a retracted configuration with a sliding door enclosing an interior volume;

FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a retractable marker designed to be incorporated into a free ink system using a valve system and shown in a retracted configuration with a sliding door enclosing an interior volume;

FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a retractable marker designed to incorporate a free-ink system using a sheet and a button to facilitate extension and retraction;

FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a retractable marker designed to incorporate a free-ink system using a chamber and a button to facilitate extension and retraction;

FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a retractable marker designed to incorporate a free-ink system using a separate chamber and a button to facilitate extension and retraction;

FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a retractable marker designed to incorporate a free-ink system using a valve system and a button to facilitate extension and retraction.

Detailed Description

Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals refer to like elements, there is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 an embodiment of a marker 100 designed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. The marker 100 is generally formed as a cylinder having a front end 102 and an opposite rear end 104. The cylindrical shape defines a longitudinal axis 106 extending between and beyond the front and rear ends 102, 104. It is to be understood that the terms "front" and "rear" are relative and are in no way limiting of the present invention, but rather merely provide an orientation of the marker 100. Further, while the illustrated marker has a generally circular cross-section, other shapes such as oval or octagonal are also contemplated.

Referring to FIG. 1, to write using the marker 100, a nib 110 extends from the front end 102 to serve as a writing point for transferring ink to paper or other suitable writing surface, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art. The protruding tip 110 protrudes through an aperture 112 formed in the front end 102. Thus, the marker 100 as shown in FIG. 1 is in its extended configuration. The illustrated tip 110 includes a conical tip 114 that tapers to a point and is concentrically aligned about the axis 106. However, in other embodiments, the tip 114 may have other shapes.

Referring to FIG. 2, to prevent the marker 100 from drying out when not in use, the nib 110 can be retracted through the front end 102 into the marker interior. Thus, the marker as shown in FIG. 2 is in its retracted configuration, thereby distinguishing it from the extended configuration of FIG. 1. To extend and retract the nib, the marker is configured to move the nib linearly along the axis 106. In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, to seal the retracted nib from the environment and further prevent the marker from drying out, the front end 102 can close upon itself when the marker is in its retracted position.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 1 and 2, to enable the front end to be closed, the marker 100 includes a seal near the front end 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the sealing member may be a valve member 120, such as that of a duckbill valve. When the nib 110 is linearly moved forward along the axis 106 to its extended configuration, the valve element 120 opens to provide access to the aperture 112. Similarly, when the nib 110 moves rearward to its retracted configuration, the valve element 120 reseals the aperture 112.

The components that enable movement of the nib and opening of the valve element are better shown in fig. 3. These components include a front barrel 130 and a rear barrel 132. The front and rear barrels 130, 132 partially make up the outer body of the marker 100 and provide an interior volume. The front and rear barrels 130, 132 are cylindrical tubes that can be made of injection molded plastic. The front barrel 130 includes first and second opposite open ends 133, 134. The rear end 104 of the closed tubular structure is formed as part of the rear barrel 132. The opposite end 138, corresponding to the forward most portion of the rear barrel 132, is open to provide access to the interior of the rear barrel. As shown in fig. 1 and 2, when assembled, the front and rear barrels 130, 132 are aligned about the shaft 106 and abut one another to achieve a seamless, aesthetic appearance. Referring again to fig. 3, in an embodiment, to ensure that the interior volume of the marker is sufficiently enclosed, an O-ring 128 can be placed between the front and rear barrels 130, 132.

Also included as part of the marker is an inner barrel 140 similarly formed as a tubular structure and including a closed first end 142 and an open second end 144. Like the front and rear barrels 130, 132, the inner barrel can be made of injection molded plastic. In order for the inner barrel 140 to be received within the front and rear barrels 130, 132, the inner barrel has a smaller cross-section than the front and rear barrels.

To store the fluid ink supplied to the marker 100, a reservoir is included. In the present embodiment, the reservoir is formed of a porous or fibrous material formed into an elongated cylinder 150 and holds and allows the fluid ink to flow through capillaries formed in the reservoir material. However, in other embodiments, the reservoir may be formed of a different material. Further, in other embodiments, the marker may be designed as a free ink marker, wherein the reservoir is a volume containing fluid ink therein. The reservoir volume may be formed as a replaceable cartridge that allows for replenishment of the ink supply.

In the current embodiment, the reservoir cylinder 150 is housed within the inner barrel 140. To enclose the reservoir cylinder 150 inside the inner barrel 140, the marker further comprises a coupling element 160. The coupling member can be made of any suitable material, preferably injection molded plastic. The coupler 160 has a circular flange 162, and a cylindrical plug 164 projects from the circular flange 162 in a rearward direction. The plug 164 can be press fit into the second end 144 of the inner barrel 140.

To place the spike 110 in communication with the reservoir cylinder 150, there is a spike holder 168 projecting forward from the circular flange 162, the spike holder 168 being formed as a circular tube in this embodiment. In addition, the nib 110 includes a rear portion 116 extending rearwardly from the conical nib 114, the rear portion 116 also being made of the same porous or fibrous material as the reservoir cylinder. The rear portion 116 is received in a tubular nib holder 168 and extends rearward to contact the enclosed reservoir cylinder 150. Thus, the nib 110, coupling element 160, reservoir cylinder 150, and inner barrel 144 form a nib assembly 170.

To receive the valve element 120 proximate the front end 102 of the marker 100, the valve element is inserted into the first end 133 of the front barrel 130. To position the valve member 120, the valve member includes a rounded edge 122 formed at its base, the rounded edge 122 being capable of abutting an inwardly projecting ledge 136 formed on the interior surface of the front barrel 130. To secure the valve element 120 within the front barrel 130, the muzzle 172 can be press fit into the first end 134 to press the rim 122 against the ledge 136. The nose cage 172 includes: an inner cavity in which a substantial portion of the valve member is received; and openings corresponding to the holes 112. As shown in fig. 1 and 2, the exterior of the muzzle 172 is preferably seamlessly integrated with the front barrel 130 and the rest of the marker 100 to create an aesthetic appearance.

As better shown in fig. 4, the valve member 120 can be designed as a duckbill valve. The duckbill valve member 120 includes a hollow, circular neck 124 extending from the aforementioned rim 122, the neck 124 terminating at a front face 126. The valve member is made of an elastic material, such as natural or synthetic rubber, preferably silicone rubber. The ability of the valve to open and close is provided by a plurality of angle flaps 128 extending from the neck 124 and forming the front face 126. Preferably, four corner flaps 128 are provided. The four corner flaps are able to pivot relative to the neck due to the resilient nature of the valve member material. When closed, the four corner flaps 128 sealingly abut one another to form two vertical slits 129. When opened, the four corner flaps 128 pivot away from each other to open the slit 129.

As shown in fig. 5, the corner flaps 128 extend at an oblique angle from the neck 124 to the slits 129. Referring to FIG. 6, as the nib assembly 170 is moved linearly forward along the axis 106, the four corner flaps 128 are pushed apart by pivoting rearward with respect to the neck 124. Thus, as shown in FIG. 7, the nib 110 can traverse the aperture 112 to its extended configuration for writing. As will be seen from fig. 6, when the nib 110 is retracted into the marker 100, the resilient nature of the valve material causes the corner flaps 128 to pivot back to close the aperture 112. Furthermore, as can be seen from fig. 5, the neck 124 is closely surrounded by a muzzle 172. Likewise, the muzzle can provide pressure to the neck 124 that tends to rotate the four corner flaps 128 back to abut one another.

Preferably, when the retractable marker is initially produced, the angle valve flaps are sealed together at the slits using a 0.005 inch sheet or web. The sheet or web further increases the sealing ability of the valve member, allowing for a longer shelf life during sale of the marker. Thus, a first use of the marker by a customer would require piercing of the sheet or web by linear extension of the nib assembly.

Referring to fig. 3, to open the valve element 120 in a manner that prevents the transfer of ink from the nib to the valve element, the marker includes a sleeve 180. Like the barrel component, the sleeve can be made of injection molded plastic. As shown in fig. 8, the sleeve 180 is an elongated member having a cylindrical member 182 extending between a forward end 184 and a rearward end 186. A circular passage 188 is provided through the cylindrical member 182. A pair of outwardly projecting plates 190 are at the rear end 186 perpendicular to the cylindrical member 182. A pair of opposed fingers 192 have internal projection catches 194 formed at their ends that extend beyond the rear end 186 on either side of the channel.

A pair of cantilevered arms 196 are also integrally formed in the cylindrical member 182 proximate the rear end 186. The cantilevers are located on opposite sides of the channel 188, corresponding to either side of the plate 190. Each cantilever 196 includes a beveled claw 198 at its distal end. The beveled claws 198 project outwardly from the circumference of the cylindrical member 182.

Referring to FIG. 5, when the marker 100 is assembled, the sleeve 180 is located inside the front barrel 130. To protect the nib 110, the nib and forward portion of the nib holder 168 are inserted into the channel 182. When properly inserted, the conical tip 114 of the tip 110 is substantially coextensive with the forward end 184 of the sleeve 180. In addition, the distal end of the cantilever 196 abuts a collar 169 formed on the nib holder 168. Thus, forward movement of the nib assembly 170 along the axis 106 will also push the sleeve 180 forward. At this stage, the nib assembly 170 and sleeve 180 move forward together relative to the front and rear barrels 130, 132.

Referring to FIG. 6, when the sleeve 180 encounters the valve element 120, the front end 184 of the sleeve 180 pushes open the corner flaps 128, forcing the nib 110 through the aperture 112. To expose the conical tip 114 when the marker 100 is in its extended configuration, forward movement of the sleeve 180 is stopped relative to the nib assembly 170. Specifically, after the valve member 120 has been opened, the beveled claws 198 capture the annular lip 137 of the ledge 136 formed on the inner surface of the front barrel 130. As shown in FIG. 7, the beveled shape of the claws 198 raises the cantilevered arms 196 relative to the cylindrical member 182 and beyond the collar 169, thereby allowing the collar to pass into the channel 188. Thus, the nib 110 and nib holder 168 slide forward within the stop sleeve 180 that holds the valve element 120 open. At this stage, only the nib assembly 170 is moving relative to the inner and outer barrels 130, 132.

To close the valve when the nib is retracted, the sleeve is again moved by the retracted nib holder. As shown in fig. 8, this is accomplished by rearwardly extending fingers 192 on the sleeve 180 and associated catches 194. It can be understood that: the catch 194 hooks the rear side of the collar 169 such that rearward movement of the nib assembly 170 pushes the sleeve 180 from the valve element 120 as shown in fig. 6. Thus, when in the retracted configuration, the fingers 192 extend around the collar 169 with the catches 194 hooked around the collar. This, in turn, unhooks the beveled claws 198 and returns the cantilevered arms 196 to their original positions.

Linear movement of the tip along the axis may be achieved in any of a number of acceptable ways. In the illustrated embodiment, to move the nib 110 linearly along the axis 106, the nib assembly 170 and rear barrel 132 form a drive thread. More specifically, as shown in fig. 3, the rear barrel 132 includes a series of helical threads 139 formed on its inner surface near the open end 138 and extending partially toward the rear end 104. Further, the inner barrel 140 has a pair of opposing projections 146, the opposing projections 146 projecting outwardly from a circumference adjacent the second end 144. When the inner barrel 140 is received in the rear barrel 132, the protrusion 146 engages the helical thread 139. Thus, rotating the rear barrel 132 relative to the inner barrel 140 causes the helical thread 139 to drive the projection 146 parallel to the shaft 106.

To prevent the nib assembly 170 from articulating with the rear barrel 132 during rotation, the nib assembly is locked relative to the front barrel 130. To achieve locking, the front barrel 130 includes a plurality of elongated, inwardly projecting ribs 136 extending along its interior surface and parallel to the axis 106. To engage the rib 136, the flange 162 of the coupler 160 forms a plurality of notches 166 on its outer circumference that are configured to slidingly pass along the rib. It can be understood that: the engagement of the ribs 136 with the notches 166 allows for linear movement while preventing rotational movement of the nib assembly 170. Referring to fig. 8, it can be understood that: to prevent the sleeve from rotating, the plate 190 on the sleeve 180 may include similar notches 191 that also engage the ribs. Referring to fig. 5, 6 and 7, to ensure that the interior of the marker is adequately sealed after multiple rotations, an O-ring 128 enables rotational movement while preventing leakage between the front and rear barrels 130, 132.

To prevent the nib from inadvertently retracting during use, the marker may be designed to lock it into the extended position. Referring to fig. 3, to accomplish this, a protrusion 146 on the inner barrel 140 can be received and retained in a locking notch 148 formed as a non-helical portion of the helical thread 139. As can be appreciated from FIG. 7, when the nib assembly is extended and the protrusion 146 bottoms out relative to the threads 139, the protrusion will rotate into the locking notch 148. Any linear forces transmitted back through the nib assembly 170, such as those generated during contact between the nib and the writing surface, will be resisted by the engagement between the protrusion and the locking notch. Thus, the protrusion does not begin to rotate back up the helical thread, resulting in inadvertent retraction of the nib. To disengage the protrusion 146 and locking notch 148, the rear barrel 132 is rotated relative to the nib assembly 170 to move the protrusion back into the helical portion of the thread 139.

Fig. 9, 10, 11 and 12 illustrate another embodiment of a retractable marker 200 designed in accordance with this invention. As previously described, marker 200 has a front end 202 and a rear end 204 that provide a directional orientation. Referring to fig. 10, the marker 200 further includes: a front barrel 230; a rear barrel 232; and an inner barrel 240, all formed as generally cylindrical tubes aligned about common axis 206. To store ink, the marker 200 also includes a reservoir made of a porous or fibrous material and formed into an elongated cylinder 250. However, the reservoir may also be made of different materials or different designs such as a free ink volume reservoir. The reservoir cylinder 250 is housed in the inner barrel 240 and enclosed therein by a coupling element 260. The nib 210, which can also be made of a porous or fibrous material, is held in the coupling element 260 and protrudes through the coupling element 260 such that it contacts the reservoir cylinder 250. The nib 210, coupling element 260, reservoir cylinder 250, and inner barrel 240 form a nib assembly 270 that is linearly movable along the axis 206 between a retracted and an extended configuration.

The marker 200 further includes an aperture 212, the aperture 212 being disposed through a muzzle 272 affixed to the front end 202 of the front barrel 230, the nib 210 linearly passable through the aperture 212. To seal the aperture 212 when the nib 210 is retracted, a valve element 220, such as a duckbill valve, made of a resilient material is positioned near the front end 202. To open and close the valve element without ink transferring from the nib 210 to the valve element, the marker 200 further includes: in which the nib 210 and the forward movable sleeve 280 of the coupling element 260 are received.

The sleeve 280 and coupling 260 engage one another so that the nib 210 can extend through the aperture 212 and expose from the front end 212. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, the sleeve 280 is a generally cylindrical tube defining a passage 282 having a first end 284 and a second end 286. Further, near its second end 286, the sleeve 280 has a circular shoulder 288 around its circumference and extending outwardly therefrom. A first raised ridge ring 290 also surrounds the outer circumference of the tubular sleeve 280 near the first end 284. In addition, a second ring of raised bumps 292 extends into the channel 282 around the inner circumference and is positioned on the inner surface of the tubular sleeve 280 proximate the second end 286. The coupling 260 includes a circular flange 262 from which a plug 264 extends in a rearward direction and a tip retainer 268 extends in a forward direction. The nib holder 268 is a generally circular tube that includes a collar 269 extending outwardly from its circumference and offset from the flange 262.

When assembled in the retracted configuration, as shown in fig. 11, the tip 210 is protectively enclosed within the sleeve 280. In addition, the collar 269 abuts the second ring of raised bumps 292 and is oriented toward the rear end 204 of the marker 200. An inwardly extending ledge 236 is formed inside the front barrel 230 proximate the front end 202 of the marker 200, and a first raised ridge ring abuts the inwardly extending ledge 236. Referring to fig. 11 and 12, as the nib assembly 270 is moved linearly forward, the collar 269 abutting the second ring of raised bumps 292 will likewise drive the sleeve 280 forward to open the valve element 220 in the manner described above. At this stage, the nib assembly 270 and sleeve 280 are moving together relative to the front and rear barrels 230, 232.

To stop the forward movement of the sleeve 280 relative to the nib assembly 270 after the valve element 220 is opened, it can be appreciated that: forward movement of the sleeve will cause the shoulder 288 to abut the ledge 236. Thus, while the forward movement of the sleeve 280 is stopped, continued forward movement of the nib assembly 270 forces the collar 269 to pass through the second ring of bumps 292 and into the channel 282. At this stage, only the nib assembly 270 is moving relative to the front and rear barrels 230, 232. This enables the nib 210 to traverse the aperture to an extended configuration in which the nib is exposed for writing.

After use, when the nib assembly 270 is linearly retracted into the marker 200, it can be appreciated that: the rearward moving collar 269 will abut the second ring of bumps 292 but now on the bump side near the leading end 202. Continued rearward movement of the nib assembly 270 causes the collar 269 to push the sleeve 280 rearward such that the valve element 220 closes to close and seal the aperture 212. After the sleeve 280 is removed from the valve element 220, the linear motion of the sleeve is again stopped in order to reposition the collar 269 on the back side of the second ring of bumps 292. To accomplish this, the first ring of bumps 290 abuts the internally extending ledge 236 formed on the first cylinder 230, thereby stopping the movement of the sleeve 280 relative to the nib assembly 270. Continued movement of the nib assembly 270 causes the collar 269 to pass through the second ring of bumps 292.

Referring to fig. 14, 15 and 16, in another embodiment of the aforementioned marker 200, a spring 296 may also be included to assist the sleeve 280 in opening the valve. As best shown in fig. 15 and 16, the spring 296 is a coil spring that extends between a shoulder 288 on the sleeve 280 and the flange 262 on the coupler 260. When the marker 200 is in its retracted configuration, the spring 296 is generally in its relaxed state. When the forward movement of the nib assembly 270 causes the sleeve 280 to engage the valve element 220, any resistance of the valve element against the sleeve will generate a compressive force that is transferred to the spring. Accordingly, the spring 296 will push the sleeve 280 forward to open the valve element 220. Once the shoulder 288 abuts the ledge 236, stopping any further movement of the sleeve 280, the spring 296 is then compressed between the shoulder 288 and the flange 269. Also, the spring 296 can recover as the nib assembly 270 retracts.

Referring to fig. 17 through 23, there is shown another embodiment of a retractable marker 300 designed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

The retractable marker 300 also has an elongated, generally cylindrical shape aligned about a longitudinal axis 306; and includes a front end 302 and a rear end 304 to provide a directional orientation. A bore 312 through which the tip 310 can extend for writing is provided through the front end 302. To prevent the nib 310 from drying out when not in use, the nib can be retracted into the aperture by mechanical manipulation of the marker 300. To seal the aperture once the nib is retracted, the current embodiment of the marker includes a seal designed as a sliding door that covers the aperture.

Fig. 18 shows the components of the retractable marker 300 including the nib 310 and the sliding door 320. In addition, the marker 300 includes a front barrel 330 and a rear barrel 332 that make up the outer body of the marker 300 and provide an interior volume. The front and rear barrels 330, 332 may be cylindrical tubes made of injection molded plastic. The front barrel 330 includes: a front end 302 through which the aperture 312 is disposed; and an opposite end 333 corresponding to the rearmost part of the front barrel. A muzzle 372 including apertures corresponding to apertures 312 may be press fit into the front end 302. The rear end 304 of the closed tubular structure is formed as part of the rear barrel 332. The opposite end 338 corresponds to the forward most portion of the rear barrel 332 and is open to provide access to the interior of the rear barrel. When assembled, the front and rear barrels 330, 332 are aligned about the axis 306 and abut each other to provide a seamless, aesthetic appearance, as shown in fig. 17.

Referring to FIG. 18, the marker also includes a hollow, tubular inner barrel 340, which may also be made of injection molded plastic, that is open at a first end 342 and closed at a second end 344. To store the fluid ink, an elongated reservoir cylinder 350, which can be made of a porous or fibrous material, is also included. The reservoir cylinder 350 is housed inside the inner barrel 340 and enclosed therein by the coupling element 360. The coupling 360 has a rearwardly extending plug 364, the plug 364 being press-fit into the open end 342 of the inner barrel 340. The coupling 360 also includes a vertical prong 366 located at the front of the plug 364. To secure the nib 310 so that the nib contacts the enclosed reservoir 350, the coupling element 360 further includes a nib holder 368 that is formed as a circular tube. An elongated arm 316 formed as part of the tip 310 can be received within the tip holder 368. Thus, the nib 310, coupling element 360, reservoir cylinder 350, and inner barrel 340 are secured together to form a fixed nib assembly 370.

As best shown in fig. 19, the sliding door 320 is an elongated, thin strip of material having a particular width 321 that is bent back upon itself to provide a generally C-shape. The sliding door thus has an upper end 322 and an opposite lower end 324. Preferably, the strip of material at the lower end 324 is thicker than the strip of material associated with the upper end 322. Perforations 325 are provided through the strip of material making up the sliding door 320 near the upper end 322, while the area near the lower end 324 is formed as a continuous surface. An elongated slot 326 is provided through the width portion of the sliding door 320 between the upper and lower ends 322, 324. Thus, only two strips 328, 329 interconnect the upper and lower ends 322, 324. Preferably, the sliding door 320 is made of a flexible material such as thin plastic or silicon rubber.

Referring to fig. 20 and 21, when the marker 300 is properly assembled with the nib 310 retracted, the lower end of the sliding door 320 curves around the interior of the front end 302 of the front barrel 330. In this configuration, the lower end 324 is aligned with the aperture 312 and covers the aperture 312, sealing the interior of the marker 300. Further, the slit 326 is generally located above and parallel to the tip 310 and the axis 306. Referring to fig. 22 and 23, to enable the nib 310 to traverse the aperture 312 when the nib assembly 370 is extended straight forward along the axis 306, the sliding door 320 is moved so that the slot 326 is aligned with the aperture and perpendicular to the nib and axis 306.

More specifically, the upper end 322 of the sliding door is attached to the nib assembly 370 by inserting the prong 366 through the perforation 325. Thus, as the nib assembly 370 moves forward, the lower end 324 is forced to slide rearward under the nib assembly. Importantly, to prevent the nib 310 from colliding with the lower end 324, the sliding door 320 is sized so that the slot 326 is aligned with the aperture 312 before the nib begins to traverse the aperture. It can be understood that: as the rearward movement of the nib assembly 370 retracts the nib 310, the slot 326 also moves away from the aperture 312 and the lower end 324 again covers the aperture.

Referring to fig. 21, to maintain the sliding door 320 in alignment with the aperture 312, a sliding guide 380 is included at the front end 302 of the front barrel 330. The sliding guide 380 is a plate offset from the interior of the front barrel 330 and affixed to the interior of the front barrel 330. Accordingly, the sliding guide 380 forms a gap between itself and the inside of the front barrel 330, through which the sliding door 320 can pass. The sliding guide 380 also includes a hemispherical cutout 382 that corresponds to the hole and allows the tip to pass through. As can be appreciated from fig. 20 and 21, due to the thicker material at the lower end 324, the lower end has a tendency to wedge between the sliding guide 380 and the front barrel 330 to further improve the seal between the sliding door and the aperture. As shown in fig. 22, the strip 328 of the sliding door 320 is retained by the sliding guide 380 even when the slot 326 is aligned with the aperture 312. It can be understood that: a second sliding guide may also be provided on the opposite side of the aperture corresponding to the second bar 329. It will also be appreciated that: in some embodiments, the sliding guide can be formed as an integral part of the muzzle 372 opposite the front barrel 330. Those skilled in the art will also understand that: the linear movement of the previous embodiment can be achieved by rotating a portion of the body, as described with reference to figure 3, or by pressing a button, as described with reference to figure 28.

Fig. 24 and 25 show embodiments of markers 400, 500 utilizing a variation of the barrel structure that constitutes the outer body. Figure 24 shows a valve element design using the new cartridge variation. The marker 400 includes a nib assembly 470, the nib assembly 470 capable of reciprocating along an axis 406 within the marker and consisting of a nib 410, a coupling element 460, a reservoir cylinder 450, and an inner barrel 440. The marker further comprises: a valve element 420 and a sleeve 480 configured to open and close the aperture 412. The exterior of marker 400 is formed by a front barrel 430 and a rear barrel 432 aligned about axis 406. An intermediate collet (collet)490, which can be made of injection molded plastic, is located between and connects the front and rear barrels 430, 432 together. The purpose of the intermediate collet 490 is to improve the appearance of the marker 400 by streamlining the transition between the front and rear barrels.

The intermediate collet 490 includes an annular rim 492, and a circular rear projection 494 that can be press-fit into the rear barrel 432 extends to the rear of the annular rim 492. A circular front projection 496, which can be rotatably received in the front barrel 430, extends forward from the rim 492. Therefore, the forward projection 496 must have a smaller diameter than the front barrel 430. To hold the front and rear barrels 130, 132 together, an outwardly extending circular shoulder 498 formed on the forward projection 496 perpendicular to the axis 406 can be received in a corresponding slot 434 formed in the front barrel. To enable linear movement of the nib assembly as the barrels are rotated relative to each other, a helical thread 497 is formed on an interior surface of the forward projection 496 and can engage the projection 446 on the inner barrel 440. To lock the intermediate collet 490 for rotation with the rear barrel 332, a plurality of teeth 495 are formed on the rear projection 494 that can engage a locking structure formed on the interior of the rear barrel. When assembled, it can be understood that: the circular rim 492 is coextensive with the exterior surfaces of the front and rear barrels 430, 432.

The embodiment shown in fig. 25 similarly includes a front barrel 530 and a rear barrel 532 connected together by an intermediate collet 590. In this embodiment, a nib assembly 570 comprising a nib 510, coupling member 560, reservoir cylinder 550, and inner barrel 540 is configured to engage the sliding door 520 to close and open the aperture 512 as the nib assembly is extended and retracted.

Another embodiment of the inventive marker 600 is shown in fig. 26, 27 and 28, the marker 600 being designed such that linear movement of the nib assembly is accomplished by depressing a button 690 extending from the rear end 604 of the rear barrel 632. When the button is so pressed, the nib can extend and retract through the front end 602 of the front barrel. The components of the marker 600, better shown in fig. 27, include a nib assembly 670, the nib assembly 670 configured to reciprocate along the axis 606 inside the front and rear barrels 630, 632. The nib assembly includes a nib 610, coupling element 660, inner barrel 640, and reservoir cylinder 650 assembled together. To seal the marker when in the retracted position, in the illustrated embodiment, the front barrel 630 includes a valve element 620 that can be opened by a sleeve 680 engaging the nib assembly. Of course, those skilled in the art will understand that: the button arrangement can also be arranged to function with embodiments using sliding doors.

To extend and retract the nib assembly 670 by pressing the button 690, the button extends through the open rear end 604 of the rear barrel to abut the closed end 642 of the inner barrel 640. An outwardly extending protrusion 646 generally perpendicular to the axis 606 is formed at the open end 644 of the inner barrel 640. In addition, the rear barrel 632 has a plurality of elongated slots 638 cut into its interior surface arranged circumferentially and along the shaft 606. The slot 638 extends part way from the front end 133 to the rear end 604 of the rear barrel 632 and is generally parallel to the axis 606. An elongated, raised ridge 635 comprising a cup-shaped portion (cup)636 formed near the front end is occupied between the slots 638. It will be appreciated that the protrusion 646 is coextensive with the slot 638 and ridge 635 when the inner barrel 640 is assembled into the rear barrel 632.

The spring 692 that biases the nib assembly 670 rearward is also located inside the front barrel 630 when assembled as shown in fig. 28. Thus, as can be appreciated from FIG. 28, if the protrusion 646 is aligned with the slot 638, the protrusion will be pushed toward the rear of the slot, causing the nib assembly 670 to retract. If the protrusion 646 is aligned with the ridge 635, the protrusion will be received in the cup 636, extending the nib assembly 670 with the nib traversing the aperture. The shape of the cup 636 prevents the protrusion 646 from realigning within the slot 638, undesirably retracting the nib assembly 670. In addition, the cup 636 serves to resist any rearwardly applied forces generated during use.

To change the alignment of the protrusion 646 with the ridge 635 or slot 638, a crown (crown)648 of inclined teeth arranged around the circumference of the inner barrel is formed on the closed end 642 of the inner barrel 640. A corresponding crown 694 of inclined teeth is provided on the front end of the push button 690. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, when two crowns are engaged, the inclined nature of the teeth will cause one crown to rotate relative to the other. Thus, by preventing rotation of the button 690, the inner barrel 640 is caused to rotate, thereby changing the alignment of the protrusion 646 from the slot 638 to the ridge 635. Rotation of the push button 690 can be prevented by engaging a groove 698 formed in a circular flange 696 included on the push button with a rib 639 formed on the inner surface of the rear end 604 of the rear barrel 632.

Fig. 29, 30 and 31 show an embodiment of a retractable marker 700 incorporating a variation of the free ink system described above. While the illustrated embodiment is designed to use a valve element 720 and sleeve 780 to seal the marker 700, those skilled in the art will appreciate that: the free ink system can also be used in other marker designs such as markers that use sliding doors. As shown in fig. 29, the marker 700 includes a front end 702 and an opposite rear end 704. As shown in fig. 30, the marker 700 includes a front barrel 732 and a rear barrel 732 that define an interior volume. An intermediate collet 736 and O-ring 738 may also be included to connect the front and rear barrels together in a well sealed manner.

The nib assembly 770 comprising the nib 710, coupling element 760, and inner barrel 740 reciprocates inside the front and rear barrels. Referring to fig. 30 and 31, instead of including a porous or fibrous cylindrical structure, the reservoir is formed as a volume 750 created by press fitting a plug member 752 into an inner barrel 740. The fluid ink is then able to remain free in the reservoir volume 750. To transfer fluid ink from the reservoir volume 750 to the nib 710, a transfer rod 754 capable of directing ink extends between the reservoir and nib through the stopper element 752. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, in embodiments, the coupling member and the plug member can be integrally formed as the same component.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, to enable ink to be transferred from the reservoir volume to the nib, air must be able to be drawn back into the reservoir volume, thereby preventing a vacuum from forming. Furthermore, the marker must be designed to prevent: as the pressure and temperature inside the reservoir volume 750 changes, ink leaks through the stopper element 752. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the stopper element 752 includes a plurality of outwardly extending tabs 758. The flakes form a channel therebetween that can absorb excess ink and facilitate the movement of air from the front of the nib assembly into the reservoir. Examples of markers using such sheets are given in US 5,906,446 and US 5,420,615, which are incorporated herein by reference. In other embodiments, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, different mechanisms for preventing ink leakage may be used, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,095,707 and 6,089,776 to Kaufmann, and U.S. patent application 2003/68191A1 to Hori.

Fig. 32 shows an embodiment of a retractable marker 800 incorporating another variation of the free ink system. For orientation, the marker 800 includes a front end 802 and an opposing back end 804. The marker 800 further includes a nib 810 coupled to a nib assembly 870, wherein the nib assembly 870 is reciprocable along the axis 806 through an interior volume defined by the front barrel 830 and an adjacent rear barrel 832. To store the fluid ink, a reservoir volume 850 may be provided as part of the nib assembly 870 by enclosing the inner barrel 840 with a divider disk 852. To provide communication between the nib 810 and the reservoir volume 850, a transfer rod 854 made of a material capable of transferring fluid ink passes through the divider disk 852. Embodiments of the retractable marker are designed to incorporate a free ink system using a separate tube and a button for facilitating extension and retraction.

To transfer ink from the reservoir volume 850 to the nib via the transfer rod 854, as one skilled in the art will recognize, air or other gas must flow back into the reservoir volume 850, thereby preventing a vacuum from forming therein. Typically, air is provided near the front of the divider disk 852. Preferably, to facilitate such flow, a small space or gap exists between the transfer rod 854 and the divider disk 852. The gap is preferably sized to prevent ink from leaking from the reservoir 850 by virtue of the fluid ink's own inherent surface tension of the fluid film formed between the divider disk 852 and the transfer rod 854. However, the gap is preferably large enough to allow air molecules to flow through the fluid film into the reservoir 850.

To prevent ink from leaking from the marker 800 when temperature and/or pressure changes in the volume reservoir 850, the marker includes a chamber 856. The chamber 856 is formed between the divider disk 852 and a coupling 860 that retains the nib 810 in the nib assembly 870. Thus, a portion of the transfer rod 854 passes through the chamber 856 between the divider disk 852 and the nib 810. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, if the pressure and/or temperature increase in the reservoir 850 causes ink to break the fluid membrane or be forced through the transfer rod 854, excess ink may flow into the chamber 856. To store excess ink, the marker can include a capillary storage 858, preferably made of a porous material such as sponge, in the chamber 856. The capillary storage 858 is positioned adjacent to the transport rod 854, preferably surrounds the transport rod 854, and more preferably contacts the transport rod 854. In operation, excess ink from the transfer rod 854 and the gap between the transfer rod and divider disk will be stored in the capillary storage 858 and, in one embodiment, can later be returned to the transfer rod when the pressure and/or temperature in the reservoir volume dissipates.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, to prevent the marker 800 from drying out when not in use, the nib 810 and nib assembly 870 can reciprocally extend and retract along the axis 806 such that the nib traverses an aperture 812 in the front end 802 of the marker. When in the retracted position, the valve element 820 closes the aperture to isolate the nib 810 from the environment. To facilitate opening of the valve element 820 when extending the nib 810, the marker includes a sleeve 880 that engages the coupling element 860 that can function in any of the manners described above. In the illustrated embodiment, linear motion of the nib 810 and nib assembly 870 along the axis 806 is achieved by rotating the rear barrel 832 with respect to the front barrel 830.

Fig. 33 shows an embodiment of a retractable marker 900 incorporating another variation of the free ink system. For orientation purposes, the marker 900 includes a front end 902 and an opposite rear end 904. The marker 900 further includes a nib 910 coupled to a nib assembly 970, the nib assembly 970 being reciprocable along the axis 906 through an internal volume defined by a front barrel 930 and an adjacent rear barrel 932. To store the fluid ink, the reservoir volume 950 can be provided as part of the nib assembly 970 by press-fitting the coupling element 960 into the inner barrel 940. To provide communication between the nib 910 and the reservoir volume 950, a transfer rod 954 made of a material capable of transferring fluid ink passes through the reservoir volume.

To stabilize the transfer of ink from the reservoir volume 950 to the nib 910, the reservoir volume is divided by a plurality of axially spaced divider disks 952 through which the transfer rod 954 passes. To allow the desired air to be transferred into the reservoir volume 950 while preventing the formation of a vacuum, a small space or gap is preferably present between the transfer rod 954 and the divider disks 952. As previously described, the gap is preferably sized so that ink forms a fluid film and does not leak from the reservoir volume 950, while air molecules are still able to migrate into the reservoir volume.

As better described in U.S. patent application 10/283,962, published as US2003/0068191A1, the possibility that ink will leak from the marker is reduced by dividing the reservoir 950 into multiple chambers 956 by axially spaced divider disks 952. As the pressure and/or temperature in any one chamber 956 increases, ink will transfer into an adjacent chamber. However, since only the forwardmost chamber is in contact with the coupling element 960 and the nib 910, the amount of fluid ink present in that chamber, and the corresponding leakage, is minimal.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, to prevent the marker 900 from drying when not in use, the nib 910 and nib assembly 970 can reciprocally extend and retract along the axis 906 such that the nib traverses an aperture 912 in the front end 902 of the marker. When in the retracted position, the valve element 920 closes the aperture to isolate the nib 910 from the external environment. To facilitate opening of the valve element 920 when extending the nib 910, the marker includes a sleeve 980 engaging the coupling element that functions in any of the manners described above. In the illustrated embodiment, linear motion of the nib 910 and nib assembly 970 along the axis 906 is achieved by rotating the rear barrel 932 with respect to the front barrel 930.

FIG. 34 shows another embodiment of a retractable marker 1000 configured to incorporate another variation of the free ink system. For orientation purposes, the marker 1000 includes a front end 1002 and an opposing rear end 1004. The marker 1000 further comprises: a nib 1010 coupled to the nib assembly 1070, the nib assembly 1070 being reciprocable along the axis 1006 through an interior volume defined by a front barrel 1030 and an adjacent rear barrel 1032. To store the fluid ink, the reservoir volume 1050 may be provided as part of the nib assembly 1070 by press-fitting the coupling element 1060 into the inner barrel 1040.

To stabilize the flow of ink from the reservoir 1050 to the nib 1010, a valve system is added to work with the reservoir volume 1050. One example of a valve system used in a marker is given in US 5,967,688, which is incorporated herein by reference. The valve system includes a valve seat 1062 formed on the rear portion of the coupling element 1060 that is press-fit into the reservoir volume 1050. A channel 1064 provided through the valve seat 1062 provides fluid communication between the reservoir volume 1050 and the nib 1010. To regulate the transfer of ink, a ball 1052, preferably made of steel, is loosely contained inside the reservoir volume 1050. As will be appreciated, when the marker 1000 is oriented vertically, the ball 1052 will engage the valve seat 1062, sealing the entrance to the channel 1064. When the vertical orientation is changed, the ball 1052 will disengage the valve seat 1062, providing fluid communication between the reservoir volume 1050 and the nib 1010 through the channel 1064. Thus, ink is only intermittently delivered to the nib 1010.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, to prevent the marker 1000 from drying out when not in use, the nib 1010 and nib assembly 1070 can reciprocally extend and retract along the axis 1006 so that the nib traverses an aperture 1012 in the front end 1002 of the marker. When in the retracted position, the valve element 1020 closes the aperture 1012 to seal the nib 1010 from the environment. To facilitate opening of the valve element 1020 when extending the nib 1010, the marker includes a sleeve 1080 engaging the coupling element that can function in any of the orientations described above. In the illustrated embodiment, linear motion of the nib 1010 and nib assembly 1070 along the axis 1060 is achieved by rotating the rear barrel 1032 with respect to the front barrel 1030.

FIG. 35 shows one embodiment of a retractable marker 1100 incorporating a free ink system and designed to enclose an aperture 1112 with a sliding door 1120. For orientation purposes, the marker 1000 includes a front end 1102 through which the aperture 1112 is disposed and a rear end 1104. The marker 1100 further comprises: a nib 1110 coupled to a nib assembly 1170, the nib assembly 1170 may reciprocate along an axis 1106 within an interior volume defined by a front barrel 1130 and an adjacent rear barrel 1132. To store the fluid ink, a reservoir volume 1150 is provided by press fitting a stopper element 1152 into an inner barrel 1140. To provide communication between the nib 1110 and the reservoir 1150, a transfer rod 1154 made of a material capable of transferring fluid ink passes through the stopper element 1152 between the reservoir volume and the nib.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, to enable ink to be transferred from the reservoir volume 1150 to the nib 1110, air must be able to flow back into the reservoir volume, thereby preventing a vacuum from forming. In addition, marker 1110 must be designed to prevent: as the pressure and temperature inside the reservoir volume 1150 changes, ink leaks through the stopper element 1152. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the stopper element 1152 includes a plurality of outwardly extending tabs 1158. The tabs 1158 form a channel therebetween that is capable of absorbing excess ink and facilitating the movement of air from the front of the nib assembly into the reservoir.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, to prevent the marker 1100 from drying when not in use, the nib 1110 and nib assembly 1170 can reciprocally extend and retract along the axis 1106 such that the nib traverses an aperture 1112 in the front end 1102 of the marker. As described above, the sliding door 1120 facilitates sealing the retracted nib 1110 from the environment. The sliding door 1120 is formed of a thin, flexible material and includes a top end 1122 and a bottom end 1124. The sliding door 1120 curves around the interior of the front end 1102 such that the bottom end 1124 is generally perpendicular to the axis 1106 and covers the aperture 1112. Thus, with this configuration, the top end 1122 is parallel to the axis 1106.

To provide access so that the extended nib 1110 can traverse the aperture 1112, the sliding door 1120 includes a slot 1126 formed between the top and bottom ends 1122, 1124. In addition, the top end 1122 engages a protrusion 1166 extending from the coupling element 1160 included as part of the nib assembly 1170. As will be appreciated, when the nib assembly 1170 is extended forward, the slot moves perpendicular to the axis and aligns with the aperture 1112. Thus, the tip passes through the slit and the hole. To facilitate movement of the sliding door 1120, a sliding guide 1180 may be included on the interior of the front end 1102. In the illustrated embodiment, linear motion of the nib 1110 and nib assembly 1170 along the axis 1106 and motion of the sliding door 1120 is achieved by rotating the rear barrel 1132 with respect to the front barrel 1130. Those skilled in the art will understand that: linear motion may also be achieved by pressing a button as described with respect to fig. 28.

Fig. 36 shows another embodiment of a retractable marker 1200 incorporating a free ink system and designed to enclose an aperture 1212 with a sliding door 1220. For orientation purposes, the marker 1200 includes a front end 1202 and a rear end 1204 through which the aperture 1212 is disposed. The marker 1200 further includes: a nib 1210 coupled to a nib assembly 1270, the nib assembly 1270 being reciprocable along the axis 1206 within the interior volume defined by the front barrel 1230 and the adjacent rear barrel 1232. To store the fluid ink, a reservoir volume 1250 is provided by enclosing an inner barrel 1240 with a divider disk 1252. To enable communication between the nib 1210 and the reservoir volume 1250, a transfer rod 1254 made of a material capable of transferring fluid ink passes through the divider disk 1252 between the reservoir and nib.

To enable ink to be transferred from the reservoir volume 1250 to the nib 1210 via the transfer rod 1254, as one skilled in the art will recognize, air or other gas must migrate back into the reservoir volume 1250 to prevent a vacuum from forming therein. Typically, air is provided near the front of the divider disk 1252. Preferably, to facilitate this, there is a small space or gap between the transfer rod 1254 and the divider disk 1252. The gap is preferably sized to prevent ink from leaking from the reservoir 1250 by the fluid ink's own inherent surface tension that forms a fluid film between the divider disk 1252 and the transfer rod 1254. However, the gap is preferably large enough to allow air molecules to move through the fluid film into the reservoir 1250.

To prevent ink from leaking from the marker 1200 when the temperature and/or pressure in the volume reservoir 1250 changes, the marker includes a chamber 1256. The chamber 1256 is formed between the divider disk 1252 and a coupling element 1260 that retains the nib 1210. Thus, portions of the transfer rod 1254 pass through the chamber 1256 between the divider disk 1252 and the nib 1210. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, if an increase in pressure and/or temperature in the reservoir volume 1250 causes ink to break the fluid membrane or be forced through the transfer rod 1254, excess ink may flow into the chamber 1256. To store this excess ink, the marker may include a capillary reservoir 1258 in the chamber 1256, preferably made of a porous material such as sponge. The capillary storage is located near transfer rod 1254, preferably around transfer rod 1254, and more preferably in contact with transfer rod 1254. In operation, excess ink from the transfer rod 1254 and the gap between the transfer rod and divider disk will be stored in the capillary storage 1258 and, in one embodiment, can later be returned to the transfer rod when the pressure and/or temperature in the reservoir dissipates.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, to prevent the marker 1200 from drying when not in use, the nib 1210 and nib assembly 1270 can reciprocally extend and retract along the axis 1206 such that the nib traverses an aperture 1212 in the front end 1202 of the marker 1200. As described above, the sliding door 1220 facilitates sealing the retracted nib 1210 from the environment. The sliding door 1220 is formed of a thin, flexible material and includes a top end 1222 and a bottom end 1224. The sliding door 1220 is curved around the inside of the front end 1202 such that the bottom end 1224 is perpendicular to the axis 1206 and covers the aperture 1212. Thus, in this configuration, the top end 1222 is parallel to the axis 1206.

To provide access so that the extended nib 1210 can traverse the aperture 1212, the sliding door 1220 includes a slot 1226 formed between the top and bottom ends 1222, 1224. In addition, the top end 1222 engages a protrusion 1266 extending from the coupling element 1260 included as part of the nib assembly 1270. As will be appreciated, when the nib assembly 1270 is extended forward, the slot 1226 moves perpendicular to the axis 1206 and aligns with the aperture 1212. Thus, the tip passes through the slit and the hole. To facilitate movement of the sliding door 1220, a slide guide 1280 can be included on the interior of the front end 1202. In the illustrated embodiment, linear movement of the nib 1210 and nib assembly 1270 along the axis 1206 and movement of the sliding door 1220 is achieved by rotating the rear barrel 1232 with respect to the front barrel 1230. Those skilled in the art will understand that: linear motion may also be achieved by pressing a button as described with respect to fig. 28.

Fig. 37 shows an embodiment of a retractable marker 1300 incorporating a variation of the free ink system and designed to close the hole 1312 with a sliding door 1320. The marker 1300 includes a front end 1302 through which the hole 1312 is disposed and an opposite rear end 1304 for orientation purposes. The marker 1300 further includes: a nib 1310 coupled to a nib assembly 1370, the nib assembly 1370 being reciprocable along the axis 1306 through the interior volume defined by the front barrel 1330 and the adjacent rear barrel 1332. To store the fluid ink, the reservoir volume 1350 may be provided as part of the nib assembly 1370 by press-fitting the coupling element 1360 into the inner barrel 1340. To provide communication between the nib 1310 and the reservoir volume 1350, a transfer rod 1354 made of a material capable of transferring fluid ink passes through the reservoir volume.

To stabilize the transfer of ink from the reservoir volume 1350 to the nib 1310, the reservoir volume is separated by a plurality of axially spaced divider disks 1352 through which the transfer rod passes. To allow the desired air to be delivered into the reservoir while preventing the formation of a vacuum, a small space or gap is preferably present between the transfer rod 1354 and the divider disks 1352. As previously described, the gap is preferably sized so that the ink forms a fluid film and does not leak from the reservoir 1350, while air molecules are still able to migrate into the reservoir volume.

As described above, the use of axially spaced divider disks 1352 to divide the reservoir 1350 into multiple chambers 1356 reduces the likelihood that ink will leak from the marker. As the pressure and/or temperature in any one chamber 1356 increases, ink will transfer to an adjacent chamber. However, since only the forwardmost chamber is in contact with the coupling element 1360 and the nib 1310, the amount of fluid ink present within that chamber is minimal and therefore leakage is minimal.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, to prevent the marker 1300 from drying when not in use, the nib 1310 and nib assembly 1370 can reciprocally extend and retract along the axis 1306 so that the nib traverses the aperture 1312. As described above, the sliding door 1320 facilitates sealing the retracted nib 1310 from the environment. The sliding door 1320 is formed of a thin, flexible material and includes a top end 1322 and a bottom end 1324. The sliding door 1320 curves around the interior of the front end 1302 so that the bottom end 1324 is perpendicular to the axis 1306 and covers the hole 1312. Thus, in this configuration, top end 1322 is parallel to axis 1306.

To provide access so that the extended nib 1310 can traverse the aperture 1312, the sliding door 1320 includes a slot 1226 formed between the top and bottom ends 1222, 1224. In addition, the top end 1222 engages a protrusion 1366 extending from the coupling element 1360 included as part of the nib assembly 1370. As will be appreciated, when the nib assembly 1370 is extended forward, the slot 1326 moves perpendicular to the axis 1306 and aligns with the aperture 1312. Thus, the tip passes through the slit and the hole. To facilitate movement of the sliding door 1320, a slide guide 1380 can be included on the interior of the front end 1302. In the illustrated embodiment, linear movement of the nib 1310 and nib assembly 1370 along the axis 1306 and movement of the sliding door 1320 is achieved by rotating the rear barrel 1332 with respect to the front barrel 1330. Those skilled in the art will understand that: linear motion may also be achieved by pressing a button as described with reference to fig. 28.

Fig. 38 shows another embodiment of a retractable marker 1400 incorporating a variation of the free ink system and designed to enclose an aperture 1420 with a sliding door 1420. The marker 1400 includes a front end 1402 and an opposite rear end 1404 for orientation purposes. Marker 1400 further comprises: the nib 1410 coupled with the nib assembly 1470, the nib assembly 1470 can reciprocate along the axis 1406 via the internal volume defined by the front barrel 1430 and the adjacent rear barrel 1432. To store the fluid ink, the reservoir volume 1450 can be provided as part of the nib assembly 1470 by press-fitting the coupling element 1460 into the inner barrel 1440.

To stabilize the flow of ink from the reservoir volume 1450 to the nib 1410, a valve system is added to function with the reservoir volume. The valve system includes a valve seat 1462 formed on a rear portion of a coupling element 1460 that is press-fit into the reservoir volume 1450. A channel 1464 provided through the valve seat 1462 provides fluid communication between the reservoir volume 1450 and the nib 1410. To regulate the transfer of ink, a ball 1452, preferably made of steel, is loosely contained inside the reservoir volume 1450. As will be appreciated, when the marker 1400 is oriented vertically, the ball 1452 will engage the valve seat 1462, sealing the entrance to the channel 1464. When the vertical orientation is changed, the ball 1452 will disengage the valve seat 1462, providing fluid communication between the reservoir volume 1450 and the nib 1410 through the channel 1464. Thus, ink is only intermittently transferred to the nib 1410.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, to prevent the marker 1400 from drying when not in use, the nib 1410 and nib assembly 1470 can reciprocally extend and retract along the axis 1406 such that the nib traverses the aperture 1412. As described above, the sliding door 1420 facilitates sealing the retracted nib 1410 from the environment. The sliding door 1420 is formed of a thin, flexible material and includes a top end 1422 and a bottom end 1424. The sliding door 1420 curves around the interior of the front end 1402 so that the bottom end 1424 is perpendicular to the axis 1406 and covers the aperture 1412. Thus, in this configuration, the tip 1422 is parallel to the axis 1406.

To provide access so that the extended nib 1410 can traverse the aperture 1412, the sliding door 1420 includes a slot 1426 formed between the top and bottom ends 1422, 1424. In addition, the tip 1422 engages a protrusion 1466 extending from a coupling element 1460 included as part of the nib assembly 1470. As will be appreciated, when the nib assembly 1470 is extended forward, the slot 1426 moves perpendicular to the axis 1406 and aligns with the aperture 1412. Thus, the tip passes through the slit and the hole. To facilitate movement of the sliding door 1420, a sliding guide 1480 may be included inside the front end 1402. In the illustrated embodiment, linear movement of the nib 1410 and nib assembly 1470 along the axis 1406 and movement of the sliding door 1420 is achieved by rotating the rear barrel 1432 relative to the front barrel 1430. Those skilled in the art will understand that: linear motion may also be achieved by pressing a button as described with reference to fig. 28.

Fig. 39 shows another embodiment of a retractable marker 1500 that incorporates a variation of the free ink system and is designed to achieve linear motion between extended and retracted configurations by depressing a button 1590. For orientation purposes, the marker 1500 includes: a rear end 1504 from which the button 1590 extends; and a front end 1502 through which the hole 1512 is disposed. The marker 1500 further comprises: a nib 1510 coupled to a nib assembly 1570, the nib assembly 1570 being reciprocally movable along an axis 1506 within an interior volume defined by a front barrel 1530 and an adjacent rear barrel 1532. To store fluid ink, a reservoir volume 1550 is provided by press fitting the stopper element 1552 into the inner barrel 1540. To provide communication between the nib 1510 and the reservoir volume 1550, a transfer rod 1554 made of a material capable of transferring fluid ink passes through the stopper element 1552 between the reservoir volume and the nib.

As will be understood by those skilled in the art, to enable ink to be transferred from the reservoir volume 1550 to the nib 1510, air must be able to flow back into the reservoir volume, thereby preventing a vacuum from forming. Furthermore, the marker 1500 must be designed to prevent: as the pressure and temperature inside the reservoir volume 1550 changes, ink leaks through the stopper element 1552. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, stopper element 1552 includes a plurality of outwardly extending tabs 1558. The tabs 1558 form slots therebetween that can absorb excess ink and facilitate the movement of air from the front of the nib assembly into the reservoir volume 1550.

In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the push button 1590 is alternatively depressed to extend and retract the nib 1510 through the aperture 1512. As described above, the button 1590 engages the closed end 1542 of the rear barrel 1540. The open end 1544 of the inner barrel includes a protrusion that is coextensive with a plurality of slots and ridges formed on the inner surface of the outer cylinder 1532 parallel to the axis 1506. Also included is a spring 1592 that biases the nib assembly 1570 rearwardly. As will be appreciated, depressing the button 1590 changes the alignment of the protrusion with the slot or ridge, causing the nib assembly 1570 to extend and retract along the axis 1506. To facilitate changing alignment, the button includes a toothed crown 1594, and the crown 1594 meshes with a similar toothed crown 1548 included on the closed end 1542 of the inner barrel 1540.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, to seal the retracted nib 1510 from the environment while preventing the marker 1500 from drying, a valve element 1520 encloses the aperture 1512. To open the valve element 1520 so that the nib 1510 can traverse the aperture 1512, the sleeve 1580 engages the coupling element 1570 and protectively surrounds the nib. The sleeve 1580 can function in any of the above-described ways.

FIG. 40 shows another embodiment of a retractable marker 1600 incorporating a variation of the free ink system and designed to achieve linear motion between extended and retracted configurations by depressing button 1690. For orientation purposes, the marker 1600 includes: a rear end 1604 from which button 1690 extends; and a front end 1602 through which an aperture 1612 is disposed. Marker 1600 also includes: a tip 1610 coupled to the tip assembly 1670, the tip assembly 1670 being reciprocable along the shaft 1606 within the interior volume defined by the front barrel 1630 and the adjacent rear barrel 1632. To store the fluid ink, a reservoir volume 1650 is provided by enclosing the inner barrel 1640 with a divider disc 1652. To enable communication between the nib 1610 and the reservoir volume 1650, a transfer rod 1654 made of a material capable of transferring fluid ink passes through the divider disk 1652 between the reservoir and nib.

To enable ink to be transferred from the reservoir volume 1650 through the transfer rod 1654 to the nib 1610, as one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize, air or other gas must migrate back into the reservoir volume 1650 to prevent a vacuum from forming therein. Typically, air is provided near the front end of the divider disk 1652. Preferably, to facilitate this, there is a small space or gap between the transfer rod 1654 and the divider disk 1652. The gap is preferably sized to prevent leakage of ink from the reservoir 1650 by virtue of the inherent surface tension of the fluid ink that forms a fluid film between the divider disc 1652 and the transfer rod 1654. However, the gap is preferably large enough to allow air molecules to move through the fluid film into the reservoir 1650.

To prevent ink from leaking from the marker 1600 when the temperature and/or pressure changes in the volume reservoir 1650, the marker includes a chamber 1656. The chamber 1656 is formed between the divider disk 1652 and the coupling element 1660 that retains the nib 1610. Thus, a portion of the transfer rod 1654 passes through the chamber 1656 between the divider disk 1652 and the nib 1610. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, if an increase in pressure and/or temperature in the reservoir volume 1650 causes ink to break the fluid membrane or be forced through the transfer rod 1654, excess ink may flow into the chamber 1656. To store excess ink, the marker may include a capillary reservoir 1658, preferably made of a porous material, in the chamber 1658. Capillary reservoir 1658 is located near transfer rod 1654, preferably surrounds transfer rod 1654, and more preferably contacts transfer rod 1654. In operation, excess ink seeping from the transfer rod 1654 will be stored in the capillary storage 1658, and in one embodiment can later return to the transfer rod when the pressure and/or temperature in the reservoir volume dissipates.

In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, depressing the button 1690 alternatively extends and retracts the nib 1610 through the aperture 1612. As described above, the button 1690 engages the closed end 1642 of the rear barrel 1640. The open end 1644 of the inner barrel comprises: protrusions that are coextensive with a plurality of slots and ridges formed on the inner surface of the outer barrel 1632 parallel to the axis 1606. Also included is a spring 1692 that biases the nib assembly 1670 rearward. As will be appreciated, pressing the button 1690 changes the alignment of the protrusions with the slots or ridges, causing the nib assembly 1670 to extend and retract along the axis 1606. To facilitate changing the alignment, the button includes a toothed crown 1694, and the crown 1694 meshes with a similar toothed crown 1648 included on the closed end 1642 of the inner barrel 1640.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, to seal the retracted nib 1600 from the environment by preventing the marker 1610 from drying, a valve element 1620 encloses the aperture 1612. To open the valve element 1620 so that the nib 1610 can traverse the aperture 1612, the sleeve 1680 engages the coupling element 1670 and protectively surrounds the nib. The sleeve 1680 can function in any of the above-described manners.

Fig. 41 shows another embodiment of a retractable marker 1700 incorporating a variation of the free ink system and designed to achieve linear motion between extended and retracted configurations by depressing a button 1790. For orientation purposes, the marker 1700 includes: a rear end 1704 from which button 1790 extends; and a front end 1702 through which the bore 1712 is disposed. The marker 1700 further includes: a nib 1710 coupled to the nib assembly 1770, the nib assembly 1770 being reciprocally movable along an axis 1706 within an interior volume defined by a front barrel 1730 and an adjacent rear barrel 1732. To store the fluid ink, the reservoir volume 1750 may be provided as part of the nib assembly 1770 by press-fitting the coupling element 1760 into the inner barrel 1740. To provide communication between the nib 1710 and the reservoir volume 1750, a transfer rod 1754 made of a material capable of transferring fluid ink passes through the reservoir volume.

To stabilize the transfer of ink from the reservoir volume 1750 to the nib 1710, the reservoir is divided by a plurality of axially spaced divider disks 1752 through which the transfer rod passes. To allow the desired air to be transferred into the reservoir volume and prevent the formation of a vacuum, a small space or gap is preferably present between the transfer rod 1754 and the divider disk 1752. As previously described, the gap is preferably sized so that ink forms a fluid film and does not leak from the reservoir 1750, while air molecules are still able to migrate into the reservoir volume.

As described above, the use of axially spaced divider disks 1752 to divide the reservoir 1750 into multiple chambers 1756 reduces the likelihood of ink leaking from the marker. As the pressure and/or temperature in any one chamber 1756 increases, ink will transfer into the adjacent chamber. However, because only the forwardmost chamber is in contact with the coupling 1760 and the nib 1710, the amount of fluid ink present in that chamber is minimized and, accordingly, leakage is minimized.

In accordance with an aspect of the invention, depressing the button 1790 alternatively extends and retracts the nib 1710 through the aperture 1712. As described above, the button 1790 engages the closed end 1742 of the rear barrel 1740. The open end 1744 of the inner barrel includes: protrusions that are coextensive with a plurality of slots and ridges formed on the inner surface of outer cylinder 1732 parallel to axis 1706. A spring 1792 is also included that biases the nib assembly 1770 rearward. As will be appreciated, depressing the button 1790 changes the alignment of the protrusion with the slot or ridge, causing the nib assembly 1770 to extend and retract along the axis 1706. To facilitate changing the alignment, the button includes a crown 1794 with teeth, the crown 1794 engaging a similar crown 1748 with teeth included on the closed end 1742 of the inner barrel 1740.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, to seal the retracted nib 1710 from the environment while preventing the marker 1700 from drying out, a valve element 1720 closes the aperture 1712. To open the valve element 1720 so that the nib 1710 can traverse the aperture 1712, the sleeve 1780 engages the coupling element 1760 and protectively surrounds the nib. The sleeve 1780 can function in any of the ways described above.

Fig. 42 shows another embodiment of a retractable marker 1800 incorporating a variation of the free ink system and designed to achieve linear motion between extended and retracted configurations by pressing a button 1890. For orientation purposes, the marker 1800 includes: a rear end 1804 from which button 1800 extends; and a front end 1802 through which an aperture 1812 is disposed. Marker 1800 further includes: a tip 1810 coupled to the tip assembly 1870, the tip assembly 1870 being reciprocally movable along an axis 1806 within an interior volume defined by the front barrel 1830 and the adjacent rear barrel 1832. To store the fluid ink, the reservoir volume 1850 can be provided as part of the nib assembly 1870 by press-fitting the coupling element 1860 into the inner barrel 1840.

To stabilize the flow of ink from the reservoir volume 1850 to the nib 1810, a valve system is added to work with the reservoir volume. The valve system includes a valve seat 1862 formed on the rear portion of the coupling element 1860 that is press-fit into the reservoir volume 1850. A passageway 1864 provided through the valve seat 1862 provides fluid communication between the reservoir volume 1850 and the nib 1810. To regulate the delivery of ink, a ball 1852, preferably made of steel, is loosely contained inside the reservoir volume 1850. As will be appreciated, when the marker 1800 is vertically oriented, the ball 1852 will engage the valve seat 1862, sealing the entrance to the passageway 1864. When the vertical orientation is changed, the ball 1852 will disengage the valve seat 1862, providing fluid communication between the reservoir volume 1850 and the nib 1810 through the passage 1864. Thus, ink is only intermittently delivered to the nib 1810.

In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, depressing the button 1890 alternatively extends and retracts the nib 1810 through the aperture 1812. The button 1890 engages the closed end 1842 of the rear barrel 1840 as described above. The open end 1744 of the inner barrel includes: a protrusion that is coextensive with a plurality of slots and ridges formed on the inner surface of the outer barrel 1832 parallel to the axis 1806. Also included is a spring 1892 that biases the nib assembly 1870 rearward. As will be appreciated, depressing button 1890 changes the alignment of the protrusion with the slot or ridge, causing tip assembly 1870 to extend and retract along axis 1806. To facilitate changing alignment, the button includes a toothed crown 1894, and the crown 189 engages a similar toothed crown 1848 included on the closed end 1842 of the inner barrel 1840.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, to seal the retracted nib 1810 from the environment by preventing the marker 1800 from drying out, a valve element 1820 closes the aperture 1812. To open the valve element 1820 so that the nib 1810 can traverse the aperture 1812, the sleeve 1880 engages the coupling element 1860 and protectively surrounds the nib. The sleeve 1880 can function in any of the ways described above.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a retractable writing instrument configured to deliver fluid ink to a writing surface. The writing instrument includes: an elongated body; and a tip for transferring ink to a writing surface. The nib is movable relative to the body through the aperture between an extended configuration for writing and a retracted configuration when not in use. To prevent the writing instrument from drying out when not in use, a seal is located adjacent the aperture, closing the retracted nib. To prevent transfer of ink from the nib to the seal, the seal is configured to open and close without directly contacting the nib.

The embodiment of adding a valve element to close the aperture may be used with the following mechanisms: any ink delivery system such as the delivery systems described above; and any linear motion mechanism such as the screw mechanism or the button mechanism described above. Similarly, embodiments incorporating a sliding door to close the aperture may be used with: any ink delivery system such as the delivery systems described above; and any linear motion mechanism such as the screw mechanism or the button mechanism described above.

All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.

The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) is to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. Of course, variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

Claims (53)

1. A writing instrument configurable between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration, the writing instrument comprising:

a body defining an interior volume accessible through the aperture and an axis passing through the aperture,

a tip assembly, comprising: a tip; a reservoir for holding ink; and a coupling member for coupling the nib to the reservoir, the nib assembly being located within the body and reciprocable along the axis;

a sliding door, comprising: an upper end; a lower end; and a slit provided between the upper end and the lower end through the sliding door; the upper end is connected to the connecting piece,

whereby the lower end of the sliding door covers the aperture when the nib assembly is moved to the retracted configuration; and

whereby when the nib assembly is moved to the extended configuration, the slot of the sliding door covers the aperture, and the nib traverses the slot and aperture,

wherein: the main body includes a front end through which the bore is disposed;

the writing instrument further includes: and a sliding guide inside the main body and offset from the front end to form a gap through which the sliding door passes.

2. The writing instrument of claim 1, wherein: when in the retracted configuration, the slit is parallel to the axis.

3. The writing instrument of claim 2, wherein: when in the extended configuration, the slit is perpendicular to the axis.

4. The writing instrument of claim 1, wherein a muzzle is attached to the front end of the body.

5. The writing instrument of claim 1, wherein the sliding door has a lower end and an upper end, the lower end having a first thickness and the upper end having a second thickness, the first thickness being greater than the second thickness.

6. The writing instrument of claim 5, wherein the lower end is wedged into the gap when the lower end is positioned in the gap.

7. The writing instrument of claim 1, further comprising a second sliding guide.

8. The writing instrument of claim 1, wherein: the body includes a front barrel and a rear barrel aligned about the axis, the front and rear barrels being rotatable relative to each other.

9. The writing instrument of claim 8, further comprising an intermediate collet coupled to the rear barrel.

10. The writing instrument of claim 8, wherein the rear barrel includes a helical thread and the nib assembly includes a protrusion that engages the helical thread.

11. The writing instrument of claim 8, wherein the rear barrel includes a front open end and a rear closed end, and a helical thread formed near the open end and extending toward the closed end, the helical thread having a locking notch near the open end.

12. The writing instrument of claim 11, wherein: the nib assembly includes a protrusion that engages a helical thread formed in the rear barrel.

13. The writing instrument of claim 12, wherein: when in the extended configuration, the protrusion engages the locking notch.

14. The writing instrument of claim 1, wherein: the reservoir is a reservoir material.

15. The writing instrument of claim 14, wherein: the reservoir material comprises a porous material.

16. The writing instrument of claim 14, wherein: the reservoir material comprises a fibrous material.

17. The writing instrument of claim 1, further comprising a transfer rod.

18. The writing instrument of claim 17, wherein a transfer rod is in fluid communication with the tip.

19. The writing instrument of claim 17, further comprising a plug member.

20. The writing instrument of claim 19, wherein the transfer rod passes through the corking member.

21. The writing instrument of claim 19, wherein the corking member comprises a plurality of sheets.

22. The writing instrument of claim 21, wherein the sheet forms a trough.

23. The writing instrument of claim 22, wherein the channel is capable of absorbing excess ink.

24. The writing instrument of claim 17, further comprising a divider disk.

25. The writing instrument of claim 24, further comprising a second divider disk.

26. The writing instrument of claim 24, wherein the transfer rod passes through the divider disk.

27. The writing instrument of claim 26, wherein a gap is located between the transfer rod and the divider disk.

28. The writing instrument of claim 17, further comprising a capillary reservoir.

29. The writing instrument of claim 28, wherein the capillary reservoir is located between the divider disc and the tip.

30. The writing instrument of claim 28, wherein the capillary reservoir comprises a porous material.

31. The writing instrument of claim 24, wherein the reservoir volume is located on one side of the divider disk and the chamber is located on the other side of the divider disk.

32. The writing instrument of claim 1, further comprising a valve ball.

33. The writing instrument of claim 32, wherein the valve ball is located in the reservoir.

34. The writing instrument of claim 32, further comprising a valve seat, the valve ball engaging the valve seat.

35. The writing instrument of claim 32, further comprising a channel in fluid communication with the reservoir and the nib.

36. The writing instrument of claim 32, further comprising a valve seat in fluid communication with the channel.

37. The writing instrument of claim 36, wherein the valve ball engages the valve seat and reduces the entrance to the channel.

38. The writing instrument of claim 1, wherein the body has a front end and a rear end, the button extending from the rear end and engaging the tip assembly.

39. The writing instrument of claim 38, wherein the reciprocating movement of the nib assembly between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration is accomplished by pressing a button.

40. The writing instrument of claim 38, wherein the body has a plurality of alternating elongated slots and ridges formed on an inner surface thereof, the elongated slots and ridges being arranged in a circle around the axis.

41. The writing instrument of claim 40, wherein the nib assembly includes a protrusion that extends perpendicular to the axis and is coextensive with the slot and ridge.

42. The writing instrument of claim 41, further comprising a spring positioned between the front end and the nib assembly and urging the nib assembly rearward.

43. The writing instrument of claim 41, wherein the protrusion is urged toward a rear of the slot when in the retracted configuration, and the protrusion is urged against a cup-shaped portion formed on a front of the ridge when in the extended configuration.

44. The writing instrument of claim 38, wherein the nib assembly includes an inner barrel, one end of which includes a first crown.

45. The writing instrument of claim 44, wherein the first crown has teeth.

46. The writing instrument of claim 44, wherein the button comprises a second crown wheel.

47. The writing instrument of claim 46, wherein the second crown has teeth.

48. The writing instrument of claim 46, wherein the first crown wheel is engaged with the second crown wheel.

49. The writing instrument of claim 38, wherein the button includes a groove and the body includes a rib that engages the groove.

50. The writing instrument of claim 1, wherein the body includes a front barrel and a rear barrel, rotation of the front barrel relative to the rear barrel moving the nib assembly between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration.

51. The writing instrument of claim 1, further comprising an inner barrel disposed within the body.

52. The writing instrument of claim 1, wherein the sliding door includes a perforation and the linkage includes a fork that engages the perforation.

53. The writing instrument of claim 1, wherein the sliding door has a C-shape.