Abstract: A cap and clip assembly for an instrument having working means at one end, the assembly being adapted to cover the working means when the working means is not in use, the assembly including a cap member having an open end, a housing extending from the cap member proximate the open end and including a slot having an opening facing in the same direction as the open end of the cap member, and an elongated clip member having a substantially flat base portion, the cap member slot being adapted to receive and retain the base portion of the clip member.

Abstract: A low-cost mechanical pencil employing an improved lead-driving mechanism in which there is cooperation between a low-cost, helical spring member through which moves a lead advance-retract member which is keyed to longitudinal grooves in the inner barrel wall. If the lead is subjected to excessive pressure during use, it is caused to partially retract into the tip by virtue of axial compression of the helical spring, thereby reducing the likelihood of lead breakage.

Abstract: A writing instrument includes a cam member and first and second cam follower members arranged to simultaneously project or retract upper and lower members from opposite open ends of a barrel when one barrel section is rotated about a writing instrument longitudinal axis relative to a stationary second barrel section.