RETRACTABLE WRITING INSTRUMENT

摘要

A writing utensil configurable between retracted and extended configurations is provided. The writing utensil includes a body having an interior volume a nd an aperture. A reciprocally movable nib assembly is located in the body and includes a nib that, when in the extended configuration, traverses the aperture. To prevent the nib from drying when in the retracted configuration , a sealing element seals the aperture. In an embodiment, the sealing element is a resilient valve element that can be opened by a sleeve slidably engaging t he nib assembly. After the sleeve opens the valve, the sleeve slides with respe ct to the nib assembly to expose the nib. In another embodiment, the sealing element can be a sliding door that is attached to the nib assembly and overlays the aperture. When the nib assembly is moved to the extended configuration, the sliding door slides in a manner that opens the aperture.< /SDOAB>