Writing instrument with a sheet material dispenser

In one embodiment of a writing instrument with a tape flan dispenser, a writing instrument has a body portion, a writing tip, and a flag dispenser chat can be attached to and detached from the body portion. The flag dispenser holds a supply of tape flags, such as a folded stack of tape flags, which can be removed through an opening in the dispenser. The flag dispenser can be, for example, a cap that covers the writing tip or an attachment that affixes to an end of the body portion. In another embodiment, a writing instrument has a body portion, a writing tip, a flag dispenser integrally incorporated into the body portion, a containing section housed in the flag dispenser, and an opening in the containing section through which tape flags can be issued.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

1. Field of the Disclosure

The disclosure relates generally to writing instruments and, more particularly, to a writing instrument with a sheet material dispenser.

2. Related Art

Writing instruments such as highlighters, markers, pens, and pencils are used to mark passages in books, magazines, newspapers, and other printed publications. Highlighters of a variety of colors are very commonly used to emphasize text in printed publications. For instance, Sanford Corporation L. P. (Bellwood, Ill.) produces ACCENT® highlighters, which come in many different colors. Such highlighters are well received by students, teachers, and those in the legal profession.

Further, people may mark pages of printed publications. One method of locating a particular page of a printed publication such as a book is to apply a tape flag to mark a page for future reference. In particular, the tape flag may include an adhesive portion and a non-adhesive portion. The adhesive portion may be applied to a surface (e.g., a page of the book) while the non-adhesive portion may be a visual indicator. For example, the non-adhesive portion may be a variety of colors and/or shapes. Another use of tape flags is to mark a section of a page. Accordingly, the non-adhesive portion may also be a variety of letters, numbers, and/or messages. For example, the non-adhesive portion may include a message such as “Sign Here,” “Notarize,” “Initial Here,” or “Sign & Date.”

Because a variety of writing instruments and tape flag dispensers are used to mark passages in printed publications, this necessarily requires purchasing, carrying, and/or using many separate individual products. Integrating a writing instrument and a tape flag dispenser into a single product can reduce the inconveniences of purchasing, carrying, and/or using many separate individual products.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Described herein are writing instruments with sheet material dispensers. In one of the various embodiments, a writing instrument includes a body portion and a cap portion. The body portion includes a first end and a second end. Further, the body portion in this embodiment is configured to hold a marking element that extends from an opening at the first end. The cap portion is configured to cover an exposed portion of the marking element to preserve a fluid or ink of the marking element when the writing instrument is not being used. In this embodiment of the writing instrument, the cap portion is also configured to dispense sheet material, such as tape flags. For example, the cap portion may include a barrel portion and a base portion. A roll of tape flags may be secured around the barrel portion. The base portion may include an opening so that an end of a roll of tape flags may be dispensed from the cap portion of the writing instrument.

In another of the various embodiments, the writing instrument includes a removable sheet material dispenser other than the cap. The dispenser may include a base portion configured to hold a roll or a stack of sheet material, such as tape flags. A base portion may include an opening so that an end of the roll or the stack of tape flags can be dispensed from the tape flag dispenser. The dispenser may be configured to engage the body portion of the writing instrument at the second end so that the writing instrument and the tape flag dispenser are coupled into a single component.

In a particular embodiment, a writing instrument has a body portion, a writing tip held by the body portion, and a flag dispenser that can be attached to and detached from the body portion. The flag dispenser has an inner barrel and an outer housing, with a containing section formed in between the inner barrel and the outer housing. The outer housing of the dispenser has an opening with dimensions that allow a tape flag to be fit through the opening. The containing section is dimensioned to hold a supply of one or more tape flags, which can be removed through the opening in the dispenser. The body portion of the writing instrument has a neck portion, with the writing tip extending from the neck portion.

In one implementation, the flag dispenser is a cap that can be attached to the neck portion, covering the writing tip. In another embodiment, the flag dispenser is attached to an end of the body portion.

The sheet material may be a stack of individual tape flags. Alternatively, the sheet material may be a roll of individual tape flags or a roll of adhesive tape suitable for being cut into individual tape flags. The body portion of the writing instrument has a substantially cylindrical cross section or a substantially polygonal cross section. The opening in the outer housing is preferably a slit aligned in the direction of an axis of the body portion, and the containing section preferably houses a roll of tape flags that are issued radially through the opening. Alternatively, the opening can be a slit aligned perpendicular to the direction of an axis of the body portion, and the containing section can house a stack of tape flags issued axially through the opening. The flag dispenser is preferably refillable, with access available to replenish the supply of tape flags. Alternatively, the flag dispenser can be made disposable, with no access to the supply of tape flags.

In another embodiment, a writing instrument has a body portion, a writing tip held by the body portion, a flag dispenser integrally incorporated into the body portion, a containing section housed in the flag dispenser and adapted to hold one or more tape flags, and an opening in the containing section through which tape flags can be issued.

This disclosure will describe several embodiments to illustrate its broad teachings. Reference is also made to the attached drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring toFIGS. 1 and 2, a writing instrument generally designated100includes a body portion110and a cap portion120. The writing instrument100may be, but is not limited to, a highlighter, a marker, a pen, or a pencil. The body portion110may have a cylindrical bottle-like configuration extending from a first end140to a second end145. In particular, the body portion110may include a neck section147proximate to the first end140and a tubular section149extending toward the second end145from the neck section147. The body portion110may be configured to hold a marking element150, which extends through an opening of the neck section147to apply a fluid or ink to a surface (e.g., a page in a book). The cap portion120may be configured to engage the neck section147of the body portion110to cover an exposed portion of the marking element150(i.e., the portion of the marking element150extending from the opening of the neck section147). In particular, the cap portion120may include a barrel portion160, a base portion170, and a top portion180. The barrel portion160may be an elongated central section of the cap portion120so that the neck section147and the exposed portion of the marking element150can be inserted into the barrel portion160when the writing instrument100is not being used. As a result, the fluid or ink of the marking element150can be preserved from drying out.

The cap portion120may also be configured to store and to dispense sheet material, such as tape flags. As generally known in the art, a tape flag may comprise a sheet of paper, plastic, or other material having an adhesive portion and a non-adhesive portion. The material may be provided in any desired color and may bear any desired indicia or message. While the embodiments are described herein specifically with reference to dispensing tape flags, it will be appreciated that the dispensers may be used to dispense other types of sheet material.

As best shown inFIG. 1, a plurality of tape flags is provided as a stack of tape flags that has been folded transversely to create a bent stack of tape flags. While the illustrated transverse fold is gradual to form the stack of tape flags in a generally cylindrical shape, it will be appreciated that the transverse fold may be more abrupt to create a V- or compressed C-shape. The tape flags may be inserted as a unit into the cap portion120over the barrel portion160, so that the tape flags190are disposed radially about the barrel portion160. An end195of the tape flags190can pass through an opening175that may extend axially along the base portion170. The opening175may be configured to a size and shape so that the end195of tape flags190may extend through the opening175. For example, the opening175may be, but is not limited to, a slot, a slit, or a notch. Accordingly, the tape flags can be dispensed radially relative to the writing instrument100from the cap portion120through the opening175. To secure the tape flags190within the cap portion120, the top portion180may engage the barrel portion160or the base portion170. For example, the top portion180may be, but is not limited to, an annular ring inserted through the barrel portion160.

A tape flag can be dispensed from the writing instrument100by pulling the end195of the tape flags190through the opening175. If the tape flags are provided as a continuous roll, perforations or other separation means may be formed throughout the continuous roll190to facilitate separation of a leading end from the remainder of the roll. The tape flags190may be free to rotate around the barrel portion160so that a pulling force applied to separate the leading flag from the roll190also positions a subsequent flag in the opening175. When the writing instrument100is in use (i.e., the cap portion120is disengaged from the body portion110at the first end140to expose the marking element150), the cap portion120can be inserted into the second end145of the body portion120for storage.

Because the top portion180is removable from the cap portion120, the writing instrument100can be refilled and/or changed with a new supply of tape flags, which may take the form of a continuous roll, rolled or bent stack, or other configuration as needed. To replace the tape flags190, a user first removes top portion180, and then removes a central support core (if any) of the old tape flags from barrel portion160. The user then aligns a new supply of tape flags with the barrel portion160and slides the new supply adjacent the barrel portion160. The user then draws a leading edge of a tape flag195through opening175. Top portion180is then replaced onto base portion170, enclosing the new roll of tape flags.

As described above, the cap portion120of the writing instrument100may be configured to dispense tape flags. Alternatively, the body portion110may be configured to dispense tape flags in a similar fashion. The writing instrument100may be coupled to a separate removable tape flag dispenser as an “add-on” component. That is, the writing instrument100and the removable tape flag dispenser may be separate sub-components that may be integrated into a single, composite component.

Referring toFIGS. 3 and 4, a writing instrument200may include a body portion210, a cap portion220, and a tape flag dispenser230. Similar to the body portion110of the writing instrument100described in conjunction withFIGS. 1 and 2, the body portion210may have a cylindrical bottle-like configuration extending from a first end240to a second end245. In particular, the body portion210may include a neck section (not shown) proximate to the first end240and a tubular section249extending from the neck section toward the second end245. The body portion210may be configured to hold a marking element (not shown), which extends through an opening of the neck section to apply a fluid or ink to a surface. To cover the exposed portion of the marking element, the cap portion220of the writing instrument200may be configured to engage the neck section of the body portion210. To use the writing instrument200, the cap portion220may be disengaged from the body portion210at the neck section so that the marking element may be exposed to a surface.

As noted above, the writing instrument200may include a separate component to dispense tape flags. The tape flag dispenser230may be configured to engage the tubular section249of the body portion210at the second end245. In particular, the tape flag dispenser230may include a barrel portion260, and a base portion270. A supply of tape flags290may be inserted into the tape flag dispenser230adjacent the barrel portion260, so that the tape flags290are disposed radially about the barrel portion260. The base portion270may include an opening275extending axially along a length of the base portion270. The opening275may be configured to a particular size and shape so that an end295of the tape flags290can extend through the opening275. For example, the opening275can be, but is not limited to, a slot, a slit, or a notch. Accordingly, the tape flags can be dispensed radially relative to the writing instrument200from the tape flag dispenser230through the opening275. To secure the tape flags290within the tape flag dispenser230, the tubular section249of the body portion210at the second end245can be configured to receive the tape flag dispenser230via the barrel portion260. Accordingly, the body portion210and the tape flag dispenser230can be coupled together into the writing instrument200.

Because the tape flag dispenser230is removable from the body portion210, the writing instrument200can be refilled with and/or changed with new tape flags as needed. To replace the tape flags290, a user first removes tape flag dispenser230from the second end245of body portion210, and then removes a central support core (if any) of an old supply of tape flags from barrel portion260. The user then aligns a new supply of tape flags with the barrel portion260and slides the new supply adjacent to the barrel portion260. The user then draws a leading edge of a tape flag295through opening275. Tape flag dispenser230is then replaced onto the second end245of body portion210, enclosing the new supply of tape flags.

Although the tape flag dispenser230described above is particularly well suited for a body portion having a cylindrical shape, persons of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that the teachings herein are not limited to such a writing instrument with such a particular shape. Persons of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that the body portion may have a cross-section of other shapes such as, but not limited to, a square or a triangle. Accordingly, the tape flag dispenser230may be configured to engage a body portion having any one of those shapes.

Instead of generally cylindrical or bent configurations as described above, tape flags may be stacked vertically on top of each other. Typically, for example, a tape flag may include an adhesive portion and a non-adhesive portion. The adhesive portion of a first tape flag may engage the non-adhesive portion of a second tape flag. Subsequent tape flags may engage one another in a similar manner. Accordingly, tape flags may be dispensed axially relative to the writing instrument. Referring toFIGS. 5 and 6, a writing instrument300may include a body portion310, a cap portion320, and a tape flag dispenser330. The body portion310and the cap portion320may be configured similar to the body portions110,210and the cap portions120,220, respectively, described above. In particular, the body portion310may have a cylindrical bottle-like configuration extending from a first end340to a second end345. Further, the body portion310may include a neck section (not shown) proximate to the first end340and a tubular section349extending toward the second end345from the neck section. The body portion310may be configured to hold a marking element (not shown), which extends through an opening of the neck section to apply a fluid or ink to a surface. To cover the exposed portion of the marking element, the cap portion320of the writing instrument300may be configured to engage the neck section of the body portion310. To use the writing instrument300, the cap portion320can be disengaged from the body portion310at the neck section so that the marking element can be exposed to a surface.

Here, however, the tape flag dispenser330may be configured to store and to dispense a stack of tape flags390rather than a roll of tape flags. In particular, the flag dispenser330may include a top portion360, and a base portion370. The top portion360may be configured to engage the tubular section349of the body portion310at the second end345. To store and secure the stack of tape flags390, the top portion360can be inserted into the body portion310at the second end345as shown inFIG. 6.

The outer surface diameter of the base portion370may be greater than the outer surface diameter of the top portion360. Thus, the outer surface of the base portion370of the tape flag dispenser330may be flush with the outer surface of the tubular section349of the body portion310. In particular, the base portion370may include an opening375configured to a particular size and shape so that an end395of the stack of tape flags may extend through the opening375. For example, the opening375may be, but is not limited to, a slot, a slit, and a notch. Accordingly, tape flags can be dispensed axially from the writing instrument300.

Because the tape flag dispenser330is removable from the body portion310, the writing instrument300can be refilled with and/or changed to a new stack of tape flags390as needed. To replace the stack of tape flags390, a user first removes tape flag dispenser330from the second end345of body portion310, and then removes a support base (if any) of an old stack of tape flags from a stack receptacle365in the tape flag dispenser330. The user then inserts a new stack of tape flags into the stack receptacle365in the tape flag dispenser330. The user then draws a leading edge of a tape flag395through opening375. Tape flag dispenser330is then replaced onto the second end345of body portion310, enclosing the new stack of tape flags.

Another example of a writing instrument configured to dispense a stack of tape flags is shown inFIGS. 7 and 8. The writing instrument400may include a body portion410, a cap portion420, and a tape flag dispenser430. The body portion410and the cap portion420may be configured similar to the body portions110,210,310and the cap portions120,220,320, respectively, described above. In particular, the body portion410may have a cylindrical bottle-like configuration extending from a first end440to a second end445. Further, the body portion410may include a neck section (not shown) proximate to the first end440and a tubular section449extending toward the second end445from the neck section. The body portion410may be configured to hold a marking element (not shown), which extends through an opening of the neck section to apply a fluid or ink to a surface. To cover the exposed portion of the marking element, the cap portion420of the writing instrument400may be configured to engage the neck section of the body portion410. To use the writing instrument400, the cap portion420can be disengaged from the body portion410at the neck section so that the marking element may be exposed to a surface.

Here, the tape flag dispenser430may include a mounting portion460, and a base portion470. The inner surface of the mounting portion460may be configured to store a stack of tape flags490and to mount onto the tubular section449of the body portion410. For example, the outer surface of the tubular section449of the body portion410may be cylindrical. Accordingly, the inner surface of the mounting portion460may be concaved so that the tape flag dispenser430can be coupled to the body portion410. The mounting portion460may extend over a length of the outer surface of the tubular section449of the body portion410to secure the stack of tape flags490to the body portion410. The stack of tape flags490may be disposed on a portion of the tubular section449proximate to the second end445. In particular, a first portion491of the stack of tape flags490can be secured to the outer surface of body portion410by the mounting portion460of the tape flag dispenser430. A second portion492of the stack of tape flags490can be stored within the base portion470. The mounting portion460and the base portion470may form an opening475such as, but is not limited to, a slot, a slit, and a notch. The opening475is configured to a particular size and shape so that an end495of the stack of tape flags490can extend through the opening475. Accordingly, the tape flags can be dispensed axially from the writing instrument400.

Because the tape flag dispenser430is removable from the body portion410, the writing instrument400can be refilled with and/or changed to a new stack of tape flags as needed. To replace the stack of tape flags490, a user first removes tape flag dispenser430from the second end445of body portion410, and then removes a support base (if any) of an old stack of tape flags from a stack receptacle465in the tape flag dispenser430. The user then inserts a new stack of tape flags into the stack receptacle465in the tape flag dispenser430. The user then draws a leading edge of a tape flag495through opening475. Tape flag dispenser430is then replaced onto the second end445of body portion410, enclosing the new stack of tape flags.

The tape flags used can be stored in a variety of configurations. For example, the tape flags can be arranged as a stack of tape flags or in a roll of tape flags, as noted above. More particularly, in one version the roll of tape flags is a continuous roll of tape flags that have a unidirectional spiral structure. Another version of the roll of tape flags uses a stack of tape flags that has been subsequently bent or curled into the shape of a cylindrical roll. These two versions of the roll of tape flags have slightly different behaviors as their flags are withdrawn, and the particular dimensions of a tape flag dispenser can be modified accordingly. In one version of the tape flag dispenser, the dimensions are chosen so the tape flag dispenser can hold and dispense either a continuous roll of tape flags or a roll of tape flags made from a stack of tape flags rolled into a cylindrical shape.

FIGS. 9 and 10illustrate an add-on flag dispenser that can be attached to a writing instrument. In this embodiment, a flag cartridge901holding a supply of tape flags is configured to be attached to a highlighter950. The flag cartridge901is preferably made of a partially pliable material, such as a plastic, and has a nub902, a recess903, and an opening such as slot909for dispensing tape flags931. The nub902and recess903are preferably disposed at opposite ends of flag cartridge901, with slot909located in a central portion of flag cartridge901. Highlighter950has a body951and a cap960that is attached to one end of the body951for covering a writing tip (not shown). The body951includes a sidewall951aand a rear wall951benclosing a rear end of the body951. The rear wall951is disposed at an end of the body951and has a recess953. A nub902is formed on cap960.

The attachment between highlighter950and flag cartridge901is preferably a frictional or squeeze-fit attachment between nub902of flag cartridge901and recess953of highlighter950. Nub902is dimensioned so that it fits snugly into recess953. That is, this fit is chosen so that it is tight enough to hold firmly the mass of flag cartridge901, but not so tight as to binder manual removal of flag cartridge901from highlighter950.

On some versions of highlighter950, nub962of cap960is dimensioned to similarly fit into recess953when flag cartridge901is detached from highlighter950. Accordingly, in a corresponding embodiment of flag cartridge901, nub902of flag cartridge901has the same dimensions as nub962of cap960. In a preferred embodiment of flag cartridge901, recess903of flag cartridge901also has the same dimensions as recess953of highlighter950. With the recesses and nubs matching in this way, cap960can be stacked either onto highlighter950(when flag cartridge901is not present), or onto flag cartridge901(when flag cartridge901is attached to highlighter950).

Depending on the dimensions of recess903in flag cartridge901, the flag cartridge901may or may not fit over the writing tip normally covered by cap960. Thus, in some embodiments of the add-on flag dispenser, flag cartridge901can serve as a replacement for cap960. In other embodiments, flag cartridge901cannot replace cap960.

FIGS. 11 and 12are closer views of flag cartridge901.FIG. 11is a top isometric view of flag cartridge901, andFIG. 12is a bottom isometric view of flag cartridge901. The figures show one implementation of the flag cartridge901, with nub902, recess903, and slot909. Tape flag931is shown extending through slot909, ready to be gripped and removed by a user.

As shown inFIG. 11, flag cartridge901has a substantially cylindrical geometry, with radial symmetry. In other implementations, flag cartridge901can be constructed with other shapes, such as with square, triangular, or other polygonal or even irregular cross sections. Recess903is shown inFIG. 11as an indentation into one of the ends of the cylindrical structure of the flag cartridge901, and slot909is shown aligned on the outer surface of the cylindrical structure, aligned in parallel with an axis of the cylindrical structure. This arrangement of slot901can be particularly useful for dispensing tape flags931that are stored inside flag cartridge901as a continuous roll of tape flags, as a helical roll of separate tape flags, or as a stack of tape flags folded into the shape of a cylindrical roll. In these cases, tape flags are dispensed radially from flag cartridge901.

In an alternative arrangement (not shown), the slot909can be aligned perpendicular to the axis of the cylindrical structure. In this arrangement, the tape flags are dispensed axially from flag cartridge901. This alternative can be well suited for flag cartridges in which the tape flags are stored as a stack rather than as a roll. In yet another arrangement, the slot909can be disposed on an end of the flag cartridge, replacing (or displacing) either the recess903or the nub901that are shown inFIG. 11.

The close-up view ofFIG. 11also illustrates that flag cartridge901can be sculpted with a desirable shape that is not completely cylindrical. For example, the flag cartridge901as illustrated inFIG. 11has a tapered conical-like structure, so that its diameter decreases along its length from a larger diameter near the end with nub902to a smaller diameter at the end with recess903. Such a taper or other detail in the structure might serve a functional purpose, such as making the flag cartridge easier to grip and easier to remove from a writing instrument.

The recess903of flag cartridge901is shown inFIG. 11as having a cylindrical inner surface that tapers closed at its innermost depth, with an inner diameter chosen to securely clasp a nub of a cap or a neck of a writing instrument inserted into the recess. In other embodiments of the flag cartridge, the recess903can be equipped with radial slats or circumferential ridges to assist in the clasping operation.

FIG. 12is a shifted view of the flag cartridge901fromFIG. 11. This view shows the nub902of flag cartridge901. Nub902preferably has a cylindrical structure attached to the body of flag cartridge901with a rounded end protruding away from the body of flag cartridge901. Alternatively, nub902can be formed with a non-circular cross section, to appropriately match writing instruments with non-circular recesses. And rather than having a nub with a rounded end, further embodiments of flag cartridge901can be made with flat-ended or point-ended nubs.

Further, nub902can be replaced or supplemented by other structures for attaching to writing instruments. For example, instead of a nub, flag cartridge901can be equipped with a recess that appropriately matches a nub or protuberance on other writing instruments (not shown). Alternatively (or additionally), further embodiments of flag cartridge901can employ adhesive or screw-on structures for attaching to a writing instrument.

In some implementations, flag cartridge901is a disposable unit, pre-filled with a limited supply of tape flags. In other implementations, flag cartridge901is a refillable unit that can be re-stocked with a fresh supply of tape flags as needed.

FIG. 13shows an exploded view of a refillable embodiment of flag cartridge901. In this embodiment, flag cartridge901includes a cartridge base972, a dispenser housing, an example of which is a cartridge cap973, and a supply of tape flags912. Cartridge cap973has a tapered outer shell904that is open at one end, and closed at the other end where recess903is formed. An outer slot979is located on the tapered outer shell904of the cap973, and extends to the edge of the open end of outer shell904of the cap973. Cartridge base972has a partially cylindrical inner shell907and an end cover906. Nub902is mounted on end cover906. End cover906is also attached to a first end of inner shell907, and closes off that first end of inner shell907. An opposing end of inner shell907is open and unattached to any other elements of the base972.

Inner shell907has an outer diameter that is equal to or smaller than the inner diameter of the outer shell904. Thus, the open end of inner shell907can be fit into the open end of outer shell904, forming an enclosure for tape flags. The diameters of outer and inner shells904and907are selected so that the enclosure for tape flags has appropriate dimensions to hold the supply of tape flags912. Further, these diameters are preferably chosen so that outer and inner shells904and907fit snugly together: the cylindrical shells904and907can be firmly attached to one another, but are readily separated for refilling.

An inner slot978is formed on inner shell907at a location that can match the placement of outer slot979on outer shell904. That is, when outer and inner shells904and907are fit together, outer slot979is located over inner slot978, thereby creating slot909(fromFIGS. 11 and 12) that communicates into the enclosure for tape flags.

With cartridge cap973separated from cartridge base972—that is, with the flag cartridge “open”—the supply of tape flags912can be inserted into the inner shell907of cartridge base972, with a leading tape flag931extending through inner slot978. Inner shell907can then be inserted into outer shell904—to “close” flag cartridge901—while ensuring that tape flag931also extends through outer slot979.

The end cover906of cartridge base972preferably also includes an extension that reaches radially outwards beyond an outer surface of inner shell907. This extension servers as a stopper for cartridge cap973, when cartridge cap973is being placed onto cartridge base972.

While this depiction of a refillable flag cartridge involves round-like structures, such as outer and inner shells904and907, as noted above, other geometries (triangular or other polygonal cross sections) can be used as appropriate to a particular application.

Depending on a specific implementation, it is noted that flag cartridge901can be configured for use as a replacement for cap portion120ofFIGS. 1 and 2. Also, flag cartridge901can be configured for use as a replacement for tape flag dispenser230ofFIGS. 3 and 4.

In other versions of the refillable add-on flag dispenser, the cartridge base can be integrally attached onto an end of a writing instrument, so that the writing instrument is prepared to receive a cartridge cap and tape flags.FIGS. 14 and 15illustrate an embodiment of such a writing instrument. In these figures, a highlighter1401has a body portion1410suitable for being gripped by a user. At opposing ends of the body portion1410are a back end1411and a writing end1412. A removable cap1420is affixed at the writing end1412, covering and protecting a writing tip (not shown).

As illustrated inFIG. 14, a base portion1472is mounted on the back end1411of highlighter1401. Base portion1472includes a cylindrical-like inner shell1407(corresponding to inner shell907fromFIG. 13), an inner slot1478(corresponding to inner slot978fromFIG. 13), and an end cover1406(corresponding to end cover906fromFIG. 13). End cover1406serves a dual role: one side of end cover1406is a mounting surface for inner shell1407, while the opposite side of cover1406closes the back end1411of highlighter1401.

A cartridge cap (such as cartridge cap973fromFIG. 13) can be affixed to base portion1472, creating an enclosure therein for a supply of tape flags as discussed earlier in the discussion ofFIG. 13. Since base portion1472is mounted directly onto highlighter1401, the cartridge cap973and the highlighter1401make a useful two-component system.

As shown inFIG. 15, base portion1472can be covered by a cosmetic non-dispensing rear cap1430when the cartridge cap973is not present. Thus, if no tape flags are desired by a user of this embodiment, the supply of tape flags and the cartridge cap973can be removed or discarded. The non-dispensing rear cap1430has no slot for dispensing tape flags. In a preferred embodiment, non-dispensing rear cap1430is provided with a recess1433that is similar to recess903and into which cap1420can be affixed when highlighter1401is being used to write or draw.

The above-described embodiments involve housings that hold a supply of tape flags. As noted in the discussion ofFIGS. 1-15, tape flags can be stored in a variety of configurations in highlighters and other writing instruments. The tape flags can be stored, for example, in continuous or perforated rolls, in stacks, or in folder or rolled stacks. Different geometries can be selected as needed for various implementations of a writing instrument-flag dispenser combination. For example, rolled stacks of tape flags can be particularly suitable for tape flag dispensers that dispense flags in a radial direction and are removably mounted on an end of a writing instrument.

FIGS. 16-26illustrate a variety of techniques for storing tape flags in or on a writing instrument. These techniques can be readily used in combination with the above-described embodiments of and other writing instruments.

FIG. 16illustrates a side cross-section of one embodiment of a tape-flag housing mounted on or in a writing instrument, such as the writing instruments described above in the discussion ofFIGS. 5-8. In this embodiment, the housing includes four side walls1610, a top wall1612, and a lower wall1620. (In this cross-section, only two of the four side walls are shown.) Lower wall1620is formed from the outer surface of a writing instrument. Alternatively, lower wall1620can be the inner surface of a removable housing, or the inner surface of a removable tape-flag dispenser. Side walls1610extend from lower wall1620, and top wall1612extends from side walls1610. Together the walls1610,1612, and1620form an enclosure1615into which a supply of tape flags1630can be stored. A slot1640is disposed in top wall1612, through which a tape flag1631can be removed from the supply of tape flags1630.

The assembly of side, top, and lower walls1610,1612, and1620can preferably be disassembled, so that the enclosure1615can be opened for replacing the supply of tape flags1630. For example, the side walls1610can be attached to lower wall1620by frictional tab-slot couplings. Thus, side walls1610can be made detachable from lower wall1620, allowing chamber1615to be opened and the supply of tape flags1630to be replaced.

Alternatively, a cartridge such as the assembly inFIG. 16can be permanent, so that the assembly of side, top, and lower walls1610,1612, and1620can not be disassembled, making the supply of tape flags1630un-replaceable. This alternative would be useful in a disposable implementation of a flag cartridge, or in a disposable implementation of a writing instrument with a tape-flag supply. Such an implementation could lower production costs and allow users the convenience and/or reduced cost of having a disposable unit.

As shown in the side cross-sectional view ofFIG. 16, the enclosure1615for the supply of tape flags1630has an inner space that is larger than the dimensions of a supply of tape flags. Thus, there is room inside enclosure1615for the supply of tape flags to “float” or move at least slightly within the enclosure. In this implementation, the slot1640through which tape flags are removed can preferably be made narrow, since the supply of tape flags1630can move enough to properly re-align itself as needed with the slot1640.

FIG. 17shows a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a tape flag housing suitable for mounting on or in a writing instrument, such as the writing instruments described above in the discussion ofFIGS. 5-8. Here the tape flag housing includes side and lower walls1610and1620, supply of tape flags1630, and an extending tape flag1631as described above with respect toFIG. 16. This embodiment also has a top wall1712with a slot1740that is preferably wider than the slot1640that was presented inFIG. 16. An enclosure1715is formed by the walls1610,1712, and1620, and is dimensioned so that enclosure1715closely fits around the supply of tape flags1630. In this case, the supply of flags1630is fixed at its edges by walls1610,1712, and1620, and is substantially constrained from moving or rattling in the enclosure1715. Accordingly, slot1740in top walls1612is preferably made wide, so that tape flags can readily be drawn through the slot1740.

FIG. 18shows a top cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a tape-flag housing suitable for mounting on or integral with a writing instrument, such as the writing instruments described above in the discussion ofFIGS. 1-4. Here, tape flags are loosely stored in a cylindrical-like housing suitable for mounting on the end of a writing instrument. In this embodiment, a cylindrical-like shell1820has an inner enclosure1815and a slot1840. A supply of tape flags1830is housed in the inner enclosure1815, with room to move or rotate at least slightly within the inner enclosure1815. A tape flag1831can be drawn from the supply of tape flags through the slot1840in the shell1820. In this embodiment, slot1840is preferably made narrow.

FIGS. 19A and 19Bshow a further embodiment of a tape-flag housing1900, in which tape flags are tightly stored in a round housing suitable for mounting on or in a writing instrument, such as the writing instruments described above in the discussion ofFIGS. 1-4.FIG. 19Ais a top cross-sectional view andFIG. 19Bis an angled side view of this tape-flag housing1900. Tape-flag housing1900includes a partial cylindrical shell1920, an edge-blocking portion1927, and a central blocking portion1921. The edge-blocking portion1927is connected to and located between partial cylindrical shell1920and central blocking portion1921.

In this embodiment, partial cylindrical shell1920subtends a grasping region1915(marked by dashed lines). A supply of tape flags1930, such as a rolled stack of tape flags, is clasped at edges1925by partial cylindrical shell1920. The edges1925of the supply of tape flags1930are pressed against edge-blocking portion1927, and a middle portion of the supply of tape flags1930is supported by central block1921. In a preferred implementation, partial cylindrical shell1920is a C-clamp structure for grasping the tape flags. A tape flag1931can be drawn directly from the supply of tape flags1930and pulled away from the grasping region1915. The edge-blocking portion1927, partial cylindrical shell1920, and central blocking portion1921are preferably mounted integrally onto an end of a highlighter or other writing instrument, as discussed above (for example, with reference toFIG. 14). Alternatively, these components can be incorporated into a removable tape-flag dispenser, as was also discussed above (for example, with reference toFIG. 13).

FIG. 20illustrates one embodiment of a tape-flag housing2000that can be incorporated into a writing instrument or into a tape-flag dispenser, such as the embodiments of writing instruments and dispensers discussed above-with respect toFIGS. 1-4,9-15,18, and19. The housing2000is formed of a cylindrical shell2020within which is a chamber2025. The chamber2025has dimensions suitable for holding a supply of tape flags2030. In a preferred, implementation, housing2000is used as an inner-shell portion with a base or a writing instrument that has an outer-shell portion (such as904fromFIG. 13, so that shell2020replaces inner-shells907or1407). Housing2000can thus serve as an outer shell for a tape-flag chamber. In a preferred version of the housing2000, the chamber2025is dimensioned to hold a rolled or folded stack2030of approximately 35 (20 to 50) tape flags. Disposed on the surface of cylindrical shell2020is a narrow slot2040aligned in an axial direction. This slot2040is sufficiently wide to allow a single leading tape flag2031to be drawn through the slot2040, but narrow enough to prevent the supply of tape flags2030from being withdrawn through the slot2040. Thus, in refillable implementations of the writing instrument or tape-flag dispenser, the supply of tape flags2030can be reloaded through an open top section of the chamber—that is, reloaded in an axial direction.

FIG. 21illustrates another embodiment of a tape-flag housing2100that can be incorporated into a writing instrument or into a tape-flag dispenser, such as the embodiments of writing instruments and dispensers discussed above with respect toFIGS. 1-4,9-15,18, and19. The housing2100is formed of a cylindrical-like shell2120that corresponds to shell2020fromFIG. 20, within which is a chamber2125. The chamber2125has dimensions suitable for holding a supply of tape flags2130. In a preferred version of the housing2100, the chamber2125is dimensioned to hold a rolled or folded stack2130of approximately 35 tape flags. Disposed on the surface of cylindrical shell2120is a wide slot2140, with a width substantially larger than in the embodiment depicted inFIG. 20. Slot2140is preferably aligned in an axial direction. This slot2140is sufficiently wide to allow a folded supply of tape flags2130to be inserted through the slot2140. Thus, in refillable implementations of the writing instrument or tape-flag dispenser, the supply of tape flags2130can be reloaded through slot2140—that is, reloaded in a radial direction.

To obtain a tape flag from housing2100, a user grasps a flag from a back portion of folded stack2130and withdraws the flag through slot2140. Folded stack2130is preferably configured so that once a first tape flag is obtained in this manner, subsequent tape flags are released in sequence. That is, one after another, free ends of successive tape flags protrude through slot2140after their predecessors have been withdrawn, facilitating the grasping of tape flags by the user.

FIGS. 22,23, and24illustrate pre-packaged tape-flag holders that can be used with a highlighter or other writing instrument, such as the embodiments of writing instruments discussed above. In general, as shown inFIG. 22, a pre-packaged unit has a containing shell2220dimensioned to hold a supply of tape flags. A slot2240is provided in the shell2220, and configured so that tape flags can be issued through the slot2240from the supply of tape flags in the shell2220.

FIG. 23depicts one of the various possible articulations of a pre-packaged tape-flag holder that can be attached to a writing instrument, such as previously described, for example, with respect toFIGS. 1-4,9-15, and18-22. This tape-flag holder has a shell2320that is made of a two piece construction, including an upper shell section2320and a lower shell section (not visible in this drawing). The upper shell section2320fits over and covers the lower shell section. When fitted together, the upper and lower shell sections form a closed chamber into which a supply of tape flags can be stored. A slot2340is provided in the upper shell section2320. Tape flags can be drawn through slot2340from the supply of tape flags in the chamber. The lower shell section has a nub or other structure that enables the holder to be attached to a writing instrument2350. A recess2333is preferably provided on the upper shell section2320for attaching a writing-instrument cap (not shown) when the writing instrument is in use.

FIG. 24illustrates one alternative articulation of the pre-packaged tape-flag holder—formed of a single unit2420. The unit2420has an inner stem2422attached to an upper shell2423. A slot2440is provided in upper shell2423. Inner stem2422has a nub or other structure that enables the holder to be attached to a writing instrument. Inner stem2422and upper shell2423are positioned so that a space is provided around the inner stem2422and within the upper shell2423. The inner stem2422and upper shell2423are dimensioned so that the space therebetween can hold a supply of tape flags, such as a folded stack of tape flags. The slot2440provided in upper shell2423allows individual flags can be drawn from the supply of tape flags. A recess2433is preferably provided on the upper shell2423for attaching a writing-instrument cap (not shown) when the writing instrument is in use.

The pre-packaged tape-flag holder ofFIGS. 23 and 24can be made with or without cosmetic shaping. For example, as shown by upper shell section2320and writing instrument2350inFIG. 23, the shape of upper shell section2320can be chosen to match and blend with the shape of the writing instrument2350. In the alternative, as exemplified by unit2420, the pre-packaged tape-flag holder can be constructed in a generic shape, without regard to the shape of a particular writing instrument.

FIG. 25depicts an embodiment of a two-piece flag cartridge2501that can be used with or as part of a writing instrument, such as the embodiments of writing instruments discussed above. In this embodiment, a flag cartridge2501includes a cartridge cap2573, a cartridge base2572, and a supply of tape flags2512. Cartridge cap2573has a tapered outer shell2504that is open at one end, and closed at the other end by a recess2503. An outer slot2579is located on outer shell2504, and extends to the edge of the open end of outer shell2504. Cartridge base2572has a cylindrical-like inner shell2507, an end cover2506, and a supporting insert2502. Supporting insert2502is mounted on end cover2506. End cover2506is also attached to a first end of inner shell2507, and closes off that first end of inner shell2507. An opposing end of inner shell2507is open.

Flag cartridge2501can be attached to a highlighter by supporting insert2502. The supporting insert is preferably dimensioned with an outer diameter that matches an inner diameter of the back end of a highlighter (such as circular opening2871indicated inFIG. 28below). Thus, supporting insert2502can be inserted into the back end of a highlighter.

Inner shell2507has an outer diameter that is equal to or smaller than the inner diameter of outer shell2504. Thus, the open end of inner shell2507can be fit into the open end of outer shell2504, forming an enclosure for tape flags. The diameters of outer and inner shells2504and2507are selected so that the enclosure for tape flags has appropriate dimensions to hold the supply of tape flags2512. Further, these diameters are preferably chosen so that outer and inner shells2504and2507fit securely together, but are readily separated for refilling.

An inner slot2578is disposed on inner shell2507at a location that can match the placement of outer slot2579on outer shell2504. Thus, when outer and inner shells2504and2507are fit together, outer slot2579is located over inner slot2578, thereby creating a slot that communicates into the enclosure for tape flags.

With cartridge cap2573separated from cartridge base2572—that is, with the flag cartridge “open”—the supply of tape flags2512can be inserted into the inner shell2507of cartridge base2572, with a leading tape flag extending through inner slot2578. Inner shell2507can then be inserted into outer shell2504to “close” flag cartridge2501.

FIG. 26illustrates one version of a flag cartridge formed onto the end of a writing instrument. A body section2610of a writing instrument can be created with a flag chamber2625formed into an end portion2653of the body section2610. The end portion2653is formed with a slot2640through which tape flags can be issued from the flag chamber2625. The end portion is preferably formed so that a cover, such as cartridge cap2573fromFIG. 25, can be attached to close the flag chamber2625.

As noted above, various embodiments of a flag dispenser can be formed or attached onto the end or onto the body of a writing instrument. A further design choice involves the use of a rotating or sliding cap to cover or uncover a slot through which tape flags are dispensed. Such an adjustable cover can also be used to cover or uncover a tape flag protruding from a slot in the flag dispenser.

FIG. 27shows an embodiment of a flag dispenser with a cap that rotates. This dispenser has a rotating cap2773and a base2772. The rotating cap2773and the base2772fit together to form a chamber for holding a supply of tape flags. Rotating cap2773may be affixed to base2772, for example, with interlocking grooves and ridges (not shown) formed on an inner surface of cap2773and on an outer surface of base2772. Alternatively, the cap2773and base2772may be formed with matching threads (not shown) that allow cap2773and base2772to be screwed together.

An outer slot2779is provided in cap2773, and an inner slot2778is provided in base2772. Slots2778and2779can be aligned so that tape flags can be removed from the supply of tape flags inside the chamber. Outer slot2779is preferably made narrow so that tape flags protruding from the flag dispenser are held in place, and inner slot2778is preferably made wide so that the dispenser can be easily refilled.

In the depicted embodiment, cap2773is formed in a way that allows rotation when cap2773is fit onto base2772. One position of cap2773aligns inner and outer slots2778and2779. In this position of cap2773, tape flags can be issued through the slots. Another position of cap2773mis-aligns inner and outer slots2778and2779. In this position of cap2773, the chamber holding a supply of tape flags is shut closed, and tape flags cannot be issued through the slots. This position preferably also locks or conceals the end of any tape flag protruding through inner slot2778.

As discussed above, the base of flag dispenser can be formed onto a free-standing unit adapted for attachment to a writing instrument. Alternatively, a base can be formed directly onto the end of a writing instrument, as illustrated by the embodiment depicted inFIG. 27. In this embodiment, base2772is formed onto the end of the body2710of a writing instrument.

FIGS. 28 and 29illustrate yet another technique for connecting a flag dispenser to a writing instrument. In these figures, a highlighter and flag dispenser have separable parts preferably formed of injection-molded plastic, including: a body portion2851, a cap2860, a plug2872, and a rear cap2873. Body portion2851as shown has a substantially tubular or cylindrical shape, with a back end2811and a front end2812. A writing tip (not shown) is mounted on body portion2851at front end2812. Cap2860is attached (but removable) to front end2812, and preferably includes a nub2862. The back end2811has a circular opening2871into which plug2872can be affixed.

Plug2872has several connected portions, including an insertion cylinder2802, an end cover2806, and a cylindrical-like inner shell2807. An axially-aligned inner slot2878is provided in inner shell2807. Insertion cylinder2802has an outer diameter that corresponds to an inner diameter of circular opening2871of body portion2851: the insertion cylinder2802is dimensioned to fit snugly into circular opening2871, thereby affixing plug2872to body portion2851.

End cover2806is connected to insertion cylinder2802, and closes the body portion2851of the writing instrument when plug2872is affixed to body portion2851. Inner shell2807is formed on end cover2806. Within inner shell2807is a chamber2825that has dimensions suitable for holding a supply of tape flags2912(depicted nFIG. 29).

Rear cap2873generally has the shape of a short hollow cylinder closed at one end. Rear cap2873has a tapered outer shell2804, on which is provided an outer slot2879aligned in an axial direction. Closing one end of outer shell2804is a cover with a recess2803, which is preferably dimensioned to clasp cap2860by nub2862.

An inner radius of outer shell2804is matched to an outer radius of inner shell2807: the outer shell2804is dimensioned to fit snugly onto inner shell2807, thereby affixing rear cap2873to plug2872.

With rear cap2873thus affixed to plug2872, chamber2825is fully enclosed except for an opening formed by the overlap of inner and outer slots2878and2879. Through these slots tape flags can be drawn form a supply of tape flags stored in chamber2825.

FIG. 29is a close-up view of elements fromFIG. 28. This drawing highlights (1) body portion2851with back end2811and circular opening2871; (2) plug2872with insertion cylinder2802, end cover2806, inner shell2807, chamber2825, and inner slot2878; and (3) rear cap2873with outer shell2804, outer slot2879, and recess2803. Also depicted is (4) a supply of tape flags2812, which fits into chamber2825.

Tape-flag dispensers attached to writing instruments need not have fully enclosed chambers. Sides and portions of the top of a chamber can be left uncovered, so long as the supply of tape flags held by the dispenser are securely held in the chamber.

FIG. 30shows a partially open tape-flag dispenser3001that can be joined with (by a nub-recess connection, not shown) or formed onto the end of a highlighter or other writing instrument, such as those shown inFIGS. 1-4. The dispenser3001has a bottom wall3006, a back wall3061, a front wall3062, and a top wall3063. A slot3040is provided in front wall3062. The walls3006,3061,3062, and3063are connected together to form a chamber within. The chamber has one or more open sides. Additionally, the chamber can have a partially open bottom and top.

A supply of tape flags3012can be held by dispenser3001. The supply of tape flags3012can preferably be inserted into dispenser3001through one or more openings in dispenser3001. Dispenser3001preferably has a recess3003formed into the top wall3063. Recess3003can be used to hold a cap (such as cap220fromFIGS. 3 and 4) when the writing instrument is in use.

FIG. 31shows another embodiment of a partially open tape-flag dispenser3101that can be joined with the end of a highlighter or other writing instrument, such as those shown inFIGS. 1-4, by inserting a nub (not shown) of the dispenser3101into a recess of the highlighter. Alternatively, dispenser3101can be integrally formed onto the end of a highlighter or other writing instrument. The dispenser3101includes a central spindle3164for supporting a supply of tape flags (not shown). As with the embodiment shown inFIG. 30, dispenser3101has a bottom wall3106, a back wall3161, a front wall3162, and a top wall3163. A slot3140is provided in front wall3162. The walls3106,3161,3162, and3163are connected together to form a chamber within. The chamber has one or more open sides. Additionally, the chamber can have a partially open bottom and top.

A supply of tape flags (not shown) can be held by dispenser3101. The supply of tape flags can preferably be inserted into dispenser3101through one or more openings in dispenser3101. Dispenser3101preferably has a recess3103formed into the top wall3163. Recess3103can be used to hold a cap (such as cap220fromFIGS. 3 and 4) when the writing instrument is in use.

As discussed above, a variety of designs are contemplated for the supply of tape flags that are stored in the various embodiments of the writing instrument. In addition to rolls, stacks, rolled stacks, and folded stacks of tape flags, the supply of tape flags can also be implemented as a paper roll on which separate tape flags have been affixed. Such designs are shown inFIGS. 32-38.

FIG. 32is a top-view cross section of a dispenser3200for a supply of tape flags mounted on a roll of paper backing. In this depiction, dispenser3200has a shell3204, an axially mounted rod3229, and a supply roll3212of tape flags mounted on paper backing. The shell3204encloses a tape-flag chamber3215and has two slots: one slot3279for removing tape flags and another slot3280for removing the paper backing. In the supply roll3212, separate tape flags are mounted on a roll of disposable paper backing. During use, the tape flags are drawn from supply roll3212, and are pulled across rod3229towards flag slot3279, through which the tape flags can be removed. One tape flag3231is shown issuing through the flag slot3279.

The disposable paper backing is similarly drawn from supply roll3212, but is then wrapped back around rod3229, separating the paper backing from the tape flags. The paper backing then issues through the backing slot3280. A stem of paper backing3232is shown extending through the backing slot3280.

To obtain tape flags, a user pulls on an end of paper backing3232protruding from backing slot3280. The tension applied to the paper backing causes supply roll3212to rotate within chamber3215so that more paper backing advances away from the supply roll3212and around rod3229. As the paper backing is drawn in a tight radius around rod3229, a leading non-adhesive portion3248of a tape flag becomes separated from the paper backing. As the paper backing is further drawn around rod3229, the tape flag becomes further separated from the paper backing and is projected towards and through flag slot3279. The user can then grasp and remove the protruding tape flag3231by non-adhesive portion3248.

FIG. 33further illustrates the structure of dispenser3200fromFIG. 32. This figure shows the dispenser without shell3204, so that the other components can be more clearly depicted. In this depiction, supply roll3212is mounted on an optional support core3260. This illustration shows paper backing3232being drawn tightly around rod3229so that a leading tape flag3231is separated from the paper backing3232.

FIG. 34shows one implementation of the dispenser3200fromFIG. 32orFIG. 33as incorporated into the body3210of a writing instrument. A rear portion of the writing instrument body3210composes shell3204. An end of paper backing3232extends through backing slot3280in shell3204, and a leading tape flag3231extends through flag slot3279(not visible in this view). By grasping the writing instrument body3210with one hand and pulling the end of paper backing3232with another hand, a user can obtain the tape flag3231from the flag slot3279.

A spectrum of variations are contemplated for the mechanism exemplified by dispenser3200ofFIGS. 32or33. For example, instead of paper, various other materials, such as plastic films, may be employed in the paper backing3232of supply roll3212. Support core3260can be made as a solid cylinder, a hollow tube, or a hollow cylinder, or even of a non-round shape. Support core3260can be formed of paper, plastic, or cardboard, among other material. One end of the writing instrument body3210preferably includes a recess3203that is dimensioned to conveniently hold a writing cap (such as cap220fromFIG. 3). Still further, dispenser3200can be integrated into a disposable or removable unit, as was discussed for example with respect toFIGS. 1-4and9-15.

FIG. 35is a top-view cross section of another dispenser3500for a supply of tape flags mounted on a roll of paper backing, andFIG. 36is another view of dispenser3500. These depictions shows a supply roll3512of tape flags and a wedge3529. In the supply roll3512, separate tape flags3541are mounted on a roll of disposable paper backing3544. Unlike supply roll3212fromFIG. 32(in which tape flags were aligned with non-adhesive portions towards the end of the supply roll3212), in supply roll3512tape flags are aligned with their non-adhesive portions3548towards one edge of the supply roll3512, and with their adhesive portions3549towards an opposite edge of the supply roll3512.

Wedge3529is used to form a crease3543in a leading end3531of paper backing3544as the backing is drawn from the supply roll3512. As the paper backing is creased, a folded section3546of the paper backing3544is folded away from the non-adhesive portions3548of tape flags3541. Thus, this folding separates the folded section3546of the paper backing from the non-adhesive portions3548of tape flags3541, while leaving the adhesive portions3548attached to the paper backing3544. This separation makes the tape flags3541ready for grasping by a user.

FIG. 37is a side-view cross section of tape flags being drawn across wedge3529. Wedge3529has a vertical surface3710that is parallel to the alignment of the tape flags3541and paper backing3544in supply roll3512. Additionally, wedge3529has an angled surface3720that is formed at an angle from vertical surface3710. A corner3730is formed at the intersection of the vertical and angled surfaces3710and3720.

FIG. 37also shows a cross-section of paper backing3544and tape flag3541being drawn across the vertical surface3710of wedge3529. With an appropriate grip supplied by a user, tension in paper backing3544folds paper backing3544over the corner3730of wedge3529, so that the folded section3546of the paper backing3544is pulled away from the non-adhesive portions3548of tape flags3541. The adhesive portions3549remain attached to the paper backing3544. The non-adhesive portions3548are then easily grasped by a user so that the tape flags3541can be completely peeled away from the paper backing3544.

FIG. 38shows one implementation of dispenser3500fromFIG. 35as incorporated into the body3510of a writing instrument. A rear portion of the writing instrument body3510houses dispenser3500. The end3531of the paper backing extends through a slot3579in body3510. This view shows the folded section3546of paper backing3544being folded away from the non-adhesive portions3548of tape flags3541.

By grasping the writing instrument body3510with one hand and pulling the end of paper backing3531with another hand, a user can obtain the tape flags3541from the slot3579. Tape flags3541can then be easily peeled from paper backing3544, and the extending expended portion of paper backing3544can be tom off and discarded by the user.

Slot3579preferably has two extensions3581and3582as shown inFIG. 38. One of these extensions3581is straight and collinear with the main portion of slot3579. Tape flags can be drawn, if desired, without folding through slot3579and straight extension3581. Another extension3582is angled away from the main portion of slot3579, matching the angled surface3720of wedge3529. Tape flags can be drawn, if desired, through slot3579and angled extension3582to assist with the folding operation around wedge3529.

The combination writing instrument-flag dispenser illustrated inFIG. 38can be modified with a number of variations. For example, instead of paper, various other materials may be employed in the paper backing3544, such as a plastic film. Supply roll3512can be made with or without a support core. An optional recess3503in writing instrument body3510can be provided to conveniently hold a writing cap (such as cap220fromFIG. 3). Still further, the dispenser3500can be integrated into a disposable or removable unit, as was discussed for example with respect toFIGS. 1-4and9-15. Further, it is noted that tape-flag dispensers attached to writing instruments need not have fully enclosed chambers. Sides and portions of the top of a chamber can be left uncovered, so long as the supply of tape flags held by the dispenser are securely held in the chamber.

FIGS. 39,40, and41illustrate yet another technique for connecting a flag dispenser to a writing instrument3900. The writing instrument3900has parts preferably formed of injection-molded plastic, including: a body portion3951, a plug3972, and a cover cartridge3973. Plug3972is preferably permanently attached onto body portion3951. This attachment may be by adhesive, by heat treatment, or by press fitting with or without interlocking rings and ridges.

Body portion3951has a front end3912that holds a marking element3950, and a back end3911adapted to connect with plug3972. Body portion3951is preferably dimensioned to be readily gripped by a user's hand.

Cover cartridge3973has a cylinder-like shape with two openings on the ends: a front opening3984and a back opening3983. Cover cartridge3973holds a supply of tape flags3990. To assist a user in determining how many flags are remaining in the supply3990, cover cartridge3973may be made of a transparent material. The supply of tape flags3990may be a folded stack of tape flags, as discussed above. The tape flags3990are held within the interior of cover cartridge3873by friction between the flags and the interior wall of cover cartridge3973. Bumps, protrusions, tabs, ledges, and nubs (not shown) may be added near the lower end of the interior of cover cartridge3973to provide additional support. When folded, the supply of tape flags3990has a gap between the folded ends3991of the stack of tape flags. An end of a tape flag3995is shown protruding from an dispenser opening3975in cover cartridge3973.

Plug3972includes a spindle3907, an end cover3906attached to one end of spindle3907, a cap holder3903attached to the opposing end of spindle3907, and a plug wall3978attached to the length of spindle3907. The plug3972is dimensioned so that the supply of tape flags3990fits around spindle3907, and the plug wall3978is located between the gap formed between the ends3991of the supply of tape flags3990. The plug wall3978thus separates the folded ends3991. Plug3972may be further dimensioned so that the supply of tape flags3990is held fixed with respect to plug3972, fixed from rotating by the plug wall3978, and held in a folded shape by the cover cartridge3973.

Plug3972preferably also includes an insertion cylinder3902connected to end cover3906. Insertion cylinder3902has a shape that corresponds to the shape of an opening in back end3911of body portion3951. The insertion cylinder3902is dimensioned to be inserted into back end3911until end cover3906contacts the rear edge of back end3911, thereby affixing plug3972to body portion3951.

Plug3972is preferably fixed permanently into back end3911, so that plug3972and back end3911may not be separated by a user. This permanent attachment may be achieved, for example, by appropriately dimensioning plug3972and back end3911and press-fitting these components together. The fit may be augmented by interlocking ridges and grooves (not shown) on plug3972and inside back end3911.

Cover cartridge3973is dimensioned to securely fit onto plug3972, with a secure but removable connection between the cover cartridge3973and plug3972. Plug3972fits into front opening3984of cover cartridge3973. The fit between plug3972and cover cartridge3973may be a snap-fit, in which small grooves, tabs, and slots (not shown) on these components removeably engage with each another to hold the plug3972and cover cartridge3973together. Cover cartridge3973and plug3972are dimensioned so when attached together, these components'securely hold the supply of tape flags3990, and tape flags may be readily drawn from the supply of tape flags3990through dispenser opening3975in cover cartridge3973.

When attached to plug3972, cover cartridge3973is preferably free to rotate in place. By rotating cover cartridge3973, a user may retract a protruding end of a tape flag3995partly or completely into cover cartridge3973, thus preparing the writing instrument3900for storage.

To prevent the protruding end of a tape flag3995from being completely retracted, plug3972and an inner surface of cover cartridge3973may each additionally be fitted with one or more stopper tabs (not shown) that engage one another to limit the extent that cover cartridge3973can rotate with respect to plug3972. These stopper tabs may be specifically located so that the cover cartridge3973can rotate clockwise to a limit, and counterclockwise to a limit. This bi-directional limited rotation may be tailored to the dimensions of a stack of tape flags, whose zig-zag folding structure requires the cover cartridge3973to rotate in both directions.

An insert, such as cardboard or plastic insert (not shown), may be added to the bottom of cover cartridge3973to hold the supply of tape flags3990in place when the cover cartridge3973is not attached to the plug3972. This insert may take the form of a flat disk that is dimensioned to snugly fit into front opening3984after the supply of tape flags3990has been placed into cover cartridge3973. The insert has a central hole dimensioned to admit the spindle3907of plug3972. The insert may be particularly useful in implementations of the writing instrument3900where the supply of tape flags3990and the cover cartridge3973are replaceable as a single unit. In implementations of the writing instrument3900where the supply of tape flags3990is a separately replaceable component, the insert may be omitted, thereby facilitating refilling or replacement of the supply of tape flags3990.

Cap holder3903on plug3972includes a recess dimensioned to hold the nub of a cap (not shown) for writing instrument3900. When cover cartridge3973is attached to plug3972, cap holder3903is accessible through back opening3983of cover cartridge3973. Thus, a cap with a nub (such as cap220shown inFIG. 3) is securely connected to writing instrument3900by inserting the nub through the back opening3983and snugly into the recess of the cap holder3903of plug3972.

FIG. 41is a view of writing instrument3900as assembled. Shown in this diagram are body portion3951with a marking element3950, and cover cartridge3973, with back opening3983, dispenser opening3975, and flag3995protruding through dispenser opening3975.

FIGS. 42 and 43illustrate a further technique for connecting a flag dispenser to a writing instrument4200. The writing instrument4200has parts preferably formed of injection-molded plastic, including: a body portion4251, a plug4272, a flag cartridge4201, and a cover4273. Plug4272is preferably permanently attached onto body portion4251in a manner similar to the attachment between plug3972and body3951ofFIG. 39. This attachment may be by adhesive, by heat treatment, or by press fitting with or without interlocking rings and ridges.

Body portion4251has a front end4212and a back end4211adapted to connect with plug4272. Body portion4251is preferably dimensioned to be readily gripped by a user's hand.

Cover4273has a cylinder-like shape with two openings on the ends: a front opening4284and a back opening4283. Flag cartridge4201is dimensioned to fit into cover4273through front opening4284. To assist a user in determining how many flags are remaining in flag cartridge4201, cover4273may be made of a transparent material. Additionally, flag cartridge4201may also be made of a transparent material. Flag cartridge4201has an annular-like shape or C-shape with a gap formed to receive a supply of tape flags4290. The supply of tape flags4290may be a folded stack of tape flags. An end of a tape flag4295is shown protruding through the gap in the flag cartridge4201and a dispenser opening4275in cover4273.

Plug4272includes a spindle4207, an end cover4206attached to one end of spindle4207, and a cap holder4203attached to the opposing end of spindle4207. The plug4272is dimensioned so that flag cartridge4201, and thus the supply of tape flags4290in flag cartridge4201, fit around spindle4207.

Plug4272may include stopper tabs (not shown) so that flag cartridge4201is held fixed with respect to plug4272. The stopper tabs prevent flag cartridge4201from rotating with respect to plug4272. Alternatively, plug4272and flag cartridge4201may be configured so that flag cartridge4201is free to rotate around the spindle4207of plug4272

Plug4272preferably also includes an insertion cylinder4202connected to end cover4206. Insertion cylinder4202has a shape that corresponds to the shape of an opening in back end4211of body portion4251: the insertion cylinder4202is dimensioned to fit into back end4211, thereby affixing plug4272to body portion4251. Plug4272is preferably fixed permanently into back end4211, so that plug4272and back end4211may not be separated by a user. This permanent attachment may be achieved, for example, by appropriately dimensioning plug4272and back end4211and press-fitting these components together. The fit may be augmented by interlocking ridges and grooves4221and4223on plug4272and inside back end4211.

Cover4273is dimensioned to securely fit onto plug4272, with a secure: but removable connection between the cover4273and plug4272. Plug4272fits into front opening4284of cover4273. Cover4273and plug4272are dimensioned so when attached together, these components securely hold flag cartridge4201, and tape flags may be readily drawn from the flag cartridge4201through dispenser opening4275in cover4273.

When attached to plug4272, cover4273is preferably free to rotate in place. By rotating cover4273, a user may retract a protruding end of a tape flag4295partly or completely into cover4273, thus preparing writing instrument4200for storage. To prevent the protruding end of a tape flag4295from being completely retracted, flag cartridge4201and an inner surface of cover4273may additionally be fitted with stopper tabs, such as a stopper tab4225on flag cartridge4201and one or more matching stopper tabs (not shown) on cover4273that engage to limit the extent that cover4273can rotate with respect to flag cartridge4201. These stopper tabs may be specifically located so that the cover4273can rotate clockwise to a limit, and counterclockwise to a limit. This bi-directional limited rotation may be tailored to the dimensions of tape flags in a folded stack of tape flags, whose zig-zag folding structure requires the cover4273to rotate in both directions while tape flags are being dispensed.

An insert, such as cardboard or plastic insert (not shown), may be added to the bottom of cover4273to hold flag cartridge4201in place when the cover4273is not attached to the plug4272. This insert may take the form of a flat disk that is dimensioned to snugly fit into front opening4284after flag cartridge4201has been placed into cover4273. The insert has a central hole dimensioned to admit the spindle4207of plug4272. The insert may be particularly useful in implementations of the writing instrument4200where the flag cartridge4201and cover4273are replaceable as a single unit. In implementations of the writing instrument4200where the flag cartridge4201is a refillable or separately replaceable component, the insert may be omitted, thereby facilitating refilling or replacement of the flag cartridge4201.

Cap holder4203on plug4272includes a recess dimensioned to hold a cap (not shown) when writing instrument4200is being used for writing. When cover4273is attached to plug4272, cap holder4203is accessible through back opening4283of cover4273. Thus, a cap with a nub (such as cap220shown inFIG. 3) is securely connected to writing instrument4200by inserting the nub through the back opening4283and snugly into the recess of the cap holder4203of plug4272.

FIG. 43is a view of writing instrument4200as assembled. Shown in this diagram are body portion4251with a marking element4250, and cover cartridge4273, with back opening4283, dispenser opening4275, and flag4295protruding through dispenser opening4275.

Although the foregoing disclosure has illustrated the integration of a tape flag dispenser into a highlighter, the teachings of the disclosure may be applied to other writing instruments and dispensers of sheet material other than tape flags without departing from the scope or spirit thereof. The tape flag dispensers disclosed herein can be employed with other writing instruments such as, but not limited to, pens, pencils, and markers. Further, it can be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art that the tape flag dispenser can be made without all of the features discussed in the illustrative embodiments, and that features from the various illustrative embodiments can be intercombined as appropriate for specific applications and situations.