Abstract: Pen receptacles for storing and easy ejecting of pens without the pens overshooting the receptacles are described. In one embodiment, the pen has a tapered surface which interacts with a pair of gripping arms to modulate the deceleration of an ejecting pen. In a second embodiment using a relatively straight pen, a constriction is added to a chamber of a receptacle to affirmatively decelerate an ejecting pen. In both the embodiments, the pens decelerate to rest with a portion of each pen inside the receptacles. Exposed portions of the pens allow a user to comfortably grip the pens to draw them out of the receptacles.

Abstract: A lockable button mechanism for use in a portable device. The mechanism includes three button elements aligned with three switch elements, whereby the button elements may be individually depressed to activate respective switch elements. The mechanism further includes a locking element interposed between the switch elements and the button elements, the locking element being slidably displaceable between a first position in which depression of the button elements is enabled, and a second position in which the locking element blocks depression of the button elements.

Abstract: This invention relates to a hinge device which is adapted to provide pivotal connection between parts of casings, particularly for portable computing devices. The hinge device consists of an outer housing member and an inner shaft. Non-metallic frictional material is disposed about the shaft. The frictional material is rotatable within the housing member. Lateral surfaces of the shaft are either distanced from inner surfaces of housing member or are separated by the frictional material. The housing member and shaft are connected to different parts of a casing such that rotation of the shaft within the housing member causes pivotal motion between the parts. The parts can be releasably fastened in selected pivotal orientations due to friction generated between the frictional material and the inner surfaces of the housing member. The invention also relates to a computing device incorporating such a hinge device.