Abstract:
The present invention is directed to a support for hand-held instruments providing for display of an image sheet in both a deployed or in use position and a raised or stored position. The present invention is available for use across a variety of applications that utilize hand-held instrument where an image display is desired. Uses include but are not limited to hand-held device such as writing instruments, toothbrushes, razors, and the like. The present invention provides for a leg assembly positioned near one end of the hand-held instrument, wherein the leg assembly can extend or pivot from the stored position to a use position for the purpose of holding and stabilizing the instrument on a horizontal surface and positioning the instrument in an angled-upward direction to allow for ease of grasp by a user while simultaneously displaying an image within an image holder of the leg assembly.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/049,308, filed with the USPTO on Apr. 30, 2008, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
       [0002]    Not applicable. 
       INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISK 
       [0003]    Not applicable. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0005]    The present invention generally relates to a stand for hand-held items, more specifically, the present invention relates to a support for hand-held items further comprising an image holder for releasably retaining an image sheet therein. 
         [0006]    2. Background Art 
         [0007]    The present invention is directed to a support and leg assembly for hand-held instruments providing for display of an image sheet in both a deployed or in use position and a raised or stored position. The present invention is available for use across a variety of applications that utilize hand-held instrument where an image display is desired. Uses include but are not limited to hand-held device such as writing instruments, toothbrushes, razors, and the like. The present invention provides for a leg assembly positioned near one end of the hand-held instrument, wherein the leg assembly can extend or pivot from the stored position to a use position for the purpose of holding and stabilizing the instrument on a horizontal surface and positioning the instrument in an angled-upward direction to allow for ease of grasp by a user and to display an image within an image holder of the leg assembly. 
         [0008]    Another disadvantage of traditional instruments is that many do not have stands, which is especially likely if the instrument is disposable. As an example, pen stands are used to support the pen on a horizontal surface, such as a desk, and are typically purchased with relatively expensive writing instruments for positioning and securing the pen in a fixed location and within easy grasp of a user. Some users desire a pen that does not roll across the table and can be secured allowing the user to easily reach for and grasp the pen. Pen stands are especially convenient for users that are handicapped or are required to wear surgical gloves or the like with both user-types having impaired dexterity preventing easy manipulation (e.g. picking up) of the pen in its traditional horizontal resting position. Other instruments, including toothbrushes and razors, may benefit from incorporating a stand there on as well. Elevating one end of such instruments may assist in drying such hygienic devices and preventing functional ends of these devices from contacting potentially contaminating countertops or other undesirable surfaces. When such instruments are using a support or leg assembly to elevate one end of the device, the leg assembly may further act to display an image sheet releasably held within the leg assembly. Such replaceable image sheets may be used for advertising purposes, personal photographs, and the like, as seen fit by the user. 
         [0009]    Therefore, it is desirable to provide a support and leg assembly for a hand-held instrument, wherein the leg assembly is designed to provide an image holder for releasably retaining an image sheet for display therein. Hand-held instruments with such a support or leg assembly can be positioned and secured on a horizontal surface to prevent the instrument from rolling off the surface while angling one end of the instrument upward and simultaneously displaying an image sheet. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0010]    In one embodiment of the present invention, a support for a hand-held instrument, the support comprising an image holder for releasably retaining an image sheet in the image holder, wherein the image hold is movable with respect to the hand-held instrument, a pivotal connection disposed between the image holder and the hand-held instrument, wherein the pivotal connection allows the image holder to move from a non-extended position to an extended position in which the image holder projects outward away from the hand-held instrument for contact with a surface on which the hand-held instrument is placed thereby to support the hand-held instrument in a position in which a portion of the hand-held instrument is spaced away from the surface. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0011]    A better understanding of the present invention will be realized from the detailed description that follows, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: 
           [0012]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view illustrating a writing instrument with a support in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0013]      FIG. 2  is a side-elevational view illustrating the writing instrument. 
           [0014]      FIG. 3  is a top-plan view illustrating the writing instrument. 
           [0015]      FIG. 4  is a front-elevational view illustrating the writing instrument. 
           [0016]      FIG. 5  is a rear-elevational view illustrating the writing instrument. 
           [0017]      FIG. 6  is a perspective view illustrating a second embodiment of a writing instrument according to the present invention having a support shown in a use or supporting configuration. 
           [0018]      FIG. 7  is a top-plan view illustrating the second embodiment of the writing instrument in the use configuration with a portion broken away to show a fluid reservoir. 
           [0019]      FIG. 8  is a side-elevational view illustrating the second embodiment of the writing instrument in the use configuration. 
           [0020]      FIG. 9  is a side-elevational view illustrating the second embodiment of the writing instrument in a stored configuration in solid lines and in the use configuration in phantom lines. 
           [0021]      FIG. 10  is a rear-elevational view illustrating the second embodiment of the writing instrument in the use configuration. 
           [0022]      FIG. 11  is a front-elevational view illustrating the second embodiment of the writing instrument in the use configuration. 
           [0023]      FIG. 12  is an enlarged cross-sectional view, taken along  12 - 12  of  FIG. 10 , illustrating a hinge and keeper of the second embodiment of the writing instrument with the support in the use configuration. 
           [0024]      FIG. 13  is a perspective view illustrating a third embodiment of a writing instrument according to the present invention in a use configuration. 
           [0025]      FIG. 14  is a top-plan view illustrating the third embodiment of the writing instrument in the use configuration. 
           [0026]      FIG. 15  is a side-elevational view illustrating the third embodiment of the writing instrument in a stored configuration. 
           [0027]      FIG. 16  is a side-elevational view illustrating the third embodiment of the writing instrument in the use configuration. 
           [0028]      FIG. 17  is a rear-elevational view illustrating the third embodiment of the writing instrument in the use configuration. 
           [0029]      FIG. 18  is a front-elevational view illustrating the third embodiment of the writing instrument in the use configuration. 
           [0030]      FIG. 19  is an enlarged cross-sectional view, taken along  19 - 19 , of  FIG. 14 , illustrating a rack and pinion gear system of the third embodiment of the writing instrument with the support in a use configuration. 
           [0031]      FIG. 20  is an enlarged cross-sectional view, taken along  19 - 19  illustrating the rack and pinion gear system of the third embodiment of the writing instrument with the support in a stored configuration. 
           [0032]      FIG. 21  is an enlarged cross-sectional view, taken along  21 - 21  of  FIG. 15 , illustrating a rear view of the rack and pinion gear system of the third embodiment of the writing instrument with the support in a stored configuration. 
           [0033]      FIG. 22  is a perspective of another embodiment of the writing instrument with a support of the writing instrument in its extended position. 
           [0034]      FIG. 23  is a side-elevational view of the writing instrument with the support in its extended position. 
           [0035]      FIG. 24  is a rear-elevational view of the writing instrument with the support in its extended position. 
           [0036]      FIG. 25  is an elevational view of the writing instrument with the support in its non-extended position. 
           [0037]      FIG. 26  is a perspective of another embodiment of the writing instrument illustrating a support of the writing instrument secured to a cap of the instrument and in its non-extended position. 
           [0038]      FIG. 27  is similar to  FIG. 26  with the cap of the writing instrument exploded from a shaft of the writing instrument. 
           [0039]      FIG. 28  is a side-elevational view illustrating the cap secured to a rear end of the writing instrument and the support in its extended position. 
           [0040]      FIG. 29  is a perspective of another embodiment of the writing instrument with a support of the writing instrument in its extended position. 
           [0041]      FIG. 30  is a side-elevational view of the writing instrument with the support in its extended position. 
           [0042]      FIG. 31  is a rear-elevational view of the writing instrument with the support in its extended position. 
           [0043]      FIG. 32  is an elevational view of the writing instrument with the support in its non-extended position. 
           [0044]      FIG. 33  is a perspective view of a writing instrument of another embodiment with a support of the instrument in a non-extended position; 
           [0045]      FIG. 34  is a side elevation of  FIG. 33 ; 
           [0046]      FIG. 35  is an exploded view of  FIG. 33 ; 
           [0047]      FIG. 36  is a perspective of a cam lever of the support of  FIG. 33 ; 
           [0048]      FIG. 37  is a front elevation of the cam lever of  FIG. 36 ; 
           [0049]      FIG. 38  is a side elevation of the cam lever of  FIG. 36 ; 
           [0050]      FIG. 39  is a perspective of a sleeve of the support of  FIG. 33 ; 
           [0051]      FIG. 40  is a front elevation of the sleeve of  FIG. 39 ; 
           [0052]      FIG. 41  is a side elevation of the sleeve of  FIG. 39 ; 
           [0053]      FIG. 42  is a fragmentary cross section of the support with the cam lever in a non-extended position; 
           [0054]      FIG. 43  is similar to  FIG. 42  but with the cam lever in an unlocked position; 
           [0055]      FIG. 44  similar to  FIG. 42  but with the cam lever in an extended, locked position; 
           [0056]      FIG. 45  is a side elevation of the writing instrument of  FIG. 33  on a horizontal surface and the support in the extended, locked position; 
           [0057]      FIG. 46  is a perspective of an image component of the support; 
           [0058]      FIG. 47  is a front elevation of the image component; 
           [0059]      FIG. 48  is a side elevation of the image component; 
           [0060]      FIG. 49  is another embodiment of a writing instrument including an image holder; 
           [0061]      FIG. 50  is an exploded view of  FIG. 49 ; 
           [0062]      FIG. 51  is an example of a printout of business cards that are sized and shaped to fit one embodiment of an image sheet holder; 
           [0063]      FIG. 52  is another embodiment of a writing instrument with a bottle opener secured to a rear end of the instrument; 
           [0064]      FIG. 53  is a top perspective view of a toothbrush having a support of the present invention attached to the side of the toothbrush opposite the bristles, wherein the stand is in a deployed position; 
           [0065]      FIG. 54  is side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 53 ; 
           [0066]      FIG. 55  is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG. 53 ; 
           [0067]      FIG. 56  is a bottom view of the embodiment of  FIG. 53 , wherein the stand is in a retracted position; 
           [0068]      FIG. 57  is a side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 56 ; 
           [0069]      FIG. 58  is a top view of the embodiment of  FIG. 56 ; 
           [0070]      FIG. 59  is a top perspective view of a toothbrush having a support of the present invention attached near the midpoint of the side of the toothbrush opposite the bristles, wherein the stand is in a deployed position; 
           [0071]      FIG. 60  is side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 59 ; 
           [0072]      FIG. 61  is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG. 59 ; 
           [0073]      FIG. 62  is a bottom view of the embodiment of  FIG. 59 , wherein the stand is in a retracted position; 
           [0074]      FIG. 63  is a side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 62 ; 
           [0075]      FIG. 64  is a top view of the embodiment of  FIG. 62 ; 
           [0076]      FIG. 65  is side view of a toothbrush having a support of the present invention attached to the same side of the toothbrush as the bristles, wherein the stand is in a deployed position; 
           [0077]      FIG. 66  is a top view of the embodiment of  FIG. 65 ; 
           [0078]      FIG. 67  is a top perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG. 65 ; 
           [0079]      FIG. 68  is a bottom view of the embodiment of  FIG. 65 , wherein the stand is in a retracted position; 
           [0080]      FIG. 69  is a side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 68 ; 
           [0081]      FIG. 70  is a top view of the embodiment of  FIG. 68 ; 
           [0082]      FIG. 71  is a top perspective view of a razor having a support of the present invention attached to the side of the razor opposite the exposed blades, wherein the stand is in a deployed position; 
           [0083]      FIG. 72  is a side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 71 ; 
           [0084]      FIG. 73  is a front view of the embodiment of  FIG. 71 ; 
           [0085]      FIG. 74  is a bottom view of the embodiment of  FIG. 71 , wherein the stand is in a retracted position; 
           [0086]      FIG. 75  is a side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 74 ; 
           [0087]      FIG. 76  is a top view of the embodiment of  FIG. 74 ; 
           [0088]      FIG. 77  is a top perspective view of a razor having a support of the present invention attached to the same side of the razor as the exposed blades, wherein the stand is in a deployed position; 
           [0089]      FIG. 78  is a side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 77 ; and 
           [0090]      FIG. 79  is a front view of the embodiment of  FIG. 77 . 
       
    
    
       [0091]    Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0092]    As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. 
         [0093]    The reference number  1  generally represents a self-supporting coating instrument, more specifically, a fluid dispensing instrument, and more specifically still, a writing instrument in accordance with the present invention and as depicted in  FIGS. 1-5 . The writing instrument  1  primarily consists of an elongated body  2  and a detachable support  5  that are assembled after manufacture allowing for the detachable support  5  to be used with a number of different shaped bodies. The detachable support  5  engages the body  2  at one end of a shaft  8  opposite a writing end  9  (broadly, a coating tip) near a distal or rear end  10 . The support  5  can be used in combination with a traditional pen clip  11 , as shown and which are well-known in the art, so as to not detract from the operation and use of the clip  11 . 
         [0094]    In the preferred embodiment, the support  5  is constructed of an elongated wire, but it is foreseen that another like material such as plastic can be utilized providing that the material properties include sufficient resiliency and memory to be able to flex and spring around a shaft of a coating instrument and snap back and return to its original configuration at a central C-shaped region sized and shaped to snugly surround the shaft. 
         [0095]    The detachable support has legs  12  extending outward from the C-shaped region  13 . The legs  12  are spaced in relationship with one another and diverge outwardly away from the body  2  to provide a triangular support system to the writing instrument  1 . The C-shaped region  13  is designed to receive various shafts having a common or conventional width that are found among writing instruments  1 , which is approximately ⅜ inches diameter. The C-shaped region  13  is designed to engage the shaft  8  by flexing outward and then snapping around the shaft  8 . 
         [0096]    It is foreseen that a support could utilize a number of designs such as a single relatively wide leg or a single leg with a relatively wide base having a V shape ( FIG. 12A ) or U shape. Also foreseen is a support that is connected to a writing instrument cap, which can be selectively placed on either end of a writing instrument shaft having a support that provides sufficient stability for the intended supporting function of the present invention. 
         [0097]    At the lower or distal end of each leg  12  is an outwardly extending foot  14 . Located on ends of each foot  14  are rubber or plastic balls or pads  15  to provide friction on a non-slip surface upon engagement with a horizontal surface or something of the like and to prevent the support  5  from scratching the horizontal surface. While it is foreseen that a number of other materials could be utilized to form the pads  15 , the pads  15  are ideally manufactured by dipping the tips of the legs  12  into liquid polyurethane. 
         [0098]    The writing instrument  1  is especially advantageous for use in applications requiring a plethora of different liquids of various colors, viscosities and textures, along with different marking or fluid dispensing tips, etc., which require a user to sporadically switch back and forth between the liquids and tips during operation. While archaic instruments, which are designed to be laid flat on a table or the like, would require the user to shake the instrument to bias the liquid toward the marking end of the instrument when use is desired, the present invention provides the user with writing instruments  1  that are readily useable. Although the illustrated coating instrument is a writing instrument  1  for dispensing ink, other types of coating instruments, including other types of writing instruments, such as pencils and markers, are within the scope of the present invention. The coating instrument of the present invention may be designed to dispense fluid medication, such as medication for treating ailments of the skin. Moreover, the coating instrument may be an X-ray marker for marking on a radiograph or a marker for writing on a patient&#39;s skin. Other types of coating instruments are within the scope of the present invention. 
         [0099]    Furthermore, if the user is operating on a surface that is not horizontal, such as an architect&#39;s desk, the present invention provides the user with coating instruments that can be secured in one position, thus preventing undesired migration of the instrument across the surface. 
         [0100]    In a second embodiment as depicted in  FIGS. 6-12 , a hinged, self-supporting writing instrument  101  has an elongated shaft  108  with a fluid dispensing or writing tip or end  110  at one extremity of the shaft  108 . Within the shaft  108  is a coating or liquid reservoir  109  that flow-communicates with the writing end  110 . 
         [0101]    Opposite the writing end  110  of the shaft  108  near a distal or rear end  112  is a support  115 . In the present embodiment, the support  115  is integrated with or pivotally joined to the shaft  108  during manufacture of the writing instrument  101 . The support  115  has legs  118  joined by a bar  119  having shaft-engagement surface  120 . At the lower or distal end of each leg  118  is an outwardly extending foot  116 . As depicted in  FIG. 12 , the bar  119  is square in cross section and is attached to the distal end  112  of the shaft  108  via a flexible keeper  122 , having an interior surface  123  that is snugly mateable with the keeper  122  when in a relaxed configuration. The keeper  122  is flexible and can be biased to a stretched configuration by applying manual pressure rotational to the support  115 . In this manner, the bar  119  rotates in the keeper  122  between a first stable position seen in  FIG. 9  in solid lines wherein the support  115  is in a non-extended position and a second stable position seen in  FIG. 9  in phantom lines wherein the support  115  is in an extended and supporting position. The keeper  122  springs or flexes outwardly under pressure to allow the support  115  to move between the position described, but returns to snugly cradle the support  115  in a desired position, once that position is obtained. In particular, the keeper  122  allows the legs  118  to pivot away from and alternatively toward the shaft  108  in order to alternate from a stored configuration to a use configuration. In the use configuration, the support legs  118  extend or pivot away from the shaft  108  to a preselected angle such as ninety degrees in order to form a tripod configuration with the coating end  110 . 
         [0102]    It is foreseen that the keeper  122  forming a hinge with the bar  119  could be constructed with a clip that goes around a shaft so that a leg or legs may pivot relative to the shaft. It is also foreseen that the keeper  122  forming a hinge, as depicted in  FIG. 9 , could be located on the opposite side of a shaft so that when converting from a storage to a use configuration, a leg or legs pivot toward and straddle the shaft as opposed to away from the shaft as depicted in  FIG. 9 . In either instance, the clip and/or legs would flex and spring around a shaft and snap back and return to its original configuration or may be more rigid and slide along the shaft from one end thereof into a desired locator. Where resistance is required, the support may be constructed of a material that is sufficiently resilient and has memory. 
         [0103]    In the use configuration, as depicted in  FIG. 8 , the writing instrument  101  can be placed on a horizontal surface while the distal end  112  is propped upward within easy grasp of a user and an interior reservoir  109 , located within the shaft  108  as depicted in  FIG. 7 , is extended upwardly above the writing end  110 , thus utilizing gravity to bias the fluid contents of the reservoir  109  toward the marking end  110  of the instrument  101  to provide an instrument  101  that is readily graspable and useable. In the stored position, as depicted in solid lines in  FIG. 9 , the legs  118  pivot to extend alongside and generally parallel to the reservoir  109  and shaft  108  at a preselected angle, such as zero degrees. The present embodiment provides space between the shaft  108  and the legs  118  in order to allow the legs  118  to act as a traditional pen clip. However, it is foreseen that in some embodiments, that a support could be provided that is flush mounted to a shaft with the shaft having an outer surface that corresponds to the support with the support designed to fold outward. 
         [0104]    In either configuration, the writing instrument  101  is designed to provide two stabilized positions at a selected angular configuration with respect to the shaft  108 . While it is foreseen that stabilization can be achieved with a number of designs, the present embodiment utilizes a spring-loaded outward C-shaped member  126  with the interior surface  123  that engages the shaft-engagement surface  119  and is located within the keeper  122 , as depicted in  FIG. 12 . The shaft-engagement surface  119  has a rectangular surface  129  that matingly engages and aligns with a corresponding mating surface  130  of the keeper interior surface  126 . The surfaces  129  and  130  have sufficient resiliency so that the support surface  129  can rotate within the mating surface  130  with the application of force. Specifically, the application of pressure overcomes and biases out the keeper  126  allowing rotation of the shaft-engagement surface  119  and pivoting of the legs  118 . A flex channel  132  is located within the keeper  122 . The bar  119  is initially inserted in the keeper  122  by forcibly spreading opposites sides thereof at the flex channel  132  and urging the bar  119  there through. 
         [0105]    Referring to  FIG. 12A , in another example of the second embodiment of the writing instrument  101 , the support  115  comprises a single leg  118 A with a relatively wide base having a V shape. The use and function of the single leg  118 A is similar to the use and function of the pair of legs  118  depicted in  FIGS. 6-12  and described above. 
         [0106]    A third embodiment, depicted in  FIGS. 13-21 , consists of an integrated, writing instrument  201  which is a push-button actuated pen having an elongated shaft  204  and a marking or writing end  205  that is opposite a distal or rear end  206 . The present embodiment has a support  212  near the distal end  206  with legs  213  and a cross bar  214  spacing and connecting the legs  213 . Each of the legs  213  is bent at an elbow  216 , so as to operably space the lower portion of the legs  213  near and parallel but away from the shaft  204  in a stored configuration such as is seen in solid lines in  FIG. 15 . The bar  214  is integrated into and operates cooperatively with a push-button mechanism  215  for the instrument  201 . Specifically, the instrument  201  operates by depressing a button  217  to either extend or retract a writing or marking tip  205 . The present embodiment adds a pinion gear  220  with a center axis  221  within the shaft  204  near the distal end  206 , as depicted in  FIGS. 19-21 , that cooperatively engages the bar  214  of the support  212 . The bar  214  passes through the center axis  221  of the pinion gear  220 . The pinion gear  220  has a toothed outer rim  222  that engages and a rack  225  that is operably located between the push button  217  and a fluid reservoir  226 . As the push button  217  is operated, the rack  225  jogs back and forth toward rear and front within the shaft  204 , which causes the pinion gear  220  to spin. The pinion gear  220  causes the bar  214  to rotate, which causes the legs  213  to pivot back and forth between the stored configuration, as depicted in  FIG. 15 , and a use configuration, as depicted in  FIG. 16 . 
         [0107]    In the use configuration, the writing instrument  201  can be placed on a horizontal surface while the distal end  206  is propped upward within easy grasp of a user and the reservoir  226 , which is located within the shaft  204 , as depicted in  FIGS. 19 and 20 , is located above the writing end  205 , thus utilizing gravity to bias the fluid contents of the reservoir  226  toward the writing end  205  of the instrument  201  so that the instrument  201  is both readily graspable and immediately useable. 
         [0108]    In the stored position, as depicted in  FIG. 15 , the legs  213  pivot so as to extend alongside and parallel to the shaft  204  so that the legs  213  of the support  212  may be used as a traditional pen clip for holding in a pocket or the like. Further, the legs  213  are swept backwards at an angle to provide a traditional pen clip function when the support  212  is in the stored configuration. 
         [0109]    In either configuration, the self-supporting writing instrument  201  is designed to provide two stabilized positions at selected angular locations relative to the shaft  204 . 
         [0110]    Referring to  FIGS. 22-25 , another embodiment of the writing instrument, generally indicated at  301  is similar to the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 6-12A , and therefore, like components are indicated by corresponding reference numerals plus  200 . The present embodiment is most similar to the embodiment in  FIG. 12A  in that the writing instrument includes a support  315  comprising a single leg  318 A having a relatively wide base  337  and tapered side edges  339 . The support  315  is pivotally secured adjacent to a rear end  312  of the shaft  308  of the writing instrument  301  in a manner similar to that taught by the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 6-12A . It is understood that the support  315  may be pivotally secured or pivotally securable to the writing instrument  301  in other ways, including the ways taught by the other embodiments of the present invention. Like the support  115  in  FIG. 12A , the present support  315  is movable between an extended position, in which the support projects outward away from the shaft  308  for contact with a surface S on which the instrument is placed ( FIGS. 23 and 24 ), and a non-extended position ( FIG. 25 ), in which the support can function as a traditional clip for attaching the writing instrument to a pocket, for example. In the illustrated embodiment, when the support  315  is in the extended position and is contacting the surface S to support the writing instrument, the writing or fluid dispensing tip  310  and a portion of the shaft  308  are spaced from the surface. 
         [0111]    An outer, generally planar face  340  of the support  315 , which faces away from the shaft  308  of the writing instrument  301  when the support is in its non-extended position, includes an advertising image  342  that is imprinted or formed on or otherwise affixed to it. For example, the advertising image  342  may be a computer generated image that is created on a substrate with an adhesive backing that is adhered to the support  315 . Alternatively, the advertising image  342  may be formed (e.g., molded) directly on the support  315 . Other ways of affixing or forming the image  342  are within the scope of the invention. It is understood that the support may be of a shape or type other than a solid, generally triangular member. For example, the support can comprise a pair of collapsible legs, and the advertising image can be affixed to or otherwise formed on a pliable substrate extending between the collapsible legs so that when the legs are in the non-extended position, the advertising image faces outward away from the shaft. In another example, the pliable substrate on which the advertising image is disposed can have an end secured to an end of the support and an opposite end secured to the shaft of the writing instrument so that when the support is in the non-extended position, the advertising image faces outward away from the shaft. Other types of supports and other ways of disposing the advertising image on the support are within the scope of the invention. 
         [0112]    In the illustrated embodiment, the advertising image  342  is a graphic image of a logo of a company or organization. It is understood that the advertising image  342  may comprise one or more of a logo, motto, trademark, trade name or any other type of advertising and/or marketing of a company or organization. As is readily apparent from the drawings, the advertising image  342  on the outer face  340  of the support  315  is readily visible whether the support is in its extended position and contacting a surface S to support the writing instrument  301  ( FIGS. 22 and 24 ) or its non-extended position ( FIG. 25 ). 
         [0113]    Referring to  FIGS. 26-29 , in another embodiment that is similar to the embodiment of  FIGS. 22-25  and has like components indicated by corresponding reference numerals plus  100 , the writing instrument  401  includes a support  415  that is pivotally secured to a cap  450  of the writing instrument. The cap  450  is removably securable to the writing end of the writing instrument over the writing tip ( FIGS. 26 and 27 ) and is removably securable over the rear end  412  of the instrument ( FIG. 28 ). Thus, when the cap  450  is secured over the tip  410  of the writing instrument  401  ( FIG. 26 ), the support  415  may be positioned in its non-extended position and may operate as a clip with the advertising image  442  being readily visible. Moreover, referring to  FIG. 28 , when the cap  450  is removed from the writing end and received on the opposite, rear end  412  of the writing instrument  401 , the support  415  may be positioned in its extended position whereby the writing instrument can be placed on the surface S so that the support contacts the surface to support the shaft  408  in a position in which a portion of the shaft is spaced away from the surface. The advertising image  442  is readily visible when viewing the writing instrument from the rear. 
         [0114]    Referring to  FIGS. 29-32 , in yet another embodiment that is similar to the embodiment of  FIGS. 22-25  and has like components indicated by corresponding reference numerals plus  200 , the writing instrument  501  includes a support  515  that is formed as the advertising image. In this embodiment, the periphery of the support  515  may be coincident with the periphery of the advertising image and/or the support may take the three-dimensional form of the advertising image. Moreover, the outer face of the support may not be planar so as to further define contours of a three-dimensional image. In the illustrated embodiment, the support  515  is formed as a three-dimensional asterisk, representing a logo of a company. Although the illustrated support  515  is pivotally secured to the shaft  508  of the writing instrument  501 , it is understood that it may be secured to other components of the writing instrument, such as a cap, similar to the embodiment of  FIGS. 26-28 . Moreover, although the support  515  is pivotally secured to the shaft  508  in a similar manner as shown in  FIGS. 6-12A , it is understood that it may be secured to the shaft or cap or other component of the writing instrument in other ways without departing from the scope of the invention. 
         [0115]    It is understood that the hinge mechanism by which the leg of the support is pivotable relative to the shaft or cap of the writing instrument may be of other configurations without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, referring to  FIGS. 33-48 , a writing instrument  601  includes a cam-action hinge mechanism, as will be explained below. This writing instrument  601  is similar to the writing instrument  301  of  FIGS. 22-25  and has like components indicated by corresponding reference numerals plus  300 . All arrow lead lines indicate that corresponding parts are being indicated generally. A support  615  of the instrument  601  comprises a leg assembly  652  (broadly, a leg) hinged to a leg connector  654  which is secured to a shaft  608  of the writing instrument. In the illustrated embodiment, the leg connector  654  comprises a sleeve  656  that is sized and shaped to slide onto the shaft  608  of the instrument  601 , and more particularly, to slide onto a rear end  612  of the shaft opposite a tip  610 . A leg mount comprising a pair of arms  658  is integrally formed with and extends outward from the sleeve  656 . 
         [0116]    The leg assembly  652  comprises a cam lever  660  (broadly, a leg) hingedly secured to the arms  658  and an image component  662  (broadly, a leg component) secured to the cam lever. The cam lever  660  includes integrally formed pins  664  at a first or attached end of the cam lever that secure by snap-fit connection in openings  666  in the arms  658 . Grooves  668  extending radially outward from the openings  666  in the arms  658  guide the pins  664  into the respective openings. The pins  664  are rotatable within the openings  666  so that the leg assembly  652  is pivotable relative to the arms  658  about an axis spaced radially outward from and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve. Other ways of hingedly securing the cam lever  660 , or the leg assembly  652  in general, to the sleeve  656  or the shaft  608  of the instrument  601  are within the scope of the invention. For example, a hinge pin separate from the cam lever may extend through the cam lever and the openings in the arms. Other connections are within the scope of the invention. 
         [0117]    Referring to  FIGS. 42-44 , the leg assembly  652  of the illustrated writing instrument  601  is selectively lockable in both its retracted (non-extended) position and its extended position by a detent mechanism. The detent mechanism includes lower and upper cam surfaces  670 ,  672 , respectively, on the cam lever and lower and upper cam followers  674 ,  676  integrally formed on the leg connector  654 . The lower cam surface  670  is engageable with a lower cam follower  674 , and the upper cam surface  672  is engageable with an upper cam follower  676 . In the illustrated embodiment, the lower and upper cam followers  674 ,  676 , respectively, comprise a pair of spaced apart upper and lower ribs. 
         [0118]    The lower cam surface  670  and lower cam follower  674  are configured to selectively lock the leg assembly  652  in the non-extended position. When the leg assembly  652  is in its non-extended position ( FIG. 42 ), the lower cam surface  670  is over-center with respect to the lower cam follower  674  so that frictional engagement between the lower cam surface and the lower cam follower resists pivotable movement of the leg assembly (i.e., the cam lever  660 ) away from the pen shaft  608 . The cam lever  660  will pivot away from the pen shaft  608  if adequate torque is applied to the cam lever to resiliently deflect at least one of the cam lever and the cam follower and to overcome the frictional resistance between the lower cam surface  670  and the lower cam follower  676 . A projection  681  on the cam lever extends toward the shaft  608  and engages the shaft when the cam lever is in the non-extended position so that the cam lever and the image component are generally parallel to the shaft, as shown best in  FIG. 42 . When the cam lever  660  is pivoted to an unlocked angular position relative to the sleeve  656 , such as shown in  FIG. 43 , the lower cam surface  670  disengages the lower cam follower  674 , and the cam lever and the leg assembly  652  are unlocked and free to rotate. 
         [0119]    Referring to  FIG. 44 , the upper cam surface  672  and the upper cam follower  676  are configured to selectively lock the leg assembly  652  in the extended position. Pivoting the cam lever  660  further away from the shaft  608 , past the unlocked angular position, will cause the upper cam surface  672  to engage the upper cam follower  676 . The cam lever  660  will pivot away from the shaft  608  if adequate torque is applied to the cam lever to resiliently deflect at least one of the cam lever and the cam follower and to overcome the frictional resistance between the upper cam surface  672  and the upper cam follower  676 . In an extended, locked position, such as shown in  FIG. 44 , the upper cam surface  672  is over-center with respect to the upper cam follower  676  so frictional engagement between the upper cam surface and the upper cam follower resists pivotable movement of the leg assembly  652  (i.e., the cam lever) toward the shaft  608 . Moreover, at the extended position, the upper cam follower  676  is received in a recess comprising a notch  677  formed in the upper surface  678  of the cam lever, past the upper cam surface  672 , to prevent the leg assembly from pivoting past the extended position. The projection  681  also contacts the horizontal surface when the support  615  is in its extended position ( FIG. 45 ) to further prevent the leg assembly  652  from pivoting past the extended position. Other detent mechanisms or the like can be used to releasably hold the leg assembly in its retracted and extended positions. 
         [0120]    In the illustrated embodiment, the leg assembly  652  is in the locked, extended position when the cam lever  660  extends outward from the sleeve  656  and the shaft  608  is at an angle A ( FIG. 44 ) that measures about 103 degrees. The angle A may measure other than 103 degrees. For example, it is contemplated that this angle A may be greater than or equal to about 90 degrees. More specifically, the angle A may be greater than 100 degrees, such as 101 degrees, 102 degrees, 103 degrees, 104 degrees, 105 degrees, 106 degrees, 107 degrees, 108 degrees, 109 degrees or 110 degrees. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, when the support  615  is in the locked, extended position and is supporting the instrument  601  on a surface, the tip  610  of the instrument is preferably about 0.39 in (1 cm) above the surface and the rear end  612  of the shaft  608  at the hinge mechanism is between about 0.9 in (2.27 cm) and about 1 inch (2.54 cm) above the surface. 
         [0121]    Referring to  FIG. 35 , the sleeve  656  is configured so that the instrument  601  can be retrofitted with the support  615 . Accordingly, the size and shape of the sleeve  656  may be dependent on the type and brand of writing instrument  601  being retrofitted. It is contemplated that the leg connector  654  may alternatively comprise a clip-on type connector adapted to be clipped on or otherwise secured to the writing instrument  601  so that a single support can be retrofitted on different types and brands of writing instruments. It is also contemplated that the leg connector may alternatively comprise a male component that is inserted into an opening in the rear end  612  of the writing instrument to connect the support to the instrument. The leg connector may be of other configurations for connecting the support to the instrument within the scope of the present invention. The leg connector  654  may be adhered to the writing instrument  601  using adhesive or in other ways, or the sleeve may be selectively removable from the instrument, such as by sliding the sleeve on and off the shaft  608 . It is understood that the leg connector  654  may also be formed integrally with the writing instrument  601 , such as shown in  FIGS. 22-32 . 
         [0122]    It is contemplated that the leg assembly  652  and other supports of the present invention may be employed on hand-held instruments other than writing instruments to elevate an end of the instrument above a surface. For example, the leg assembly or support may be secured to a toothbrush or razor so that a brush end or a blade end, respectively, does not contact a surface of a bathroom countertop. The leg assembly  652  or support may be removably or fixedly secured to the instrument. The leg assembly  652  or support may have other hinge mechanisms and/or connectors within the scope of the present invention. The leg assembly or support may include or not include an image component within the scope of the invention. 
         [0123]    Referring to  FIGS. 53-70 , a toothbrush  900  may further comprise a support  915  of the present invention.  FIGS. 53-64  depict the support  915  disposed on the side of the toothbrush  900  opposite to the bristles. In such a configuration, when the support  915  is in use the bristles of the toothbrush  900  will face away from the surface on which the toothbrush  900  is placed. Such an embodiment is shown in a use configuration in  FIGS. 53-55  and  59 - 61  while shown in a stored configuration in  FIGS. 56-58  and  62 - 64 . The support  915  may be disposed at any point along the hand-held instrument. For example,  FIGS. 53-58  depict an embodiment having the support  915  disposed adjacent the functional end of the toothbrush  900  while  FIGS. 59-64  depict an embodiment having the support  915  disposed closer to the midpoint of the toothbrush  900 . In an alternate embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 65-70 , the support  915  may be disposed on the toothbrush  900  on the same side as the bristles. In such a configuration, when the support  915  is in use the bristles of the toothbrush  900  will face toward the surface on which the toothbrush  900  is placed. Such an embodiment is shown in a use configuration in  FIGS. 65-67  and in a stored configuration in  FIGS. 68-70 . When the support  915  is transitioning from its use configuration to its stored configuration, the support  915  may pivot toward the bristle end of the toothbrush  900  (not shown), away from the bristle end of the toothbrush  900  ( FIGS. 56-58 ,  62 - 64 , and  68 - 70 ), or be capable of both movements. With use of the device in a bathroom, in a preferred embodiment the support  915  may be at least partially coated with an antibacterial material to improve hygiene and/or a rubberized material to enhance gripping. The support  915  may comprise any functional embodiments within the scope of the present invention, and the scope of the invention further includes placement of the support  915  anywhere along the toothbrush  900  not being limited to only the locations shown. The support  915  may be either integrally constructed to the toothbrush  900  or independently constructed and thereafter added onto the toothbrush  900 . 
         [0124]    Referring to  FIGS. 71-79 , a razor  1000  may further comprise a support  1015  of the present invention.  FIGS. 71-76  depict the support  1015  disposed on the side of the razor  1000  opposite to the exposed functional blades. In such a configuration, when the support  1015  is in use the exposed functional blades of the razor  1000  will face away from the surface on which the razor  1000  is placed. Such an embodiment is shown in a use configuration in  FIGS. 71-73  and in a stored configuration in  FIGS. 74-76 . In an alternate embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 77-79 , the support  1015  may be disposed on the razor  1000  on the same side as the exposed functional blades. In such a configuration, when the support  1015  is in use the exposed functional blades of the razor  1000  will face toward the surface on which the razor  1000  is placed. Such an embodiment is shown in a use configuration in  FIGS. 77-79  and a stored configuration is not shown. When the support  1015  is transitioning from its use configuration to its stored configuration, the support  1015  may pivot toward the functional blade end of the razor  1000  (not shown), away from the functional blade end of the razor  1000  ( FIGS. 74-76 ), or be capable of both movements. With use of the device in a bathroom, in a preferred embodiment the support  1015  may be at least partially coated with an antibacterial material to improve hygiene and/or a rubberized material to enhance gripping. The support  1015  may comprise any functional embodiments within the scope of the present invention, and the scope of the invention further includes placement of the support  1015  anywhere along the razor  1000  not being limited to only the locations shown. The support  1015  may be either integrally constructed to the razor  1000  or independently constructed and thereafter added onto the razor  1000 . 
         [0125]    In the above disclosed embodiments, it may be favorable to have the support integrally formed with the shaft of the hand-held instrument. This may be the case because the additional utility of having the support serve as a clip may not be necessary. It is envisioned that the support can be fashioned to pull out from the handle to serve as a stand for the hand-held instrument and be pushed back into the instrument handle while in use. In such cases, the support may then be disposed parallel to the instrument handle so that the support does not interfere with a user that may be brushing their teeth or shaving. Use in such a configuration is not required. The support allows a user to use the hand-held instrument with the stand in either the open or closed position while not interfering with the user&#39;s hand. 
         [0126]    In the illustrated embodiment, the image component  662  is removably secured to the cam lever  660 . It is understood that the writing instrument may not include an image on the image component within the scope of the present invention. The image component  662  comprises a plate that is generally triangular having a wide base for resting on a horizontal surface, although other shapes and sizes are within the scope of the invention. As an example, the image component  662  may have a length of about 1.5 in (3.81 cm), a width at its base of about 0.95 in (2.41 cm), a width at its upper portion of about 0.53 in (1.34 cm), and a thickness of about 0.062 in (0.16 cm). An inner face  682  of the component  662 , which faces toward the shaft  608  of the writing instrument  601  when the support  615  is in its non-extended position, and an opposing outer face of the cam lever  660  include mateable, releasable snap-fit components  684  for removably securing the image component to the cam lever. Other ways of removably securing the image component  662  to the cam lever  660  are within the scope of the invention. Moreover, it is understood that the image component  662  may be fixedly secured or integrally formed with the cam lever  660  within the scope of the present invention. A clearance groove  685  ( FIG. 48 ) at an upper portion of the image component  662  provides clearance for the arms  658  and the upper portion of the cam lever  660 . 
         [0127]    The image component  662  includes an outer face  686 , which faces away from the shaft  608  of the writing instrument  601  when the support  615  is in its non-extended position. The outer face  686  may include an image, including but not limited to a logo, a design, a drawing and/or a writing that is imprinted or formed on or otherwise affixed to it. The image may cover an entirety of a surface area of the outer face  686 , or may cover only a portion thereof The inner face  682  may also include an image, including but not limited to a logo, design, a drawing and/or a writing that is imprinted or formed on or otherwise affixed to it. The image may cover an entirety of a surface area of the inner face  682 , or may cover only a portion thereof The disclosure relating to the image feature of the invention disclosed in relation to  FIGS. 22-32 , above, including a 3-D image, is equally applicable to the present embodiment, although such image is not limited to an advertising image. Neither the outer face  686  nor the inner face  682  of the image component  662  need to include an image to be within the scope of the present invention. 
         [0128]    It is envisioned that by making the image component  662  removable from the support  615  (e.g., from the cam lever  660 ), different, interchangeable image components with different images, can be interchanged on the same writing instrument  601 . For example, a user can replace a image component  662  including an image of his/her favorite baseball team with a different image component including an image of his/her favorite football team, without having to replace the entire writing instrument  601 . Moreover, a separate market for producing, selling, buying and/or trading different image components  662  is created. It is further envisioned that the image components  662  may include images that depict a mood of the user. Accordingly, on a day in which the user is feeling sad, the user can secure an image component  662  with an image of a sad face to his/her writing instrument  601 . Then, when the user is feeling happy, the user can replace the image component with an image component that has an image of a happy face to communicate that the user is feeling happy. Other image components depicting other types of moods are within the scope of the invention. 
         [0129]    It is contemplated that all of the components of the illustrated embodiment of  FIGS. 33-48  are molded plastic. Other ways of making the components are within the scope of the present invention. 
         [0130]      FIGS. 49 and 50  illustrate another embodiment of a writing instrument  701  that is similar to the embodiment of  FIGS. 33-48  and has like components indicated by corresponding reference numerals plus  100 . In this embodiment, a leg assembly  752  of a support  715  includes an image arrangement comprising an image holder  788  for holding and displaying an image sheet  790  with a logo, a photo, information and/or other images formed on it. This leg assembly  752  has a cam-action hinge mechanism that is the same as the hinge mechanism of the previous embodiment in  FIGS. 33-48 . It is understood that the leg assembly  752  may have other hinge mechanisms within the scope of the invention. The holder  788  includes a backing  791  secured to a cam lever  760 , although it is understood that the backing may be integrally formed with the cam lever or other hinge structure. The backing  791  may be translucent or transparent. A translucent or transparent cover  792  is removably secured to the backing by sliding the cover onto the backing and engaging the backing with a snap-fit or friction-fit component  793  located at a lower portion of the cover. Other ways of securing the cover to the backing are within the scope of the invention. 
         [0131]    The image sheet  790  is placed between the backing  791  and the cover  792  ( FIG. 49 ) so that the image is viewable at least through the cover. As an example, the image may be a business logo, a personal photo, a person&#39;s name, a business-card-like image, or other information. If the backing  791  is transparent or translucent, then the image sheet  790  may have an image on the front and the back of the sheet. The image sheet  790  is replaceable by sliding the cover  792  off the backing  791  and inserting a new image sheet with an image on it between the cover and the backing and reattaching the cover. The image holder may be of other configurations. 
         [0132]    In one example, when the instrument  701  is placed on the table it shows the user&#39;s name and logo through the cover  792  and may show contact information through the backing  791  if the backing is transparent or translucent. It is envisioned that a writing instrument  701  of the present embodiment will be given to a potential customer or client, and that the user will remove the image sheet  790  (e.g., business-card-like image) and insert an image sheet having a picture of their own choosing. One of ordinary skill will also appreciate that these instruments can be provided at large conferences and used as place markers reserving seats for attendees. Also, the instruments can serve as a nametag when in its retracted position in a shirt pocket. 
         [0133]    It is envisioned that a separate market may be created for producing and selling the image sheets  790  that have the proper dimensions for insertion in the holder  788  of the writing instrument  701 . For example, it is envisioned that a user can use software to create a desired image on an image sheet  790  of proper dimension. A website may be set up for this purpose of enabling a user to create images by entering information (e.g., name, contact information), selecting desired graphics, and combining these features in a desired format or configuration. For example,  FIG. 51  illustrates an 8½ by 11 inch layout of business cards that can be created. It is foreseen that a 1/32 inch gutter for bleeding of colors may be required or possibly even up to a ¼ inch gutter around all four sides of the sheet. Certain dies will cut 11×17, 12×18, 40×35, 36×40. It is also envisioned that a company may create a commercially available product where a user may pick up a box of cards that are perforated and print from their home computer the business cards. 
         [0134]    Referring to  FIG. 52 , another embodiment of a writing instrument is generally indicated at  801 . In this embodiment, a bottle cap opener  815  is fixedly secured to a rear end  812  of a shaft  808  of the writing instrument  801 . The bottle cap opener extends generally radially outward with respect to a longitudinal axis of the shaft  808 . In one example, the opener extends outward at an angle that is generally orthogonal to the axis of the shaft  808 . The opener  815  may extend at other angles with respect to the axis of the shaft  808 . A fastener  813  extends through an opening  817  in the bottle cap opener and extends axially through the rear end  812  of the shaft  808  to secure the opener to the instrument  801 . Other ways of securing the bottle cap opener  815  to the writing instrument  808  are within the scope of the invention. Moreover, the bottle cap opener  815  may be secured to other hand-held instruments besides writing instruments within the scope of the invention. 
         [0135]    Having described embodiments of the invention in detail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention defined in the appended claims. 
         [0136]    When introducing elements of the present invention or the preferred embodiments(s) thereof, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. 
         [0137]    In view of the above, it will be seen that the several objects of the invention are achieved and other advantageous results attained. 
         [0138]    As various changes could be made in the above constructions, products, and methods without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.