cord. Ideally compact size with a spring retract feature ie extend cord from the mechanism to working length , then, when required, press a button (or activate something) to retract the cord. Manual ie hand wind rectract
mechanisms are also interesting.
The cord is up to about 100cm (40") long extended, and 1.5 to 2.5mm
diameter.
I have seen personal stereo head set cord winders, which are almost
what is needed. But I need to find who makes these, what varieties are available and ideally details of any that are compact and have a spring/ press to retract feature.
Other sources of information on any similar mechanism designs, and who if anyone makes them would be very helpful. eg Patents and other
unusual / lateral applications eg Ski pass and key cord retract
mechanisms; dog leads ; Sports and medical equipment, appliances and
tools.
After posting my answer I noticed that the links I provided, since they contain parentheses, might not be hyperlinkable on your browser. The solution is simple, just copy the whole link and paste it in the URL field of your browser, instead of clicking on the hyperlink (only part of the link will be correctly hyperlinkable). Thanks!
kyrie26-ga
Here you go, several OEM manufacturers and suppliers of retractable earphones in Taiwan and the US :
+---------------------------------+
New Design High Quality Retractable Cable Hands Free Kit(KS-909) - King Sound Enterprise Co., Ltd http://www.allproducts.com.tw/communication/kingsound/09.html
New Design Pocket Size Retractable Cable Earphone Mic(KSH-90A) - King Sound Enterprise Co., Ltd http://www.allproducts.com.tw/communication/kingsound/30.html
New Design Earphone with Retractable Cable(KS-90H) - King Sound Enterprise Co., Ltd http://www.allproducts.com.tw/communication/kingsound/15.html
Manufacturers - King Sound Enterprise, earphone & headphone of all kinds, hands free earphone mie & accessories, computer headphone & accessories, telecommunication accessories http://www.allproducts.com.tw/communication/kingsound/supplier_oem.html
OEM Capacity
"We have owned updated and experienced technology in achieving OEM projects with clients. Our factory has been equipped well to develop new products, well trained lab our force, and our rich experienced engineers are ready to serve you."
Monthly Capacity: 600,000pcs approx
Years of Experience: 11 years
Certificate & Awards: ISO 9002
CEO: Mr. Hui-Nan, Lin
Address: No. 36, Jui His Street, Chieh Chen Dist. Kaohsiang City, 806 Taiwan, Tel: 886-7-7116960
Fax: 886-7-7131110
huinan@pub.dgnet.gd.cn
e7116960@ms37.hinet.net
http://www.kingsoundind.com
http://www.allproducts.com/communication/kingsound
+---------------------------------+
US WAY TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD (Taiwan) : Auto Retractable Earphone Set
http://www.hands-free.com/english/default-24.htm
"The automatic receive wire box provides arbitrary positioning and length controlling, occupies little space, and is easily carried with and collected. It could be applied to any model of cellphone with types of connectors to achieve its hands-free function. It is easily used and has the clear sound effect."
US WAY TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
F1, NO. 11, Lane145, Sec.4, Shing Lung Rd.,
Wen-Shan, Taipei, Taiwan
E-mail:info@hands-free.com
Tel:886-2-22345500
Fax:886-2-22345053
+---------------------------------+
Global Sources Online - Pocket-Sized Retractable Earpiece with On-Off or Mute Buttons http://www.globalsources.com/gsol/GeneralManager?&catalog_id=2000000003844&design=clean&language=en&page=ProductDetail&product_id=8825227328&action=GetProduct&action=GetPoint&point_id=3000000159246
"Key Specifications/Special Features:
- Unique compact design
- Small size
- With On/Off or mute buttons
- Various colors available
- Compatible with all kinds of mobile phone with the use of adapters when required
Primary Competitive Advantages:
- Country of Origin
- Guarantee/Warranty
- Prompt Delivery
Main Export Markets:
- Worldwide "
Times Telecom Ltd
Unit 2901-03, 29/F
Prosperity Center
No. 25 Chong Yip Street
Kwun Tong, Kowloon
Hong Kong
Tel: (852 ) 23989856
Fax: (852 ) 27876381
times@asiansources.com
info@timestele.com
Homepage: http://www.asiansources.com/times.co
Other Homepage Address: http://www.timestele.com
+---------------------------------+
Retractable Modem/Phone Cord by Artistic Office Products
http://www.cleansweepsupply.com/pages/skugroup11446.html
"Pulls out up to 8-ft. in length, then retracts tightly inside oval case to keep it tangle-free. Use with laptops, modems, and fax machines. Lightweight and convenient to store—perfect for travelers! Use it in hotels, conference rooms, or airplanes."
Manufacturer: ARTISTIC 800-223-8336
Artistic Office Products : About Us
http://www.artisticofficeproducts.com/aboutus.html
"Artistic Office Products' headquarters and manufacturing plant are located in the Port Morris section of the Bronx. The company has expanded internationally and now has offices and warehouses in Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Mexico."
http://www.artisticofficeproducts.com/contact.html
ARTISTIC OFFICE PRODUCTS
721 East 133rd Street
Bronx, NY 10454-3405
Telephone: (718) 665-5510
Reception: extension 22
Customer Service: extension 25
Sales: extension 17
Marketing: extension 23
Order Department Fax: (718) 665-5345
Email: mail@artisticofficeproducts.com
+---------------------------------+
RAS Enterprises : Cell Phone Headset
http://www.rasenterprises.com/specials/cell_headset.html
"This compact lightweight features a 2 1/2 foot long retractable cord & a comfortably padded earphone with microphone. Plugs ino a cell phone via 2.5mm jack or one of two supplied adapters. Handy detachable belt clip."
R.A.S. Enterprises
860 Worcester Road
Framingham, MA 01702
(508) 879-2212
rasenterprises@aol.com
+---------------------------------+
Search Strategy :
Yahoo Search Terms :
retractable headphone OR earphone manufacturers
http://google.yahoo.com/bin/query?p=retractable+headphone+OR+earphone+manufacturers&hc=0&hs=0
retractable headphone OR earphone OR headset OR walkman manufacturers
http://google.yahoo.com/bin/query?p=retractable+headphone+OR+earphone+OR+headset+OR+walkman+manufacturers&hc=0&hs=0
Let me know if you need further information. Hope this is what you're looking for!
Cheers
kyrie26-ga
Here we go : "All manner of retractable winding thingies!!"
==== PRODUCTS ====
+----------------------------------------+
PETdiscounters_com - Flexi Classic Automatic Retractable Cord Leads
http://www.petdiscounters.com/dog/collars/fl_cord.html
"Automatic Retractable Cord Leads"
+----------------------------------------+
Flexi USA Retractable Leashes Freedom
http://www.flexiusa.com/freedom.htm
"The retracting mechanism of the flexi leash allows the cord or belt (depending on leash type) to gently roll or unroll without sagging. Thus the leash is less likely to become entangled or restrict your dog's movement. The dog can exercise independently. For example, if the dog stops suddenly to sniff at a tree trunk the leash will not tug on your arm."
+----------------------------------------+
Petzl Zipka ultra-lightweight LED Headlamp
http://www.backcountry-equipment.com/accessrs/a-hd_lmp/zipka.html
"The Zipka features a retractable nylon cord that is tensioned by a coil spring in the rear housing. The nylong cord is not elastic (it does not catch in your hair the way a rubber band can). The coil spring tensions the cord to provide a snug (but not overly tight) fit."
+----------------------------------------+
Identification Card Supplies and Accessories Badge Reels in two styles plastic retractable reel and ski and sport pass retractable reel... http://www.racoindustries.com/rectbadgerl.htm
"Plastic Retractable Reel"
"Ski/Sport Pass Retractable Reel"
+----------------------------------------+
A1 RT-03 Retractable Reel with Key-Ring(Keyring)
http://www.retractable-badge-reels.com/rt-03-key-rings-12.htm
"High-quality and low cost retractable reel with key-ring(keyring, split-ring) for door key, car key, ID card or name badge holder. Good for business, school, military, trade show, promotion, concert, sports or meeting..."
+----------------------------------------+
Coleman Cable Systems - Retractable Reel Incandescent Worklight - 30ft_ -Heavy Duty http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/EC-05570.html
"Rugged heavy-duty worklight with convenient retractable cord reel. Mounts easily for use in workshop, basement, or garage. Comes with hardware for wall or ceiling mounting. Circuit breaker prevents overload to cord reel as well as household circuits."
+----------------------------------------+
Incandescent Work Light With Retractable Reel (30 ft_ Cord)
http://shop.store.yahoo.com/rodi/baysl-830.html
"This Incandescent Work Light includes a 30 ft cord for extra distance and a retractable reel to keep the cord neat and protected! Grounded outlet, adjustable cord stop and wall mount are also included! Bulb not included. From Bayco."
+----------------------------------------+
R&D, LLC - Home of the BOW-GUN REEL
http://www.rdllc.com/
"The Bow-Gun Reel is a patent pending, retractable reel that automatically winds up its rope as you pull up your bow, gun, or other equipment to your tree stand or other high work area. It is designed to help hunters keep their rope tangle free and out of their way as they lift their equipment."
+----------------------------------------+
BAYCO RETRACTABLE REELS
http://www.budgetlighting.com/bayco/bayco_retractable_reels.html
RETRACTABLE REELS - Standard Series
+----------------------------------------+
LED Clip-on-Keychain Light - www_shoplifestyle_com
http://www.shoplifestyle.com/store/product.asp?dept_id=15&pf_id=4180
"If it weren't so amazingly inexpensive you'd want to put this light in your will. LED bulbs, the state-of-the art in lighting, are the brightest and whitest lights ever made. They will last a lifetime or longer. This LED bulb slides up or down for the perfect angle of lighting."
+----------------------------------------+
Reel Lights & Trouble Lights-Retractable Reel Lights
http://www.arizonatools.com/catalog/tools/Reel_Lights_and_Trouble_Lights/Retractable_Reel_Lights
+----------------------------------------+
Codi Direct Product
http://www.codidirect.com/shop/product.asp?intProductId=40
Retractable Network Cable
"Our state of the art, Category 5E Retractable Network Cable is designed to maximize productivity. Extending up to 7 feet, it rewinds at the touch of a button with it's built in auto-retractable mechanism. 100% Compatible with PC & MAC. IEEE and Fluke DSP4000 Cat5e compliant."
+----------------------------------------+
Force Technology - Home of The Bond™ latch for Palm Connected Organizers http://www.force.com/accessor.htm
"Mini Retracting Reel with Split Ring"
"Heavy-Duty 48" Retracting Reel"
+----------------------------------------+
Quik-Snip Line Clippers
http://quik-cull.com/line_clippers.htm
"Never misplace your line clipper again! Reel and clipper attach easily and firmly to clothing or belt loop. Includes chrome-plated steel retractable reel w/bulldog clip and lanyard, and hook and line clipper."
+----------------------------------------+
EK Ekcessories - Ski & Winter Sports Ekcessories
http://www.ekusa.com/store/category/23.20/
"Retract-A-Cat Ski Pass Holder"
+----------------------------------------+
Pelican Parts On-Line Catalog - Flashlights and Lamps - Page 14
http://www.drivewerks.com/catalog/shopcart/DWKS/POR_DWKS_toolsE_pg14.htm
"Retractable 3-Outlet Extension Cord"
+----------------------------------------+
Reel-Thing Innovations
http://www.cordreel.com/Merchant/merchant.mv
"Retractable Automotive Cord Reel"
+----------------------------------------+
Retractable Network ISDN Cord
http://www.targus.com/product_details.asp?sku=PA210u
"Eliminate carrying loose lengths of RJ-45 Ethernet cable and ISDN line cord to connect to Ethernet or ISDN jacks while on the road with the Targus Retractable Network ISDN Cord. The unique cord design combines industry standard Ethernet and ISDN technology in seven feet of cable. Simply touch the release button and the cord automatically retracts with no manual winding."
+----------------------------------------+
Kensington PocketMouse Pro Portable Mouse
http://www.laptopusb.com/kensington_pocketmouse_pro.htm
"Now there's less to stow when on the go. The Kensington PocketMouse Pro is the first optical mobile mouse with a retractable cord. Slip PocketMouse Pro easily into laptop bag, portfolio or pocket. No clutter. No tangles. Pull the cord out from its storage place inside the compact mouse and plug into USB Mac or PC."
+----------------------------------------+
==== PATENTS ====
+----------------------------------------+
United States Patent 6,324,285 : Cradle for a handset
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=146&p=3&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+and+cord&RS=(retract
"A cradle 13 for a handset for a telephone or other electronic apparatus is dimensioned to fit within a chair arm, for example an aircraft seat arm. The cradle includes an integral cord spool 16 having a rewind bias spring 34, and a catch (not shown) for maintaining the handset in the cradle. The cord is locked in an extended condition by a braking cam 53, releasable for rewinding the cord by a pushbutton 36. Latching means 54 are provided for maintaining the pushbutton depressed until the cord is rewound. Other brake and latching means, including a ratchet and pawl arrangement, are disclosed."
+----------------------------------------+
United States Patent 6,398,150 : Locking, hand-held holiday light storage and dispenser device http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=67&p=2&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+and+cord&RS=(retract
"A locking, hand-held holiday light storage and dispenser device, comprising a base, a rotating tube coupled to the base, and a locking mechanism adapted to lock the rotating tube in position relative to the base in order to permit the storage and dispensing of holiday lights in a tangle-free manner."
+----------------------------------------+
United States Patent 6,402,075 : String control system
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=64&p=2&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+and+cord&RS=(retract
"A string control system for conveniently dispensing for use and retracting for storage an elongate flexible member. The string control system includes a reeling device for dispensing an elongate flexible member during use of the flexible member and retracting the flexible member for storage of the flexible member. The device comprises a frame having laterally spaced side portions and longitudinally spaced end portions defining an opening. The end portions extend between the side portions. A spool is provided for winding a length of an elongate flexible member thereon. The spool is positioned in the opening of the frame and is rotatably mounted on the frame. The spool has a pair of flange portions and a central portion mounted between the flange portions. A crank is provided for rotating the spool. Preferably, each of the flange portions of the spool has a hub and at least two guide spokes extending radially outward from the hub."
+----------------------------------------+
United States Patent 6,346,106 : Instrument and method employing snare electrode windable about rotatable spool for minimally invasive electrosurgical resection http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=115&p=3&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+and+cord&RS=(retract
"A surgical instrument includes a body, a snare electrode, a spool and an electrical connector. A distal part of the body includes a passageway extending axially therethrough. The snare electrode is adapted to telescope in the passageway. The distal part of the body has an outward surface electrically insulated from the snare electrode. A second portion of the snare electrode is extendable from a second port of the passageway for forming a loop sized to be placed over tissue (e.g., portion(s) of the uterus and/or kidney(s), spleen, pancreas, gallbladder, remnant from the liver, and/or vascular aneurysm) to be removed from a patient. The spool is rotatably supported in a proximal part of the body. A first portion of the snare electrode is windable about the spool. A rotation of the spool in a winding direction causes retraction of the first portion of the snare electrode from a first port of the passageway, thereby closing the loop to engage the tissue. The electrical connector is for allowing the snare electrode to be coupled to an electrical source. An electrical current is passed from the electrical source to the loop to cauterize the tissue."
+----------------------------------------+
United States Patent 6,293,485 : Two-stage retractable cord reel
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=183&p=4&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+and+cord&RS=(retract
"A cord storage assembly is disclosed. A length of cord can be wound onto a reel. The storage assembly includes a retraction mechanism and a latch mechanism. A latch pilot mechanism is provided to selectively engage and disengage the latch mechanism. The latch pilot mechanism can be adapted to engage the latch mechanism when the cord is extended from the reel less than a predetermined length to prevent the operation of the latch mechanism. The latch pilot mechanism can be disengaged from the latch mechanism once the cord is extended greater than the predetermined length from the reel. The latch pilot mechanism can have different configurations and can be adapted to engage and disengage the latch mechanism at one or more predetermined lengths."
+----------------------------------------+
United States Patent 6,170,500 : Retrievable cane
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=357&p=8&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+and+cord&RS=(retract
"A retrievable cane disclosed includes a cane body to which there is attached a retrieval line that is anchored at a lower end and extends from the inside of the cane body at the lower end up through the cane body out through the rear of the cane body below the grip. The retrieval line has an elastic section that allows an attachment end outside the cane body to be releasably attached to the body of the user preferably having the grip portion at the waist allowing normal walking by the user. The elastic section allows the user to pull the cane body away from the waist for use during walking and the elastic section automatically returns the cane to the user's waist when released."
+----------------------------------------+
United States Patent 6,179,238 : Reel device
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=342&p=7&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+and+cord&RS=(retract
"A reeling device is provided which allows an electrical lead to be wound up without the need for slip-rings. The lead is partially wound around a spool and is electrically connected to contacts in a spindle, about which the spool rotates. A portion of the lead is sprung and is loaded as the spool rotates to pay out the lead. A ratchet and pawl mechanism is provided to lock the lead in its extended configuration. The ratchet and pawl mechanism can be relased so that the lead is retracted using the energy stored in the sprung portion of the lead. A pair of the reeling devices may be combined back-to-back to provide convenient storage for earpiece and plug leads for a headset. The reeling device may also be integrated into a portable electronic apparatus for storing earpiece or microphone leads."
+----------------------------------------+
United States Patent 6,095,934 : Multi-purpose retractable golf accessory http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=452&p=10&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+and+cord&RS=(retract
"A multi-purpose golf accessory including a housing that allows a golfer to use a variety of golf tools through extension and retraction of the tools relative to the housing. The housing comprises a rear section attached to a front section. The rear section includes a belt clip. The front section defines a channel and includes a recessed magnetic surface within the channel for receiving and holding a metal ball marker therein. A reel is pivotally mounted about a shaft within the housing and includes a semi-flexible cord coiled about the reel and movable between retracted and extended positions. One end of the cord extends through the lower end of the housing to hold a golf tool. A spring is mounted about the shaft for biasing the cord toward the retracted position. As a result, a golfer may selectively extend the cord for using the tool a desired distance away from the housing. When the golf tool is released following use, the spring causes the cord to be recoiled about the reel and the tool is returned to a position adjacent the housing."
+----------------------------------------+
United States Patent 6,053,381 : Retractable shoulder strap backpack
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=513&p=11&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+and+cord&RS=(retract
"A backpack with at least one strap that can quickly be retracted or extended to permit the user to easily put on or remove the backpack. The backpack includes a retracting mechanism and a locking device. The retracting mechanism allows the retracting strap to extend or retract as desired. The locking device keeps the strap from extending or retracting while the backpack is being carried."
+----------------------------------------+
Google Search Terms :
retractable reel OR mechanism
://www.google.com/search?sourceid=navclient&q=retractable+reel+OR+mechanism
retractable cord
://www.google.com/search?q=retractable+cord&hl=en&lr=&ie=ISO-8859-1&safe=off
Patent Database Search Results :
retract and cord in All Years
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=%2Fnetahtml%2Fsearch-adv.htm&r=0&p=1&f=S&l=50&Query=retract+and+cord&d=pall
Hope that helps,
kyrie26-ga
I had a fun exploring the United States Patent and Trademark Office Home Page at http://www.uspto.gov and digging up many patents that I think you would be very interested in. These pages contain drawings, specifications and inventor contact information. Although I found many candidates for our search, I have narrowed down the most relevant to your question - those designs that are more or less compact, with a spring retract feature, some with a release trigger. These designs that I found cover a wide variety of products and applications. Here they are for your enjoyment (and hopefully enlightenment) :
***Note : online images on these pages are in TIFF format and require a TIFF browser plug-in available at :
AlternaTIFF: http://www.alternatiff.com/ (tested: IE, Netscape, Opera) interneTIFF: http://www.innomage.com/interneTIFF.htm (tested: IE, Netscape)
+----------------------+
United States Patent 6,327,507 : Multiple extendable leadwire device
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=141&p=3&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+AND+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"The present invention is directed toward a housing or magazine which is designed for efficient storage and management of electrically conductive cabling useful for the interconnection of disparate components, for example audio components, computer system components and the like. In a particular embodiment, the invention is directed toward a retractable lead wire device useful in the connection of patients to various input and output functions of medical testing and treatment devices, for example electrotherapy machines, ultrasound machinery, electrocardiogram machines (EKG) electroencephalograph (EEG) and devices useful for delivering muscle and nerve stimulation to the body. In a particular embodiment the device complies with the current IEC safety standards."
+----------------------+
United States Patent 6,374,126 : Hands-free headset with stowable stereo earpiece http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=86&p=2&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+AND+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"A hands-free headset includes first and second earpieces and is configured such that the second earpiece is integrally mounted to and stowed against the first earpiece during mono-communications operation or during storage. The headset includes two retractable cords which engage with a portable communications device. A sliding grommet attached to the retractable cords controls the separation of the cords and facilitates the two cords being reeled into a common cord reel. The headset also includes a switch which directs the desired electrical path to either stereo listening or communications operation. The headset further includes a docking platform which can be attached to the body of the portable communications device for storage and which holds the integral mounted earpieces against the cord storage reel for an aesthetic stowed hands-free device."
+----------------------+
United States Patent 6,405,683 : Retractable leash assembly
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=58&p=2&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+AND+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"A leash handle assembly having a housing with a grip portion, a spool assembly rotatably mounted in the housing, a trigger movably mounted to the grip portion, and a dual-position switch mounted to the housing proximate to the grip portion. The spool assembly is adapted for winding and unwinding a leash cord. The movable trigger is actuated to inhibit the leash cord from extending or retracting, and released to enable the leash cord to extend out of the housing in response to an external force. The spooling assembly is spring biased to cause the leash cord to retract in the absence of trigger actuation and the presence of a preset external force. The dual-position switch operates in a first position to lock the trigger in an actuated position and in a second position to enable the moveable trigger to operate freely. The dual-mode switch is positioned to enable a user to actuate it with the same hand that grasps the leash handle and actuates the movable trigger."
+----------------------+
United States Patent 6,419,413 : Retractable writing instrument assembly http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=41&p=1&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+AND+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"A writing instrument is attached to a cord that is itself retractable into a housing. The housing includes a spool connected to a spring. The retractable cord is connected to the spool, and the spool is adapted to wind the cord around it as a result of the spring being biased to turn the spool so the cord is wound around it. A mount connects the housing to a surface. The housing may have written indicia displaying on it. Further, the mount can be rotatably connected to the housing."
+----------------------+
United States Patent 6,434,797 : Pacifier cord retracting device
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=18&p=1&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+and+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"The device includes a housing having a rear face with a clip thereon for releasably securing the housing to a child's clothing or other article which is convenient to the user. An elongate cord includes a proximal end secured to a spring biased roller within the housing. The cord extends through a channel in the housing and out through an opening in the side of the housing to a free distal en d portion which includes a fastener for securing the distal end portion to a pacifier. In a relaxed state, the spring biased roller maintains the cord wound thereabout so that the distal end portion of the cord and attached pacifier are adjacent the housing. Upon pulling the distal end portion and pacifier away from the housing, to thereby unwind the cord from the roller, a recoil tension is placed on the roller, urging the roller in the opposite rotational direction thereby retracting the cord into the housing so that the distal end portion and pacifier are brought back to the housing once the pacifier is removed from the child's mouth."
+----------------------+
United States Patent 6,293,485 : Two-stage retractable cord reel
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=183&p=4&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+AND+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"A cord storage assembly is disclosed. A length of cord can be wound onto a reel. The storage assembly includes a retraction mechanism and a latch mechanism. A latch pilot mechanism is provided to selectively engage and disengage the latch mechanism. The latch pilot mechanism can be adapted to engage the latch mechanism when the cord is extended from the reel less than a predetermined length to prevent the operation of the latch mechanism. The latch pilot mechanism can be disengaged from the latch mechanism once the cord is extended greater than the predetermined length from the reel. The latch pilot mechanism can have different configurations and can be adapted to engage and disengage the latch mechanism at one or more predetermined lengths."
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United States Patent 6,281,441 : Retractable system for electrical harness wire http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=197&p=4&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+AND+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"A retractable harness system for an electrical wire having a slidable harness wire pulley, an elastic cord pulley, and an elastic cord. The slidable harness wire pulley places a rearward tension on the harness wire while allowing the harness wire to be extended and retracted from the front portion of an elongate support member. A clamp is provided capable of clamping the harness wire in fixed relation to the elongate support member, and capable of being released to allow extension and retraction of the harness wire."
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United States Patent 6,282,289 : Handset cable reel
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=195&p=4&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+AND+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"A cable reel comprises a casing defining a cable exit opening and an access opening; a static electrical connection located externally of the casing; a spool rotatably received within the casing and having a circumferentially extending recess opening radially outwardly of the spool, the spool further having an inner axially extending recess and an axially open notch communicating between the circumferentially extending recess and the inner axially extending recess; a handset cable having a first end and a second end, the handset cable first end being attachable to a handset in use, at least a portion of the handset cable being windable into or out of the spool circumferentially extending recess upon rotation of the spool so as to extend from or retract into the cable exit opening; a ribbon cable having a first end and a second end, the ribbon cable first end being attached to the handset cable second end and the ribbon cable second end being attached to the static electrical connector whereby the ribbon cable is electrically connected between the static electrical connection and the handset cable; a cover, and releasable fastening means for removably and replaceably securing the cover over the access opening so that, with the cover removed, the spool is exposed in the access opening; whereby the handset cable with attached ribbon cable may be removed by unwinding from the spool and lifting from the notch for servicing or repair of the cable reel."
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United States Patent 6,364,237 : Retractable badgeholder with spinning display http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=97&p=2&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+AND+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"A retractable badgeholder wherein a window in the front face of the case of the badgeholder is provided, through which a design, such as a pattern, inscription, or logo can be seen. When a retractable cord of this improved badgeholder is pulled out of the case it causes the design to rotate or spin. Likewise, when the cord is retracted back into the case of the badgeholder, the design spins. Thus, anyone observing the badgeholder will see the spinning design. It is believed this spinning design will be interesting to observers, thus lending special appeal to the improved badgeholder."
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United States Patent 6,439,360 : Reel dispenser for power cord application http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=10&p=1&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+and+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"An extension cord reel assembly having a housing which has a spool portion and a mounting portion is provided. A spool member having at least one flange member that is continuously welded to a surface upon which the extension cord is to be stored is positioned within the spool portion of the housing. The mounting portion of the housing of the reel assembly is positioned adjacent an outer perimeter of the spool member and is adapted to attach to a suspension member from which the reel assembly can be suspended above the ground."
"The cord is stored on an interior pulley which is generally spring loaded such that the extension cord can be retracted back inside of the housing when not in use."
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United States Patent 6,421,044 : Peripheral input device with a retractable cord http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=37&p=1&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+and+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"The invention, in one embodiment, is a peripheral input device including a body, the body further including an input mechanism; an electrical cord operably connected to the body through which input from the input mechanism can be transmitted; and a spool biased to rotate and retract the electrical cord; and an anchor for the electrical cord."
"a spool biased to rotate and automatically retract the electrical cord without further user interaction to remove slack in the cord as the body moves to generate at least part of the input, the spool being rotatably mounted in the body"
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United States Patent 6,402,546 : Adapter with retractable cable assembly and electrical plug assembly http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=63&p=2&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+AND+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"An electrical adapter is supported by a housing and includes an electrical plug assembly having an input for receiving a high voltage, a converter electrically coupled to the assembly for converting the high voltage to a low voltage, and a retractable cable assembly supported by the housing and electrically coupled to the converter. The retractable cable assembly includes a cable coupled at one end to an electrical plug for outputting the low voltage to the electrical device, and is enabled to retract the cable. In a preferred embodiment, the retractable cable assembly includes slots defined within a bore of a cable reel to support a pair of first interengageable electrical contacts coupled to the other end of the low voltage cable. These electrical contacts rotationally mate with a pair of second interengageable electrical contacts disposed along the axis of rotation within the retractable cable assembly. One of the first contacts includes a pair of edges defining a gap therein. One of the second contacts defines a sleeve having a spiral inclined portion. When the contact having the gap rotates around the sleeve, the problem of intermittent electrical contact that arises with the gap rotating about the sleeve and coinciding with gaps within the sleeve is eliminated, and continuous electrical contact is established therebetween."
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United States Patent 6,382,481 : Retractable article holder
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=80&p=2&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+AND+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"A retractable article holder assembly for use preferably in conjunction with a disposable cigarette lighter comprises in one embodiment an article holder for securing a disposable cigarette lighter, a support housing, a retraction mechanism mounted within the support housing comprising a spring-biased reel for extracting and retracting a cord secured at a first end thereto, a clip secured to one side of the support housing for attaching the housing to an object, and a fastener strap for connecting the article holder to the retraction mechanism. A plurality of protrusions is provided in an interior portion of the article container for preventing movement of the article relative to the article holder. Advantageously, a tongue integral with the article holder extends away from an open end of the article holder at an acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the article holder such that the angle of the tongue permits an operator to activate the cigarette lighter and light an item without interference from the body of the article holder or associated fastener strap and retraction mechanism."
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United States Patent 6,264,016 : Mobile power center with self-retracting cord http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=227&p=5&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+AND+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"A mobile power center with self-retracting cord includes an enclosure having a mounting surface which is attachable to the bumper of a vehicle and a front surface having a recessed area for attachment of a license plate. Within the enclosure, a reel carries an extension cord on a spring-powered spindle that allows manual extension and automatic retraction of the cord. Where the length of the cord exceeds the length which may be carried by the reel, first and second cord restraints, carried on opposed sides of the enclosure, support additional cord wrapped around the enclosure. The first and second three-prong sockets of a dual socket receptacle are wired in parallel to the inner end of the extension cord. In a first mode of operation, a block heater, mounted on the vehicle, may be plugged into a first socket, while a trouble light or tool may be plugged into the second socket. AC power from a remote source is supplied by the extension cord. In a second mode of operation, a 12 VDC to 120 VAC converter, mounted in the engine compartment and the vehicle, may be plugged into a recessed male receptacle. A tool or light may then be plugged into either socket of a standard female receptacle. Where an electrical load is remotely located, the outer end of the extension cord may be extended, with a female to female adapter attached, thereby providing power to the remote load."
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United States Patent 5,887,550 : Combined retractable pet leash and flashlight http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=20&f=G&l=50&d=PALL&p=1&S1=(earphone+AND+reel)&OS=earphone+AND+reel&RS=(earphone+AND+reel)
"The present invention is an improved combined pet leash and flashlight comprising a mechanical dispensing and retracting cord for the purpose of tethering, restraining and controlling a pet during a walk."
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United States Patent 6,179,238 : Reel device
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm&r=342&p=7&f=G&l=50&d=pall&S1=(retract+AND+cord)&OS=retract+AND+cord&RS=(retract+AND+cord)
"A reeling device is provided which allows an electrical lead to be wound up without the need for slip-rings. The lead is partially wound around a spool and is electrically connected to contacts in a spindle, about which the spool rotates. A portion of the lead is sprung and is loaded as the spool rotates to pay out the lead. A ratchet and pawl mechanism is provided to lock the lead in its extended configuration. The ratchet and pawl mechanism can be relased so that the lead is retracted using the energy stored in the sprung portion of the lead. A pair of the reeling devices may be combined back-to-back to provide convenient storage for earpiece and plug leads for a headset. The reeling device may also be integrated into a portable electronic apparatus for storing earpiece or microphone leads."
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