Pen tip support structure for multi-core writing instrument, ballpoint pen, stylus, and grip angle positioning method

Abstract

To provide a pen structure that allows for easy switching of colors and functions, and that is easy to write with without interference during writing. [Solution] The pen tip support structure for a multi-core writing instrument comprises a pen shaft held by hand, three core holes 21a to 21c extending inside the pen shaft along the axis of the pen shaft, the three core holes 21a to 21c being oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis as they move from the base end to the tip end of the pen shaft, and three core-shaped pen tip members 11a to 11c inserted into the three core holes 21a to 21c respectively, and a wedge-shaped residual region is defined between the three core holes 21a to 21c inside the tip of the pen shaft 10.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the structure of a pen, a ballpoint pen, and a touch pen having a plurality of pen tips.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, multi-color ballpoint pens have been known. These multi-color ballpoint pens use a knock mechanism or a rotary feeding mechanism to select and project each color one by one. In addition, a form has been proposed in which a plurality of pens are combined and the pen tips are always exposed so that knocking or rotary feeding is not required, but most of them have linear pen shafts arranged parallel to each other (for those with a rotary feeding mechanism, see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Most of these conventional multi-color ballpoint pens use a method of pushing out the required color from a multi-color ballpoint pen refill by a knock mechanism or a method of feeding by rotation. Among these, many of the knock mechanism types tend to make the pen shaft body thick. Furthermore, since it is necessary to carry and knock or rotate each time the color is changed, the operation is complicated in cases where colors are frequently used separately, such as in schedule management and learning applications. Furthermore, in the knock type, a switching sound frequently occurs when changing the color, which may cause frustration among surrounding people, especially in places such as workplaces, customers, and meetings.

[0005] Furthermore, there were also pens that did not use a knock mechanism and instead exposed multiple pen tips, but these only had two tips, and the two pen shafts were parallel, which resulted in problems such as the small gap between the pen tips, causing interference with other colored pen tips during writing, and making the pen body thicker.

[0006] Other designs have been proposed that simultaneously push out multiple pen barrels and fix them together at a single point. However, this design makes the pen tips difficult to see when writing, as they are hidden behind the body, and the small gap between the tips of each color causes interference when writing. Some knock-type mechanisms also incorporate rubber or other materials to reduce the noise of switching, but the effort required for knocking and changing grips when switching pens remains unchanged.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a pen structure that allows for easy switching of colors and functions, and that is easy to write with without interference during writing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above objective, the pen structure of the present invention comprises a pen shaft held by hand, and a plurality of pen tips disposed at one end of the pen shaft, each pen tip being oriented to open outward from a direction along the axis of the pen shaft.

[0009] Furthermore, the ballpoint pen of the present invention has the pen structure described above, and comprises a plurality of core holes formed at one end of the pen shaft, which are oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft, and a plurality of colored cores as pen tips, which are inserted into each of the plurality of core holes.

[0010] Furthermore, the stylus of the present invention has the pen structure described above and comprises a plurality of stylus tips arranged at one end of the pen shaft, each of which is oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] Thus, the pen structure of the present invention comprises a pen shaft held by the hand, and a plurality of pen tips positioned at one end of the pen shaft, each tip oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft. With such a configuration, switching between colors and functions is easy, and the pen structure is easy to write with without interference during writing.

[0012] Furthermore, the ballpoint pen of the present invention has the pen structure described above, and comprises a plurality of core holes formed at one end of the pen barrel, which are oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen barrel, and a plurality of colored cores that serve as pen tips and are inserted into each of the plurality of core holes. With such a configuration, it is possible to easily switch between colors and functions, and the ballpoint pen is easy to write with without interference during writing.

[0013] Furthermore, the stylus of the present invention has the pen structure described above, and includes a plurality of stylus tips arranged at one end of the pen shaft, each tip oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft. With such a configuration, switching between colors and functions is easy, and the stylus is easy to write with without interference during writing. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This is a plan view illustrating the overall configuration of the ballpoint pen of Example 1. [Figure 2] This is a side view of the ballpoint pen of Example 1. [Figure 3] This is a front view of the ballpoint pen of Example 1. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view of the ballpoint pen of Example 1. (a) is a cross-sectional view of AA in Figure 1, (b) is a cross-sectional view of BB in Figure 1, and (c) is a cross-sectional view of CC in Figure 1. [Figure 5] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration near the tip of the ballpoint pen in Example 1. [Figure 6] It is a side view for explaining the overall configuration of the touch pen of Example 2. [Figure 7] It is a perspective view for explaining the structure of the pen of Example 3. (a) is a perspective view and (b) is a front view. [Figure 8] It is an operation diagram for explaining the operation of the structure of the pen of Example 3. [Figure 9] It is an explanatory diagram for explaining the structure of the pen of Example 4. (a) is a front view and (b) is a conceptual diagram for explaining the position of the pen tip. [Figure 10] It is an operation diagram for explaining the operation of the structure of the pen of Example 4. [Figure 11] It is an explanatory diagram for explaining the shape of the structure of the pen of Example 5. [Figure 12] It is a front view for explaining the structure of the pen of Example 5.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the constituent elements described in the following embodiments and examples are merely illustrative, and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention thereto.

Examples

[0016] (Configuration) First, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 2, the configuration of the multi-color ballpoint pen 2 having the pen structure S of the present invention will be described. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 2, the pen structure S included in the ballpoint pen 2 of this embodiment includes a pen shaft 10 held by hand, and a plurality of pen tips 11a to 11c arranged at one end of the pen shaft 10. The plurality of pen tips 11a to 11c are colored cores 22a to 22c that are directed outward in a direction opening from the direction along the axial center line of the pen shaft 10. As will be described later, these pen tips 11a to 11c are each directed so as to be spaced apart from each other toward the tip. These plurality of colored cores 22a to 22c are of different colors, and can be, for example, light blue, blue, red, black, or the like.

[0017] For example, the first pen tip 11a at the tip is curved outward from the direction parallel to the axis of the pen shaft 10 (the straight line connecting the centers of the circular cross-sections) from the base end towards the tip (from right to left in Figure 2). The second pen tip 11b and the third pen tip 11c have substantially the same configuration. As a result, the first to third pen tips 11a to 11c are oriented so as to be spaced apart from each other.

[0018] Furthermore, the pen structure S of this embodiment further comprises one (or more) colored lead 24 as a pen tip 12 located at the other end of the pen shaft 10. This fourth pen tip 12 is also oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft 10, substantially the same as the first to third pen tips.

[0019] In other words, the fourth pen tip 12 at the base end is curved outwards from the tip end towards the base end (from left to right in Figure 2), in a direction parallel to the axis of the pen shaft 10 (a straight line connecting the centers of the circular cross-sections).

[0020] Furthermore, the pen structure S of this embodiment further includes an eraser 13 positioned at the other end of the pen shaft 10. Here, the eraser 13 can be a regular so-called sand eraser, or if heat-sensitive ink is used, a material that generates frictional heat can be used.

[0021] Specifically, the multi-color (4-color) ballpoint pen 2 having the pen structure S of this embodiment comprises, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, three core holes 21a to 21c formed at one end of the pen shaft 10, which are oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft 10, and three colored cores 22a to 22c as three pen tips (11a to 11c) that are inserted into the three core holes 21a to 21c, respectively. The three colored cores 22a to 22c are formed to be about half the length of the pen shaft 10.

[0022] In addition, the ballpoint pen 2 further includes a colored lead 24 as a pen tip 12 located at the other end of the pen barrel 10. This colored lead 24 is formed to be approximately half the length of the pen barrel 10. The outer diameter of each colored lead 22a (22b, 22c, 24) is determined to be approximately the same as (actually slightly smaller in diameter than) the inner diameter of the corresponding lead hole 21a. Furthermore, since the colored leads 22a to 22c of the ballpoint pen 2 are compactly housed near the center of the pen barrel 10, the pen barrel 10 can be made into a slim and easy-to-hold shape.

[0023] More specifically, as shown in Figures 4(a) and (b), three core holes 21a to 21c are formed at the tip of the pen shaft 10, and each core hole 21a (21b, 21c) is formed to curve from a position closer to the center of the cross-section to a position further away as it moves towards the tip.

[0024] When viewed in cross-section along the axis, as shown in Figure 5, it curves outward toward the tip, from the direction along the central axis. From a different perspective, a conical (wedge-shaped; cone-shaped) region remains near the end of the pen shaft 10, and this remaining conical region causes the pen tips 11a to 11c to spread outward and be separated from each other ("wedge-shaped support mechanism").

[0025] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 4(c), a core hole 23 is formed at the base end of the pen shaft 10, and the core hole 23 is formed to curve from a position closer to the center of the cross-section to a position further away as it approaches the base end. When viewed in a cross-section cut along the axis, it curves outward toward the base end, from a direction along the central axis (not shown in the figure).

[0026] Therefore, the colored lead 22a inserted into the lead hole 21a is bent to conform to the shape of the lead hole 21a, and is pressed against the inner surface of the lead hole 21a by the elastic force of the lead 22a itself. As a result, the colored lead 22a is prevented from coming out of the lead hole 21a by the frictional force between it and the lead hole 21a, even without a special fixing device. Of course, if the colored lead 22a is pulled with strong force, it can be pulled out of the lead hole 21a.

[0027] These multiple colored leads 22a-22c, which serve as multiple pen tips, are provided with three lead holes 21a-21c and three (three) colored leads 22a-22c, as shown in the front view of Figure 3. The colored leads 22a-22c are arranged at 120-degree intervals in the circumferential direction. In other words, these three colored leads 22a-22c are positioned so that their tip positions are rotationally symmetrical (shifted by 120 degrees) relative to the axis.

[0028] Therefore, when actually using the ballpoint pen 2, the colored leads 22a to 22c can be changed to a different color with an extremely simple operation: just hold the pen barrel 10 with your fingers and rotate it 120 degrees in the forward and reverse directions. For example, the color can be changed from the light blue lead 22a to the red lead 22c by rotating it in the forward direction (clockwise when viewed from the front), and the color can be changed from the light blue lead 22a to the blue lead 22b by rotating it in the reverse direction.

[0029] Furthermore, because the colored lead 22a (22b, 22c) is pressed against the lead hole 21a (21b, 21c) over a wide area, not just near the exit, the writing point at the tip of the colored lead 22a (22b, 22c) is stable, resulting in less wobble and making it an extremely easy-to-write ballpoint pen 2. In addition, when actually writing, the colored lead 22a is held downwards, and in this state, the tips of the other two colored leads 22b and 22c do not overlap, making the writing point extremely easy to see and write with.

[0030] Furthermore, although not limited to this, it is also preferable that the core holes 21a (21b, 21c) have a curved shape that becomes more pronounced towards the tip exit (like a clothoid curve). By making the curvature gradually increase as it approaches the opening of the core hole 21a, the colored lead 22a (22b, 22c) is pressed against the core holes 21a (21b, 21c) over a wide area, but is pressed most strongly near the exit. As a result, the degree of fixation of the colored lead 22a (22b, 22c) is further increased near the exit. Therefore, the writing point of the pen tip becomes more stable (= the length of the free end is shortened), resulting in less wobble and an extremely easy-to-write ballpoint pen.

[0031] (effect) Next, the effects of the ballpoint pen 2 having the pen structure S of this embodiment will be listed and explained.

[0032] (1) As described above, the pen structure S of this embodiment comprises a pen shaft 10 held by hand, and a plurality of pen tips 11a to 11c arranged at one end of the pen shaft 10, which are oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft 10. With such a configuration, switching between colors and functions is easy, and the pen structure is easy to write with without interference during writing. In other words, with the pen structure S of this embodiment, different colors can be exposed and written on one color at a time without interference.

[0033] (2) Furthermore, by providing one or more pen tips 12 located at the other end of the pen shaft 10, a greater number of pen tips 12 can be used to provide a wider variety of colors and functions. The fact that both ends of the pen shaft 10 can be used in this way is due to the extremely simple structure S of the pen of the present invention.

[0034] (3) Furthermore, by providing an eraser 13 located at the other end of the pen shaft 10, if a mistake is made while writing, the user can quickly erase the mistake by reversing the pen shaft 10.

[0035] (4) The ballpoint pen 2 of this embodiment is a ballpoint pen 2 having any of the pen structures S described above, comprising a plurality of core holes 21a to 21c formed at one end of the pen shaft 10, which are oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft 10, and a plurality of colored cores 22a to 22c as pen tips that are inserted into each of the plurality of core holes 21a to 21c.

[0036] With this configuration, switching between the colored leads 22a to 22c is easy, and the ballpoint pen 2 is easy to write with without interference. In other words, with the ballpoint pen 2 of this embodiment, you can write with different colors exposed one by one without interference. Furthermore, by using such a simple configuration of lead hole 21a and colored lead 22a, the structure is simplified, which has the effect of making the pen barrel 10 thinner. Therefore, the multi-color ballpoint pen 2 of the present invention is extremely easy to grip and write with.

[0037] Furthermore, although this ballpoint pen 2 is intended for use on a desk or to be carried clipped to a notebook or planner, even if the pen tip is permanently exposed and fixed, the angle of each colored refill 22a to 22c of the beveled ballpoint pen 2 according to the present invention is only slightly from the center of the pen barrel, so it will not smudge the paper when carried around. Moreover, because the pen tip is slightly spread when carried clipped to a notebook or planner, it catches on things and is less likely to slip out, and it is also less likely to roll when placed on a desk, making it a multi-color ballpoint pen.

[0038] Furthermore, unlike conventional multi-color ballpoint pens that use a separate click mechanism for each color, the ballpoint pen 2 of the present invention is a multi-color ballpoint pen that does not produce any clicking sound or interference noise / vibration from parts when switching colors. Even if a mechanism is added in the future that exposes all colors with a single click and retracts them into the body, (although a clicking sound will be produced during the moving motion), no clicking sound will be produced when switching colors.

[0039] (5) Furthermore, it is equipped with three core holes 21a to 21c and three colored cores 22a to 22c, and the colored cores 22a to 22c are arranged at 120-degree intervals in the circumferential direction, so that you can easily switch to a different color by simply rotating the pen shaft 10 120 degrees in the forward or reverse direction. Moreover, with three cores, the pen tips are less likely to overlap when writing, making it easier to write. Conversely, with four or more cores, the pen tips overlap, making it difficult to write.

[0040] (6) Furthermore, it is preferable that the multiple colored leads 22a to 22c are inserted into the multiple lead holes 21a to 21c so as to be able to move forward and backward, and that the pencil is further provided with a moving mechanism that moves all of the multiple colored leads 22a to 22c forward and backward simultaneously. Specifically as such a moving mechanism, a so-called "knock cam mechanism" consisting of a "cam body (outer cam)", a "knock rod", and a "rotor" can be used. [Examples]

[0041] The following description of the stylus pen 3, which has the structure S of the present invention, will be made with reference to Figure 6. Parts that are the same as or equivalent to those described in Example 1 will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0042] (composition) First, the configuration of the stylus pen 3 equipped with the pen structure S of the present invention will be explained using Figure 6. As shown in Figure 6, the pen structure S included in the stylus pen 3 of this embodiment comprises a pen shaft 10 held by hand, and a plurality of stylus pen tips 32a to 32c arranged at one end of the pen shaft 10, which are oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft 10. As will be described later, these stylus pen tips 32a to 32c are oriented to be spaced apart from each other toward the tip.

[0043] Specifically, the stylus pen 3 having the pen structure S of this embodiment comprises, as shown in Figure 6, a plurality of core holes 31a to 31c formed at one end of the pen shaft 10, which are oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft 10, and a plurality of stylus pen tips 32a to 32c, which are inserted into the plurality of core holes 31a to 31c, respectively. The outer diameter of the shaft of the stylus pen tip 32a is determined to be approximately the same as (actually slightly smaller in diameter than) the inner diameter of the corresponding core hole 31a.

[0044] (effect)

[0045] (1) As described above, the stylus 3 of this embodiment is a stylus 3 having the pen structure S described above, and comprises a plurality of stylus tips 32a to 32c arranged at one end of the pen shaft 10, which are oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft 10. With such a configuration, switching between colors, line types and functions is easy, and the stylus 3 is easy to write with without interference during writing. In other words, with the stylus 3 of this embodiment, different colors (line types or functions) can be exposed and written on one color at a time (for each line type, for each function) without interference.

[0046] (2) The pen is equipped with three stylus tips 32a to 32c, which are spaced 120 degrees apart in the circumferential direction. Therefore, by simply rotating the pen shaft 10 120 degrees in the forward and reverse directions, it is possible to easily switch to different colors, line types, or functions.

[0047] Furthermore, the other components and effects are substantially the same as in Example 1, so their explanation will be omitted. [Examples]

[0048] The following describes a pen structure S with a different form from Examples 1 and 2, using Figures 7 and 8. Parts identical or equivalent to those described in Examples 1 and 2 will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0049] (composition) First, the configuration of the ballpoint pen (2) having the pen structure S of this embodiment will be described. The ballpoint pen (2), although not shown in the figures, is similar to Embodiments 1 and 2 in that it comprises three core holes 21a to 21c formed at one end of the pen shaft 10, which are oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft 10, and three colored cores (22a to 22c) which serve as three pen tips (11a to 11c) inserted into the three core holes 21a to 21c, respectively.

[0050] In the pen structure S of this embodiment, as shown in Figures 7(a) and (b), the cross-section of the pen shaft 10 is formed in a circular shape, and the circumferential portions adjacent to the positions of each of the multiple pen tips (colored leads; 22a to 22c) are chamfered to form multiple flat surfaces 25a to 25c. That is, in this pen structure S, the flat surfaces 25a to 25c are formed with the same inscribed angle as the center of the core holes 21a to 21c of the ballpoint pen (2) as their center. In terms of the cross-section, the radius passing through the center of the core holes 21a to 21c passes through the midpoint of the chord that constitutes the flat surfaces 25a to 25c. However, it is also acceptable to chamfer only two or one of the three flat surfaces 25a to 25c.

[0051] More specifically, as shown in Figure 7(b), the midpoint (center line) of the flat surface 25a has the same inscribed angle as the core hole 21a. Similarly, the midpoints (center lines) of the flat surfaces 25b and 25c have the same inscribed angles as the core holes 25b and 25c.

[0052] (Effects / Actions) Next, the operation of the ballpoint pen (2) having the pen structure S of this embodiment will be explained using Figures 8(a) to (c). As shown in Figure 8(a), when writing with the colored lead 22a (for example, red), if one flat surface 25a is pointed straight down (to the 6 o'clock position), the other two flat surfaces 25c and 25b are positioned at the 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock positions, respectively, and are angled upwards. Therefore, when writing with the colored lead 22a, the pen shaft 10 can be held stably by pressing flat surface 25a with the middle finger and flat surfaces 25c and 25b with the index finger and thumb, respectively.

[0053] Next, as shown in Figure 8(b), when writing with the colored lead 22b (for example, blue), rotate the pen clockwise from the state shown in Figure 8(a) while keeping your fingers in contact with the flat surfaces 25a to 25c. This will cause one flat surface 25b to face directly downwards (at the 6 o'clock position), while the other two flat surfaces 25a and 25c will be at the 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock positions, respectively, and will be angled upwards. Therefore, when writing with the colored lead 22b, you can hold the pen shaft 10 stably at three points by pressing flat surface 25b with your middle finger and flat surfaces 25a and 25c with your index finger and thumb, respectively.

[0054] Similarly, as shown in Figure 8(c), when writing with a colored lead 22c (for example, black), rotate the pen clockwise from the state shown in Figure 8(b) while keeping your fingers in contact with the flat surfaces 25a and 25c. This will cause one flat surface 25c to face directly downwards (at the 6 o'clock position), while the other two flat surfaces 25b and 25a will be positioned at the 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock positions, respectively, and will be angled upwards. Therefore, when writing with a colored lead 22c, the pen barrel 10 can be held stably at three points by pressing flat surface 25c with the middle finger and flat surfaces 25b and 25a with the index finger and thumb, respectively.

[0055] Thus, when the pen shaft 10 has three colored leads 22a to 22c, forming three flat surfaces 25a to 25c makes it easier to rotate the pen shaft 10 while holding it with your fingers, and allows for stable positioning. In particular, when the pen shaft 10 is thin, it is difficult to make delicate angle adjustments with your fingertips, but by chamfering, it becomes possible to actively guide the angle of the pen to a predetermined position (angle).

[0056] As described above, in the pen structure S of this embodiment, the cross-section of the pen shaft 10 is formed in a circular shape, and the circumferential portion adjacent to each of the multiple pen tips (11a to 11c) is chamfered with one or more chamfers to form one or more flat surfaces 25a to 25c. With such a configuration, the pen shaft 10 can be easily rotated while held in the fingers and can be stably positioned.

[0057] Furthermore, the other components and effects are substantially the same as in Example 1, so their explanation will be omitted. [Examples]

[0058] Next, using Figures 9 and 10, we will describe the structure S of a pen that is different from that described in Examples 1 to 3. Parts that are the same as or equivalent to those described in Examples 1 to 3 will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0059] (composition) First, the structure of the pen structure S of this embodiment will be explained using Figures 9(a) and 9(b). In the pen structure S of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 9(a), the cross-sectional shape of the pen shaft 10 is formed as an ellipse. In other words, unlike general pens and ballpoint pens, it is not circular (perfect circle), but an ellipse with a major axis L1 and a minor axis L2. Specifically, it is preferable that the ratio of major axis L1:minor axis L2 = (1.04~1.20):1.00. More preferably, it is preferable that the ratio of major axis L1:minor axis L2 = (1.05~1.10):1.00.

[0060] Furthermore, the multiple pen tips 11a to 11c are positioned at at least one of the following locations: the position of one vertex P1 on the long axis L1 side of the ellipse, and the positions of two intermediate points P3 and P3' between the two vertices P2 and P2' on the short axis L2 side of the ellipse and the other vertex P1' on the long axis L1 side. In this embodiment, pen tips 22a, 22b, and 22c are positioned at all three points: one vertex P1 and intermediate points P3 and P3'. In the case of Figure 9(a), these intermediate points P3 and P3' can be determined, for example, as positions at 240 degrees (P3; third quadrant; 22b) and 300 degrees (P3'; fourth quadrant; 22c) from the center of the ellipse.

[0061] (Effects / Actions) Thus, the pen structure S of this embodiment is a pen structure S with a slightly elliptical cross-section, in which the three pen tips 22a to 22c are adjusted to be in predetermined positions. This ellipse touches the gap in the triangle formed by the fingertips at three points, similar to a circle. However, as shown in Figures 10(a) to (c), by making it an ellipse, there is a state in which the degree of fixation of the inscribed ellipse is increased at the point where the angle bisectors of each angle of the triangle coincide with the major axis L1 of the ellipse. That is, the degree of fixation of the inscribed ellipse by the fingertips is increased when the major axis L1 of the ellipse is tilted 60 degrees from the vertical with the pen tip 22b pointing downwards (see Figure 10(a)), when the major axis L1 of the ellipse is standing vertically with the pen tip 22a pointing downwards (see Figure 10(b)), and when the major axis L1 of the ellipse is tilted 60 degrees from the vertical with the pen tip 22c pointing downwards (see Figure 10(c)).

[0062] In each of these highly fixed states, by positioning the pen tips 22a to 22c so that they face the paper, it is possible to instantly stop the rotation at a stable angle where the selected pen tip 22a (22b, 22c) faces the paper. This shape is particularly suitable for standard-sized or thicker pen barrels. Because of its larger outer diameter, it is easier to rotate and is suitable for long writing tasks such as desk design, and is less tiring than the pen structure S of Example 3 (shape with a flat surface; chamfered shape).

[0063] As described above, the pen structure S of this embodiment has an elliptical cross-section for the pen shaft 10, which allows for more stable holding of the pen shaft 10 compared to a circular cross-section, and also allows for holding the pen shaft 10 in a position with a higher degree of fixation.

[0064] Furthermore, since each of the multiple pen tips 22a to 22c is positioned at at least one of the following locations: the position of one vertex P1 on the long axis L1 side of the ellipse, and the positions of two midpoints P3 and P3' between the two vertices P2 and P2' on the short axis L2 side of the ellipse and the other vertex P1' on the long axis L1 side, by positioning the pen tips 22a to 22c in a highly fixed position, it becomes possible to instantly stop the rotation at a stable angle where the selected pen tip 22a to 22c faces the paper.

[0065] Furthermore, the other components and effects are substantially the same as in Example 1, so their explanation will be omitted. [Examples]

[0066] Next, Figures 11 and 12 will be used to describe the structure S of a pen that is different from that described in Examples 1 to 4. Parts that are the same as or equivalent to those described in Examples 1 to 4 will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0067] (composition) First, the structure of the pen structure S of this embodiment will be explained using Figures 11 and 12. In the pen structure S of this embodiment, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, the cross-sectional shape of the pen shaft 10 is formed to have an outer shape obtained by rotating three identical ellipses 101 to 103 by 120 degrees each and superimposing them, and the pen tips 22a, 22b, and 22c are positioned at the three positions Pa, Pb, and Pc where the ellipses intersect. Note that the center positions of these three ellipses 101 to 103 may be offset from each other so as to form the vertices of an equilateral triangle.

[0068] In other words, the cross-sectional shape of this embodiment, which is formed by superimposing three elliptical shapes, can also be called a "rice ball shape" or a "rounded equilateral triangle." Specifically, as shown in Figure 11, the outer shape of the pen shaft 10 is defined by superimposing an ellipse 102 with a vertical major axis L1, an ellipse 101 with a major axis L1 tilted at -60 degrees from the vertical, and an ellipse 103 with a major axis L1 tilted at +60 degrees from the vertical. The resulting shape is relatively flat around the 8 o'clock (-120 degrees), 12 o'clock (0 degrees), and 4 o'clock (+120 degrees) positions, and the pen tips 22b, 22a, and 22c are positioned at these three locations.

[0069] Thus, in the pen structure S of this embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the pen shaft 10 is a triangular rice ball-like shape formed by overlapping three ellipses with a slight flattening ratio, each rotated by 120 degrees. The three pen tips 22a to 22c are positioned so as to overlap the outlines of the ellipses on the major axis L1 of each ellipse 101 to 103, and the three tips are balanced accordingly.

[0070] (Effects / Actions) This makes it easier to stop the pen's rotation when the indentation on the paper side of the pen reaches the position of your middle finger. At this time, your thumb and index finger will also stop, hooking onto the indentation at the shoulders of the triangular shape. When you rotate it again, there will be bulges just on either side of where your thumb and index finger are, making it easy to start the rotation in either direction by getting your fingers to grip them.

[0071] The bulges and indentations are minimal, and the entire outer circumference of the pen shaft 10 is smoothly rounded, so rotation is not hindered. This shape is also suitable for regular-sized or thicker pen shafts, and because the outer diameter is larger, it is easier to rotate. Compared to a single oval, it is closer to a circle, so it can be handled as a pen shaft 10 without any discomfort. In particular, it is a shape that is less tiring when writing for long periods of time, such as when designing at a desk.

[0072] As described above, the structure S of the pen in this embodiment is formed such that the cross-section of the pen shaft 10 has an outer shape obtained by rotating and overlapping three identical ellipses 101 to 103 by 120 degrees each, and the pen tips 22a, 22b, and 22c are positioned at the three positions Pa, Pb, and Pc where the ellipses 101 to 103 intersect. Therefore, the pen shaft 10 can be easily rotated and held in an appropriate position.

[0073] Furthermore, the other components and effects are substantially the same as in Example 1, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0074] (summary) According to the pen structure S of Examples 3 to 5, the ease of rotation of the pen shaft 10 is not compromised, and the selected pen tip (22a, 22b, 22c) can be instantly and smoothly pointed towards the paper surface.

[0075] Furthermore, by using the three different cross-sectional shapes (grip shapes) of the pen shaft 10 in Examples 3 to 5 according to the pen model lineup, it is possible to create shapes that suit the design and function of each. For example, if a pen shaft is to be placed at the rear end of the pen shaft, the elliptical shape of Example 4 can be used to accommodate multiple pen refills without difficulty. Example 3 is suitable for pens with thinner shafts, such as those for notebooks, while Example 5 is suitable for pens with thicker shafts that are less tiring to use for longer periods of work at a desk.

[0076] By adhering to the principles of the cross-sectional shape (grip shape) of this pen shaft 10, it is possible to make pens with multiple nibs easier to handle. In particular, by creating a shape that is tapered or concave on the sides compared to the general circular shape of the pen shaft 10, it is possible to achieve an easy-to-use shape while also reducing the amount of material used.

[0077] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments, and any design modifications that do not depart from the spirit of the present invention are included in the present invention.

[0078] For example, in Example 1, we described the case of a ballpoint pen 2 in which all the pen tips are colored leads, and in Example 2, we described the case of a stylus pen 3 in which all the pen tips are stylus tips. However, we are not limited to these cases. For example, one end may be a colored lead and the other end may be a stylus tip, or two of the tips on one end may be colored leads and one may be a stylus tip.

[0079] Furthermore, while Example 1 described a case where the colored leads 21a to 21c and 24 are formed to be approximately half the length of the pen shaft 10, the invention is not limited to this, and they can also be formed to be the same length as the total length of the pen shaft 10, as long as they do not interfere with the structure of the other end.

[0080] Furthermore, by overlapping the three pen core holes 21a to 21c on the tip side (left side) with the core hole 23 on the base side (right side) within the cross-section, (for example, by forming a right-shaped core hole 23 in the center), it is possible to construct a four-color pen with a shorter overall length of the pen shaft 10.

[0081] Furthermore, while the examples have described a standard way of holding a pen, it is not limited to this. For example, one might hold the pen with their thumb extended straight. In such a case, the triangle formed by the three fingers becomes an inverted triangle relative to the paper. To address this, the position of the chamfer described above is rotated by 60 degrees, so that the chamfered area in the original model becomes convex, and the area that was not chamfered becomes concave (chamfered). [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] S Pen Structure P1 First vertex P2, second vertex P3 midpoint L1 long axis L2 short axis 10 pen holders 101-103 Ellipse 11a, 11b, 11c Pen tip (tip side) 12. Pen tip (base end) 13 Eraser 2 ballpoint pens 21a, 21b, 21c core hole 22a, 22b, 22c color core 23 Core hole (base end side) 24 colored leads (base end) 25a-25c flat surface 3. Stylus pen 31a, 31b, 31c core hole 32a, 32b, 32c Stylus pen tip 33. Core hole (base end side) 34. Stylus pen tip (base end) 35 Erasers (Different aspects of the present invention) [Item 1] The pen shaft is held in the hand, A plurality of pen tips are arranged at one end of the pen shaft, with three pen tips oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft, Equipped with, The cross-section of the pen shaft is formed in an elliptical shape. The pen structure is such that the three pen tips are positioned at the location of one vertex on the major axis side of the ellipse, and at the locations of two midpoints between the two vertices on the minor axis side of the ellipse and the other vertex on the major axis side. [Item 2] The pen shaft is held in the hand, The device comprises a plurality of pen tips positioned at one end of the pen shaft, each of which is oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft, The pen has a cross-section formed by rotating three identical ellipses by 120 degrees each and superimposing them, and the pen tip is positioned at the three positions where the ellipses intersect. [Item 3] A ballpoint pen having the pen structure described in item 1, A ballpoint pen comprising: a plurality of core holes formed at one end of the pen shaft, three of which are oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft; and three colored cores, which serve as three pen tips, to be inserted into each of the three core holes. [Item 4] A ballpoint pen having the pen structure described in item 2, A ballpoint pen comprising: a plurality of core holes formed at one end of the pen shaft, three of which are oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft; and three colored cores, which serve as three pen tips, to be inserted into each of the three core holes. [Item 5] A ballpoint pen as described in item 4, comprising the three core holes and the three colored cores, wherein the colored cores are arranged at 120-degree intervals in the circumferential direction. [Item 6] The ballpoint pen described in item 3 or 4, wherein the three colored leads are inserted into the three lead holes so as to be able to move forward and backward, and further comprises a movement mechanism for moving all three colored leads forward and backward simultaneously. [Item 7] A stylus pen having the pen structure described in item 1, A stylus pen comprising a plurality of stylus tips positioned at one end of the pen shaft, three of which are oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft. [Item 8] A stylus pen having the pen structure described in item 2, A stylus pen comprising a plurality of stylus tips positioned at one end of the pen shaft, three of which are oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis of the pen shaft. [Item 9] The three stylus tips are arranged at 120-degree intervals in the circumferential direction, as described in item 8. [Item 10] A ballpoint pen as described in item 3 or 4, further comprising one or more pen tips positioned at the other end of the pen shaft. [Item 11] A ballpoint pen as described in item 3 or 4, further comprising an eraser positioned at the other end of the pen shaft. [Item 12] It has three core holes and three stylus tips that are inserted into each of these core holes, The stylus pen described in item 7 or 8, wherein the three stylus tips are inserted into the three core holes so as to be able to move forward and backward, and the stylus pen further comprises a movement mechanism for moving all three stylus tips forward and backward simultaneously. [Item 13] A stylus as described in item 7 or 8, further comprising one or more pen tips positioned at the other end of the pen shaft. [Item 14] A stylus as described in item 7 or 8, further comprising an eraser positioned at the other end of the pen shaft.

Claims

1. The pen shaft is held in the hand, Three core holes extending through the interior of the pen shaft along the axis of the pen shaft, the three core holes being oriented to open outward from the direction along the axis as they move from the base end to the tip end of the pen shaft, It comprises three core-shaped pen tip members, each inserted into one of the three core holes, A wedge-shaped residual region is defined between the three core holes inside the tip of the pen shaft. Each core-shaped pen tip member is pressed against the inner surface of the core hole in a state where it is elastically bent along the corresponding core hole, and is positioned and fixed in the axial direction relative to the core hole by the frictional force resulting from its elastic restoring force. The tip support structure for a multi-core writing instrument is characterized in that the tips of the three core-shaped pen tip members protrude outward from the outside of the wedge-shaped remaining area, spaced apart from each other, and are oriented in different directions with respect to the axis of the pen shaft.

2. The pen tip support structure for a multi-core writing instrument according to claim 1, wherein the three core holes are formed to curve to a position further away from the axis line as the pen shaft moves from the base end to the tip end.

3. The three core holes are positioned near the three vertices of an equilateral triangle in a cross-section obtained by cutting the tip of the pen shaft with a plane perpendicular to the axis. The pen tip support structure for a multi-core writing instrument according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the centers of each core hole are separated from each other by 120 degrees in the circumferential direction.

4. The three core holes are curved core holes that continuously bend so that the distance from the axis increases as they move toward the tip of the pen shaft. Furthermore, the pen tip support structure for a multi-core writing instrument according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the curvature of each core hole increases monotonically toward the tip side of the pen shaft.

5. The tips of the three core-shaped pen tip members are always exposed to the outside of the pen shaft when writing. The pen tip support structure for a multi-core writing instrument according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the core-shaped pen tip member facing the paper surface can be selected by rotating the pen shaft around the axis.

6. The aforementioned pen shaft has a grip portion that is held with the fingers when in use. The cross-sectional shape of the grip portion is elliptical, having a major axis and a minor axis. The pen tip support structure for a multi-core writing instrument according to claim 5, wherein when the grip portion is held inscribed within a triangular gripping space formed by a three-point grip by the fingertips, the rotation of the pen shaft around the axis is suppressed at multiple rotational angle positions where the major axis of the ellipse coincides with the angle bisectors of each vertex of the triangle, and the pen shaft is positioned at the multiple rotational angle positions.

7. The pen tip support structure for a multi-core writing instrument according to claim 6, wherein the ratio of the long axis to the short axis is (1.04 to 1.20):1.

00.

8. The multi-core writing instrument tip support structure according to claim 6, wherein the arrangement of the three core-shaped pen tip members is determined such that, at each of the plurality of rotational angle positions, one different core-shaped pen tip member faces the paper surface.

9. The three core-shaped pen tip members are inserted into the three core holes so as to be able to move back and forth, The pen tip support structure for a multi-core writing instrument according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a movement mechanism for simultaneously moving all three core-shaped pen tip members forward and backward.

10. A ballpoint pen comprising a pen tip support structure for a multi-core writing instrument as described in claim 1 or 2, The ballpoint pen is characterized in that the three core-shaped pen tip members are colored refills for a ballpoint pen, each containing ink of a different color.

11. The ballpoint pen according to claim 10, wherein an additional core hole and a core-shaped pen tip member are arranged at the end opposite to the pen shaft.

12. The ballpoint pen according to claim 10, wherein an eraser is provided at the other end of the pen shaft.

13. The ballpoint pen according to claim 10, wherein the pen shaft has a grip portion that is held by the fingers when in use, and the cross-section of the grip portion is formed in an elliptical shape.

14. The pen shaft has a grip portion that is held by the fingers when in use, and the cross-section of the grip portion is formed to have an outer shape obtained by rotating three identical ellipses by 120 degrees each and superimposing them. The ballpoint pen according to claim 10, wherein grip positions corresponding to the three core-shaped pen tip members are arranged at the three positions where these three ellipses intersect.

15. The ballpoint pen according to claim 10, wherein the cross-section of the pen shaft is circular, and the circumferential portion corresponding to the position of each core-shaped pen tip member has a chamfered flat surface.

16. A stylus pen comprising a pen tip support structure for a multi-core writing instrument as described in claim 1 or 2, The three core-shaped pen tip members are touch pen tips, each corresponding to a different line type or function, characterized in that they are all touch pen tips.

17. The stylus according to claim 16, wherein an additional core hole and a core-shaped pen tip member are arranged at the end opposite to the pen shaft.

18. The stylus according to claim 16, wherein an eraser is provided at the other end of the pen shaft.

19. The stylus according to claim 16, wherein the pen shaft has a grip portion that is held by the fingers when in use, and the cross-section of the grip portion is formed in an elliptical shape.

20. The pen shaft has a grip portion that is held by the fingers when in use, and the cross-section of the grip portion is formed to have an outer shape obtained by rotating three identical ellipses by 120 degrees each and superimposing them. The stylus according to claim 16, wherein grip positions corresponding to the three core-shaped pen tip members are arranged at the three positions where these three ellipses intersect.

21. The stylus according to claim 16, wherein the cross-section of the pen shaft is circular, and the circumferential portion corresponding to the position of each core-shaped pen tip member has a chamfered flat surface.

22. A gripping angle positioning method for positioning the gripping angle of a pen tip support structure for a multi-core writing instrument as described in claim 6, The process of gripping the pen shaft by bringing the grip portion into contact with the triangular gripping space formed by the three fingertips at three points, The process of rotating the grip portion around the axis, The process of positioning the gripping angle at multiple angular positions by stopping the rotation at an angular position where the major axis of the elliptical cross-section coincides with the angle bisector of each vertex of the triangular shape, A gripping angle positioning method characterized by incorporating [something].

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