Patent Publication Number: US-11390110-B2

Title: Multi-purpose combination writing instrument

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This disclosure relates to implements for writing, highlighting, or drawing, particularly to combinations of writing implements with attached informational devices and/or detachable adhesive backed writing sheets. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Writing instruments have been combined with other writing instruments or other articles to perform more than one function with a single device, for ease of use. For example multi-color pens enable one to write in multiple colors with a single device. Erasers have been attached to pencils to enable users to write and erase with the same instrument. Pens with retractable banners imprinted with a map, information, or advertising can be found at trade shows and tourist areas. Pens and highlighters with dispensers attached to or integrated therein for dispensing adhesive backed writing sheets, such as tape flags are also commercially available. 
     US 2017/0239976 discloses a multi-purpose combination writing instrument that can perform several such functions in a single device. It discloses a multi-purpose combination writing instrument comprised of two casing members with two writing instruments attached to each casing member, where the casing members are connected to one another by a retractable unwinding tool, where a casing member can have a pad of adhesive stickers or tape flag dispensers attached thereto. The unwinding tool can also function as a retractable banner, and can have on it a design, such as a logo, art work, and/or literature. 
     While the foregoing products are useful, there is a desire to those skilled in the art for continued innovation of multi-purpose combination writing instruments that accommodate such tools and writing instruments in a single device. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present invention pertains to a multi-purpose combination writing instrument designed to hold multiple writing instruments and tape flags. In one aspect, the present invention also pertains to such a multi-purpose combination writing instrument which also contains a retractable banner. 
     The multi-purpose combination writing instrument of the invention comprises at least three individual writing instruments, each individual writing instrument comprising: a barrel having a proximal end and a distal end; a base having opposing first and second ends, the first end of the base comprising at least three receivers, wherein each receiver is adapted to receive the proximal end of the barrel of a corresponding individual writing instrument, and the second end of the base having at least three tape flag platforms disposed therein; and a cap rotatably mounted on the second end of the base over the at least three tape flag platforms, wherein an opening in the cap provides access to one tape flag platform at a time as it rotates around the second end of the base. 
     An embodiment of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument described above further comprises a panel mounted on a side of the base over an opening in the base, the panel having an interior surface and an exterior surface, and a slot extending through the panel from the interior surface to the exterior surface; an oblong bar; and a banner comprising a retracted end under the interior surface of the panel and an extended end extending through the slot and attached to the oblong bar above the exterior surface of the panel. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Figures of the present invention can be more clearly understood from the following detailed description considered in conjunction with the following drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote the same elements throughout. 
         FIG. 1  is a front left perspective view of an exemplary multi-purpose combination writing instrument of the present invention with banner extended. 
         FIG. 2  is a left side view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1  with banner extended. 
         FIG. 3  is a right side view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1  with banner extended. 
         FIG. 4  is a right side view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1  with banner retracted. 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1  with banner extended. 
         FIG. 6  is a bottom view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1  with banner extended. 
         FIG. 7  is a front view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1  with banner extended. 
         FIG. 8  is a rear view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1  with banner extended. 
         FIG. 9  is a front view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1  with banner retracted. 
         FIG. 10  is a rear view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1  with banner retracted. 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1  with an individual writing instrument removed from the base. 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of an exemplary multi-purpose writing instrument of the invention with a mounted panel removed from the base. 
         FIG. 13  is a side view of the mounted panel of  FIG. 12  taken along line  13 - 13 . 
         FIG. 14  is a cross-section view of the removed individual writing instrument of  FIG. 11  in a retracted configuration. 
         FIG. 15  is a cross-section view of the removed individual writing instrument of  FIG. 11  in an extended configuration. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     As used herein, the word “a” or “plurality” before a noun represents one or more of the particular noun. 
     For the terms “for example” and “such as,” and grammatical equivalences thereof, the phrase “and without limitation” is understood to follow unless explicitly stated otherwise. As used herein, the term “about” is meant to account for variations due to experimental error. All measurements reported herein are understood to be modified by the term “about,” whether or not the term is explicitly used, unless explicitly stated otherwise. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. 
     Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Methods and materials are described herein for use in the present invention; other, suitable methods and materials known in the art can also be used. The materials and methods are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. All publications, patent applications, patents, sequences, database entries, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control. 
     This invention has the advantage of allowing the user to carry one multi-purpose combination writing instrument with multiple individual writing instruments and multiple tape flag pads in a single device. When the multi-purpose combination writing instrument also includes a retractable banner, it further adds to the utility of the device. 
     The term “tape flag” as used herein refers to adhesive backed writing sheets that are removably attached to one another, and which can be attached to other surfaces when pressed thereon. The tape flags can be made of paper or other suitable writing material. Adhesive backed writing sheets suitable for use as tape flags in the present invention are commercially available under various brand names, including Post-It® Flags (3M Corp). Each tape flag platform of the present device can have the same or a different colored tape flag pad attached thereto, depending upon the needs of the user of the device. 
     The multi-purpose writing instrument can contain, for example, multiple different colors of pens and pads of different colored tape flags all within a single device. The user can assemble a different mix of writing tools according to the user&#39;s preference. Because of its many functions, it is also a time saving writing device meeting the needs of the user, such as a student or professional. The multi-purpose writing instrument is designed to make it easy to replace the individual writing instruments and pads of adhesive paper. 
     In certain embodiments, each individual writing instrument further comprises a marking element contained in the barrel, and orifice in the distal end of the barrel adapted to receive the marking element, and a side knob in an opening in a side of the barrel. Each individual marking element is independently selected from a pencil lead, an ink marking element, a fluid marking element, or a stylus for a tablet computer or other electronic device. In some embodiments, all of the individual writing instruments are highlighter pens, in which case the writing elements are fluid marking elements. When the marking element is an ink marking or fluid marking element, the barrel further contains a reservoir connected to the marking element. The reservoir of an ink marking element is designed to contain ink, while the reservoir of a fluid marking element contains marking fluid. The reservoir attached to a fluid marking element or ink marking element can contain the same color or a different color ink or marking fluid from the marking elements of other individual writing instruments in the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of the invention. 
     The side knob described above is part of a retraction system designed for retracting and extending a writing element contained in the barrel in and out through the orifice in the distal end of the individual writing instrument. Any type of retraction system operated by a side knob could be used in the individual writing instruments of the invention. For example, the side knob could be a wheel, a slidable knob, or lever. In one embodiment, a side of the opening in the side of the barrel has an inner edge forming a rail parallel to an axis of the base, wherein the side knob is adapted to slide along the rail, thereby moving the individual writing element through the orifice in the distal end of the barrel. In an embodiment, the distal end of the rail terminates in a ledge, and a groove between the ledge and a distal end of the opening in the side of the barrel accommodates a pin extending from the inner surface of the side knob, when inserted therein to reversibly lock the side knob in a forward position, where the individual writing element extends out the orifice in the proximal end of the barrel. In an embodiment, the retraction mechanism also includes a coiled spring, which is compressed when the side knob is in a forward position, and which relaxes and causes the writing element to retract from the orifice when the pin is extracted from the groove. When the writing element is a fluid marking element, the retraction mechanism further includes a marking fluid drying prevention cover, such as a sleeve covering the writing element. 
     The individual writing instruments are preferably identical in size and shape, enabling them to be readily interchanged and replaced. The barrels of the writing instruments can be color coded to indicate the color of ink or writing fluid contained in the reservoir, or to indicate the type of writing element contained therein. 
     The first end of the base is adapted to hold at least three individual writing instruments. In one embodiment the base is adapted to hold 3, 4, or 5, in another 3 or 4, and in another 3 individual writing instruments. The base can be of any size. In some embodiments, the base is between about 4 to about 7 inches long. In some embodiments, the base is between about 3 to about 6 inches wide. Other sizes are also contemplated. The base is preferably sufficiently compact to be grasped comfortably between the forefinger and thumb of a human user and manipulated to write with one of the writing instruments inserted in the base. 
     Each receiver in the first end of the base is adapted to receive the proximal end of the barrel of an individual writing instrument. In an embodiment of the invention, each barrel is press fit into the corresponding receiver, with the interior surface of the receiver in contact with an outer surface the barrel of the individual writing instrument. In an embodiment of the invention, each receiver is adapted to hold each individual writing instrument in a position parallel to an axis of the base running from the center of the first end to the center of the second end of the base. In one embodiment, an opening in the side of the barrel of an individual writing instrument containing the side knob has a raised lip, and a proximal side of the raised lip fits into a groove in an outer edge of the receiver adapted to receive the raised lip. In that embodiment, the raised lip can prevent the individual writing instrument from sliding further into the base when present in the receiver. In that embodiment the groove and raised lip also act to prevent the individual writing instrument from rotating while in the receiver, thereby maintaining each individual writing instrument in a position where the side knob is readily accessible. Each individual writing instrument can differ in shape. In one embodiment all of the individual writing instruments are identical in shape and size. 
     The second end of the base is adapted to have the cap rotatably mounted thereto. In an embodiment, the cap is connected to a cap connector, a circular region around the second end of the base. In an embodiment, the inner surface of the mouth of the cap is press fit to the outer surface of the cap connector. The cap can be rotated by turning it in place, or by removing, rotating, and replacing it. 
     The second end of the base comprises at least three tape flag platforms disposed therein. In one embodiment, the second end of the base includes 3 to 5 tape flag platforms, in another 3 or 4 tape flag platforms. In another embodiment, the number of tape flag platforms matches the number of individual writing instrument receivers in the first end of the base. In an embodiment, the tape flag platforms are positioned between the cap connector and the terminus of the first end of the base. The tape platforms are positioned so that a pad of tape flags mounted on only one tape flag platform can be accessed at a time through the opening in the cap, while pads of tape flags on the other tape flag platforms are covered. In one embodiment, the tape flag platforms are distributed an equidistance from one another around the radius of the second end. Each tape flag platform preferably comprises a flat surface to which a tape flag pad can be securely attached. In an embodiment, an indentation between each tape flag platform and the terminus of the second end further facilitates removal of one tape flag at a time when a tape flag pad is mounted on a tape flag platform. In that embodiment, the opening in the side of the cap is further adapted to allow access to the indentation near the terminus. 
     In another embodiment, the base of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument further comprises at least one mounted panel with a retractable banner. In one embodiment, the retractable banner is made of a material which causes it to roll into a scroll configuration in its relaxed state. In that embodiment, the retracted end of the banner is in a scroll configuration under an inner surface of a panel while an extended end of the banner extends out a slot in the panel where it is connected to an oblong bar. In an embodiment, the oblong bar is in contact with the outer surface of the panel when the banner is fully retracted. As the oblong bar is pulled outward away from the outer surface of the panel, the retracted end of the banner bar unwinds from the scroll and extends through the slot. In preferred embodiments, where the banner is in a scroll configuration in its relaxed state, it will retract automatically, wrapping back onto the scroll as the oblong bar is moved back toward the outer surface of the panel without the use of any spring or other mechanism designed to promote wrapping of the scroll. In one embodiment, the retracted end of the banner is connected to a retention cylinder to prevent the banner from being pulled all the way out of the slot when fully extended. In that embodiment, the retracted end of the banner wraps around the retention cylinder. 
     The banner can be imprinted with a design on either or both sides, such as a logo, work of art, piece of literature, and/or useful information, such as a map or information about technology, cosmetics, the environment, sports, or other topics. The design can be placed on a piece of fabric or a sticker that is adhered to the surface of the banner. The design and/or information imprinted on or adhered to the banner are visible when the banner is extended. 
     The panel can be mounted over the opening in the side of the base using any attachment means, including an adhesive or clips extending from the surface of the panel into one or more openings in the base. The slot in the panel preferably runs parallel to an axis of the base when the panel is mounted on the base. In an embodiment, the slot is positioned in the center of the panel, and the panel is positioned between the closest two individual writing instruments, preferably an equidistance between the two individual writing instruments, to allow space in the interior of the base for the banner to retract. In an embodiment, the outer surface of the panel includes a cavity over the slot adapted to receive an inner surface of the oblong bar. That configuration enables the oblong bar to be more securely housed on the outer surface of the panel when the banner is fully retracted. Optional tabs on the outer edges of the cavity can extend over the outer surface of the oblong bar to further secure it in place when the banner is fully retracted. In an embodiment, the outer surface of the panel also includes an indentation on either side of the slot to facilitate grasping of the oblong bar, when the banner is retracted, so it can be pulled away from outer surface of the panel to extend the banner. 
     In one embodiment, the multi-purpose combination writing instrument optionally further comprises at least one other mounted panel with the same configuration as the one described above mounted over another opening in the side of the base. In one embodiment each opening in the side of the base with a panel mounted thereon is positioned an equidistance between two individual writing instruments. 
     In one embodiment, the multi-purpose combination writing instrument comprises at least one mounted panel with a retractable banner mounted over an opening in the side of the base, as described above, and at least one integrated panel with an oblong ridge having the same dimensions and surface structure as the oblong bar when the banner is retracted. When the mounted panel includes indentations in the surface of the panel on either side of the oblong bar, each integrated panel can also contain a similar indentation in the same position on either side of the oblong ridge. Each integrated panel with oblong ridge is preferably stamped or molded onto the surface of the base. In that embodiment, the integrated panel does not include a slot or banner associated therewith. The integrated panel with oblong ridge provides a balanced feel and extra grip when the multi-purpose writing instrument is used. The at least one mounted panel and any integrated panel can be any shape but is preferably rectangular or oval in shape. The at least one mounted panel and any integrated panel are preferably radially distributed around the surface of the base between the rotatably mounted cap and the first end of the base an equidistance apart from one another. In one embodiment, each mounted panel or integrated panel is located in a position on the base above an equidistance between two individual writing instruments. In one embodiment, any oblong bar and oblong ridge are parallel to an axis of the base running from the center of the first end to the center of the second end. 
     The base, individual writing instruments, panel, and oblong bar and any parts thereof can be made with any suitable material(s) by any known methods in the art, such as, for example, 3-D printing, injection molding, rapid prototyping, etc. Joining any two parts can be accomplished by any methods in the art using any suitable material(s). The multi-purpose combination writing instrument of this invention and its components can be of any suitable size and/or shape. 
     These and other embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to  FIGS. 1-16 , wherein like numerals are used throughout to denote like elements. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an embodiment of a multi-purpose combination writing instrument  100  of the invention with a base  101  with a cap  103  rotatably mounted over a second end  110  of base  101 . In this embodiment, the cap  103  is transparent. The second end  110  of base  101  has tape flag platforms inset in the side of the base at that end parallel to and spaced a uniform distance apart from one another. Tape flag pads  105  and  106  can be seen through the transparent surface of cap  103 , which hide the surface of the corresponding flag tape platforms to which they are attached in this view. The distal end of a barrel of each of three individual writing instruments  111 ,  112 , and  113  can be seen extending from the first end  109  of base  101 . Orifices  114 ,  115 , and  116  in the distal end of the barrel of each of the individual writing instruments  111 ,  112 , and  113 , respectively are each adapted to receive a marking element contained inside each barrel, not shown in this view. Openings  118  and  119  in the side the barrel of each individual writing instrument  111  and  112  have side knobs  121  and  122  disposed therein with the outer surface of each side knob extending outward above the surface of the respective opening. A rail  125  parallel to an axis of the base running from the first end  109  to the second end  110  of the base  101  can be seen inside opening  119  in the side of the barrel of individual writing instrument  112 . Each side knob is adapted to be slid forward along a rail in the inside of the opening in the respective barrel. The side knob is part of a retraction mechanism whereby the tip of an individual writing instrument in the barrel of an individual writing instrument can be extended or retracted therefrom through the orifice in the distal end of the barrel. Another part of the retraction mechanism is a rail  125  in opening  119 . Side knob  122  is adapted to slide forward along rail  125 , engaging with the rest of the retraction mechanism to extend a writing element contained in the barrel of individual writing instrument  112  out through orifice  116 . The outer surface of the barrel around the opening  118  and  119  in the side of the barrel of individual writing instruments  111  and  112 , extends outward forming raised lip  128  and  129  respectively. A proximal end of each individual writing instrument extends into a corresponding receiver in the first end of the base  101 , but only an outer edge  132 ,  133 , and  134  of each receiver is visible. A proximal edge  130  and  131  of each raised lip  128  and  129  fits into a groove  136  and  137 , respectively, in the outer edge of the corresponding receiver. The groove prevents the individual writing instruments from rotating and holds the side knob in a position on this embodiment of the multi-purpose writing instrument where it can easily be accessed when in use. One can also see an integrated panel  140  with an oblong ridge  141  and indentations  142  and  143  in the surface of integrated panel  140 . The integrated panel  140 , ridge  141 , and indentations are features integrated into the base, which give the base a uniform feel and grip when in use. The oblong ridge  141  and integrated panel  140  are parallel to the axis of the base. One can also see banner  150  extending out the other side of the device, attached to oblong bar  151 . 
       FIG. 2  is a left side view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1 . Many of the same features identified in  FIG. 1 , above, can also be seen in this view, integrated panel  140 , oblong ridge  141 , individual writing instruments  111  and  112 , opening  119  in the side of the barrel, side knobs  121  and  122 , raised lip  128 , cap  103 , and tape flag pad  105 .  FIG. 2  also shows a few additional features of the device not seen in  FIG. 1 . For example, one can see part of a cap connector  144  through the surface of the cap  103 , where cap connector  144  is a circular region around the second end  110  of the base above the surface of the tape flag platforms to which the inner surface of the mouth of cap  103  is rotatably attached. One can also see an edge of tape flag platform  145  and part of an indented surface  148  at the second end  110  of base  101  between an edge of tape flag pad  105  and the terminus  149  of the second end  110 , through the surface of the transparent cap. The surface of tape flag platform  145  is hidden by tape flag  106  in  FIG. 1 . One can also see more of the retraction mechanism through opening  119  in the side of the barrel of individual writing instrument  112  in  FIG. 2 , including a ledge  146  and spring  147 . The side of integrated panel  170  and of oblong ridge  171  (viewed more clearly in  FIG. 7 , below) can also be seen in this view. 
       FIG. 3  is a right side view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1 . In this view, one can see extended banner  150 , which is connected on one end to oblong bar  151 , extends outward from a slot  153  in mounted panel  152 . An indentation  154  in the outer surface of the mounted panel  152  adjacent to the slot  153  can also be seen. Individual writing instruments  111  and  113  extend outward from the outer edges  132  and  133  of their respective receivers in base  101 . One can also see an opening  160  in the side of the barrel of individual writing instrument  113 , with side knob  161  disposed therein with the outer surface of side knob  161  extending outward above the surface of the opening. Side knob  161  is part of the same type of retraction system described and shown in  FIG. 1 . Other parts of the retraction system visible in this view include a rail  163 , ledge  164 , and spring  165 . The outer surface of the barrel around the opening  160  in the side of the barrel of individual writing instrument  113  outward forming raised lip  166 , and a proximal edge  167  of the raised lip  166  fits into a groove  168  in the outer edge of the corresponding receiver. One can also see the rotatable cap  103 , with an edge of tape flag platform  145  visible through the transparent surface of the cap. One can also see an opening  162  in the cap positioned over tape flag pad  107 , through which tape flags can be removed from tape flag pad  107 . One can also see an indented surface  157  of base  101  that extends to the terminus  149  of second end  110  through opening  162 . The indented surface  157  is designed to make it easier to remove tape flags from tape flag pad  107 . Tape flag pad  107  is mounted on the surface of a tape flag platform, which is hidden from view by the tape flag pad. The cap  103  is rotatably connected to base  101  at cap connector  144 . Cap  103  can be rotated to be positioned over any of the three tape flag pads at the second and  110  of the device. The opening only allows one to access one tape flag pad at a time, while it covers the other two tape flag pads. An edge of integrated panel  170  and oblong ridge  171  can also be seen in this view. 
       FIG. 4  is the same view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument shown in  FIG. 3 , but the banner is retracted and hidden from view in this figure, and the oblong bar is adjacent to the outer surface of mounted panel  152 . Indentations  154  and  155  in mounted panel  152  are designed to facilitate grasping of the oblong bar  151  when in this position, so the oblong bar can be pulled outward from the surface of the panel and the retractable banner extended, as shown  FIG. 3 . 
       FIG. 5  is a top view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1 , with banner  150  shown attached to oblong bar  151  extending from slot  153  in panel  152 , with indentation  155  in the panel  152 . Tape flag pad  106 , cap connector  144 , and part of an indented surface  169  of base  101  extending from under tape flag pad  106  to the terminus  149  of second end  110  can be seen through the transparent surface of cap  103 . One can also see other features described in previous figures, including the proximal ends of individual writing instruments  111 ,  112 , and  113 , opening  118  in the side of the barrel of individual writing instrument  111  with side knob  121  disposed therein, integrated panel  140  and oblong ridge  141 . Additional features of other components of the retraction assembly of that individual writing instrument are also visible in  FIG. 5 , including rail  173 , ledge  174 , and spring  175 , raised lip  128  and groove  136 . 
       FIG. 6  is a bottom view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1 . In this view one can see integrated panel  170  with oblong ridge  171 , and indentations  177  and  178  in the surface of the integrated panel on either side of the oblong ridge. Integrated panel  170 , oblong ridge  171 , and indentations  177  and  178  are aligned in the same direction on the base  101  and are the same shape and size as integrated panel  140  oblong ridge  141 , and indentations  142  and  143  shown in  FIG. 1 . Other features and components visible in  FIG. 6  are described in relation to other FIGs above, including individual writing elements  111 ,  112 , and  113 , side knobs  122  and  161 , cap connector  144  and cap  103 . Tape flag pad  105  can be seen through the surface of cap  103 , while tape flag pad  107  can be seen through opening  162  in cap  103 , through which tape flags can be removed from the tape pad, as described above. 
       FIG. 7  is a front end view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1 , showing the first end  109  of the base, with a front view of orifices  114 ,  115 , and  116  in individual writing instruments  111 ,  112 , and  113 , respectively, with side knobs  121 ,  122 , and  161  extending outward from the surfaces of each individual writing instrument, respectively. One can also see the front edge of mounted panel  152 , integrated panels  140  and  170 , and raised oblong ridges  141  and  171 . The front edge of banner  150  can be seen extending outward from mounted panel  152 , with the end of banner  150  attached to the oblong bar  151 . 
       FIG. 8  is a back end view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1 , showing the second end  110  of the base with cap  103 . An edge of each of tape flag platforms  145 ,  176 , and  177 , with an edge view of each of tape flag pads  106 ,  107 , and  105  attached to the surface of each tape flag platform, and indented surfaces, respectively. The edges of indented surfaces  148 ,  157 , and  169  can also be seen. Tape flag pad  107  can be seen through opening  162  in cap  103 , while the cap covers the other two tape flag pads. From this view, one can see how each indented surface can make it easier to insert a finger into opening  162  to remove a tape flag from a tape flag pad, when the opening is positioned over a given tape flag pad. One can also see the back edge of extended banner  150  and oblong bar  151  extending outward from mounted panel  152 , the back edges of integrated panels  140  and  170 , with a back view of oblong ridges  141  and  171 , and side knobs  121 ,  122 , and  161 . 
       FIG. 9  is the same view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument as  FIG. 7 , with the banner  150  retracted, and only the outer surface of the oblong bar  151  showing above the edge of panel  152 .  FIG. 10  is the same view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument as  FIG. 8 , with the banner  150  retracted, and only the outer surface of the oblong bar  151  showing above the edge of panel  152 . Both  FIGS. 9 and 10  show that the outer surface of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument has a uniform surface structure when the banner  150  is retracted, making it easy to grasp and use. 
       FIG. 11  is a side perspective partially exploded view of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument of  FIG. 1 , wherein individual writing instrument  111  has been removed from base  101 , to show receiver  180  adapted to receive the proximal end  181  of individual writing instrument  111  when inserted therein. The interior surface of receiver  180 , not all of which is shown, is adapted to fit around the outer surface of the individual writing instrument  111  like the cuff of a tight fitting sleeve, and to be in press fit connection therewith when individual writing instrument  111  is inserted therein. One can also see that raised lip  125  extends all the way around opening  118  in the side of the barrel of individual writing instrument  111 . As noted above, the proximal edge  130  of the raised lip engages groove  136  in the edge of receiver  180  when inserted therein, as shown in  FIG. 1 , above. The groove  136  prevents the individual writing instrument  111  from sliding further into base  101  or rotating when inserted therein. Base  101  also includes corresponding receivers for individual writing instruments  112  and  113 , which are shown inserted therein with the proximal end of each individual writing instrument  112  and  113  extending therefrom. Only an outer edge  133  and  134  of those two corresponding receivers can be seen. However, in the embodiment of the invention illustrated in  FIG. 7 , the structure of individual writing instrument  111  is representative of all three individual receivers in  FIG. 7 , and the structure of receiver  180  is representative of the structure of all three receivers in the first end of base  101 . 
       FIG. 12  shows exemplary multi-purpose combination writing instrument  300  with panel  301  removed to show banner  302  in a partially extended configuration with a retracted end  303  in a scroll configuration under the interior surface of panel  301 . An extended end  304  of the banner  302  extends through slot  305  in panel  301 , and is attached to oblong bar  306  positioned above the outer surface of panel  301 . An indentation  307  in the outer surface of panel  301  extending into the slot  305  and a similar indentation not visible in that view on the other side of the banner are designed to enable one to easily grasp oblong bar  306  when banner  302  is fully retracted, so one can then pull the oblong bar  306  outward away from the outer surface of the panel to uncoil at least part of the retracted end of the banner and extend it. Tabs  308  and  309  extend from the outer surface of panel  301  into slot  305 . Those tabs and corresponding tabs not visible in this view on the other side of the banner are designed so the oblong bar can be snapped under the tabs to secure the oblong bar when the banner is fully retracted. The tabs provide an optional way to secure an oblong bar to a panel. 
     Multi-purpose combination writing instrument  300  is an embodiment of the multi-purpose combination writing instrument  100  illustrated and described in the previous FIGs, above, and illustrates how corresponding panel  152  of that device can also be mounted on the corresponding base and how corresponding banner  151  can be mounted therein. However, panel  152  does not include tabs corresponding to tabs  308  and  309 . 
       FIG. 12  also shows an opening  320  in the side of the base  315  of multi-purpose combination writing instrument  300  adapted to fit the outer edge of panel  301  when mounted thereon. Tongue  310 , and clips  311  and  312  in panel  301  provide means for mounting the panel in the opening. Specifically, tongue  310  extends from a proximal edge of panel  301  parallel to the surface of the panel, and is configured to fit through opening  320  and contact an interior surface of the base when panel  301  is mounted thereon. Clips  311  and  312  extend downward from an opposing distal edge of panel  301 , and include ledges  313  and  314  extending outward from the end of each of clips  311  and  312 , respectively. The clips are configured to extend through the opening  320  and engage with an edge of opening  320 , while the ledge engages with the inner surface of base  315  when panel  301  is mounted thereon. Specifically, panel  301  is designed to be mounted on base  315  by inserting tongue  310  through the opening adjacent to a proximal edge of opening  320 , and then lowering the other side of panel  301  until clips  311  and  312  extend through opening  320  and snap into place therein. A banner can be mounted in a panel such as panel  301  of the invention before the panel is mounted on a base, by threading one end of a retracted banner from under the interior surface of the panel, out through the slot, and attaching it to an oblong bar on the outer surface of the panel. The distal end of the barrel of each of three writing instruments  321 ,  322 , and  323  can be seen extending from the outer edge of corresponding receivers in the first end of base  315 . A proximal end of the barrel of individual writing instruments  321  and  322  can be seen through opening  320  extending into the interior of the base. Other unnumbered features of the device are the same as those illustrated in corresponding device  100 , above. 
       FIG. 13  provides a view of an embodiment of a cross section of panel  301  taken along line  13  indicated in  FIG. 12 . Clips  311  and  312  extend downward from the interior surface and include ledges  313  and  314 , respectively. One end of banner  302  is shown coiled around in a scroll configuration under the interior surface of panel  301  with the retracted end  324  of the banner attached to retention cylinder  325 . The other end of banner  302  extends through slot  305  where it is attached to oblong bar  306 . Retention cylinder  325  prevents banner  302  from being pulled all the way out through slot as the banner is extended by pulling oblong bar  306  away from the outer surface of panel  301 . In this illustrated embodiment, retention cylinder  325  is not attached to any winding mechanism, such as a spring. In the embodiment of panel  301  illustrated in  FIG. 13  the outer surface of the panel is indented to form a cavity  326  adapted to receive an inner surface of the oblong bar  306 , and tabs  309  and  326  extend from the outer surface the panel  301  to contact either side of the outer surface of oblong bar  306  to hold it securely in place in cavity  326 . 
       FIGS. 14 and 15  provide a side cross section view of individual writing instrument  200  illustrating an exemplary retraction mechanism in two different configurations, in a retracted and extended configuration. The retraction mechanism illustrated in these two figures can be used in the individual writing element components of a multi-purpose combination writing instrument of the invention, such as individual writing instruments  111 ,  112 , or  113  of the device illustrated in  FIGS. 1-11 , above. The same elements can be found in both figures, and are identified using the same numbers, although the configuration of some of the elements differs. 
     Individual writing instrument  200  in  FIGS. 14 and 15  is comprised of a barrel  201  with orifice  202  in the distal end of the barrel  201  and an opening  203  in the side of the barrel with a proximal raised lip  204  and distal raised lip  205  in the barrel surface on opposing ends of the opening  203 . The interior of the barrel contains a reservoir  208  with a marking element  210  connected thereto through which marking element fluid or ink contained in reservoir  208  can enter marking element  210 . The marking element  210  shown in these two figures is a highlighter pen writing element, and the reservoir contains liquid marking fluid, although the fluid is not shown in these views. However, the same type of retraction mechanism could be used for other types of marking elements, such as a ball point pen, in which case the reservoir would be filled with ink instead of liquid marking fluid. The marking element  210  is contained in a shaft  209 , which is connected to the reservoir  208  at a proximal end. The tip  211  of the marking element extends out the opposing distal end of the shaft  209 . The barrel  201  also contains a guide  217  with a channel  218  running through it. In the retracted configuration shown in  FIG. 14 , the distal end of the shaft  209  is positioned in channel  218  of the guide  217 . The channel  218  aligns the shaft  209  with the orifice  202  in the distal end of the barrel  201 , so the shaft  209  and tip  211  of the marking element can extend out of orifice  202  when slid forward as shown in an extended configuration in  FIG. 15 . A side knob  220  in opening  203  engages with the shaft to move it forward and back through the orifice  202 . The side knob  220  is connected to a casing of the reservoir  207  and to the shaft  209 . A spring  221  is wrapped around the shaft  209  between the side knob  220  and the guide  217 . The side knob  220  includes a release lever  222  and an engagement button  223  in the outer surface, and a pin  224  protruding from the inner surface of the side knob  220 .  FIG. 14  shows the writing instrument with the marking element retracted, with the side knob  220  in contact with the proximal raised lip  204  and the spring in an open position. The side knob  220  slides along a rail  225  in the side of the opening in the side of the barrel when it is pushed toward the distal end of the barrel  201  until it comes into contact with ledge  226 , at which point the engagement button  223  can be pressed to lower the pin  224  over the ledge  226  into a groove  227  between the ledge  226  and the distal raised lip  205 , thereby locking the side knob in that position. As the side knob is moved toward the distal end of the barrel, the spring  221  compresses and the shaft  209  moves toward and out the opening  202  in the distal end of the barrel  201 . In the extended configuration illustrated in  FIG. 15 , the side knob  220  is adjacent to the distal raised lip  205  of the barrel and pin  224  positioned over the ledge  226  in the groove  227 , locked in that position. When the release lever  222  is pressed when the device is in that configuration, pin  224  is lifted out of the groove  227 , thereby releasing the tension on the compressed spring  221  which moves the side knob  220  back to the position of the retracted configuration shown in  FIG. 14 . 
     While the present invention has been disclosed in connection with exemplary embodiments thereof, it should be understood that other embodiments may fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.