A retractable USB stick comprises: an elongate housing having an open end,
a USB stick disposed within the elongate housing, and means for causing
the USB stick to project out of and retract back into the housing. The
means for causing the USB stick to project may be patterned after
comparable means in a lipstick dispenser mechanism of U.S. Pat. No.
3,941,489. The means for causing the USB stick to project/retract may
comprise an outer holder having an elongate housing with an opening at
one end, an intermediate sleeve sized disposed between the USB stick and
the holder, and means for imparting reverse motion includes a toothed
wheel disposed at a back end of the intermediate sleeve, teeth on an
inner surface of the outer holder and teeth on an elongate linear track
extending from the back end of the USB stick. Optionally, the USB stick
may be releasably locked in the open position, and means may be provided
for closing the open end of the housing.