Abstract: A toy comprises a housing connected with a launcher to rotate and launch an object. The launcher comprises a driving element to form a drive connection with a receiving element on the object. The launcher is connected with a launcher rotating system, which imparts a rotary movement to the launcher. When the launcher ceases to accelerate the object, the receiving element disengages from the drive connection and launches the object. In one aspect, the launcher rotating system is a gear train capable of being rotated by a gear rack pulled by a user. The launcher is configured to release the object in only one direction, and a stopper prevents the launcher rotating system from rotating the object in an undesirable direction. The toy is also configured to launch multiple objects simultaneously or load multiple objects to launch in sequence.

Abstract: A mechanical pencil is described. The mechanical pencil includes a grip barrel with a slide member to hold a piece of lead. A wheel is rotatably mounted in the grip barrel around a wheel axis, such that a portion of the wheel extends through and beyond an opening in the grip barrel. A gear is attached with the wheel for sliding the slide member that is slide-ably disposed within the grip barrel. A chuck is connected with the slide member such that a user may roll the wheel to force the chuck to push lead from the lead chamber and out of the grip barrel, thereby allowing the user to control advancement of the lead from the mechanical pencil.