Patent ID: 6910824
Filing Date: 2005-06-28
Classification: B43K

Abstract:
1. A writing instrument, comprising: an elongated first barrel portion that comprises an open first end through which a writing element is extendable, and an opposite open second end; a transparent, hollow second barrel portion that comprises an open third end and an opposite fourth end, wherein the third end is secured within the second end of the first barrel portion, and wherein the third end has an annular rim, an internal surface and an external surface; a fluid disposed within the hollow second barrel portion; and a plug disposed within the third end, wherein the plug prevents the fluid from escaping from the hollow second barrel portion, wherein the plug comprises a shank and a head portion connected to the shank, wherein the head portion extends radially outward from the shank to define a circumferential shoulder, wherein the shank is disposed within the third end and the shoulder is in contacting relationship with the annular rim, and wherein the head portion tapers radially inward such that the head portion does not contact an inside surface of the first barrel portion second end and such that flexure of the first and second barrel portions relative to one another does not cause the head portion to contact the inside surface of the first barrel portion second end.