Mechanical pencil lead case

Abstract

To provide a refill case for a mechanical pencil capable of more reliably maintaining a state where a refill take-out port is closed.SOLUTION: A mechanical pencil refill case includes a case main body for housing a mechanical pencil refill, a cover member capable of opening and closing a refill take-out port of the case main body by being slid with respect to the case main body, and a lock member configured to switch between an engaged state in which the lock member is engaged with one of the case main body and the cover member and a disengaged state in which the lock member is not engaged with the one of the case main body and the cover member by moving with respect to the case main body and the cover member in an intersecting direction intersecting a sliding direction of the cover member with respect to the case main body. In the engaged state, the cover member is configured to be maintained in a state of closing the refill core take-out port and in a state of being non-slidable with respect to the case main body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a refill case for a Sharp pencil.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a refill case for a Sharp pencil, a key coupling portion where the case body and the cover member can rotate relative to each other in a fan shape is formed at the bottom portion of the case body with a rotation fulcrum, and in an open state where the refill outlet of the case body is open, the end portion of the refill for the Sharp pencil is exposed so that the refill for the Sharp pencil can be taken out therefrom (Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] What is disclosed in Patent Document 1 is an operation of relatively rotating the case body and the cover member in a fan shape with one hand so that the end portion of the refill for the Sharp pencil is exposed in an open state where the refill outlet of the case body is open. Then, the refill for the Sharp pencil is taken out by hand and the refill for the Sharp pencil is replenished to the Sharp pencil. Next, after replenishing the Sharp pencil with the refill for the Sharp pencil, an operation of relatively rotating the case body and the cover member in a fan shape is performed again so that the cover member closes the refill outlet of the case body. At this time, a protrusion is formed on one of the cover member and the case body. On the other hand, by forming a fitting portion for this projection, the cover member maintains a closed state over the lead dispensing opening. However, when the cover member is locked to the case body by the fitting of the projection and the fitting portion in this way, it can be difficult to reliably maintain the closed state over the lead dispensing opening.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, at least one embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a lead case for a mechanical pencil that can more reliably maintain the lead dispensing opening in a closed state. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A lead replacement case for a mechanical pencil according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is A case body for storing replacement leads for mechanical pencils, A cover member that slides relative to the case body, thereby opening and closing the replacement lead dispensing opening of the case body, A locking member is configured to switch between an engaged state, where it is engaged with either the case body or the cover member, and an unengaged state, where it is not engaged with either the case body or the cover member, by moving in an intersecting direction that intersects the sliding direction of the cover member with respect to the case body and the cover member. Equipped with, In the engaged state, the cover member is configured to remain closed to the refill dispensing opening and unable to slide relative to the case body. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, a lead case for a mechanical pencil is provided that can more reliably maintain the lead dispensing opening in a closed state. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1]This is a front view showing the locking member of a mechanical pencil lead case according to one embodiment in an engaged state. [Figure 2] This is a front view showing the locking member of a mechanical pencil lead case according to one embodiment in an unengaged state. [Figure 3] This is a front view showing the locking member of a mechanical pencil lead case according to one embodiment in an unengaged state. [Figure 4] This is an exploded perspective view from the front of a mechanical pencil lead case according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] This is an exploded perspective view from the back of a mechanical pencil lead case according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] Figures 4 and 5 show a perspective view of the mechanical pencil lead case with the locking member engaged. [Figure 7] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a mechanical pencil lead case. [Figure 8] Figures 4 and 5 show a perspective view of the mechanical pencil lead case when the locking member is disengaged. [Figure 9] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a replacement lead case for a mechanical pencil. [Figure 10] Figures 4 and 5 show a perspective view of the mechanical pencil lead case when the locking member is disengaged. [Figure 11] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a mechanical pencil lead case. [Figure 12] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view AA showing the state in which multiple replacement leads are housed. [Figure 13] This is a perspective view similar to Figure 10, showing a refill case with multiple refills stored inside. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative arrangements, etc. of the components described as embodiments or shown in the drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, but are merely illustrative examples.

[0010] Figs. 1 to 3 are front views of a refill case for a mechanical pencil according to an embodiment, showing the state when the lock member is engaged, the state when the lock member is disengaged and the refill outlet is closed, and the state when the lock member is disengaged and the refill outlet is open, respectively.

[0011] Figs. 4 and 5 are exploded perspective views of a refill case for a mechanical pencil according to an embodiment, from the front side and the back side, respectively. Figs. 6, 8 and 10 are perspective views of the refill case for a mechanical pencil shown in Figs. 4 and 5, showing the state when the lock member is engaged, the state when the lock member is disengaged and the refill outlet is closed, and the state when the lock member is disengaged and the refill outlet is open, respectively. Figs. 7, 9 and 11 are cross-sectional views of the refill case for a mechanical pencil shown in Figs. 6, 8 and 10, respectively. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of Fig. 7. Fig. 13 is a perspective view similar to Fig. 10, showing the refill case in a state where a plurality of refills are accommodated.

[0012] As shown in Figs. 1 to 13, a refill case 1 for a mechanical pencil according to some embodiments (hereinafter also referred to as a refill case) includes a case body 2, a cover member 4, and a lock member 5.

[0013] The case body 2 is configured to be able to accommodate a refill 3 for a mechanical pencil (see Figs. 3 to 5, etc.). The case body 2 has a refill outlet 2a which is an opening for inserting and removing the refill 3, and a bottom 2c, and extends between the refill outlet 2a and the bottom 2c. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the case body 2 extends between the refill outlet 2a and the bottom 2c along the longitudinal direction of the case body 2.

[0014] Incidentally, the distance from the inner bottom portion 2e (see FIG. 7 etc.) in the longitudinal direction of the case body 2 to the refill extraction opening 2a may be shorter than the length of the refill 3 accommodated in the case body 2. In this case, since a part of the refill 3 accommodated in the case body 2 is exposed from the case body 2, it is easy to take out the refill 3 from the case body 2 when the refill extraction opening 2a is open.

[0015] The cover member 4 is slidable with respect to the case body 2, and is configured to be able to open and close the refill extraction opening 2a of the case body 2 by sliding with respect to the case body 2. The state where the refill extraction opening 2a is open means a state where at least a part of the refill extraction opening 2a is not covered by the cover member 4 and the refill 3 accommodated in the case body 2 can be taken out with a finger. Further, the state where the refill extraction opening 2a is closed means a state where the entire refill extraction opening 2a is covered by the cover member 4 and the refill 3 accommodated in the case body 2 cannot be taken out with a finger.

[0016] The lock member 5 moves with respect to the case body 2 and the cover member 4 in an intersecting direction intersecting the sliding direction of the cover member 4 with respect to the case body 2, so that an engaged state engaged with one of the case body 2 or the cover member 4 and a disengaged state not engaged with the one of the case body 2 or the cover member 4 are switched.

[0017] In the engaged state of the lock member 5, the refill extraction opening 2a is closed by the cover member 4, and the cover member 4 is maintained in a state where it cannot slide with respect to the case body 2. On the other hand, in the disengaged state of the lock member 5, the cover member 4 is slidable with respect to the case body 2, and the refill extraction opening 2a can be opened or closed by sliding the cover member 4 with respect to the case body 2.

[0018] In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the cover member 4 is slidable along a second direction relative to the case body 2, and the locking member 5 is movable along a first direction intersecting the second direction relative to the case body 2 (see Figures 1-3, 7, 9, and 11). The first direction is the direction connecting the lead dispenser 2a and the bottom 2c of the case body 2, and may be the longitudinal direction of the case body 2. The second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction or the width direction of the case body 2.

[0019] In the above-described embodiment, the mechanical pencil lead case 1 includes a cover member 4 that can slide relative to the case body 2 to open and close the lead dispensing opening 2a of the case body 2, and a locking member 5 that can engage with either the case body 2 or the cover member 4. By moving the locking member 5 in a crossing direction, it is possible to switch between an engaged state in which the locking member 5 is engaged with either the case body 2 or the cover member 4, and an unengaged state in which the locking member 5 is not engaged with either the case body 2 or the cover member 4. Therefore, by engaging the locking member 5 with either the case body 2 or the cover member 4, the lead dispensing opening 2a is closed by the cover member 4, and the state in which the cover member 4 cannot slide is maintained (engaged state), thus ensuring that the closed state of the lead dispensing opening 2a is maintained more reliably. Furthermore, by moving the locking member 5 in a crossing direction, the aforementioned engaged state and the disengaged state in which the cover member 4 can slide relative to the case body 2 can be easily switched.

[0020] In some embodiments, the locking member 5 has a projection 5a that protrudes in the direction of the intersection described above (first direction in the illustrated embodiment) from the other side of the case body 2 or cover member 4 (the side with which the locking member 5 does not engage) toward the other side of the case body 2 or cover member 4 (the side with which the locking member 5 engages). The aforementioned side of the case body 2 or cover member 4 (the side with which the locking member 5 engages) has an engagement groove 4a into which the projection 5a can engage. When the locking member 5 is engaged, the projection 5a is engaged with the engagement groove 4a, and when the locking member 5 is not engaged, the projection 5a is not engaged with the engagement groove 4a. In the engaged state, the projection 5a may be fitted into the engagement groove 4a with a slight gap.

[0021] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 3 and Figures 4 to 13, the locking member 5 has a protrusion 5a that projects from the case body 2 toward the cover member 4 in the aforementioned intersecting direction (direction along the first direction). The cover member 4 also has an engagement groove 4a into which the protrusion 5a of the locking member 5 can engage.

[0022] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 3, the locking member 5, including the protrusion 5a, is supported on the case body 2 so as to be movable along a groove 2b extending in the intersecting direction. The cover member 4 also has an engagement groove 4a formed therein, recessed from the surface of the cover member 4 and extending in the intersecting direction. The protrusion 5a of the locking member 5 can engage with the engagement groove 4a provided in the cover member 4.

[0023] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 4 to 13, the case body 2 includes a ventral wall portion 2g and a dorsal wall portion 2f that extend between the bottom portion 2c of the case body 2 and the lead dispensing opening 2a, respectively, and are opposite to each other, and a pair of side wall portions 2r and 2s that connect the ventral wall portion 2g and the dorsal wall portion 2f. The locking member 5 includes a base portion 5b that faces the ventral wall portion 2g of the case body 2, and a pair of side plate portions 5d and 5c that face the pair of side wall portions 2r and 2s of the case body 2, respectively. Of the pair of side plate portions 5d and 5c of the locking member 5, the side plate portion 5d includes a protrusion 5a that projects from the base portion 5b in the direction from the bottom portion 2c of the case body 2 toward the lead dispensing opening 2a.

[0024] Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 4 to 13, the cover member 4 includes an opening cover portion 4d capable of covering the replacement lead dispensing opening 2a of the case body 2, and a back cover portion 4e facing the back wall portion 2f of the case body 2. The engagement groove 4a is at least partially formed by the first side surface 4i of a projection 4h that protrudes from the surface of the back cover portion 4e facing the back wall portion 2f (case body 2). The first side surface 4i is a surface that extends along a first direction. More specifically, the engagement groove 4a is at least partially formed by the first side surface 4i described above and the inner wall surface of the side wall portion 4j of the cover member 4.

[0025] In other words, the protrusion 5a, which is part of the side plate portion 5d of the locking member 5, can engage with the engagement groove 4a formed by the first side surface 4i of the protrusion 4h of the case body 2 and the inner wall surface of the side wall portion 4j.

[0026] According to the above-described embodiment, the locking member 5 is provided with a protrusion 5a, and the case body 2 or cover member 4 (cover member 4 in the illustrated embodiment) is provided with an engagement groove 4a that can engage with the protrusion 5a of the locking member 5. Therefore, by moving the locking member 5 in a crossing direction, the protrusion 5a of the locking member 5 can be engaged with the engagement groove 4a of the case body 2 or cover member 4, or the engagement of the protrusion 5a with the engagement groove 4a can be released.

[0027] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 4 to 13, the case body 2 is fitted onto the locking member 5, and the cover member 4 is movable in a sliding direction along the second direction relative to the case body 2 and the locking member 5.

[0028] As shown in Figures 7, 9, and 11, when the case body 2 is fitted and assembled into the locking member 5, the case body 2 is slidable along its longitudinal direction relative to the locking member 5. Furthermore, the position of the locking member 5 in the longitudinal direction of the case body 2 is restricted by the engagement between the protrusions 2t, 2u, 2v, and 2w of the case body 2 that protrude in the width direction toward the locking member 5 and the protrusions 5i and 5j of the locking member 5 that protrude in the width direction toward the case body 2.

[0029] Specifically, the lower surfaces of the protrusions 2t and 2v of the case body 2 (the surfaces on the bottom 2c side in the longitudinal direction of the case body 2) and the upper surfaces of the protrusions 5i and 5j of the locking member 5 (the surfaces on the lead dispensing opening 2a side in the longitudinal direction of the case body 2) come into contact, thereby restricting the position of the locking member 5 furthest from the lead dispensing opening 2a in the longitudinal direction relative to the case body 2. Furthermore, the upper surfaces of the protrusions 2u and 2w of the case body 2 (the surfaces on the lead dispensing opening 2a side in the longitudinal direction of the case body 2) and the lower surfaces of the protrusions 5i and 5j of the locking member 5 (the surfaces on the bottom 2c side in the longitudinal direction of the case body 2) come into contact, thereby restricting the position of the locking member 5 furthest from the bottom 2c in the longitudinal direction relative to the case body 2.

[0030] The protrusions 5i and 5j of the locking member 5 are configured to move within recesses 2z and 2m, respectively, provided in the side walls 2r and 2s of the case body 2. Recess 2z is located in the region between protrusions 2t and 2u in the longitudinal direction of the case body 2, and recess 2m is located in the region between protrusions 2v and 2w in the longitudinal direction of the case body 2.

[0031] Therefore, with the case body 2 fitted into the locking member 5, the case body 2 and the locking member 5 can move together as a single unit. Furthermore, the case body 2 is integrated with the locking member 5, although it can move, due to the engagement of the protrusions 5i and recesses 2z, and the engagement of the protrusions 5j and recesses 2m on both sides of the case body 2 and the locking member 5, and while disassembly / detachment is prevented.

[0032] In the above-described embodiment, since the case body 2 is fitted onto the locking member 5, the cover member 4 can be easily slid relative to the case body 2 and the locking member 5, for example, with one hand.

[0033] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear wall portion 2f of the case body 2 and the plate-shaped rear cover portion 4e of the cover member 4 face each other, so by aligning the case body 2 with the rear cover portion 4e, the cover member 4 can be smoothly slid relative to the case body 2 (and the locking member 5).

[0034] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, a fitting projection 2h is formed on the side wall portion 2s of the case body 2, projecting in a second direction toward the side plate portion 5c of the locking member 5, and a fitting projection 5f is formed on the side plate portion 5c of the locking member 5, projecting in a second direction toward the side wall portion 2s of the case body 2. When the locking member 5 is engaged, the fitting projection 2h and the fitting projection 5f engage with each other. This makes it easier to maintain the engaged state of the locking member 5 when the replacement lead case 1 is not being opened or closed (i.e., when no force is being applied to move the locking member 5 or the cover member 4).

[0035] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 to 13, for example, the refill case 1 includes a protruding portion 2d provided on one of the case body 2 or the cover member 4 (the case body 2 in the example shown in Figures 4 to 13), and a recessed portion 4c provided on the other of the case body 2 or the cover member 4 (the cover member 4 in the example shown in Figures 4 to 13), with which the protruding portion 2d engages. The cover member 4 is movable relative to the case body 2 and the locking member 5 so as to rotate around the protruding portion 2d and the recessed portion 4c. In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 4 to 13, the recessed portion 4c is a hole provided in the cover member 4.

[0036] In the above-described embodiment, the cover member 4 is movable relative to the case body 2 and the locking member 5 so as to rotate around the convex portion 2d and the concave portion 4c. Therefore, the cover member 4 can be easily slid relative to the case body 2 and the locking member 5, for example, by one-handed operation.

[0037] In this embodiment, the sliding direction of the cover member 4 relative to the case body 2 is the same as the rotational direction of the cover member 4 around the convex portion 2d and the concave portion 4c, and the cover member 4 moves along an arc-shaped trajectory. This sliding direction (rotational direction) is in line with the second direction (the direction along the width direction of the case body 2).

[0038] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 to 13, for example, one of the case body 2 or cover member 4 that engages with the locking member 5 includes a movement restricting portion 4b for restricting the movement of the locking member 5 in the intersecting direction (direction along the second direction) of the case body 2 or cover member 4 from the other towards the one in the disengaged state.

[0039] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 13, the cover member 4 includes the aforementioned movement restricting portion 4b, which is configured to restrict the movement of the locking member 5 in the intersecting direction (direction along the second direction) from the case body 2 toward the cover member 4 when the locking member 5 is not engaged.

[0040] In the above-described embodiment, a movement restricting portion 4b is provided to restrict the movement of the locking member 5 in the intersecting direction when it is not engaged, thus preventing the locking member 5 from moving in the intersecting direction when it is not engaged. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the sliding movement of the cover member 4 relative to the case body 2 from being hindered by unintended movement of the locking member 5 in the intersecting direction.

[0041] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 13, the movement restricting portion 4b extends along the sliding direction and has a contact surface 4l to which the tip surface 5h of the protrusion 5a of the locking member 5 can come into contact when it is not engaged.

[0042] In this case, the tip surface 5h of the protrusion 5a of the locking member 5 comes into contact with the contact surface 4l of the movement restricting part 4b, thereby restricting the movement of the locking member 5 in the intersecting direction (direction along the second direction) when it is not engaged.

[0043] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 4 to 13, the contact surface 4l of the movement restricting portion 4b includes the second side surface 4k of the protruding portion 4h of the rear cover portion 4e.

[0044] According to the above-described embodiment, with a simple configuration in which the cover member 4 is provided with the above-described protrusion 4h, an engagement groove 4a can be formed using the first side surface 4i of the protrusion 4h, and a contact surface 4l of the movement restricting portion 4b can be formed using the second side surface 4k of the protrusion 4h.

[0045] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 4 to 13, the second side surface 4k has an arc shape. Therefore, in the disengaged state, the movement of the locking member 5 in the intersecting direction (direction along the second direction), which rotates with the case body 2 around the protruding portion 2d and the recessed portion 4c relative to the cover member 4, can be appropriately restricted.

[0046] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 12, for example, the replacement lead case 1 includes ribs 2p that protrude from the inner wall surface 2q of the case body 2 and extend along a first direction (the longitudinal direction of the case body 2).

[0047] According to the above embodiment, a rib 2p is provided that protrudes from the inner wall surface 2q of the case body 2 and extends along the first direction (the direction connecting the lead dispensing opening 2a and the bottom 2c). As a result, multiple mechanical pencil leads 3 housed in the case body 2 can be divided into smaller groups by the rib 2p. Therefore, as shown in Figure 13, it becomes easier to remove a small number of leads 3 when the lead dispensing opening 2a of the case body 2 is open.

[0048] Furthermore, the number of replacement leads 3 to be separated can be adjusted by appropriately setting the installation position of the rib 2p (for example, the distance between the side wall 2s and the rib 2p). For example, by setting the distance between the side wall 2s and the rib 2p to more than 1 times but less than or equal to 2 times the thickness of one replacement lead 3, it becomes easier to separate only one replacement lead.

[0049] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 to 13, for example, the lead replacement case 1 for the mechanical pencil is composed of only three parts: a part including the case body 2, a part including the cover member 4, and a part including the locking member 5.

[0050] In this case, since the aforementioned mechanical pencil lead case is constructed with a small number of parts, it is possible to suppress an increase in manufacturing costs, more reliably maintain the closed state of the lead dispensing opening, and realize a configuration that allows for easy switching between the engaged and disengaged states of the locking member 5.

[0051] Below, several embodiments of mechanical pencil lead cases will be described in more detail.

[0052] A mechanical pencil lead case according to some embodiments of the present invention comprises at least a bottomed cylindrical case body for housing mechanical pencil leads and a cover member capable of closing the lead dispensing opening of the case body. A locking mechanism is formed in at least one of the cover member or the case body, which, when operated, is displaced to a position where it enters and abuts into an engagement groove (keyhole portion) of the other, thereby restricting relative sliding between the case body and the cover member and maintaining the closed state of the case body. Furthermore, a locking mechanism locking means is provided that disengages the locking mechanism when the lead dispensing opening is open and the mechanical pencil leads are exposed.

[0053] The case body and cover member are preferably both flattened box-shaped so that they can be easily gripped by fingers, given that they are opened and closed by sliding them. However, they may also be cylindrical, elliptical, triangular cross-section box-shaped, square cross-section box-shaped, or polygonal cross-section box-shaped, as long as they do not impair the advantages of the present invention, such as ease of operation and ease of manufacturing.

[0054] The sliding motion involved in opening and closing the case body and the cover member may involve linear parallel movement, meandering movement, fan-shaped movement with the connecting part as the center of rotation, or rotational screw movement such as that of a double cylinder. If the connecting part is designed to slide in a fan shape with the pivot point of rotation, the connecting part, which serves as the pivot point for the fan-shaped rotation of the case body and the cover member, can be formed by creating a protrusion on one of the case body and the cover member and a recess or hole in the other that the protrusion fits into, or by fitting a grommet member into the recess or hole formed on both.

[0055] The case body has a lead dispensing opening positioned at a distance from the inner bottom of the case body that is shorter than the total length of the mechanical pencil lead it stores, so that when the lead dispensing opening is open, the end of the mechanical pencil lead is exposed. The shape of the opening edge of the refill dispenser can be rectangular, circular, elliptical, triangular, square, or any other polygonal shape, and is not limited to the outer shape of the case itself.

[0056] The cover component has a back cover portion (slide back plate portion) with a flat inner surface between the case body and the opening cover portion (cover portion) that covers the refill dispensing opening, and the slide surface on which the two slide relative to each other. The surface of the case body opposite the back cover portion of this cover member is also formed as a slidable back wall portion (back surface portion). Its shape is a flat surface, but it is sufficient that the case body and the cover member slide relative to each other. For example, it may be a flat surface with corrugated or grid-like irregularities, such as by forming a gap between them, or the shapes of the two surfaces may be in an irregular relationship along a straight line or a fan-shaped rotational trajectory. However, it can be said that having smooth surfaces is advantageous from a manufacturing and driving perspective.

[0057] By forming a protrusion on one of the cover member and the case body, and a fitting portion for this protrusion on the other, a mechanism can be created to maintain the cover member in a closed position over the lead dispenser. Alternatively, the operating position of the cover member can be maintained by adjusting the frictional resistance of opposing sliding surfaces, without relying on the fitting of protrusions and recesses. Alternatively, the relative movement can be controlled by using components such as resilient members, pistons, and dampers between the cover member and the case body.

[0058] By positioning the locking member on the case body so as to slide along the case body, and by having a part of the locking member insert and remove it from the engagement groove (keyhole part) of the cover member, the overall size of the mechanical pencil lead case can be changed between the locked and unlocked states, and the locked and / or unlocked states can be easily confirmed visually. Furthermore, the locking mechanism can be modified so that an indicator of the locking status appears when the locking component is slid against the case body, exposing a part of the case body. The indicator may be text or a logo, or it may be made by cutting out a part of the exposed surface or creating a window to expose the mechanical pencil lead inside; it is not particularly limited as long as the changed state can be recognized. The indicator content may also be made by directly creating indentations on the part, or by changing the surface roughness of the indicator, or by displaying text or a logo that has been colored by transfer or painting, etc., as appropriate.

[0059] In some embodiments of the present invention, a mechanical pencil lead case is equipped with a locking mechanism, which prevents accidental operation of the lock when the lead dispensing opening is open and the mechanical pencil lead is exposed (by prohibiting the driving of the locking member in the unlocked state). Furthermore, prohibiting the operation of the locking mechanism in the unlocked state prevents the locking mechanism from obstructing the operation of closing the cover and case body (a state in which the mechanical pencil lead is not exposed), thereby suppressing damage caused by unnecessary collisions of parts. The locking mechanism may have a movement-restricting section (anti-locking wall) formed on the cover member so that the locking member does not abut against the movement-restricting section (anti-locking wall) and act as a locking mechanism, or it may rotate a rack and pinion or worm gear in conjunction with the relative sliding movement between the cover member and the case body, or it may use a linkage mechanism to maintain the unlocked state of the locking member, like the legs of a folding table, as long as it can prevent accidental operation of the lock (by prohibiting the driving of the locking member in the unlocked state).

[0060] To ensure that the range of the movement-restricting section (lock-preventing wall) covers the entire area where the locking mechanism is located, the movement range of one of the cover member or case body on which the locking member is placed can be restricted relative to the other. For example, both the cover member or case body can have barriers that restrict the maximum opening amount.

[0061] The case body, cover, and locking components can be made from various synthetic resins, including acrylonitrile styrene copolymer resin (AS resin), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer resin (ABS resin), polycarbonate resin (PC resin), polystyrene resin (PS resin), polyoxymethylene (polyacetal) resin (POM resin), polybutylene terephthalate resin (PBT resin), polypropylene resin (PP resin), and polyethylene terephthalate resin (PET resin). Furthermore, if the case body, cover member, and lock member are made of the same material, the high affinity between the materials may cause poor sliding due to adhesion. It is preferable to use different materials for the two components, or to apply a lubricant such as silicone oil or grease between them. In addition, it is preferable to form the case body from a highly transparent resin such as acrylonitrile styrene copolymer resin (AS resin) so that the replacement pencil leads stored inside are visible. Furthermore, the material can be transparent, translucent, or colored, and can be selected as appropriate depending on the application. In addition, metal can be used to give a sense of luxury, and the material is not particularly limited. Alternatively, the surface may be glossy or textured, and decorations such as printing may be applied.

[0062] A mechanical pencil lead case according to one embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 3 will be described. Note that Figures 1 to 3 only illustrate the operation of the mechanical pencil lead case 1, and therefore the mechanisms and locking structures necessary for sliding are omitted. In the following, the side of the case body 2 with the refill dispenser 2a will be referred to as the upward direction, the bottom side as the bottom direction, the front side as the front direction, the back side as the back direction, and the side side as the side direction.

[0063] As shown in Figure 1, the mechanical pencil lead case 1 has a box-shaped, bottomed cylindrical case body 2 for housing mechanical pencil leads, a box-shaped cover member 4 that can close the lead dispensing opening 2a of the case body 2, and a convex locking member 5 for locking it. The locking member 5 is slidable upward and downward along the groove 2b of the case body 2. In addition, the case body 2 is slidable laterally relative to the cover member 4, and sliding exposes the lead dispenser opening of the case body 2.

[0064] Figure 1 shows the state in which the protrusion 5a of the locking member 5 is fitted into the engagement groove (keyhole portion) 4a of the cover member 4 (engaged state), and the case body 2 is locked to the protrusion 5a of the locking member 5, making it impossible to slide laterally relative to the cover member 4 (locked state). As shown in Figure 2, the lock is released (unengaged) by sliding the locking member 5 downward along the groove 2b of the case body 2 and removing the protrusion 5a of the locking member 5 from the engagement groove (keyhole) 4a of the cover member 4. This allows the case body 2 and the cover member 4 to slide relative to each other laterally, opening the lead dispensing opening 2a of the case body 2, exposing the mechanical pencil lead 3, and allowing it to be removed (see Figure 3). At this time, the movement restricting part (lock prevention wall) 4b of the cover member 4 is located above the protrusion 5a of the locking member 5, so the movement of the locking member 5 is restricted and it cannot move, thus preventing accidental operation of the lock (maintaining the unlocked state).

[0065] A mechanical pencil lead case according to one embodiment shown in Figures 4 to 11 will be described below. In the following, the lead dispensing opening 2a side of the case body 2 will be referred to as the upward direction, the bottom 2c side as the bottom direction, the front side as the front direction, and the back side as the back direction.

[0066] As shown in Figure 4, an exploded perspective view of the embodiment, and Figure 5, an exploded perspective view of Figure 4 from the rear, the mechanical pencil lead case 1 has a flat, box-shaped, bottomed cylindrical case body 2 for housing the mechanical pencil lead 3, a flat, box-shaped cover member 4, and a locking member 5 for locking operation. A protruding part 2d on the case body 2 and a recessed part (connecting hole) 4c on the cover member 4 are formed on the bottom portion of the mechanical pencil lead case 1. The protruding part 2d is inserted into the recessed part (connecting hole) 4c to form a connecting part, which allows the case body 2 and the cover member 4 to rotate relative to each other in a fan shape around this part. Furthermore, the locking member 5 has a flat base portion 5b, side plate portions (side wall portions) 5c, 5d, and a bottom wall portion 5e. The side plate portions (side wall portions) 5c, 5d on both sides cover and fit onto the outside of the case body 2, allowing it to slide relative to the case body 2 in the upward and downward directions.

[0067] A groove 2x is provided on the bottom 2c of the case body 2, extending in the width direction of the case body 2. This allows the case body 2 to flex when the protruding part 2d of the case body 2 is inserted into the recessed part 4c of the cover member 4, thereby preventing damage to the case body 2.

[0068] Furthermore, the protruding portion 2d of the case body 2 includes a diagonally cut portion 2dd in which the thickness of the protruding portion 2d changes in a tapered manner. In addition, the cover member 4 is provided with a groove 4m recessed from the inner surface of the cover member 4 around the recessed portion 4c of the cover member 4. Therefore, the protruding portion 2d of the case body 2 can be smoothly inserted into the recessed portion 4c of the cover member 4.

[0069] The case body 2 has a rectangular lead dispensing opening 2a located at a position shorter than the total length of the mechanical pencil lead 3 it houses, with the end of the mechanical pencil lead 3 exposed when the opening is open. The length of the exposed end of the mechanical pencil lead 3 can also be adjusted by adjusting the distance from the inner bottom 2e of the case body 2 to the lead dispensing opening 2a. However, the length of the exposed end of the mechanical pencil lead 3 necessary to pick up the required number of leads with your fingertips is preferably 1.8 mm to 12 mm.

[0070] By making the lead dispensing opening 2a and the inner bottom 2e the same shape and in parallel positions, the length of the exposed ends of the mechanical pencil leads 3 stored in the case body 2 can be made uniform. However, to make it easier to take out one or a few mechanical pencil leads 3 at a time, the inner bottom 2e may be formed and positioned at an angle or other non-parallel to the lead dispensing opening 2a. By forming ribs inside the case body 2, if a large number (20 or more) of the built-in mechanical pencil leads 3 are stored inside the case body 2, some of them can be positioned in different areas within the container, and the number of mechanical pencil leads 3 exposed to the outside can be limited to a specific small amount (1 to 5).

[0071] The cover member 4 has an opening cover portion (cover portion) 4d that covers the replacement lead dispensing opening 2a and a recess portion (connection hole) 4c that serves as a connection portion to the case body 2, and the inner surface of the portion between the two portions is a flat back cover portion (slide back plate portion) 4e that faces the back wall portion (back flat portion) 2f of the case body 2.

[0072] Figures 6 and 7 show the state in which the relative movement of the case body 2 and the cover member 4 is locked. The locking member 5 is positioned to cover the ventral wall portion (abdomen) 2g opposite to the dorsal wall portion (back surface portion) 2f of the case body 2, and can be slid relative to the cover member 4 to switch between the locked state and the unlocked state, as described later. By sliding the locking member 5 against the cover member 4 and inserting the protrusion 5a of the locking member 5 into the engagement groove (keyhole portion) 4a of the cover member 4 (engaged state), the case body 2 and the cover member 4 become immobile relative to each other. At this time, the locking state can be maintained by engaging the fitting projection 2h formed on the case body 2 with the fitting projection 5f formed on the locking member 5.

[0073] Figures 8 and 9 show the unlocked state between the case body 2 and the cover member 4. By sliding the locking member 5 downwards relative to the case body 2, the protrusion 5a of the locking member 5 is disengaged from the engagement groove (keyhole portion) 4a of the cover member 4, allowing the case body 2 and the cover member 4 to move relative to each other (unlocked state). By moving the locking member 5, which is positioned to cover the ventral wall portion (abdominal portion) 2g opposite the dorsal wall portion (back surface portion) 2f of the case body 2, downwards relative to the case body 2, the overall length of the mechanical pencil lead case 1 increases, allowing the unlocked state to be visually confirmed. In the unlocked state, the unlocked state can be maintained by engaging the fitting projection 2h formed on the case body 2 with the fitting projection 5f formed on the locking member 5. Furthermore, in order to unlock the case, when the aforementioned locking member 5 is slid downward relative to the case body 2, the upper part of the ventral wall (abdomen) 2g of the case body 2 is exposed, and an indicator part 2i is formed on the exposed ventral wall (abdomen) 2g to indicate that the case is unlocked.

[0074] In the locked state, the lead protrusion prevention wall 5g protrudes upward from the lead dispensing opening 2a. Therefore, when the locking operation is performed and the locking member 5 is slid downward relative to the case body 2, in the unlocked state, the lead protrusion prevention wall 5g formed on the locking member 5 also moves in conjunction and lowers to a position approximately the same as the top 2j of the case body 2, or to a position below the top 2j. Furthermore, in the locked state, the lead protrusion prevention wall 5g protrudes upward from the lead dispensing opening 2a, acting as a shutter to prevent foreign objects from entering through the holes on the side of the mechanical pencil lead case 1. In the unlocked state, when the case is open, the lead protrusion prevention wall 5g prevents the mechanical pencil lead 3 from being obstructed when the mechanical pencil lead 3 is directly picked up and removed from the lead dispensing opening 2a with the fingers. The lead protrusion prevention wall 5g may also be formed on the case body 2 side.

[0075] Figures 10 and 11 show the case body 2 with the refill dispenser 2a open. By rotating the case body 2 and the cover member 4 relative to each other in a fan shape, the lead dispensing opening 2a of the case body 2 opens, exposing the mechanical pencil lead 3 and allowing it to be removed. At this time, the movement restricting part (lock prevention wall) 4b of the cover member 4 is positioned above the lock member 5, so the upward movement of the lock member 5 is restricted, maintaining an unlocked state and preventing accidental operation of the lock member 5. The movement restricting section (lock prevention wall) 4b is formed to restrict the upward movement of the locking member 5 during the opening operation of the case body 2.

[0076] Furthermore, when the case body 2 and the cover member 4 are rotated relative to each other in a fan shape, the opening restricting wall 2k of the case body 2 and the opening restricting rib 4f of the cover member 4 come into contact. This restricts the range of movement of the protrusion 5a of the locking member 5, which moves together with the case body 2, to within the range formed by the movement restricting portion (lock prevention wall) 4b, which is positioned above the protrusion 5a. As a result, the locking member 5 cannot move upward, and accidental operation of the lock can be more reliably prevented (maintaining the unlocked state). As shown in Figure 5, the opening restricting wall 2k may be formed by the inner surface of a recess 2o that is recessed from the surface of the back wall portion 2f.

[0077] After refilling the mechanical pencil with lead refills 3, the case body 2 and cover member 4 are rotated relative to each other in a fan shape to close the lead dispensing opening 2a, and the locking member 5 is slid upward relative to the case body 2 to lock the lead dispensing opening 2a in place. At this time, sliding the locking member 5 upward relative to the case body 2 returns the overall length of the mechanical pencil lead case 1 to its original state, making it easy to visually confirm that it is locked.

[0078] As shown in Figure 4, the ventral wall portion 2g of the case body 2 may have a stepped portion 2l at the end on the lead dispenser side 2a, which has a surface recessed from the surface of the ventral wall portion 2g. In this case, even if the opening cover portion 4d of the cover member 4 deforms and becomes narrower after molding, it is easier to maintain the clearance between the opening cover portion 4d and the case body 2. Therefore, it becomes easier to slide the cover member 4 smoothly against the case body 2.

[0079] As shown in Figure 5, the back wall portion 2f of the case body 2 may have a recess 2n that is recessed from the surface of the back wall portion 2f. The recess 2n may extend in the longitudinal direction of the case body 2 over a range of 1 / 2 or more of the length of the case body 2.

[0080] Repeated sliding operations of the cover member 4 against the case body 2 may cause scratches on the surface of the back wall portion 2f of the case body 2 and the inner surface of the back cover portion 4e of the cover member 4. In this regard, by providing the recess 2n described above, the contact area between the back wall portion 2f and the back cover portion 4e can be reduced, thereby suppressing the occurrence of the aforementioned scratches.

[0081] As shown in Figure 4, the case body 2 may have a recessed portion 2y that is recessed from the ventral wall portion 2g or the dorsal wall portion 2f. The recessed portion 2y may be located in a position different from the portion that houses the replacement lead 3 in the longitudinal direction of the case body 2. In the example shown in Figure 4, the recessed portion 2y is located in a position closer to the bottom portion 2c than to the inner bottom portion 2e (see Figure 7) in the longitudinal direction of the case body 2. By providing such a recessed portion 2y, the thickness of the resin or other material is more uniform during the molding of the case body 2, making it easier to prevent shrinkage.

[0082] As shown in Figure 5, the base 5b of the locking member 5 may have a stepped portion 5k having a recessed surface from the inner surface of the base 5b. By providing the stepped portion 5k, the thickness of the base 5b of the locking member 5 is reduced, making it easier to increase the thickness of the case body 2. This allows for an increase in the cross-sectional area of ​​the refill 3 housing portion of the case body 2, making it easier to insert the refill 3 into the case body 2. Therefore, defects when inserting the refill 3 into the case body 2 during the production of the refill case 1 can be suppressed.

[0083] The contents described in each of the above embodiments can be understood, for example, as follows:

[0084] (1) A replacement lead case for a mechanical pencil (1) according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, A case body (2) for storing replacement lead (3) for mechanical pencils, A cover member (4) that slides relative to the case body, thereby opening and closing the replacement lead dispensing opening (2a) of the case body, A locking member (5) is configured to switch between an engaged state, where it is engaged with either the case body or the cover member, and an unengaged state, where it is not engaged with either the case body or the cover member, by moving in an intersecting direction that intersects the sliding direction of the cover member with respect to the case body and the cover member. Equipped with, In the engaged state, the cover member is configured to remain closed to the refill dispensing opening and unable to slide relative to the case body.

[0085] According to the configuration described in (1) above, the mechanical pencil lead case includes a cover member that can open and close the lead dispensing opening of the case body by sliding relative to the case body, and a locking member that can engage with either the case body or the cover member. By moving the locking member in a cross direction, it is possible to switch between an engaged state in which the locking member is engaged with either the case body or the cover member, and an unengaged state in which the locking member is not engaged with either the case body or the cover member. Therefore, by engaging the locking member with either the case body or the cover member, the lead dispensing opening is closed by the cover member, and the cover member remains in a non-sliding state (engaged state), thus ensuring that the lead dispensing opening is more reliably kept closed. Furthermore, by moving the locking member in a cross direction, it is possible to easily switch between the aforementioned engaged state and the disengaged state in which the cover member can slide relative to the case body.

[0086] (2) In some embodiments, in the configuration of (1) above, The case body or the cover member, one of the two, includes a movement restricting portion (4b) for restricting the movement of the locking member in the intersecting direction when it is not engaged.

[0087] According to the configuration of (2) above, a movement restricting part is provided to restrict the movement of the locking member in the intersecting direction when it is not engaged, so that the locking member does not move in the intersecting direction when it is not engaged. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the sliding movement of the cover member relative to the case body from being hindered by unintended movement of the locking member in the intersecting direction.

[0088] (3) In some embodiments, in the configuration of (1) or (2) above, The locking member has a protrusion (5a) that protrudes in the direction toward one of the other parts of the case body or the cover member in the intersecting direction, The case body or the cover member, one of the two, has an engagement groove (4a) into which the protrusion can engage, The engaged state is a state in which the protrusion is engaged with the engagement groove, and the disengaged state is a state in which the protrusion is not engaged with the engagement groove. The engaged state may also be a state in which the protrusion is fitted into the engagement groove with a slight gap.

[0089] According to the configuration described in (3) above, the locking member is provided with a protrusion, and the case body or cover member is provided with an engagement groove that can engage with the protrusion of the locking member. Therefore, by moving the locking member in a cross direction, the protrusion of the locking member can be engaged with the engagement groove of the case body or cover member, or the engagement of the protrusion with the engagement groove can be released. As a result, as described in (1) above, the state in which the lead dispenser is closed can be maintained more reliably, and the engaged and disengaged states of the locking member can be easily switched.

[0090] (4) In some embodiments, in the configuration described in (3) above, The case body or the cover member, one of the two, includes a movement restricting portion (4b) for restricting the movement of the locking member in the intersecting direction in the disengaged state. The movement restricting portion extends along the sliding direction and includes a contact surface (4l) to which the tip surface (5h) of the protrusion in the disengaged state can make contact.

[0091] According to the configuration of (4) above, the movement restricting portion has a surface (contact surface) that extends along the sliding direction of the cover member relative to the case body, and the tip surface of the protrusion of the locking member can contact the contact surface. Therefore, by the protrusion contacting the contact surface, movement of the locking member in the intersecting direction when disengaged can be prevented, and the contact surface can guide the movement of the cover member in the sliding direction relative to the case body.

[0092] (5) In some embodiments, in the configuration of (3) or (4) above, The cover member has the engagement groove into which the protrusion of the locking member can engage, The aforementioned case body is The bottom portion (2c) of the case body and the refill dispensing opening are respectively extended and facing each other, and the ventral wall portion (2g) and dorsal wall portion (2f) It includes a pair of side wall portions (2r, 2s) connecting the ventral wall portion and the dorsal wall portion, The locking member is The base portion (5b) of the case body facing the ventral wall portion, A pair of side plate portions (5c, 5d) facing the pair of side walls of the case body. and, One of the pair of side plate portions (5d) includes the protrusion that extends from the base portion in the direction toward the replacement lead dispensing opening from the bottom portion.

[0093] According to the configuration of (5) above, a simple configuration is provided in which a protrusion is provided on the side plate portion of the locking member facing one of the pair of side walls of the case body, with a projection extending from the base. As described in (3) above, by moving the locking member in a crossing direction, the protrusion of the locking member can be engaged with the engagement groove of the case body or cover member, or the engagement of the protrusion with the engagement groove can be released.

[0094] (6) In some embodiments, in the configuration of (5) above, The cover member is An opening cover portion (4d) that can cover the refill dispensing opening, The case body includes a rear cover portion (4e) facing the rear wall portion, The engagement groove is at least partially formed by the first side surface (4i) of the projection (4h) that protrudes from the surface of the back cover portion facing the back wall portion.

[0095] According to the configuration of (6) above, the cover member has a simple configuration in which a protrusion is provided that protrudes from the surface of the back cover portion, and an engagement groove can be formed using the first side surface of the protrusion.

[0096] (7) In some embodiments, in the configuration of (6) above, The cover member includes a movement restricting portion (4b) for restricting the movement of the locking member in the intersecting direction in the disengaged state, The movement restricting portion extends along the sliding direction and has a contact surface (4l) to which the tip surface (5h) of the protrusion in the disengaged state can make contact. The contact surface includes the second side surface (4k) of the protrusion of the back cover portion.

[0097] According to the configuration of (7) above, with a simple configuration in which the cover member is provided with the aforementioned protrusion, an engagement groove can be formed using the first side surface of the protrusion, and a contact surface for the movement restricting portion can be formed using the second side surface of the protrusion.

[0098] (8) In some embodiments, in any of the configurations (1) to (7) above, The case body is fitted into the locking member, The cover member is movable in the sliding direction relative to the case body and the locking member.

[0099] According to the configuration described in (8) above, since the case body is fitted into the locking member, the cover member can be easily slid relative to the case body and locking member, for example, with one hand.

[0100] (9) In some embodiments, in the configuration of (8) above, The aforementioned mechanical pencil lead case is A protruding portion (2d) provided on either the case body or the cover member, The case body or the other of the cover member is provided with a recess (4c) into which the protruding portion engages, The cover member is movable relative to the case body and the locking member so as to rotate around the protruding portion and the recessed portion.

[0101] According to the configuration described in (9) above, the cover member is movable relative to the case body and the locking member so as to rotate around the recessed and protruding parts, so that the cover member can be easily slid relative to the case body and the locking member, for example, with one hand.

[0102] (10) In some embodiments, in any of the configurations (1) to (9) above, The case body has the refill dispensing opening and bottom portion provided at both ends of the case body in the first direction, The aforementioned mechanical pencil lead case is The case body is provided with ribs (2p) that protrude from the inner wall surface (2q) and extend along the first direction.

[0103] According to the configuration of (10) above, a rib is provided that protrudes from the inner wall surface of the case body and extends along the first direction (i.e., the direction connecting the lead dispensing opening and the bottom). As a result, multiple mechanical pencil leads stored in the case body can be divided into smaller groups by the rib. Therefore, when the lead dispensing opening of the case body is open, it becomes easier to take out a small number of leads.

[0104] (11) A replacement lead case for a mechanical pencil according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is It consists of at least a bottomed cylindrical case body for storing mechanical pencil leads and a cover member that can close the lead dispensing opening, The case body has a lead dispensing opening positioned so that the distance from the inner bottom of the case body to the lead dispensing opening is shorter than the total length of the mechanical pencil lead it stores, so that the end of the mechanical pencil lead is not exposed when the case is open. The cover member has a back cover portion (slide back plate portion) with a flat inner surface, A sliding back wall portion (back surface portion) is formed on the surface of the case body that faces the back cover portion (sliding back panel portion) of the cover member. In a mechanical pencil lead case in which the lead dispensing opening can be opened and closed by sliding the ventral wall (abdomen) on the opposite side of the back wall (back surface) of the case body and the outer surface of the back cover (sliding back plate) of the cover member relative to each other, A locking mechanism is formed in at least one of the cover member or the case body, which, when operated, is displaced to a position where it enters and abuts into the engagement groove (keyhole portion) of the other, thereby restricting the relative sliding of the case body and the cover member and maintaining the closed state of the lead dispenser.

[0105] (12) In some embodiments, in the configuration of (11) above, The aforementioned mechanical pencil lead case is When the lead dispensing opening is open and the mechanical pencil lead is exposed, the locking mechanism is provided with a locking mechanism locking means that maintains the unlocked state.

[0106] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and also includes modified forms of the embodiments described above, as well as forms that combine these forms as appropriate.

[0107] In this specification, expressions describing relative or absolute arrangements such as "in a certain direction," "along a certain direction," "parallel," "orthogonal," "center," "concentric," or "coaxial" shall not only describe such arrangements strictly, but also describe states of relative displacement with tolerances or angles or distances that allow for the same function to be achieved. For example, expressions such as "identical," "equal," and "homogeneous" that describe things being in an equal state not only describe a state of being strictly equal, but also describe a state in which there is a tolerance or a difference that is sufficient to achieve the same function. Furthermore, in this specification, expressions describing shapes such as squares and cylinders refer not only to geometrically precise shapes such as squares and cylinders, but also to shapes that include uneven surfaces, chamfered surfaces, etc., to the extent that the same effect can be achieved. Furthermore, in this specification, the expressions “equipment,” “includes,” or “possess” of a component are not exclusive expressions that exclude the existence of other components. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0108] 1. Replacement lead case for mechanical pencils 2 Case body 2a Refill opening 2b Groove 2c bottom 2D convex part 2dd diagonal cut section 2e inner bottom 2f Dorsal wall (back plane) 2g Ventral wall (abdomen) 2h mating protrusion 2i Display 2j Tenbu 2k opening restriction wall 2l step part 2m recess 2n recess 2o recess 2p Rib 2q Inner wall surface 2r side wall 2s side wall 2t protrusion 2u convex part 2v protrusion 2w convex part 2x groove 2y Theft Club 2z recess 3. Replacement leads for mechanical pencils 4 Cover component 4a Engagement groove (keyhole section) 4b Movement restriction section (wall to prevent locking) 4c Required recess (required connection hole) 4d Opening cover section (cover section) 4e Rear cover section (sliding back panel section) 4f Opening control rib 4h protrusion 4i 1st side 4j Side wall part 4k 2nd side 4l Contact surface 4m groove 5 Locking member 5a Convex part 5b base 5c Side plate part (side wall part) 5d Side plate part (side wall part) 5e Bottom wall section 5f mating protrusion 5g core protrusion prevention wall 5h Tip surface 5i protrusion 5j protrusion 5k recess

Claims

1. A case body for storing replacement leads for mechanical pencils, A cover member that slides relative to the case body, thereby opening and closing the replacement lead dispensing opening of the case body, A locking member is configured to switch between an engaged state, where it is engaged with either the case body or the cover member, and an unengaged state, where it is not engaged with either the case body or the cover member, by moving in an intersecting direction that intersects the sliding direction of the cover member with respect to the case body and the cover member. Equipped with, The case body or the cover member, one of the two, includes a movement restricting portion for restricting the movement of the locking member in the intersecting direction when it is not engaged. A replacement lead case for mechanical pencils.

2. A case body for storing replacement leads for mechanical pencils, A cover member that slides relative to the case body, thereby opening and closing the replacement lead dispensing opening of the case body, A locking member is configured to switch between an engaged state, where it is engaged with either the case body or the cover member, and an unengaged state, where it is not engaged with either the case body or the cover member, by moving in an intersecting direction that intersects the sliding direction of the cover member with respect to the case body and the cover member. Equipped with, The locking member has a protrusion that protrudes in the direction toward one of the other parts of the case body or the cover member in the intersecting direction, The case body or the cover member, one of the two, has an engagement groove into which the protrusion can engage. The engagement state is a state in which the protrusion is engaged with the engagement groove, and the non-engagement state is a state in which the protrusion is not engaged with the engagement groove. A replacement lead case for mechanical pencils.

3. A case body for storing replacement leads for mechanical pencils, A cover member that slides in a fan shape around the connecting part relative to the case body, thereby opening and closing the replacement lead dispensing opening of the case body, A locking member is configured to switch between an engaged state, where it is engaged with either the case body or the cover member, and an unengaged state, where it is not engaged with either the case body or the cover member, by moving in an intersecting direction that intersects the sliding direction of the cover member with respect to the case body and the cover member. Equipped with, The case body is fitted into the locking member, The cover member is movable in the sliding direction relative to the case body and the locking member. A replacement lead case for mechanical pencils.

4. The aforementioned engagement state is a state in which the protrusion is fitted into the engagement groove with a gap between them. A replacement lead case for a mechanical pencil as described in claim 2.

5. The locking member has a protrusion that protrudes in the direction toward the other of the case body or the cover member in the intersecting direction, The case body or the cover member, one of the two, has an engagement groove into which the protrusion can engage. The aforementioned engagement state is a state in which the protrusion is fitted into the engagement groove with a gap between them. A replacement lead case for a mechanical pencil according to either claim 1 or claim 3.

6. In the disengaged state, the locking member does not protrude from the top of the case body in the intersecting direction for switching to the engaged state. A replacement lead case for a mechanical pencil according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The aforementioned case body is The case body includes at least a ventral wall portion and a dorsal wall portion that extend between the bottom and the refill dispensing opening and are opposite to each other, The positions of the ends of the ventral wall and the dorsal wall on the core removal side are different in the longitudinal direction. A replacement lead case for a mechanical pencil according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. The case body and / or the cover member, When the case body and the cover member rotate relative to each other in a fan shape, an opening restricting portion is formed to restrict such rotation. A replacement lead case for a mechanical pencil according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

9. The aforementioned case body is The case body includes at least a ventral wall portion and a dorsal wall portion that extend between the bottom of the case body and the refill dispensing opening and are opposite to each other, and a pair of side wall portions that connect the ventral wall portion and the dorsal wall portion, Ribs are formed on the inside of the case body, protruding from the ventral wall or the dorsal wall, and extending along the longitudinal direction of the case body. The distance between the rib and one of the side wall portions is different from the distance between the rib and the other of the side wall portions. A replacement lead case for a mechanical pencil according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

10. The distance between the rib and one of the side walls is greater than the thickness of one mechanical pencil lead contained in the case body, and less than or equal to twice that thickness. A replacement lead case for a mechanical pencil as described in claim 9.

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