Writing Implement with Helical Groove and Braking Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional writing implements face challenges in operability and operation feeling, with rotation-type implements being difficult to quickly project/retract and knock-type implements experiencing impact and noise during use.
Innovation Solution
A writing implement with a barrel, a writing body, a rotation member with a helical groove, and a pressing unit that allows for one-handed operation by relative movement and rotation, featuring a braking unit to decelerate rotation speed and enhance smoothness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rotation-type writing implement uses a rotation mechanism to project/retract the writing body, then smooth operation feeling is achieved, but quick projecting/retracting operation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines two operational modes: rotation of the head crown for smooth operation and axial pressing for quick projection/retraction. The pressing unit can be axially moved to quickly project or retract the writing body, while the rotation member provides smooth operation when rotated. This dynamic switching between operational modes resolves the contradiction between smooth operation feeling and quick projecting/retracting speed.
2Productivity
If a knock-type writing implement uses a knock member to project/retract the writing body, then one-handed operation and quick operation are achieved, but large impact and click-clack noises occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates a braking unit that applies frictional resistance to the rotation member during rotation. This frictional force acts as a cushioning mechanism that decelerates the rotation member, preventing sudden impacts and reducing click-clack noises when the writing body is projected or retracted. The braking unit thus beforehand cushions the harmful effects of rapid movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention converts the potentially harmful frictional resistance into a beneficial braking force. The frictional resistance, which could normally be considered a harmful force opposing motion, is deliberately utilized through the braking unit to control the speed of the rotation member, reduce impact, and minimize noise. This transforms a harmful factor into a benefit for smoother and quieter operation.
3Ease of operation
If frictional resistance of the rotation mechanism is decreased for smooth operation, then operation feeling improves, but control over the writing body becomes less stable
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the frictional resistance parameter dynamically through the braking unit. When the rotation member rotates, the braking unit applies frictional resistance to decelerate it, providing stability and control. The frictional resistance is not fixed but is controlled through the braking mechanism, allowing smooth operation when needed while providing stability when required. This parameter change resolves the contradiction between smooth operation and stable control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables quiet, smooth, and efficient one-handed projection/retraction of the writing body, improving both operability and operation feeling with a suitable click sensation and reduced risk of impact.
Implementation Method 1
a braking unit having a contact member that is in contact with the rotation member, and urging means that urges the contact member with respect to the barrel in the axial direction so as to bear the contact member against the rotation member
Data Source
AI summary
A writing implement includes: a barrel; a writing body supported by the barrel so as to be relatively movable with respect to the barrel in an axial direction thereof, whereby the writing body is projected from and retracted into a front end of the barrel; a rotation member disposed in the barrel so as to be relatively rotatable with respect to the barrel about an axis thereof, the rotation member being provided with a groove or a slit that helically extends about the axis; and a pressing unit having a moving unit that moves in the groove or the slit, the pressing unit being relatively movable with respect to the barrel in the axial direction, while its relative rotation about the axis being restricted; wherein the pressing unit can be pressed forward with respect to the barrel.