Portable printer with ribbon cartridge retaining feature

US8342763B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• ZIH Corp. · BM

Inventors

• Huy T. Vo · Boise, US
• Hussam Eassa · Windham, US
• Michael L. Lamontagne · Johnston, US
• Brian C. Stormont · Uxbridge, US
• Gregory J. Klein · Newport, US
• Michael E. Leclerc · Providence, US
• Richard J. Preliasco · Fresno Street, US
• Roy P. Lyman · West Greenwich, US
• David F. Beck · Fresno Street, US
• Craig Horrocks · Fresno Street, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 19, 2009
• Grant date: Jan 1, 2013
• Expiry date: Mar 2, 2031

Classification

• Technology area (CPC H): Electricity
• CPC primary: H02J7/0048
• WIPO field: Textile and paper machines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Devices, systems and methods for a portable printer are provided. Personnel utilize features of the printer to manage products, store information on labels, and aid in shipping. A low battery shut-off feature shuts down the printer at a set battery power percentage; a battery charge control feature controls battery charging to stay within a set range of state of charge values to ensure longer battery life; a ribbon cartridge insertion feature allows for easy replacement of the ribbon cartridge; ribbon cartridge locating features lock the ribbon cartridge into place for printing; a ribbon guiding feature adjusts the ribbon during printing to reduce wrinkles; an RFID coupler mounting feature mounts and shields an RFID coupler inside the printer; a media guide locking feature fixes the media position to prevent misalignment; and a media alignment feature allows the user to properly align the media with the printhead during installation.