Patent ID: 6392635
Filing Date: 2002-05-21
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
An electromechanical, data input device including a case, electronic circuitry, and an electrical cord connecting said circuitry, by passing readily through a hole in the case to an external connector that is adapted to connect the device to a data receiver, comprising:a cord control means for storage, deployment and retraction of said cord respectively in, from and into the case, said cord control means further comprising a flanged, spring-biased reel, rotatably mounted on a spindle member, the reel having peripherally about at least one flanged end thereof a series of notches, a pawl member comprising a pivotally mounted, spring-biased lever, a fulcrum means disposed pivotally and proximate a side of the case, a tang portion at a first end of the lever for an engagement with and a disengagement from any notch of said series of notches and a second end of the lever presented outwardly of the case, whereby depressing and releasing said second end of the lever causes, respectively, tang disengagement from and engagement with any notch; a securing means for fixing the cord temporarily at a deployed position, said securing means comprising a circular distention of the perimeter of the hole, effecting an essentially figure â€œ8â€  shape, said distension having a diameter smaller than that of the cord, whereby inserting the cord thereinto effects capture and fixing of the cord at the deployed position; and a connector storing means comprising a pocket in the case that is substantially receptive of the connector.