Print head pressure mechanism, and a printer using the same
US6480216B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 22, 2000 |
| Grant date | Nov 12, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 22, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J11/04
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A print head pressure mechanism is disclosed that maintains uniform pressure between the thermal print head and platen roller regardless of variations in parts precision, and thus prints with uniform print density. The print head pressure mechanism has first and second support shafts disposed at both sides in the direction of a heat element line L1 of the thermal print head, a frame member for supporting the print head, and having first and second contact parts for contacting the first and second support shafts, and an one or more urging unit for pushing the print head to the platen with the urging means operating on the side of the print head opposite the side to which the heat elements are disposed. When the platen is separated from the print head, the platen axis and heat element line L1 of the print head are not parallel to each other. When the platen is in contact with the print head heat elements, and the first support shaft is in contact with the first contact part, the platen axis is substantially parallel to the heat element line L1 of the print head heat elements.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.