Method and apparatus for adjusting contact pressure of a thermal printhead
US5206662A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 8, 1991 |
| Grant date | Apr 27, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 8, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J25/312
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for adjusting the contact pressure of a thermal printhead against a platen roller. In response to the receipt of a control signal, a spring mechanism is activated to apply a torque against an arm attached to a shaft. Rotation of the shaft first brings the printhead into contact with a thermal medium which passes between the printhead and the platen roller. After the printhead contacts the thermal medium, further force applied through the spring selectively increases the torque which, in turn, increases the pressure of the printhead against the thermal medium. The pressure is adjustable as a function of the thermal medium, print speed, user darkness preference and other variables.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.