Ribbon cartridge

Abstract

[Problem] Provide a ribbon cartridge that can suppress the reduction in rigidity of the cartridge case caused by the provision of a tape entry port. [Solution] As a ribbon cartridge, the cartridge case is provided with a cartridge-side tape inlet and a cartridge-side tape outlet, and the first case part and the second case part are combined by a plurality of case interlocking parts having a 2B interlocking pin provided in the second case part and a 1B interlocking hole provided in the first case part and interlocked with the 2B interlocking pin, and the cartridge-side tape inlet is provided at a position where the gap with one of the plurality of case interlocking parts is smaller than the dimension in the short direction of the cartridge-side tape inlet.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a ribbon cartridge mountable to a tape printing device. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, a ribbon cartridge is known to be detachable from a tape printing device and comprises an ink ribbon and a cartridge case that accommodates the ink ribbon. The cartridge case is provided with a tape introduction port for introducing a tape, which serves as a printing medium, into the cartridge case from outside the cartridge case. Prior art literature

[0003] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-104326

[0004] In cartridge cases equipped with a tape entry port, the rigidity of the cartridge case is reduced, which may cause the cartridge case to bend or parts of the cartridge case to deform.

[0005] The ribbon cartridge of the present invention comprises an ink ribbon and a cartridge case that accommodates the ink ribbon, and is a ribbon cartridge mountable to a tape printing device. The cartridge case has a first case portion and a second case portion provided in a first direction relative to the first case portion. The cartridge case is formed in an elongated shape in a direction parallel to the first direction and is provided with a tape inlet for introducing a tape into the cartridge case from the outside of the cartridge case and a tape outlet for discharging the tape introduced into the cartridge case to the outside of the cartridge. The first case portion and the second case portion are combined by a plurality of case interlocking portions, each having an interlocking convex portion provided on one side of the first case portion and the second case portion and an interlocking concave portion provided on the other side of the first case portion and the second case portion, which is engaged with the interlocking convex portion. The tape inlet is provided at a position where the distance from one of the plurality of case interlocking portions is smaller than the dimension of the tape inlet in the short direction of the tape inlet. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0006] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a ribbon cartridge. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a ribbon cartridge illustrating the structure inside the ribbon cartridge case. Figure 3 is a view of a tape printing device in a state where a ribbon cartridge is not installed, seen from the +Z direction. FIG. 4 is a view of a tape printing device with a ribbon cartridge installed, seen from the +Z direction. Figure 5 is a view of the ribbon cartridge from the +X direction. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the 2A case section. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the 2A case section viewed from a different angle than FIG. 6. Figure 8 is a view of the ribbon cartridge from the -X direction. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the 2B case section. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the 2C case section. FIG. 11 is a view of a ribbon cartridge seen from the +Z direction in a state where the 2A case part is separated from the 1st case part and the tape pressing part is positioned at the pressing position. FIG. 12 is a view of a ribbon cartridge seen from the +Z direction in a state where the 2A case part is separated from the 1st case part and the tape pressing part is located at a spaced position. Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of a ribbon cartridge. FIG. 14 is a view of a ribbon cartridge seen from the +Z direction in a state where the 2A case part is separated from the 1st case part and a tape is inserted into the tape path. FIG. 15 is a view of a ribbon cartridge seen from the +Z direction in a state where a tape is inserted into the tape path and a 2A case part is mounted in a 1 case part. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a ribbon cartridge seen from the +Z direction with the 2A case part in an open state of the tape pressure receiving part. FIG. 17 is a view of the ribbon cartridge from the +Z direction with the 2A case part closed to the tape pressure receiving part. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0007] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a ribbon cartridge will be described with reference to the attached drawings. Additionally, FIGS. 1 to 15 are drawings relating to a first embodiment of a ribbon cartridge, and FIGS. 16 and 17 are drawings relating to a second embodiment of a ribbon cartridge. In the following description, directions following the XYZ orthogonal coordinate system shown in each figure will be used, but these directions are merely for convenience of explanation and do not limit the following embodiments in any way. Furthermore, the number of each component is merely an example and does not limit the following embodiments in any way.

[0008] [First Embodiment]

[0009] Based on FIGS. 1 and 2, a ribbon cartridge (101A), which is a first embodiment of a ribbon cartridge, is described. The ribbon cartridge (101A) is equipped with a cartridge case (103), a ribbon roll (105), a winding core (107), a platen roller (109), a tape pressurizing part (111), and a circuit board (113).

[0010] The cartridge case (103) accommodates a ribbon roll (105), a winding core (107), a platen roller (109), and a tape pressurizing part (111). Additionally, a circuit board (113) is mounted on the cartridge case (103). Furthermore, in FIG. 2, to illustrate the structure within the cartridge case (103), a part of the cartridge case (103), namely the second case part (131) described later, is omitted from the illustration.

[0011] The cartridge case (103) is provided with a cartridge-side tape inlet (115), a cartridge-side tape outlet (117), a tape path (119), and a head insertion hole (121).

[0012] The cartridge-side tape inlet (115) is provided on the surface of the cartridge case (103) in the +X direction and is formed in a roughly rectangular shape that is long in the Z-axis direction. As shown in FIG. 4, the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) introduces a tape (T), which serves as a printing medium, into the cartridge case (103) from outside the cartridge case (103). That is, the tape (T) is introduced into the cartridge case (103) from outside the cartridge case (103) through the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) in a position where the width direction of the tape (T) is in the Z-axis direction.

[0013] The cartridge-side tape outlet (117) is provided on the surface of the cartridge case (103) in the -X direction and is formed in a roughly rectangular shape that is long in the Z-axis direction. The cartridge-side tape outlet (117) discharges the tape (T) introduced into the cartridge case (103) to the outside of the cartridge case (103). That is, the tape (T) is discharged from inside the cartridge case (103) to the outside of the cartridge case (103) through the cartridge-side tape outlet (117) in a position where the width direction of the tape (T) is in the Z-axis direction.

[0014] The tape path (119) is a path extending from the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) to the cartridge-side tape outlet (117). The tape (T) introduced into the cartridge case (103) from the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) is discharged to the outside of the cartridge case (103) from the cartridge-side tape outlet (117) through the tape path (119).

[0015] The head insertion hole (121) is provided to penetrate the cartridge case (103) in the Z-axis direction. As shown in FIG. 4, a thermal head (17) and a head cover (19) provided in the tape printing device (1) are inserted into the head insertion hole (121).

[0016] The ribbon roll (105) is equipped with an ink ribbon (123) and an output core (125) on which the ink ribbon (123) is wound. The ink ribbon (123) output from the output core (125) is wound onto a winding core (107).

[0017] The platen roller (109) grips the tape (T) and ink ribbon (123) between itself and the thermal head (17) provided in the tape printing device (1), and transports the gripped tape (T).

[0018] A circuit board (113) is provided on the surface of the cartridge case (103) in the +X direction. Various information, such as the remaining amount of ink ribbon (123), is stored on the circuit board (113) so that it can be updated.

[0019] [Tape printing device]

[0020] Based on FIGS. 3 and 4, a tape printing device (1) equipped with a ribbon cartridge (101A) is described. The tape printing device (1) is equipped with a device case (3) and a mounting cover (5). The device case (3) is formed in a roughly rectangular shape.

[0021] The device case (3) is provided with a device-side tape inlet (7), a device-side tape outlet (9), a tape inlet path (11), a tape outlet path (13), and a cartridge mounting part (15).

[0022] The device-side tape inlet (7) is provided on the surface of the device case (3) in the +X direction and is formed in a roughly rectangular shape that is long in the Z-axis direction. The device-side tape inlet (7) introduces a tape (T) that has been extruded from a tape roll not shown, which is set outside the device case (3), into the device case (3). That is, the tape (T) is introduced into the device case (3) through the device-side tape inlet (7) in a position where the width direction of the tape (T) is in the Z-axis direction.

[0023] The device-side tape discharge port (9) is provided on the surface of the device case (3) in the -X direction and is formed in a roughly rectangular shape that is long in the Z-axis direction. The device-side tape discharge port (9) discharges the tape (T) introduced into the device case (3) to the outside of the device case (3). That is, the tape (T) is discharged to the outside of the device case (3) through the device-side tape discharge port (9) in a position where the width direction of the tape (T) is in the Z-axis direction.

[0024] The tape introduction path (11) is a path extending from the device-side tape introduction port (7) to the cartridge mounting section (15). The tape (T) introduced into the device case (3) from the device-side tape introduction port (7) is transferred through the tape introduction path (11) to the ribbon cartridge (101A) mounted in the cartridge mounting section (15).

[0025] The tape discharge path (13) is a path extending from the cartridge mounting section (15) to the device-side tape discharge port (9). The tape (T) discharged from the ribbon cartridge (101A) mounted in the cartridge mounting section (15) is discharged from the device-side tape discharge port (9) to the outside of the device case (3) through the tape discharge path (13).

[0026] The cartridge mounting portion (15) is a concave portion open in the +Z direction. A ribbon cartridge (101A) is detachably mounted in the cartridge mounting portion (15).

[0027] The device-side tape inlet (7), device-side tape outlet (9), tape inlet path (11), and tape outlet path (13) are open in the +Z direction, just like the cartridge mounting part (15). Because of this, when the user mounts the ribbon cartridge (101A) with the tape (T) already introduced into the cartridge mounting part (15), the tape (T) protruding from the ribbon cartridge (101A) can be inserted from the +Z direction into the device-side tape inlet (7), device-side tape outlet (9), tape inlet path (11), and tape outlet path (13).

[0028] The mounting part cover (5) is rotatably mounted on the end of the device case (3) in the +Y direction. The mounting part cover (5) opens and closes the +Z direction of the device-side tape inlet (7), device-side tape outlet (9), tape inlet path (11), tape outlet path (13), and cartridge mounting part (15). Additionally, the mounting part cover (5) is omitted from the illustration in FIG. 4.

[0029] A thermal head (17) and a head cover (19) are provided in the cartridge mounting portion (15). The thermal head (17) is equipped with a heating element not shown and performs printing on the tape (T). The head cover (19) partially covers the thermal head (17). When the ribbon cartridge (101A) is mounted in the cartridge mounting portion (15), the thermal head (17) and the head cover (19) are inserted into the head insertion hole (121).

[0030] From the bottom surface of the cartridge mounting portion (15), the platen shaft (21), the dispensing shaft (23), and the winding shaft (25) protrude in the +Z direction. When a ribbon cartridge (101A) is mounted on the cartridge mounting portion (15), the platen shaft (21), the dispensing shaft (23), and the winding shaft (25) are inserted into the platen roller (109), the dispensing core (125), and the winding core (107), respectively. By doing so, the rotation of the transfer motor (not shown) can be transmitted to the platen roller (109), the dispensing core (125), and the winding core (107).

[0031] Additionally, an entry projection (27) protrudes in the +Z direction from the bottom surface of the cartridge mounting portion (15). When the ribbon cartridge (101A) is mounted on the cartridge mounting portion (15), the entry projection (27) enters into the cartridge case (103) through the projection entry hole (127) provided in the cartridge case (103) as shown in FIG. 2.

[0032] After the ribbon cartridge (101A) is mounted in the cartridge mounting part (15) and the mounting part cover (5) is closed, the thermal head (17) moves toward the platen roller (109) by means of a head moving mechanism (not shown). By doing so, the tape (T) and ink ribbon (123) are clamped between the thermal head (17) and the platen roller (109). In this state, when the platen roller (109) and the winding shaft (25) rotate, the tape (T) and ink ribbon (123) are transported. At this time, the thermal head (17) generates heat based on printing data received from an external device such as a PC, thereby transferring the ink of the ink ribbon (123) to the tape (T) and printing an image on the tape (T).

[0033] A cutter (29) is provided between the cartridge mounting portion (15) and the device-side tape discharge port (9). The cutter (29) cuts the tape (T) using a cutter motor (not shown) as a driving source. By doing so, the printed portion of the tape (T) is separated.

[0034] A substrate connection part (31) is provided on the inner side of the cartridge mounting part (15). When a ribbon cartridge (101A) is mounted in the cartridge mounting part (15), the substrate connection part (31) comes into contact with a circuit board (113) mounted in the cartridge case (103). By doing so, the circuit board (113) and a control unit (not shown) provided by the tape printing device (1) are electrically connected through the substrate connection part (31). The control unit reads various information stored in the circuit board (113) through the substrate connection part (31) and also writes various information to the circuit board (113).

[0035] [Cartridge Case]

[0036] Based on FIGS. 1 and 2, a cartridge case (103) is described. The cartridge case (103) has a first case portion (129) and a second case portion (131) composed of a separate member from the first case portion (129). The second case portion (131) is located in the +Z direction relative to the first case portion (129). A ribbon cartridge (101A) is mounted such that the first case portion (129) faces the bottom surface of the cartridge mounting portion (15) relative to the cartridge mounting portion (15).

[0037] The second case section (131) is equipped with a second A case section (133), a second B case section (135), and a second C case section (137). The second A case section (133), the second B case section (135), and the second C case section (137) are composed of separate components. That is, the second case section (131) is composed of three components: the second A case section (133), the second B case section (135), and the second C case section (137). Additionally, the first case section (129) is composed of a non-transparent resin, and the second A case section (133), the second B case section (135), and the second C case section (137) constituting the second case section (131) are all composed of a transparent resin, but the material of each case section is not limited to this.

[0038] The first case section (129) and the second A case section (133) form the outer periphery of the tape pressure receiving section (139). The tape pressure receiving section (139) accommodates the tape pressure section (111). The first case section (129) and the second B case section (135) form the outer periphery of the ink ribbon receiving section (141). The ink ribbon receiving section (141) accommodates the ribbon roll (105) and the winding core (107). The first case section (129) and the second C case section (137) form the outer periphery of the platen roller receiving section (143). The platen roller (109) accommodates the platen roller receiving section (143).

[0039] [Case Section 1]

[0040] Based on FIG. 2, the first case portion (129) is described. The first case portion (129) has a first base wall portion (145) formed in a plate shape parallel to the XY plane, and a first side wall portion (147) protruding in the +Z direction from the periphery of the first base wall portion (145).

[0041] The first side wall section (147) is provided with a first inlet side wall section (149), a first discharge side wall section (151), a first pressurizing side wall section (153), and a first ribbon side wall section (155). The first inlet side wall section (149) is a wall section located in the +X direction of the first side wall section (147). The first discharge side wall section (151) is a wall section located in the -X direction of the first side wall section (147). The first pressurizing side wall section (153) is a wall section located in the +Y direction of the first side wall section (147). The first ribbon side wall section (155) is a wall section located in the -Y direction of the first side wall section (147).

[0042] In the first side wall portion (147), a first inlet portion (157), a side wall convex portion (161), and a substrate mounting portion (163) are provided.

[0043] The first inlet section (157) is provided on the first inlet side wall section (149) and is formed in a slit shape extending in the Z-axis direction. The first inlet section (157) constitutes a part of the cartridge-side tape inlet (115).

[0044] The side wall convex portion (161) is provided on the -Y direction edge of the first inlet portion (157) and is formed in a roughly prismatic shape protruding in the +Z direction from the +Z direction end surface of the first inlet side wall portion (149). The substrate mounting portion (163) is provided on the +Y direction end of the first inlet side wall portion (149). A circuit board (113) is mounted on the substrate mounting portion (163).

[0045] In the first base wall (145), a first head opening (165) is provided, located at the corner of the first base wall (145) in the -X direction and also in the -Y direction. The first head opening (165) is formed in a roughly rectangular shape and constitutes the end of the head insertion hole (121) in the -Z direction.

[0046] From the first base wall (145), a cylindrical part (167), a tape pressure support shaft (169), a holding part (171), a first convex part (173), a ribbon guide (175), a first tape guide (177), a second tape guide (179), and a support convex part (181) protrude in the +Z direction.

[0047] A cylindrical portion (167), a tape pressure support shaft (169), a holding portion (171), and a first convex portion (173) are provided in the tape pressure receiving portion (139). The cylindrical portion (167) is provided in the approximate center of the tape pressure receiving portion (139) when viewed from the +Z direction. The cylindrical portion (167) is provided with the aforementioned protrusion entry hole (127). When the ribbon cartridge (101A) is mounted in the cartridge mounting portion (15), the entry protrusion (27) provided in the cartridge mounting portion (15) enters the tape pressure receiving portion (139) through the protrusion entry hole (127). The tape pressure support shaft (169) is provided in the +X direction and also in the +Y direction relative to the cylindrical portion (167). The tape pressure support shaft (169) rotatably supports the tape pressure portion (111). The holding portion (171) is provided at the end of the first base wall portion (145) in the +Y direction. The holding portion (171) holds the tape pressing portion (111) at a position spaced apart from the first tape guide (177). As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the first convex portion (173) is formed in a roughly arc shape centered on the tape pressing support axis (169) when viewed from the +Z direction.

[0048] A ribbon guide (175) is provided at the periphery of the first head opening (165). The ribbon guide (175) is formed in a roughly rectangular shape and forms the periphery wall of the head insertion hole (121). The ribbon guide (175) guides the transport of the ink ribbon (123) so that the ink ribbon (123) ejected from the ribbon roll (105) rotates around the head insertion hole (121).

[0049] The first tape guide (177) and the second tape guide (179) are provided between the tape pressure receiving portion (139) and the ink ribbon receiving portion (141). The first tape guide (177) extends in an inclined direction between the -X direction and the -Y direction between the first inlet portion (157) and the first head opening (165).

[0050] As illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, the second tape guide (179) is provided in the +Y direction relative to the first tape guide (177). The second tape guide (179) has a guide base portion (183) and three guide convex portions (185). The guide base portion (183) is provided approximately parallel to the first tape guide (177) between the first inlet portion (157) and the middle of the path portion (187). The middle of the path portion (187) refers to the midpoint between the first inlet portion (157) and the first head opening (165). The three guide convex portions (185) protrude from the guide base portion (183) toward the first tape guide (177).

[0051] The tape (T) introduced from the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) is transported to the platen roller (109) through the first tape guide (177) and the second tape guide (179), more specifically, through the first tape guide (177) and the three guide convex parts (185). The first tape guide (177) and the second tape guide (179) form the side walls of the tape path (119). That is, the first tape guide (177) and the second tape guide (179) guide the tape (T) introduced from the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) in the thickness direction of the tape (T) in a position where the width direction of the tape (T) becomes the Z-axis direction.

[0052] The surface in the +Z direction of each guide convex portion (185) is formed as an inclined surface such that the end portion in the leading edge, i.e., the end on the side of the first tape guide (177), is positioned in the -Z direction relative to the end portion in the leading edge, i.e., the end on the side of the guide base portion (183). Because of this, when a user inserts a tape (T) into the tape path (119) from the +Z direction while the +Z direction of the tape path (119) is open, even if the end portion in the -Z direction of the tape (T) hits the surface in the +Z direction of the guide convex portion (185), the tape (T) is guided between the first tape guide (177) and the three guide convex portions (185). By doing so, when a user inserts a tape (T) into the tape path (119) from the +Z direction, the tape (T) can be prevented from getting caught on the guide convex portion (185).

[0053] As described above, the guide base portion (183) of the second tape guide (179) is provided between the first inlet portion (157) and the middle portion of the path (187). For this reason, the portion of the first tape guide (177) on the side of the first inlet portion (157) with respect to the middle portion of the path (187) faces the second tape guide (179), but the portion on the side of the first head opening (165) with respect to the middle portion of the path (187) faces the tape pressing portion (111) rather than the second tape guide (179). That is, the first tape guide (177) also functions as a receiving portion of the tape pressing portion (111).

[0054] The support convex portion (181) is provided near the platen roller (109). The support convex portion (181) engages with the second C case portion (137) and supports the second C case portion (137).

[0055] In the first case part (129), three interlocking receiving parts (189), five first B interlocking holes (191), and four first C interlocking holes (193) are provided.

[0056] Three interlocking receiving portions (189) correspond to the positions where the 2A case portion (133) is combined with the 1 case portion (129), and one each is provided on the 1 introduction side wall portion (149), the 1 discharge side wall portion (151), and the 1 pressurizing side wall portion (153). The three interlocking receiving portions (189) are engaged with three 2A interlocking convex portions (219) provided on the 2A case portion (133) as shown in FIG. 6. By doing so, the 2A case portion (133) is detachably combined with the 1 case portion (129).

[0057] Five first-B engagement holes (191) are provided corresponding to the positions where the second-B case portion (135) is combined with the first case portion (129). Of the five first-B engagement holes (191), four first-B engagement holes (191) are provided in the first side wall portion (147), and one first-B engagement hole (191) is provided in the ribbon guide (175). Additionally, among the four first-B engagement holes (191) provided in the first side wall portion (147), one first-B engagement hole (191) is provided on the end surface in the +Z direction of the side wall convex portion (161). The five first-B engagement holes (191) are extended in the Z-axis direction. In the five first-B interlocking holes (191), five second-B interlocking pins (235) provided in the second-B case part (135) shown in FIG. 9 are pressed in from the +Z direction. By doing so, the second-B case part (135) is combined with the first case part (129). Additionally, the second-B interlocking pins (235) and the first-B interlocking holes (191) into which the second-B interlocking pins (235) are pressed are referred to as case interlocking parts (195). The first case part (129) and the second-B case part (135) are combined by five case interlocking parts (195).

[0058] As shown in FIG. 5, among the five case interlocking parts (195), the case interlocking part (195) consisting of a first B interlocking hole (191) provided in the side wall convex part (161) and a second B interlocking pin (235) pressed therein is provided at a position where the gap (D) with the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) is smaller than the dimension (W) of the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) in the short direction of the cartridge-side tape inlet (115), that is, in the Y-axis direction. Accordingly, unlike the present embodiment, the reduction in rigidity of the cartridge case (103) caused by the provision of the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) can be suppressed compared to a configuration in which the gap (D) between the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) and the case interlocking part (195) closest to the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) is greater than the dimension (W) of the cartridge-side tape inlet (115). Here, the gap (D) between the case interlocking part (195) and the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) refers to the center of the case interlocking part (195) in the Y-axis direction and the end of the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) in the -Y direction, that is, the dimension of the 2B introduction edge (237) described later.

[0059] In addition, in this embodiment, the case engagement part (195) provided at a position where the gap (D) with the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) is smaller than the dimension (W) of the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) is a case engagement part (195) consisting of a first B engagement hole (191) provided in the side wall convex portion (161) and a second B engagement pin (235) pressed therein, but is not limited thereto. For example, the case engagement part (195) provided at a position where the gap (D) with the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) is smaller than the dimension (W) of the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) may be a case engagement part (195) consisting of a first B engagement hole (191) provided in the first side wall portion (147) other than the side wall convex portion (161) and a second B engagement pin (235) pressed therein.

[0060] Four first-c engaging holes (193) are provided corresponding to the positions where the second-c case portion (137) is combined with the first case portion (129). Of the four first-c engaging holes (193), three first-c engaging holes (193) are provided in the first side wall portion (147), and one first-c engaging hole (193) is provided in the support convex portion (181). The four first-c engaging holes (193) extend in the Z-axis direction. Four second-c engaging pins (245) provided in the second-c case portion (137), as shown in FIG. 10, are pressed into the four first-c engaging holes (193) from the +Z direction. Accordingly, the 2C case part (137) is combined with the 1st case part (129).

[0061] [Case Section 2A]

[0062] Based on FIGS. 6 and 7, the 2A case portion (133) is described. The 2A case portion (133) has a 2A base wall portion (197) formed in a plate shape parallel to the XY plane, and a 2A side wall portion (199) protruding in the -Z direction from the periphery of the 2A base wall portion (197).

[0063] The 2A base wall (197) covers the +Z direction of the tape pressure receiving portion (139) and the first path (201) when the 2A case portion (133) is mounted on the 1st case portion (129). Here, the first path (201) refers to the section of the tape path (119) that extends from the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) to the middle of the tape path (119). In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the first path (201) corresponds to the section of the tape path (119) that extends from the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) to the end of the case opening (203) provided between the 2B case portion (135) and the 2C case portion (137), that is, to the end of the case opening (203) on the side of the cartridge-side tape inlet (115). The first path (201) is more than half the length of the tape path (119), more specifically, about two-thirds the length.

[0064] An overlap portion (205) is provided on the -Y direction edge of the 2A base wall portion (197). The overlap portion (205) is provided in the +Z direction relative to the 2A base wall portion (197). As shown in FIGS. 5 and 8, when the 2A case portion (133) is mounted on the 1st case portion (129), the overlap portion (205) overlaps with the outer side, i.e., the +Z direction, of the 2B case portion (135). Because the overlap portion (205) is provided on the 2A base wall portion (197), even when a force is applied from the outside to the 2A base wall portion (197), the overlap portion (205) is supported from the inside, i.e., the -Z direction, by the 2B case portion (135), so that the 2A base wall portion (197) can be prevented from bending inward.

[0065] From the 2A base wall (197), a release portion (207) and a second convex portion (209) protrude in the -Z direction. The release portion (207) is formed in a roughly prismatic shape and engages with the tape pressing portion (111) at its tip when the 2A case portion (133) is mounted on the 1 case portion (129). The second convex portion (209) is formed in a roughly arc shape centered on the tape pressing support axis (169) when viewed from the +Z direction.

[0066] The 2A side wall section (199) is provided with a 2A inlet side wall section (211), a 2A discharge side wall section (213), and a 2A pressurizing side wall section (215). The 2A inlet side wall section (211) is a wall section located in the +X direction of the 2A side wall section (199). The 2A discharge side wall section (213) is a wall section located in the -X direction of the 2A side wall section (199). The 2A pressurizing side wall section (215) is a wall section located in the +Y direction of the 2A side wall section (199).

[0067] The second A inlet edge (217), which is the -Y direction end of the second A inlet side wall (211), forms the +Y direction edge of the cartridge side tape inlet (115). That is, as shown in FIG. 5, the cartridge side tape inlet (115) is provided between the second A inlet edge (217) of the second A case part (133) and the second B inlet edge (237) of the second B case part (135). In this way, the cartridge side tape inlet (115) can be formed by utilizing the gap between the second A case part (133) and the second B case part (135).

[0068] The 2A side wall (199) is provided with three 2A interlocking convex portions (219) and two finger hook portions (221).

[0069] Three 2A interlocking convex portions (219) are provided one each on the 2A inlet side wall portion (211), the 2A discharge side wall portion (213), and the 2A pressurizing side wall portion (215), and are protruded in the -Z direction. Each 2A interlocking convex portion (219) has a tip formed in a hook shape and interlocks with an interlocking receiving portion (189) provided in the 1st case portion (129). By the three 2A interlocking convex portions (219) interlocking with the three interlocking receiving portions (189), the 2A case portion (133) is detachably coupled to the 1st case portion (129).

[0070] The 2A case part (133) can open and close the +Z direction of the tape pressure receiving part (139) and the first path (201). That is, the 2A case part (133) opens the +Z direction of the tape pressure receiving part (139) and the first path (201) by being separated from the first case part (129), and closes the +Z direction of the tape pressure receiving part (139) and the first path (201) by being mounted on the first case part (129).

[0071] By opening the +Z direction of the tape pressure receiving portion (139), the user can operate the tape pressure portion (111) from the +Z direction. Additionally, by opening the +Z direction of the first path (201), the user can insert the tape (T) from the +Z direction into the first path (201), that is, between the tape pressure portion (111) and the first tape guide (177).

[0072] Meanwhile, by closing the +Z direction of the tape pressure receiving part (139) and the first path (201) by the 2A case part (133), foreign matter can be prevented from entering the tape pressure receiving part (139) and the first path (201). In addition, by closing the +Z direction of the first path (201) by the 2A case part (133), even if a problem occurs with the tape pressure part (111), the tape (T) inserted in the tape path (119) can be prevented from moving in the Z-axis direction, that is, the width direction of the tape (T), when the ribbon cartridge (101A) is mounted on the cartridge mounting part (15). Therefore, the user can easily mount the ribbon cartridge (101A) with the tape (T) inserted in the tape path (119) onto the cartridge mounting part (15).

[0073] In particular, in this embodiment, since the +Z direction of the first path (201), which occupies more than half the length of the tape path (119), is closed by the second A case part (133), the tape (T) inserted into the tape path (119) can be more effectively prevented from moving in the width direction of the tape (T). In addition, when the second A case part (133) closes the +Z direction of the first path (201), it is preferable that there is almost no gap between the second A case part (133) and the second B case part (135). That is, it is preferable that the first path (201) be closed not only in part but also in the entire first path (201) by the 2A case part (133) in the width direction of the first path (201), that is, in the thickness direction of the tape (T) inserted into the first path (201).

[0074] In addition, in this embodiment, not only the +Z direction of the first path (201) including the cartridge-side tape introduction port (115), but also the +Z direction of the cartridge-side tape discharge port (117) is partially closed by the discharge port cover portion (234) shown in FIG. 8, which is provided in the 2B case portion (135). With this configuration, the tape (T) inserted into the tape path (119) can be more effectively prevented from moving in the width direction of the tape (T).

[0075] Of the two finger hook portions (221), one finger hook portion (221) protrudes in the +X direction from the -Y direction end of the 2A inlet side wall portion (211), and the other finger hook portion (221) protrudes in the -X direction from the -Y direction end of the 2A discharge side wall portion (213). The two finger hook portions (221) serve as the parts where the user hooks their fingers when separating the 2A case portion (133) from the 1 case portion (129). The finger hook portion (221) is not limited to a configuration that protrudes from the 2A side wall portion (199); it may be a concave portion, or it may be a configuration that makes it difficult for the finger to slip by roughening a part of the surface of the 2A side wall portion (199).

[0076] [Case Section 2B]

[0077] Based on FIG. 9, the 2B case portion (135) is described. The 2B case portion (135) has a 2B base wall portion (223) formed in a plate shape parallel to the XY plane, and a 2B side wall portion (225) protruding in the -Z direction from the periphery of the 2B base wall portion (223).

[0078] The 2B base wall (223) is provided approximately flat with respect to the 2A base wall (197) when the 2A case part (133) is mounted on the 1 case part (129), and an overlap part (205) is superimposed in the +Z direction of the 2B base wall (223). A second head opening (227) is provided in the 2B base wall (223), located at the corner in the -X direction and also in the -Y direction of the 2B base wall (223). The second head opening (227) is formed in an approximately rectangular shape and constitutes the +Z direction end of the head insertion hole (121).

[0079] As shown in FIG. 12, a case opening (203) is provided between the 2B base wall (223) and the 2C base wall (241) of the 2C case (137). The case opening (203) is located in the +Z direction relative to the tape path (119). The case opening (203) is a location through which the tape (T) passes when the tape (T) is inserted in the -Z direction relative to the tape path (119). In this way, by utilizing the gap between the 2B case (135) and the 2C case (137), a case opening (203) through which the tape (T) passes when the tape (T) is inserted into the tape path (119) can be configured. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 12, the -X direction and -Y direction ends of the case opening (203) are connected to the second head opening (227).

[0080] The 2B side wall section (225) is provided with a 2B inlet side wall section (229), a 2B discharge side wall section (231), and a 2B ribbon side wall section (233). The 2B inlet side wall section (229) is a wall section located in the +X direction of the 2B side wall section (225). The 2B discharge side wall section (231) is a wall section located in the -X direction of the 2B side wall section (225). The 2B ribbon side wall section (233) is a wall section located in the -Y direction of the 2B side wall section (225).

[0081] In the 2B case portion (135), five 2B engagement pins (235) are provided. Of the five 2B engagement pins (235), four 2B engagement pins (235) protrude in the -Z direction from the end surface in the -Z direction of the 2B side wall portion (225), and one 2B engagement pin (235) is located near the 2B head opening (227) and protrudes in the -Z direction from the 2B base wall portion (223). The five 2B engagement pins (235) are pressed into five 1B engagement holes (191) provided in the 1B case portion (129) from the +Z direction. By doing so, the 2B case portion (135) is combined with the 1B case portion (129).

[0082] The second B introduction edge (237), which is the +Y direction end of the second B introduction side wall (229), forms the -Y direction edge of the cartridge side tape introduction port (115). That is, as described above, the cartridge side tape introduction port (115) is provided between the second B introduction edge (237) of the second B case part (135) and the second A introduction edge (217) of the second A case part (133).

[0083] Additionally, the 2B discharge edge (239), which is the end in the +Y direction of the 2B discharge side wall (231), forms the edge in the -Y direction of the cartridge side tape discharge port (117). That is, as shown in FIG. 8, the cartridge side tape discharge port (117) is provided between the 2B discharge edge (239) of the 2B case part (135) and the 2C discharge edge (247) of the 2C case part (137).

[0084] [Section 2C Case]

[0085] Based on FIG. 10, the second C case portion (137) is described. The second C case portion (137) has a second C base wall portion (241) formed in a plate shape parallel to the XY plane, and a second C side wall portion (243) protruding in the -Z direction from the periphery of the second C base wall portion (241).

[0086] The 2C base wall (241) is provided approximately in plane with respect to the 2A base wall (197) and the 2C base wall (241) when the 2A case part (133) is mounted on the 1 case part (129). Between the 2C base wall (241) and the 2B base wall (223), a case opening (203) is provided, as described above.

[0087] Four second-cage interlock pins (245) are provided in the second-cage case portion (137). Of the four second-cage interlock pins (245), three second-cage interlock pins (245) protrude in the -Z direction from the end surface in the -Z direction of the second-cage side wall portion (243), and one second-cage interlock pin (245) protrudes in the -Z direction from the second-cage base wall portion (241). The four second-cage interlock pins (245) are pressed into four first-cage interlock holes (193) provided in the first-cage case portion (129) from the +Z direction. By doing so, the second-cage case portion (137) is combined with the first-cage case portion (129).

[0088] The second C discharge edge (247), which is the -Y direction end of the second C side wall (243), forms the +Y direction edge of the cartridge-side tape discharge port (117). That is, as described above, the cartridge-side tape discharge port (117) is provided between the second C discharge edge (247) of the second C case part (137) and the second B discharge edge (239) of the second B case part (135).

[0089] [Tape Pressure Section]

[0090] Based on FIGS. 11 and 12, the tape pressure member (111) is described. The tape pressure member (111) is received in the tape pressure receiving member (139) so as to be movable between a separated position and a pressure position.

[0091] The pressure position of the tape pressure unit (111) refers to the position where the tape pressure unit (111) presses the tape (T) inserted into the tape path (119) against the first tape guide (177), as shown in FIG. 11. The spacing position of the tape pressure unit (111) refers to the position where the tape pressure unit (111) is spaced apart from the tape (T) inserted into the tape path (119), as shown in FIG. 12.

[0092] Additionally, the tape pressure receiving portion (139) accommodates an elastic member (249) together with the tape pressure portion (111). The elastic member (249) applies force to the tape pressure portion (111) in the direction in which the tape pressure portion (111) faces the pressure position, that is, in a counterclockwise direction when viewed from the +Z direction. Because of this, the tape pressure portion (111) can properly press the tape (T) by the elastic force of the elastic member (249). For example, a torsion coil spring can be used as the elastic member (249). The elastic member (249) is provided on the tape pressure support shaft (169), and one end of the elastic member (249) is fixed by being caught on the tape pressure portion (111), and the other end of the elastic member (249) is fixed by being caught on the first case portion (129).

[0093] The tape pressure portion (111) is equipped with an arm portion (251), a tape contact portion (253), a pressure convex portion (255), an interlocking support portion (257), and a pressure interlocking portion (259).

[0094] The arm portion (251) is rotatably supported on a tape pressure support shaft (169) provided in the first case portion (129). When the arm portion (251) rotates, the rotation of the arm portion (251) is guided by the sliding motion of the -Z direction surface of the arm portion (251) with the first convex portion (173). Additionally, when the arm portion (251) rotates, the rotation of the arm portion (251) is guided by the sliding motion of the +Z direction surface of the arm portion (251) with the second convex portion (209). Because of this, shaking in the Z-axis direction is suppressed when the arm portion (251) rotates, allowing it to rotate smoothly.

[0095] The arm portion (251) is formed in a shape that is approximately "L"-shaped when viewed from the +Z direction. At the end in the +X direction relative to the bend portion (261) of the arm portion (251), a support shaft insertion portion (263) formed in an approximately disc shape is provided. A tape pressure support shaft (169) is inserted into the support shaft insertion portion (263). At the end in the -Y direction relative to the bend portion (261) of the arm portion (251), a tape contact portion (253) is provided.

[0096] The tape contact portion (253) is formed in a roughly cylindrical shape and contacts the tape (T) when the tape pressing portion (111) is positioned in the pressing position. That is, when the tape pressing portion (111) is positioned in the pressing position, the tape (T) inserted into the tape path (119) is clamped between the tape contact portion (253) and the first tape guide (177).

[0097] The pressure convex portion (255) protrudes in the +Z direction from the vicinity of the curved portion (261) of the arm portion (251). The pressure convex portion (255) becomes the part where the user hooks their finger when moving the tape pressure portion (111).

[0098] The interlocking support portion (257) protrudes in a roughly cylindrical shape from the vicinity of the bend portion (261) of the arm portion (251) toward the side opposite to the tape contact portion (253). A pressure interlocking portion (259) is provided at the tip of the interlocking support portion (257).

[0099] The pressure interlocking portion (259) is provided at the tip of the interlocking support portion (257). When the tape pressure portion (111) moves to a separated position, the pressure interlocking portion (259) engages with the retaining portion (171) provided in the first case portion (129) by being positioned between the retaining portion (171) and the first pressure side wall portion (153) from the side opposite to the tape pressure support axis (169), i.e., from the -X direction. By doing so, the movement of the tape pressure portion (111) is prevented by resisting the elastic force of the elastic member (249). That is, the tape pressure portion (111) is held in a separated position by the pressure interlocking portion (259) engaging with the retaining portion (171).

[0100] A release slope surface (265) is provided on the surface in the +Z direction of the pressure engagement part (259). The release slope surface (265) is inclined such that the end in the +X direction of the release slope surface (265) is positioned in the -Z direction relative to the end in the -X direction of the release slope surface (265). When the pressure engagement part (259) is engaged with the support part (171) and the 2A case part (133) is mounted on the 1 case part (129), the release part (207) provided in the 2A case part (133) presses the release slope surface (265) from the +Z direction as shown in FIG. 13. Accordingly, the release portion (207) is pressed in the -X direction, and since the pressure interlocking portion (259) is disengaged from the retaining portion (171), the tape pressure portion (111) moves to the pressure position by the elastic force of the elastic member (249).

[0101] [Order of inserting tapes into the tape path]

[0102] Based on FIGS. 11 to 15, the sequence in which a user inserts a tape (T) into a tape path (119) is described. First, as shown in FIG. 11, the user separates the 2A case part (133) from the 1st case part (129) and opens the tape pressure receiving part (139) and the +Z direction of the 1st path (201). At this time, by using the finger grip part (221), the user can easily move the 2A case part (133) in the +Z direction relative to the 1st case part (129), thereby easily separating the 2A case part (133) from the 1st case part (129).

[0103] Next, as illustrated in FIG. 12, the user moves the tape pressing part (111) to a separated position by resisting the elastic force of the elastic member (249). At this time, the user can easily move the tape pressing part (111) to a separated position by using the pressing convex part (255).

[0104] When the tape pressure part (111) moves to a separated position, the tape pressure part (111) is held in the separated position by the pressure interlocking part (259) engaging with the holding part (171). Because of this, when a user inserts the tape (T) into the tape path (119), there is no need to hold the tape pressure part (111) in the hand so that the tape pressure part (111) is in the separated position, thereby improving operability.

[0105] Next, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the user inserts the tape (T) drawn from the tape roll into the tape path (119) from the +Z direction. At this time, by separating the tape pressing part (111) from the first tape guide (177), the user can easily insert the tape (T) between the tape pressing part (111) and the first tape guide (177).

[0106] Next, the user mounts the 2A case part (133) onto the 1st case part (129). At this time, as shown in FIG. 13, the release part (207) provided in the 2A case part (133) engages with the pressure engaging part (259), causing the pressure engaging part (259) to detach from the holding part (171), and the tape pressing part (111) moves to the pressing position by the elastic force of the elastic member (249). The tape (T) inserted into the tape path (119) is pressed against the 1st tape guide (177) by the tape pressing part (111) that has moved to the pressing position, as shown in FIG. 15. For this reason, the user can release the tape pressure part (111) by the retaining part (171) without performing an operation to release the retaining part (171) of the tape pressure part (111) by the retaining part (171), separately from the operation of mounting the 2A case part (133) to the 1 case part (129), and thus can move the tape pressure part (111) to the pressure position. In addition, in FIG. 15, the 2A case part (133) is shown through to illustrate the tape pressure part (111) and the tape path (119).

[0107] After inserting the tape (T) into the tape path (119), the user mounts the ribbon cartridge (101A) onto the cartridge mounting section (15). At this time, the tape (T) inserted into the tape path (119) is pressed by the tape pressing section (111), thereby preventing the tape (T) from coming out of the tape path (119) through the cartridge-side tape inlet (115). Because of this, the user can easily perform the operation of mounting the ribbon cartridge (101A) onto the cartridge mounting section (15).

[0108] Additionally, when the ribbon cartridge (101A) is mounted on the cartridge mounting portion (15), the entry projection (27) that enters the tape pressure receiving portion (139) from the projection entry hole (127) engages with the arm portion (251), thereby causing the tape pressure portion (111) to rotate in a direction toward a separated position. As a result, since the tape pressure portion (111) is separated from the tape (T), the obstruction of the tape (T) transport by the tape pressure portion (111) can be suppressed. In this way, even without the user operating the tape pressure portion (111), the tape pressure portion (111) can be automatically separated from the tape (T) simply by mounting the ribbon cartridge (101A) on the cartridge mounting portion (15).

[0109] [Second Embodiment]

[0110] Based on FIGS. 16 and 17, a ribbon cartridge (101B), which is a second embodiment of the ribbon cartridge, will be described. Also, in FIGS. 16 and 17, the second B case part (135), the second C case part (137), the ribbon roll (105), the winding core (107), and the platen roller (109) are omitted from the illustration. The ribbon cartridge (101B) differs from the ribbon cartridge (101A) in that it is equipped with a hinge part (267) and a connecting part (269).

[0111] The hinge portion (267) has a rotation axis parallel to the X-axis direction and connects the end in the +Z direction of the first pressure-side side wall portion (153) and the end in the -Z direction of the second-A pressure-side side wall portion (215) so that the second-A case portion (133) can rotate relative to the first case portion (129). That is, the second-A case portion (133) is connected to the first case portion (129) via the hinge portion (267). In addition, in the ribbon cartridge (101B), there is no need to provide the interlocking receiving portion (189) and the second-A interlocking convex portion (219) on the first pressure-side side wall portion (153) and the second-A pressure-side side wall portion (215), respectively.

[0112] The second A case part (133) opens the tape pressure receiving part (139) and the +Z direction of the first path (201) by rotating counterclockwise with respect to the first case part (129) with respect to the hinge part (267), that is, when viewed from the -X direction. The second A case part (133) closes the tape pressure receiving part (139) and the +Z direction of the first path (201) by rotating clockwise with respect to the first case part (129) with respect to the hinge part (267), that is, when viewed from the -X direction, in a direction opposite to the first rotation direction. In addition, in the ribbon cartridge (101B), two finger hook portions (221) may be provided in the 2A case portion (133), thereby allowing the user to easily perform the operation of rotating the 2A case portion (133) relative to the 1 case portion (129).

[0113] The connecting portion (269) connects the tape pressing portion (111) and the second A case portion (133). A pressing side connecting interlocking portion (271) is provided on the surface in the +Z direction of the arm portion (251), and a case side connecting interlocking portion (273) is provided on the second A pressing side side wall portion (215). The pressing side connecting interlocking portion (271) engages with the end in the -Y direction of the connecting portion (269), and the case side connecting interlocking portion (273) engages with the end in the +Y direction of the connecting portion (269).

[0114] Since the tape pressure part (111) is connected to the 2A case part (133) via the connecting part (269), when the 2A case part (133) rotates in the first rotational direction, the tape pressure part (111) moves to a separated position in conjunction with the rotation of the 2A case part (133), as shown in FIG. 16. Because of this, the user can move the tape pressure part (111) to a separated position without performing an operation to move the tape pressure part (111) to a separated position separately from the operation to rotate the 2A case part (133) relative to the 1 case part (129).

[0115] Additionally, when the 2A case part (133) rotates in the second rotational direction, as shown in FIG. 17, the tape pressing part (111) moves to the pressing position in conjunction with the rotation of the 2A case part (133). Because of this, the user can move the tape pressing part (111) to the pressing position without performing an operation to move the tape pressing part (111) to the pressing position, separately from the operation to rotate the 2A case part (133) relative to the 1 case part (129). Additionally, the 2A case part (133) is subjected to force in the second rotational direction by the elastic force of the elastic member (249) through the tape pressing part (111) and the connecting part (269).

[0116] As described above, the ribbon cartridge (101A) and ribbon cartridge (101B) of the present embodiment are equipped with an ink ribbon (123) and a cartridge case (103) that accommodates the ink ribbon (123), and can be mounted on a tape printing device (1). The cartridge case (103) is equipped with a first case part (129) and a second case part (131) provided in the +Z direction relative to the first case part (129). The cartridge case (103) is provided with a cartridge-side tape inlet (115) and a cartridge-side tape outlet (117). The cartridge-side tape inlet (115) is formed in an elongated shape in a direction parallel to the +Z direction and introduces a tape (T) into the cartridge case (103) from the outside of the cartridge case (103). The cartridge-side tape outlet (117) discharges the tape (T) introduced into the cartridge case (103) to the outside of the cartridge case (103). The first case part (129) and the second case part (131) are combined by a plurality of case interlocking parts (195). The case interlocking part (195) has a second B interlocking pin (235) provided in the second case part (131) and a first B interlocking hole (191) provided in the first case part (129) and engaged with the second B interlocking pin (235). The cartridge-side tape inlet (115) is provided at a position where the gap (D) with one of the plurality of case interlocking parts (195) is smaller than the dimension (W) of the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) in the short direction of the cartridge-side tape inlet (115).

[0117] According to this configuration, the reduction in rigidity of the cartridge case (103) caused by the provision of a cartridge-side tape introduction port (115) can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the cartridge case (103) from bending or the deformation of a part of the cartridge case (103).

[0118] [Other variations]

[0119] It goes without saying that the above embodiments are not limited to the above, and various configurations can be adopted within the scope of not departing from the intent. For example, the above embodiments may be modified in the following forms in addition to those described above. Furthermore, configurations may be formed by combining the embodiments and variations thereof.

[0120] The ribbon cartridge (101A) may be configured not to have a tape pressure portion (111). In this case, other parts may be accommodated in the space corresponding to the tape pressure receiving portion (139), and in particular, nothing may be accommodated. The same applies to the ribbon cartridge (101B).

[0121] The case interlocking portion (195) is not limited to a configuration in which the interlocking pin is provided in the second case portion (131), as in the 2B interlocking pin (235), and the interlocking hole is provided in the first case portion (129), as in the 1B interlocking hole (191). For example, the case interlocking portion (195) may be configured such that the interlocking pin is provided in the first case portion (129) and the interlocking hole is provided in the second case portion (131). Additionally, among the multiple case interlocking parts (195), the configuration may be mixed with a case interlocking part (195) in which an interlocking pin is provided in the second case part (131) and an interlocking hole is provided in the first case part (129), and a case interlocking part (195) in which an interlocking pin is provided in the first case part (129) and an interlocking hole is provided in the second case part (131).

[0122] The second case section (131) is not limited to a configuration consisting of three separate members, namely the second A case section (133), the second B case section (135), and the second C case section (137). The second case section (131) may be a configuration consisting of a single member, a configuration consisting of two members, or a configuration consisting of four or more members.

[0123] The first path (201) is not limited to the section of the tape path (119) from the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) to the immediate front of the case opening (203). For example, the first path (201) may be the section of the tape path (119) from the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) to the point between the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) and the case opening (203). That is, the 2A case section (133) may be configured such that the first path (201) can be opened and closed in the +Z direction of the section of the tape path (119) from the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) to the point between the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) and the case opening (203).

[0124] [bookkeeping]

[0125] The ribbon cartridge is described below.

[0126] A ribbon cartridge comprises an ink ribbon and a cartridge case that accommodates the ink ribbon, and is a ribbon cartridge that can be mounted on a tape printing device. The cartridge case has a first case portion and a second case portion provided in a first direction relative to the first case portion. The cartridge case is formed in an elongated shape in a direction parallel to the first direction and is provided with a tape inlet for introducing a tape into the cartridge case from the outside of the cartridge case and a tape outlet for discharging the tape introduced into the cartridge case to the outside of the cartridge. The first case portion and the second case portion are combined by a plurality of case interlocking portions, each having an interlocking convex portion provided on one side of the first case portion and the second case portion and an interlocking concave portion provided on the other side of the first case portion and the second case portion and interlocked with the interlocking convex portion. The tape inlet is provided at a position where the gap between one of the plurality of case interlocking portions and the case interlocking portion is smaller than the dimension of the tape inlet in the short direction of the tape inlet.

[0127] According to this configuration, the reduction in rigidity of the cartridge case caused by the provision of a tape entry port can be suppressed.

[0128] Also, the cartridge-side tape inlet (115) is an example of a "tape inlet." The 2B engaging pin (235) is an example of an "engaging convex part." The 1B engaging hole (191) is an example of an "engaging concave part." The +Z direction is an example of a "first direction."

[0129] In this case, the second case part includes a second A case part and a second B case part composed of a separate component from the second A case part, and it is preferable that the tape introduction port is provided between the second A case part and the second B case part.

[0130] According to this configuration, a tape inlet can be formed by utilizing the gap between the 2A case section and the 2B case section.

[0131] In this case, it is preferable that the 2A case part be capable of opening and closing the first direction of the tape introduction port.

[0132] According to this configuration, by opening the first direction of the tape entry port, the user can insert the tape into the tape entry port from the first direction. Additionally, by closing the first direction of the tape entry port, when the ribbon cartridge is mounted on the tape printing device, the tape inserted into the tape path can be prevented from moving in the width direction of the tape.

[0133] In this case, it is preferable that the 2A case part be provided with two finger hooks for the user to hook their fingers when operating the 2A case part so that the first direction of the tape introduction port is opened.

[0134] According to this configuration, the user can easily perform the operation of opening the first direction of the tape inlet by using two finger grips.

[0135] In this case, a tape pressing part is provided to press the tape introduced into the cartridge case against the first case part, the first case part and the second A case part form the outer edge of the tape pressing receiving part in which the tape pressing part is received, and it is preferable that the second A case part is capable of opening and closing the first direction of the tape pressing receiving part.

[0136] According to this configuration, by opening the first direction of the tape pressure receiving portion, the user can operate the tape pressure portion from the first direction. In addition, by closing the first direction of the tape pressure receiving portion, foreign matter can be prevented from entering the tape receiving portion.

[0137] In this case, it is preferable that the tape pressing part be movable between a pressing position that presses the tape against the first case part and a separated position that is spaced apart from the tape.

[0138] According to this configuration, the user can easily insert the tape between the tape pressure part and the first case part by moving the tape pressure part to a separated position.

[0139] In this case, the 2A case part is detachably coupled to the 1st case part, and by being separated from the 1st case part, it is preferable to open the first direction of the tape pressure receiving part.

[0140] According to this configuration, the user can open the first direction of the tape pressure receiving portion by separating the 2A case portion from the 1st case portion.

[0141] In this case, it is preferable that the first case part be provided with a retaining part capable of retaining the tape pressure part at a spaced-apart position when the 2A case part is separated from the first case part.

[0142] According to this configuration, when the user separates the 2A case part from the 1 case part and inserts the tape between the tape pressure part and the 1 case part, the tape pressure part can be held in a separated position by the holding part, so the user does not need to hold the tape pressure part with their hand to keep the tape pressure part in a separated position, thereby improving operability.

[0143] In this case, it is preferable that the 2A case part be provided with a release part that releases the tape pressure part by the retaining part by engaging with the tape pressure part when mounted on the 1 case part.

[0144] According to this configuration, the user can release the tape pressure part by the shim without performing an operation to release the tape pressure part by the shim, separately from the operation of attaching the 2A case part to the 1 case part.

[0145] In this case, it is preferable that the tape pressure part be provided with a pressure convex portion for the user to hook their finger when moving the tape pressure part.

[0146] According to this configuration, the user can easily move the tape pressure part by using the pressure convex part.

[0147] In this case, the 2A case part is connected to the 1st case part via a hinge part, and it is preferable to open the 1st direction of the tape pressure receiving part by rotating relative to the 1st case part around the hinge part.

[0148] According to this configuration, the user can open the first direction of the tape pressure receiving portion by rotating the 2A case portion relative to the 1 case portion around the hinge portion.

[0149] In this case, a connecting part is provided that connects the tape pressing part and the 2A case part, and the tape pressing part moves to a separated position in conjunction with the rotation of the 2A case part when the 2A case part rotates in a direction that opens the first direction of the tape pressing receiving part, and the tape pressing part moves to a pressing position in conjunction with the rotation of the 2A case part when the 2A case part rotates in a direction that closes the first direction of the tape pressing receiving part.

[0150] According to this configuration, the user can move the tape pressure part to a separated position without performing an operation to move the tape pressure part to a separated position, separately from the operation to rotate the 2A case part relative to the 1 case part. Additionally, the user can move the tape pressure part to a pressure position without performing an operation to move the tape pressure part to a pressure position, separately from the operation to rotate the 2A case part relative to the 1 case part.

[0151] In this case, it is preferable to provide an elastic member that applies force toward the pressure position to the tape pressure portion.

[0152] According to this configuration, the tape pressing part can properly press the tape by means of the elastic force of the elastic member.

[0153] In this case, the first case portion is provided with a tape pressure support shaft that rotatably supports the tape pressure member between a pressure position and a distanced position, and the tape pressure member preferably has an arm portion rotatably supported on the tape pressure support shaft and a tape contact portion provided on the arm portion that contacts the tape when the tape pressure member is positioned at the pressure position.

[0154] According to this configuration, the tape is clamped between the tape contact part and the first case part.

[0155] In this case, the first case part is provided with a first convex part protruding in a first direction, and it is preferable that the arm part slides relative to the first convex part when rotating.

[0156] According to this configuration, the rotation of the arm portion can be guided by the first convex portion.

[0157] In this case, the 2A case part is provided with a second convex part protruding in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and it is preferable that the arm part slides relative to the second convex part when rotating.

[0158] According to this configuration, the rotation of the arm portion can be guided by the second convex portion. Also, the -Z direction is an example of the "second direction". Explanation of the symbols

[0159] 1: Tape printing unit 101A: Ribbon cartridge 101B: Ribbon Cartridge 103: Cartridge Case 111: Tape pressurizing section 115: Cartridge-side tape introduction 117: Cartridge-side tape ejection port 123: Ink ribbon 129: 1st Case Section 131: 2nd Case Section 133: Case Part 2A 135: Case Part 2B 139: Tape pressure receiving section 169: Tape pressure support shaft 171: Vagina area 173: First convex part 191: 1B engaging hole 195: Case engaging part 207: Release section 209: Second convex section 221: Finger grip portion 235: 2B interlocking pin 249: Elastic member 251: Arm part 253: Tape contact area 255: Pressure convex area 267: Hinge part 269: Connecting part T: Tape

Claims

Claim 1 A ribbon cartridge capable of being mounted on a tape printing device, comprising an ink ribbon and a cartridge case receiving the ink ribbon, wherein the cartridge case has a first case portion and a second case portion provided in a first direction relative to the first case portion; the cartridge case is provided with a tape inlet for introducing a tape into the cartridge case from the outside of the cartridge case and a tape outlet for discharging the tape introduced into the cartridge case to the outside of the cartridge case, the tape inlet being formed in an elongated shape in a direction parallel to the first direction; the first case portion and the second case portion are combined by a plurality of case interlocking portions, each having an interlocking convex portion provided on one side of the first case portion and the second case portion and an interlocking concave portion provided on the other side of the first case portion and the second case portion and interlocking with the interlocking convex portion; and the tape inlet is provided at a position where the distance from one of the plurality of case interlocking portions is smaller than the dimension of the tape inlet in the short direction of the tape inlet. A ribbon cartridge characterized by the following. Claim 2 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the second case part comprises a second A case part and a second B case part composed of a separate member from the second A case part, and the tape introduction port is provided between the second A case part and the second B case part. Claim 3 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 2, characterized in that the 2A case portion is capable of opening and closing the first direction of the tape introduction port. Claim 4 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 3, characterized in that the 2A case part is provided with two finger hooks for a user to hook their fingers when operating the 2A case part so that the first direction of the tape introduction port is opened. Claim 5 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 2, comprising a tape pressing part that presses the tape introduced into the cartridge case against the first case part, wherein the first case part and the second A case part constitute the outer edge of a tape pressing receiving part in which the tape pressing part is received, and wherein the second A case part is capable of opening and closing the first direction of the tape pressing receiving part. Claim 6 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 5, characterized in that the tape pressing part is movable between a pressing position that presses the tape against the first case part and a separated position spaced apart from the tape. Claim 7 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the 2A case portion is detachably coupled to the 1st case portion and, by being separated from the 1st case portion, opens the 1st direction of the tape pressure receiving portion. Claim 8 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 7, characterized in that the first case part is provided with a retaining part capable of retaining the tape pressing part at the spaced-apart position when the second A case part is separated from the first case part. Claim 9 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 8, characterized in that the 2A case part is provided with a release part that releases the retention of the tape pressure part by the retention part by engaging with the tape pressure part when mounted on the 1st case part. Claim 10 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 7, characterized in that the tape pressing part is provided with a pressing convex part for a user to hook their finger when moving the tape pressing part. Claim 11 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the 2A case portion is connected to the 1st case portion via a hinge portion, and by rotating relative to the 1st case portion around the hinge portion, the 1st direction of the tape pressure receiving portion is opened. Claim 12 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 11, comprising a connecting portion connecting the tape pressing portion and the 2A case portion, wherein the tape pressing portion moves to the separated position in conjunction with the rotation of the 2A case portion when the 2A case portion rotates in a direction that opens the first direction of the tape pressing receiving portion, and the tape pressing portion moves to the pressing position in conjunction with the rotation of the 2A case portion when the 2A case portion rotates in a direction that closes the first direction of the tape pressing receiving portion. Claim 13 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 6, characterized by having an elastic member that applies force toward the pressure position to the tape pressure portion. Claim 14 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the first case portion is provided with a tape pressure support shaft that rotatably supports the tape pressure portion between the pressure position and the separation position, and the tape pressure portion has an arm portion rotatably supported on the tape pressure support shaft and a tape contact portion provided on the arm portion that contacts the tape when the tape pressure portion is located at the pressure position. Claim 15 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 14, wherein the first case portion is provided with a first convex portion protruding in the first direction, and the arm portion slides relative to the first convex portion when rotated. Claim 16 A ribbon cartridge according to claim 14, wherein the 2A case portion is provided with a second convex portion protruding in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and the arm portion slides relative to the second convex portion when rotated.

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