Mobile Components

Abstract

The present invention relates to a print head moving system (10) for moving a print head (12), comprising: a motor (14), a first magnet assembly (16) and a second magnet assembly (18), wherein the first magnet assembly (16) and the second magnet assembly (18) each comprise a corresponding first magnetic element (16a, 18a) having a first magnetic parameter, and at least one of the first magnet assembly (16) and the second magnet assembly (18) comprises a second magnetic element (18b) having a second magnetic parameter, wherein the first magnet assembly (16) and the second magnet assembly (18) are respectively provided with a first magnetic element (16a, 18a) having a first magnetic parameter. One of the first magnet assembly (16) and the second magnet assembly (18) is coupled to the motor (14), and one of the first magnet assembly (16) and the second magnet assembly (18) is directly or indirectly coupled to the print head (12), and wherein the motor (14) is operable to change the position and / or orientation of the second magnet assembly (18) and the first magnet assembly (16) relative to each other so that the force between the first magnet assembly (16) and the second magnet assembly (18) changes and the distance between the first magnet assembly (16) and the second magnet assembly (18) changes to move the print head (12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a print head moving system. Background Art

[0002] Thermal Transfer Overprint (TTO) technology has become a key element in the product packaging industry. Printers are used to print information onto packaging materials during the final stage of packaging and before shipment. This information can range from a simple batch code to more detailed information such as product date, production line and location, logos and ingredient lists.

[0003] Thermal transfer printers operate by heating the ink on a ribbon, causing it to melt and be able to be transferred to a substrate. Typically, this process involves moving a print head (which has a heating element that can be selectively heated) into contact with the ribbon and pressing it against the substrate (and a platen or drum surface) to transfer the ink to the substrate.

[0004] Existing systems for moving the print head typically rely on a linkage that uses compressed air (cylinders), electromagnetic solenoids, or motor controls to push (or pull) the print head toward (or away from) the platen or roller. This movement occurs in a relatively very short time, such as less than 20ms. At the end of the push stroke, the mechanism provides sufficient pressure through the print head to the inked ribbon, substrate, and platen. The combined force of the pressure is usually adjustable and can reach up to about 40N.

[0005] Compared to other forms of mobile systems, compressed air is relatively expensive to operate. In addition, its implementation is limited to locations with compressed air facilities. In addition to the infrastructure requirements for delivering compressed air, various studies have shown that the efficiency of compressed air systems is very low (between 10% and 15%).

[0006] During the printing portion of the cycle, the electromagnetic solenoid, motor-controlled linkage and cam arrangement generate considerable heat as they hold the printhead to the ribbon / substrate / platen.

[0007] Embodiments of the present invention seek to alleviate one or more problems associated with the prior art. Summary of the invention

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, we provide a print head moving system for moving a print head, comprising: a motor, a first magnet assembly and a second magnet assembly, each of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly includes a corresponding first magnetic element having a first magnetic parameter, and at least one of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly includes a second magnetic element having a second magnetic parameter, one of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly is coupled to the motor, and one of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly can be directly or indirectly coupled to the print head, and wherein the motor is operable to change the position and / or orientation of the second magnet assembly and the first magnet assembly relative to each other, so that the force between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes, and the distance between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes, so as to move the print head.

[0009] According to a second aspect of the present invention, we provide a print head moving system, comprising: a motor having a channel and a drive shaft, the drive shaft being accommodated in the channel and capable of reciprocating along the channel, the drive shaft being coupleable to the print head, the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly each comprising a corresponding first magnetic element having a first magnetic parameter, and one of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly comprising a second magnetic element having a second magnetic parameter, the first magnet assembly being coupled to the motor via a first coupling, wherein the first coupling allows the first magnet assembly to rotate when the motor is driven, the second magnet assembly being positioned relative to the motor via a second coupling, and one of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly being coupled to the drive shaft, wherein the motor is operable to change the directions of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly relative to each other, so that the force between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes, and the distance between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes, and the drive shaft moves along the channel to move the print head.

[0010] According to the third aspect of the present invention, we provide a print head moving system for moving a print head, comprising: a motor, a first magnet assembly and a second magnet assembly each including a corresponding first magnetic element having a first magnetic parameter, and one of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly including a second magnetic element having a second magnetic parameter, the first magnet assembly is coupled to the motor via a first coupling, the first coupling allows the first magnet assembly to rotate when the motor is driven, and allows the first magnet assembly to reciprocate along an axis, the print head can be coupled to the first magnet assembly, wherein the motor can be operated to change the directions of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly relative to each other, so that the force between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly is changed, and the distance between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes, so as to move the print head.

[0011] According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, we provide a print head moving system, comprising: a motor, coupled to a first magnet assembly for linear movement, a print head, coupled to a second magnet assembly, the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly each including a corresponding first magnetic element having a first magnetic parameter, and one of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly including a second magnetic element having a second magnetic parameter, wherein the motor is operable to change the position of the first magnet assembly relative to the second magnet assembly, so that the force between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes, and the distance between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes, so as to move the print head.

[0012] Further optional features associated with one or more aspects of the invention are described in the accompanying claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Some embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Figure 1 One embodiment of a print head movement system is shown;

[0015] Figure 2 A portion of a print head movement system is shown;

[0016] Figure 3a , Figure 3b and Figure 3c Shows Figure 1 and Figure 2 The different stages of movement of the print head of the illustrated embodiment;

[0017] Figure 4a and Figure 4b A portion of a print head movement system is shown;

[0018] Figure 5 Another embodiment of a print head movement system is shown;

[0019] Figure 6 Shows Figure 5 A portion of an embodiment of a print head movement system is shown;

[0020] Figure 7a , Figure 7b and Figure 7c Shows Figure 5 and Figure 6 The different stages of movement of the print head of the illustrated embodiment;

[0021] Figure 8 Another embodiment of a print head movement system is shown; and

[0022] Figure 9a , Figure 9b and Fig.9cShows Figure 8 The embodiment shown shows different stages of movement of the print head. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The accompanying drawings illustrate a printhead movement system that, in some embodiments, is specifically used to move the printhead of a thermal transfer printing device. In such a device, a length of inked ribbon extends between a supply spool and a take-up spool - the ribbon is initially wound on the supply spool and transferred from the supply spool to the take-up spool (past the printhead) during the printing process. During the printing cycle, the printhead can be moved "downward" toward and "upward" away from the inked ribbon, substrate, and platen or roller. During this movement, the printhead contacts the inked ribbon, and as the ribbon is transferred past the printhead, the ink is heated and can be transferred to the substrate to print the desired image.

[0024] In its most general sense, the printhead movement system 10 is a system for moving a printhead 12 toward and / or away from an ink ribbon (and substrate / platen or roller). The system 10 includes a motor 14, and a first magnet assembly 16 and a second magnet assembly 18. Each of the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 includes a corresponding first magnetic element 16a having a first magnetic parameter. At least one of the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 includes a second magnetic element 16b having a second magnetic parameter.

[0025] One of the first and second magnet assemblies 16, 18 is coupled to the motor 14, and the other of the first and second magnet assemblies 16, 18 is directly or indirectly coupleable to the print head 12. It should be understood that the term "coupleable" is used to indicate that the respective parts can / must be capable of such coupling.

[0026] The motor is operable to change the position and / or orientation of the second magnet assembly 18 and the first magnet assembly 16 relative to each other. This causes the force between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 to change, and therefore, the distance between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 to change, thereby causing the print head 12 to move.

[0027] The forces between first and second magnet assemblies 16 and 18 may be both attractive and repulsive, meaning that printhead movement system 10 may be used to move printhead 12 bi-directionally (e.g., up and down, or toward and away from the ink ribbon and / or substrate) as desired.

[0028] In some embodiments, the printhead movement system 10 may include a drive shaft 22 coupled to one of the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18. The drive shaft 22 may be coupled to the motor 14 such that the drive shaft 22 may either rotate or move longitudinally relative to the motor 14 when the motor 14 is operated.

[0029] An embodiment of the print head movement system 10, 10' is described below. It should be understood that the description and the referenced drawings illustrate the general principles of movement outlined above. Unless explicitly noted to the contrary, any features of different embodiments may be combined together.

[0030] In some embodiments (e.g. Figure 1 3 ), the print head movement system 10 includes a motor 12, and in this example, a motor 14 operates to provide rotational motion. The motor 14 has a channel 24. A drive shaft 22 is received in the channel 24 and is capable of reciprocating / linear movement along the channel 24 (in this example, along the axis A).

[0031] In this example, the motor 14 has a hollow passage extending through its body (e.g., a hollow shaft motor) and the drive shaft 22 extends through the passage 24. However, it should be understood that the motor 14 may not have a passage - an example of which will be described below. In this case, the motor may have a drive shaft connected for rotational movement. It should also be understood that there may be configurations that use linear movement of the motor (one of which will be described in more detail below).

[0032] The drive shaft 22 may be coupled to the print head 12. In an embodiment, the print head 12 is a print head of a thermal transfer printer. The print head 12 needs to be able to move to a printing position (toward the substrate and the roller 20) and a retracted position (away from the substrate and the roller). When in the printing position, the print head 12 applies pressure to the ink ribbon 30 and the substrate to press it against the roller 20, so that ink can be transferred to the substrate (as needed).

[0033] The print head movement system 10 further includes a first magnet assembly 16 and a second magnet assembly 18. Each of the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 includes a first magnetic element 16a, 18a and each of the first magnetic elements 16a, 18a has a first magnetic parameter.

[0034] At least one of the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 includes a second magnetic element 16b. The second magnetic element 16b has a second magnetic parameter. The first magnetic parameter and the second magnetic parameter will be discussed in more detail below.

[0035] In implementation (such as Figure 2), the first magnet assembly 16 has a plurality of magnetic elements—in this example, first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth magnetic elements 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 16e, 16f. In addition, the second magnet assembly may also have a plurality of magnetic elements—in the example shown, the second magnet assembly 18 has a first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth magnetic elements 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 18e, 18f. It should be understood that the first magnet assembly 16 may have a plurality of individual magnets mounted in a support (e.g., a plastic carrier), or a single component with a specific magnetization zone or region may be used (i.e., each magnetic element 16a-f is a specific zone in a single magnetic component). The same applies to the second magnet assembly 18.

[0036] Further details regarding the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 will be discussed below.

[0037] The first magnet assembly 16 is coupled to the motor 14 via a first coupling. The first coupling allows the first magnet assembly 16 to rotate when the motor 14 is driven (e.g., the rotation of the motor 14 is transferred to the movement of the first magnet assembly 16). In some embodiments, the first magnet assembly 16 is coupled to the motor 14 via a drive shaft 22 (i.e., the first coupling uses a drive shaft 22 that transfers the rotational motion of the motor 14 to the first magnet assembly 16). In some embodiments, the first magnet assembly 16 is also coupled to the drive shaft 22 so that it moves reciprocally and / or linearly along the axis A (i.e., the first magnet assembly 16 is attached to the drive shaft 22 at a single location along the drive shaft 22 so that when the drive shaft 22 moves, the first magnet assembly 16 also moves).

[0038] It should be appreciated that because the first magnet assembly 16 is coupled to the drive shaft 22 , the print head 12 can also be coupled to the first magnet assembly 16 .

[0039] The second magnet assembly 18 is positioned relative to the motor 14 via a second coupling. In some embodiments, the second magnet assembly 18 is located in a fixed position relative to the motor. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the example shown, the second magnet assembly 18 is coupled to an outer surface of the motor 14 (i.e., adjacent to the motor 14). However, it should be understood that the second magnet assembly can be positioned in many desired locations relative to the motor 14 - either closer to the motor 14 or further away than the first magnet assembly 16.

[0040] The motor 14 is operable to move the print head 12 by changing the orientation of the second magnet assembly 18 and the first magnet assembly 16 relative to each other (in some embodiments, only one of the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 is moved to achieve relative movement, but it is also possible that both magnet assemblies 16, 18 can be moved / rotated to provide the desired function). This change in orientation causes the force between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 to change, and therefore, the distance between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 changes.

[0041] As described above, the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 each include a respective first magnetic element 16a, 18a having a first magnetic parameter. One of the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 includes a second magnetic element 16b having a second magnetic parameter. The magnetic parameters may include, for example, polarity and / or magnetic strength—one or more of which are different between the first magnetic parameter and the second magnetic parameter.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first and second magnetic elements 16a, 18a, 16b are each a permanent magnet (i.e., each "element" is a magnet having its own north and south poles). In embodiments where one or both of the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 each have multiple magnetic elements, each of these magnetic elements can be a permanent magnet. In other words, one or more of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth magnetic elements 16a-f, 18a-f (of one or both magnet assemblies) is a permanent magnet. In the illustrated embodiment, all of the magnetic elements 16a-f, 18a-f are permanent magnets. As described above, multiple separate magnets can be provided, or a single component with a specific magnetization area can be provided.

[0043] In the embodiment where the first magnet assembly 16 has a plurality of magnetic elements 16a-f, each magnetic element can be specifically arranged so that the magnetic element forms a generally annular shape. In the illustrated example, the annular shape formed by the magnetic elements (i.e., the first to sixth magnetic elements 16a-f) is centered on the axis A. It should be understood that the magnetic elements 18a-f of the second magnet assembly 18 can be arranged the same or similarly as desired.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first magnetic parameter and the second magnetic parameter are polarities of a side of the corresponding magnetic element facing the outside of the corresponding magnet assembly. Figure 2, each magnetic element 16a-f of the first magnet assembly 16 is a permanent magnet (i.e., having a well-defined north and south pole with opposite polarity characteristics) that has a specific orientation on the magnet assembly 16. Magnetic elements positioned adjacent to each other are in opposite polarity orientations (i.e., they are "flipped" relative to their neighbors) - meaning that the first magnet assembly 16 has alternating north and south poles on the outer surface of the assembly 16. Thus, in this embodiment, the first magnet assembly 16 has alternating magnetic parameters - for example, the first, third and fifth magnetic elements 16a, 16c, 16e are all oriented with their north poles facing outward / toward the second magnet assembly 18 (and all have the first magnetic parameter), and the second, fourth and sixth magnetic elements 16b, 16d, 16f are all oriented with their south poles facing outward / toward the second magnet assembly 18 (and all have the second magnetic parameter).

[0045] Likewise, the magnetic elements 18a - f of the second magnet assembly 18 may be similarly arranged (although the term facing “outboard” means toward the first magnet assembly 16 ).

[0046] In some embodiments, the magnetic strength of the first magnetic element 16a is different from the magnetic strength of the second magnetic element 16b of the same magnet assembly. For example, adjacent magnetic elements 16a, 16b may have different strengths. The magnetic elements may still each be a permanent magnet, but they may not have alternating magnetic poles facing outward, and magnets of different strengths may be placed adjacent to each other.

[0047] This embodiment may require an additional biasing mechanism 34 to provide the desired movement of the print head 12 .

[0048] In other embodiments, there may be a biasing mechanism 34. The force provided by the biasing mechanism 34 combines with the magnetic force applied between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 to provide the total force applied (and therefore the pressure applied by the print head 12 in a certain direction). In this case, the force applied by the magnet assemblies 16, 18 is balanced by the force applied by the biasing mechanism 34 - movement of the print head 12 occurs when the force between the magnet assemblies 16, 18 is greater than the force from the biasing mechanism 34, or vice versa.

[0049] The second magnet assembly 18 is connected to the motor 14 via a second coupling. In an embodiment, the second coupling is a non-rotatable coupling such that the second magnet assembly 18 is substantially rotationally fixed relative to the motor 14.

[0050] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2In the example shown, the second magnet assembly 18 is positioned adjacent to the motor 14 (in this case, connected to the outer wall of the motor 14) - thus, the first connection is between the second magnet assembly 18 and the motor 14 (i.e., between the body or housing of the motor 14 and the second magnet assembly 18) and maintains the position of the second magnet assembly 18 (the second magnet assembly 18 in this example does not change position or orientation during operation of the system 10). The first magnet assembly 16 is coupled to the motor 14, and in this case is coupled to the drive shaft 22. In this example, the drive shaft 22 is received in the channel 24 of the motor 14 and rotates when the motor 14 is operated.

[0051] The motor 14 is operable to move the print head 12 by changing the orientation of the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 relative to each other. As a result, the force between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 changes, and the distance between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 changes, and the drive shaft 22 moves along the channel 24.

[0052] The print head 12 is connected to the drive shaft 22 so that when the drive shaft 22 moves along the channel 24 relative to the motor 14, the print head 12 is also moved. Figure 1 ), the print head 12 is connected to one end of the drive shaft 22 extending from the motor 14.

[0053] In an embodiment, the print head 12 is pivotally connected at one end - the print head 12 moves between the printing position and the retracted position as needed about the pivot point 12a. In this example, the connection between the drive shaft 22 and the print head 12 is located at the other end of the print head 12 and is to allow some rotation and / or movement of the print head 12 relative to the drive shaft 22. Therefore, when the drive shaft 22 moves downward, the print head 12 also moves downward as needed while pivoting about the pivot point 12a. The connection 28 between the print head 12 and the drive shaft 22 can be a U-shaped connection or the like.

[0054] In an embodiment, the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 have a common substantially central axis, (eg, Figure 2 Thus, in some embodiments, the first coupling allows the first magnet assembly 16 to rotate about the central axis. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the example shown, the first magnet assembly 16 connected to the drive shaft 22 rotates about the central axis A. In an embodiment, the passage 24 through the motor 14 is also substantially aligned with the central axis A so that the drive shaft 22 moves along the central axis A.

[0055] In an embodiment, the drive shaft is formed so that the rotational drive from the motor 14 is transmitted to the drive shaft 22. The drive shaft 22 may include a hexagonal shape (such as Figure 2 As shown), a pentagonal or spline-shaped outer surface so that the driving force from the motor 14 can be transmitted to the drive shaft 22.

[0056] In some embodiments, second magnet assembly 18 is located between motor 14 (and / or printhead 12) and first magnet assembly 16. In the example shown, printhead 12 is positioned and connected to drive shaft 22 on the opposite side of motor 14 to first and second magnet assemblies 16, 18.

[0057] However, it should be understood that the print head 12 can be coupled to the drive shaft 22 on either side of the motor 14. The drive shaft 22 can extend through the first magnet assembly 16 and the print head 12 can be connected to the drive shaft 22 on the same side of the motor 14 as the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18. In such an example, the drive shaft 22 can have a stop mechanism at its end extending from the opposite side of the motor 14 to prevent the drive shaft 22 from over-extending and moving out of the channel 24.

[0058] Now, with the help of the different positions shown in FIG. 3, the Figure 1 3. As described above, the main feature between the first magnetic parameter and the second magnetic parameter is polarity. In other words, on the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18, the first to sixth magnetic elements alternate magnetic polarity (on the outer surface or the surface facing the other magnet assembly 18, 16).

[0059] Generally speaking, the printhead movement system 10 operates by rotating one of the magnet assemblies 16, 18 relative to the other. In doing so, the forces between the magnetic elements on the magnet assemblies 16, 18 change - the magnet assemblies 16, 18 move closer to each other or further apart as the level of attraction / repulsion changes. Figure 4a and Figure 4b As shown, the motor 14 only needs to rotate the magnet assemblies 16, 18 by a small angle to move the magnet assemblies 16, 18 from a position where they completely repel each other to a position where they completely attract each other.

[0060] The steps shown in FIG. 3 will now be described. Figure 3a The position of the print head 12 in FIG. 1 is the fully retracted position. In other words, the print head 12 is lifted away from the printing position (substrate / inked ribbon / platen) by the maximum distance allowed by the system. To achieve this state, the motor 14 is actuated to move the first magnet assembly 16 to a specific rotational position relative to the second magnet assembly 18. Figure 3aAs shown, the magnetic elements 16a-f of the first magnet assembly 16 are aligned with the corresponding magnetic elements 18a-f of the second magnet assembly 18. The polarity presented on the outer surface of the magnetic elements 16a-f of the first magnet assembly 16 will alternate. The same is true for the second magnet assembly 18. Therefore, the same magnetic poles are aligned with each other and face each other on the respective magnet assemblies 16, 18. This Figure 3a , where south poles are aligned with south poles ("S to S") and / or north poles are aligned with north poles ("N to N").

[0061] This means that a maximum repulsive force is experienced between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18. This maximum repulsion causes the first magnet assembly 16 to be pushed (and moved) away from the second magnet assembly 18 and the motor 14 (to which the second magnet assembly 18 is connected) (along the axis A). In other words, the first magnet assembly 16 moves away from the motor 14 along with the drive shaft 22. The drive shaft 22 extends through a channel 24 in the motor 14 and is connected (in this example) to the print head 12 at its opposite end. Therefore, when the first magnet assembly 16 moves, the print head 12 also moves.

[0062] The distance between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 is indicated by "d" in FIG. Figure 3a As can be seen from the situation, since the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 are at the maximum distance apart, the distance d is at its maximum value. Therefore, the print head 12 is positioned at the farthest distance from the printing position.

[0063] Figure 3b The position of the print head 12 in the middle is an intermediate position (i.e., the print head 12 is raised from the printing position but not in the fully retracted position). The motor 14 rotates the first magnet assembly 16 by an angle so that the like polarities of the magnetic elements 16a-f, 18a-f are no longer completely aligned with each other. Because the polarities on the outer surface of the first magnet assembly 16 overlap with both the like polarity and the opposite polarity on the second magnet assembly 18, the repulsive force between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 is reduced and / or the attractive force between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 is increased. This Figure 3b , where the north poles of the magnetic elements on the first magnet assembly 16 overlap with both the south and north poles of the magnetic elements of the second magnet assembly ("N to N and S" or "S to N and S"). Similarly, the south poles of the magnetic elements on the second magnet assembly 18 overlap with both the south and north poles of the adjacent magnetic elements of the first magnet assembly 16.

[0064] Thus, the first magnet assembly 16 moves toward the second magnet assembly 18 (and in this example, toward the motor 14). The print head 12 (connected to the opposite end of the drive shaft 22) also moves to an intermediate position between the retracted position and the printing position.

[0065] Reference Figure 3c , the printhead 12 is in a printing position (i.e., a position in which the printhead 12' is moved furthest from the motor 14 and / or a position in which the printhead 12 is in contact with the inked ribbon and is able to print an image on the substrate, or in other words, a position in which the printhead 12 applies the necessary pressure to print). To reach this position, the motor 14 rotates the first magnet assembly 16 so that the outwardly facing polarity of the magnetic elements 16a-f on the first magnet assembly 16 is aligned with the (outwardly facing) opposite polarity of the magnetic elements 18a-f on the second magnet assembly 18. In other words, each north pole on one magnet assembly 16, 18 is aligned with a south pole on the other magnet assembly 18, 16 (and vice versa). This Figure 3c , where the north poles of the magnetic elements on the first magnet assembly 16 are aligned with the south poles of the magnetic elements on the second magnet assembly 18 ("N to S").

[0066] Thus, the attraction between the first and second magnet assemblies 16, 18 is at a maximum (and the first magnet assembly 16 is "pulled" toward the second magnet assembly 18). The print head 12 (connected to the opposite end of the drive shaft 22) is pushed away from the motor 14 / towards the printing position.

[0067] When the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 are in the fully repelling position, the forces acting on the system can be considered as follows. In embodiments that do not include a biasing mechanism to urge the print head 12 upward away from the printing position or downward toward the printing position, the total force F exerted on the print head is t The repulsive force (F r ) multiplied by the number of magnetic elements (n) on each magnet assembly 16, 18 - in the form of:

[0068] F t ∝-nF r

[0069] In some embodiments, the biasing mechanism 34 applies a biasing force to the print head 12 in a downward direction. In this case, the total force (F t ) may be proportional to the strength of the magnet and the strength of the biasing mechanism 34 / torsion spring in the form:

[0070] F t ∝-nF r–T(θ).R.cos(θ)

[0071] Likewise, F r is the repulsive force between the two opposing magnetic elements 16a, 18a, and n is the number of magnetic elements on the corresponding magnet assembly 16, 18. In addition, θ is the angle opened between the horizontal plane and the print head 12, T(θ) is the torque applied by the biasing mechanism 34 at the angle θ, and R is the distance from the drive shaft 22 to the print head 12, and here the biasing mechanism 34 is connected to the print head 12.

[0072] It will be appreciated that if the biasing mechanism applies force in the opposite direction, then the torque applied by the bias on the printhead 12 will appear in the opposite direction (ie, a plus sign rather than a minus sign) in the formula for calculating the total force.

[0073] As the motor 14 moves the first magnet assembly from Figure 3a When the magnet assembly 16 is rotated from the position shown (i.e., the position of maximum repulsion) to any other position, the attraction between the magnetic elements takes effect. Each magnetic element 16a-f on the first magnet assembly 16 begins to face / overlap two magnetic elements on the second magnet assembly 18 (and vice versa). Therefore, each magnetic element (on both magnet assemblies 16, 18) experiences a combination of repulsive and attractive forces. The resultant force F between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 is m may be proportional to the number of magnetic elements on the first / second magnet assemblies 16, 18, and once the attractive and repulsive forces are taken into account, the remaining net force - therefore, may take the form:

[0074] F m ∝n.(F p -F r )

[0075] Where, as mentioned above, n is the number of magnetic elements, F r is the repulsive force between individual magnetic elements. Finally, F p is the attractive force between the individual magnetic elements. This expression is valid for each instantaneous rotational position of the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 relative to each other (angle ∝—see Figure 4a and b). Therefore, for each angle ∝, a different resultant force F is applied m In other words, the resultant force F m Proportional to some function of the angle ∝, the attraction between the magnetic elements, and the repulsion between the magnetic elements.

[0076] Therefore, when the biasing mechanism is taken into account, the total force F exerted on the print head 12 is t , will take the following form:

[0077]

[0078] It should be understood that if there is no biasing mechanism, the total force F exerted on the print head 12 is t The resultant force F exerted by the magnet assemblies 16 and 17 m Directly proportional.

[0079] The rotation angle of the first magnet assembly 16 relative to the second magnet assembly 18 is Figure 4a . The first magnet assembly 16 is shown in front of the second magnet assembly 18 (i.e., viewed along axis A toward the motor 14). It can be seen that the rotation angle ∝ represents the amount of overlap between the individual magnetic elements on one magnet assembly relative to the magnetic elements on the other magnet assembly. Therefore, as the angle ∝ changes, the resultant force F m Also changing from repulsion to attraction (or vice versa) causes the first magnet assembly 16 on the drive shaft 22 to move (and therefore, the print head 12).

[0080] It should be understood that in this embodiment including the biasing mechanism 34, as the resultant force F m It must also overcome any force from the biasing mechanism 34 to move the magnet assembly 16.

[0081] In an embodiment, there may be a controller that stores the configuration details of the magnet assemblies 16, 18, the connections between the printhead movement system 10 and the printhead 12, the biasing mechanism 34, and other details that affect how the printhead 12 will / can be moved. Thus, the controller can control the motor 14 with a high degree of precision to ensure that the desired movement of the printhead 12 is achieved.

[0082] Figure 5 Examples of different embodiments are shown in Figures 1 to 7. Where components / features of this example are identical to those already described, the same reference numerals have been used.

[0083] In some embodiments (e.g. Figure 5 and 6 ), the second magnet assembly 18 is located at a position spaced apart relative to the motor 14. In this example, a support assembly 26 extends from the motor 14 to support the second magnet assembly 18 in place.

[0084] In some embodiments, the first magnet assembly 16 is coupled to the motor 14 via a first coupling, which allows the first magnet assembly 16 to rotate when the motor 14 is driven. The first coupling also allows the first magnet assembly 16 to rotate along an axis (in Figure 6 14 (shown as A in FIG. 1 ) moves toward and / or away from the motor 14.

[0085] In some embodiments, the motor 14 includes a rotating drive shaft 22, which in this example extends from a substantially central location of the motor 14 and, in this example, rotates when the motor 14 is driven. This configuration differs from the configuration described above because the motor 14 does not have a central channel that accommodates the drive shaft and allows the drive shaft to reciprocate and / or linearly move along an axis.

[0086] In this example, the first coupling includes a sleeve member 40 to which the first magnet assembly 16 is attached. The sleeve member 40 receives the drive shaft 22 through a central passage. The sleeve member 40 can slide along the drive shaft 22 (in this example, toward and / or away from the motor 14).

[0087] The rotational motion of the drive shaft 22 is transmitted to the sleeve member 40, which in turn transmits the rotational motion to the first magnet assembly 16. In this example, the inner surface of the sleeve member 40 is shaped to correspond to the outer surface of the drive shaft 22 - for example, as described above, the drive shaft 22 can be hexagonal or splined, etc. - and the interior of the sleeve member 40 is formed accordingly, so that the sleeve member 40 rotates when the drive shaft 22 is rotated. The shape is formed longitudinally along the drive shaft 22 and located inside the sleeve member 40, so that the sleeve member 40 can move along the drive shaft 22 as required by the function. This requirement of providing rotational drive while still allowing (free) reciprocating and / or linear motion is applicable to many embodiments / configurations of the printhead system 10 (including those described above).

[0088] In an embodiment, the print head 12 is coupled to the first magnet assembly 16, and may be via a sleeve member 40. This means that the movement of the first magnet assembly 16 is transmitted to the print head 12. The coupling between the sleeve member 40 and the print head 12 may allow the sleeve member 40 to rotate without any (rotational / torsional) effect on the print head 12. However, when the first magnet assembly 16 and the sleeve member 40 reciprocate along the axis A, the print head 12 is either moved towards the printing position (away from the motor 14) or towards the retracted position (towards the motor 14).

[0089] Thus, the motor 14 is operable to move the print head 12 by changing the orientation of the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 relative to each other. The force between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 is changed, and therefore, the distance between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 is changed. The manner in which the print head movement system 10 is operated to move the first magnet assembly 16 and the print head 12 is the same as explained above - therefore, it should be understood that most of the foregoing description also applies to other embodiments (including Figure 5 to those shown in FIG. 7 ).

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, the first magnet assembly 16 is located between the motor 14 and the second magnet assembly 18. The print head 12 is positioned farthest from the motor 14, and both the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 are located between the print head 12 and the motor 14.

[0091] 7, the following will describe in more detail Figure 5 and Figure 6 The methods of how the configuration presented in will operate (which are different from those already described).

[0092] exist Figure 7a In the embodiment, the print head 12 is in the fully retracted position. In other words, the print head 12 is lifted away from the printing position (substrate / inked ribbon / platen) by the maximum distance allowed by the system. Figure 7a As shown, the magnetic elements 16a-f of the first magnet assembly 16 are aligned with the corresponding magnetic elements 18a-f of the second magnet assembly 18. The polarity presented on the outer surface of the magnetic elements of the first magnet assembly 16 will alternate. The same is true for the second magnet assembly 18. The same magnetic poles are aligned with each other and face each other on the corresponding magnet assemblies. In other words, the south pole is aligned with the south pole ("S to S") and / or the north pole is aligned with the north pole ("N to N"). This means that the maximum repulsion force is experienced between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18. This maximum repulsion causes the first magnet assembly 16 to be pushed (and moved) away from the second magnet assembly 18 (along the axis A).

[0093] When the second magnet assembly 18 is held spaced from the motor 14 with the first magnet assembly 16 therebetween, the repulsive force causes the first magnet assembly 16 to be pushed toward the motor 14. In other words, the first magnet assembly 16 moves on the sleeve member 40 (along the drive shaft 22) toward the motor 14.

[0094] As the first magnet assembly 16 moves away from the second magnet assembly 18 (and toward the motor 14), the print head 12 connected to the sleeve member 40 is lifted away from the printing position (to the retracted position).

[0095] from Figure 7a As can be seen from the situation, since the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 are at the maximum distance apart, the distance d is at its maximum value. Therefore, the print head 12 is positioned at the farthest distance from the printing position.

[0096] exist Figure 7bIn the embodiment of the present invention, the print head 12 is in an intermediate position (i.e., the print head 12 is raised from the printing position but not in the fully retracted position). The motor 14 rotates the first magnet assembly 16 by an angle such that the same polarities of the magnetic elements 16a-f, 18a-f are no longer fully aligned with each other. Since the polarities on the outer surface of the first magnet assembly 16 overlap with both magnetic elements of the same polarity and opposite polarity on the second magnet assembly 18, the repulsive force between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 is reduced and / or the attractive force between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 is increased. This Figure 7b , where the north poles of the magnetic elements on the first magnet assembly 16 overlap with both the south and north poles of the magnetic elements of the second magnet assembly ("N to N and S" or "S to N and S"). Similarly, the south poles of the magnetic elements on the second magnet assembly 18 overlap with both the south and north poles of the adjacent magnetic elements of the first magnet assembly 16.

[0097] Thus, the first magnet assembly 16 moves along the drive shaft 22 toward the second magnet assembly 18 on the sleeve member 40 (and in this example, away from the motor 14). The print head 12 (connected to the sleeve member 40) also moves to an intermediate position between the retracted position and the printing position.

[0098] exist Figure 7c In the embodiment of the present invention, the print head 12 is in a printing position. In other words, the print head 12 is pushed downward / toward the ink ribbon to a position suitable for printing to the maximum extent.

[0099] To achieve this state, the motor 14 is actuated to move the first magnet assembly 16 so that it is in a specific rotational position relative to the second magnet assembly 18. The polarity of the magnetic elements 16a-f on the first magnet assembly 16 (facing outward / toward the second magnet assembly 18) is aligned with the magnetic elements 18a-f of opposite polarity on the second magnet assembly 18 (outer surface). In other words, each north pole on one magnet assembly 16, 18 is aligned with the south pole on the other magnet assembly 18, 16 (and vice versa). This is achieved in the embodiment of FIG. Figure 7c , where the north poles of the magnetic elements on the first magnet assembly 16 are aligned with the south poles of the magnetic elements on the second magnet assembly 18 ("N to S").

[0100] Therefore, the attraction between the first magnet assembly 16 and the second magnet assembly 18 is at a maximum (and the first magnet assembly 16 is "pulled" / moved toward the second magnet assembly 18). The print head 12 connected to the sleeve member 40 also moves with the first magnet assembly 16 to the printing position.

[0101] It should be understood that the mathematical expressions discussed above expressing how the different parameters relate to each other will be similar to those used in the Figure 5 7 (and therefore they are not repeated). It should be understood that due to the orientation / sequence of the first and second magnet assemblies 16, 18 and the position of the print head 12 relative to the first magnet assembly 16 (the magnet assembly that provides motion to the print head 12), the Figure 1 Depending on the configuration shown in Figure 3, the signs of the expressions may be changed to ensure that the forces operate in the correct direction.

[0102] In some embodiments (e.g., Figure 8 9 ), printhead movement system 10 'is configured differently. Where components / features of these embodiments are similar to those already discussed above, the reference numerals used are the same but with a superscript prime added (e.g., printhead movement system 10 becomes printhead movement system 10 ').

[0103] The print head movement system 10' comprises a motor 14', a print head 12' and first and second magnet assemblies 16', 18'. The motor 14' is coupled to the first magnet assembly 16' for linear movement. The print head 12' is coupled to the second magnet assembly 18'.

[0104] In an embodiment, the motor 14' is coupled to the first magnet assembly 16' for linear movement, and the print head 12' is coupled to the second magnet assembly 18'. The motor 14' may be coupled to the first magnet assembly 16' via a drive shaft 22' so that the motor 14' is operable to move the first magnet assembly 16' linearly along the axis A'. In some embodiments, the motor 14' includes a drive shaft 22' that is coupled to the motor 14' so that when the motor is driven, the drive shaft 22' moves linearly. In other words, the motor 14' is capable of providing linear movement to the system 10'. For example, the motor 14' may have a lead screw arrangement that converts normal rotary motor motion into general linear movement, or the motor 14' may be a linear motor.

[0105] The printhead 12' can be directly coupled to the second magnet assembly 18' - in the illustrated embodiment, the second magnet assembly 18' is attached to the top or upper surface of the printhead 12'. In some embodiments, the printhead 12' is a printhead 12' from a thermal transfer printing device. Thus, the printhead 12' can be part of a printing device, including a belt drive mechanism for conveying an ink ribbon between spools passing through the printhead, and a platen or roller.

[0106] The print head 12' has a first end that is movable toward / away from the inking ribbon / substrate and a second end that is supported on a pivot point. The first end of the print head 12' pivots about the pivot point to produce the desired movement. In some embodiments, the print head movement system 10' also includes a biasing mechanism 34' (in the example shown, this is a torsion spring) that functions to move the print head 12' upward and / or away from the printing position / inking ribbon / substrate. A stop element 32' is disposed above the print head 12' that prevents the print head 12' from moving excessively or beyond what is intended when making the desired movement (upward / away from the printing position / inking ribbon / substrate).

[0107] The first and second magnet assemblies 16', 18' each include a respective first magnetic element 16a', 18a' having a first magnetic parameter. In the illustrated example, the first and second magnet assemblies 16' include a second magnetic element 16b' having a second magnetic parameter. Although it should be understood that in other configurations of the system, the second magnet assembly 18' can have a second magnetic element (in other words, either of the first and second magnet assemblies 16', 18' can have a second magnetic element).

[0108] In an embodiment, the first and second magnetic elements 16a', 16b' are arranged adjacent to each other. In some examples, the first and second magnetic elements 16a', 16b' are substantially aligned with the linear motion of the first magnet assembly 16' (ie, aligned along axis A').

[0109] The motor 14' is operable to move the print head 12' by moving the position of the first magnet assembly 16' relative to the second magnet assembly 18' such that the force between the first and second magnet assemblies 16', 18' is changed and the distance between the first and second magnet assemblies 16', 18' is altered.

[0110] In some embodiments, the first magnet assembly 16' faces the second magnet assembly 18'. In other words, the first magnet assembly 16' has an outer surface that (in this example) faces downward. The second magnet assembly 18' also has an outer surface that (in this example) faces upward.

[0111] The above description of the first magnetic parameter and the second magnetic parameter also applies to Figure 89. For example, the first and second magnetic elements 16a', 16b' on the first magnet assembly can both be permanent magnets. The first magnetic parameter and the second magnetic parameter are the magnetic poles of the corresponding magnets presented on the outer surface of the first magnet assembly (i.e., the first magnetic element 16a' can have its north pole on the outer surface, and therefore, the second magnetic element 16b' will have its south pole on the outer surface). In this embodiment, the first magnetic element 18a' of the second magnet assembly is also a permanent magnet and has either magnetic pole presented on the outer surface.

[0112] It should be understood that more magnetic elements may be provided if desired. In addition, in another embodiment, the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element 16a', 16b' on the first magnet assembly 16' may be magnets of different strengths. In this case, the outer surfaces of the two magnetic elements 16a', 16b' may be the same magnetic poles but different strengths. In such an embodiment, the first magnetic element 18a' of the second magnet assembly 18' may also expose the same magnetic poles on its outer surface. Therefore, the force between the first magnet assembly 16' and the second magnet assembly 18' may always be a repulsive force (but with different repulsive strengths). The biasing mechanism 34' may be used to push the print head 12' against the repulsive force between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly 16', 18', so that as the repulsive strength changes, the print head 12' moves through the biasing mechanism 34'.

[0113] In some embodiments, the first magnet assembly 16' moves linearly (along axis A') with operation of the motor 14' and (in this example) axis A' is generally transverse to the position of the second magnet assembly 18'. In other words, as the first magnet assembly 16' moves, its outer surface moves relative to the outer surface of the second magnet assembly 18'.

[0114] Now, with the help of the different positions shown in FIG. 9, the Figure 8 9. As described above, in this embodiment, the main feature between the first magnetic parameter and the second magnetic parameter is polarity (ie, the first and second magnetic elements 16a', 16b' have opposite polarities on the outer surface). Figure 9aWhen the print head 12' is moved to the printing position (i.e., the print head 12' is moved away to the furthest extent), the motor 12' operates to move the first magnet assembly 16' so that the magnetic elements of the first magnet assembly 16' (whose outer surface has the same polarity as the outer surface of the magnetic element of the second magnet assembly 18') are aligned with each other (in this case, the first magnetic element 16a') (the alignment can be along an axis perpendicular to the axis A'). Since the two polarities of the magnetic elements are the same, the second magnet assembly 18' will experience a repulsive force away from the first magnet assembly 16'. This in turn causes the print head 12' to be pushed away toward the printing position.

[0115] Figure 9b The position of the print head 12' is the intermediate position (i.e., the print head 12' is raised from the printing position but not in the fully retracted position). The motor 14' moves the first magnet assembly 16' along the axis A' so that the first magnetic element 16a' of the first magnet assembly 16' is moved to no longer be fully aligned and the second magnet assembly 18 begins to be affected by the magnetic element of the first magnet assembly 16' (which has an opposite polarity to the first magnetic element 18a' on the second magnet assembly 18'). Therefore, the first magnetic element 18a' on the second magnet assembly 18' is affected by the combined force of the repulsive force from the first magnetic element 16a' and the attractive force from the second magnetic element 16b' (both belonging to the first magnet assembly 16'). Therefore, the second magnet assembly 18' moves toward the first magnet assembly 16' (and when the print head 12' is attached to the second magnet assembly 18', the print head 12' retracts to the intermediate position).

[0116] Fig.9c 18'. The print head 12' is in the fully retracted position. The motor 14' moves the second magnetic element 16b' of the first magnet assembly 16' (along the axis A') into alignment with the first magnetic element 18a' of the second magnet assembly 18'. The (outer surface) of the second magnetic element 16b' of the first magnet assembly 16' is opposite in polarity to the first magnetic element 18a' of the second magnet assembly 18', so the magnet assemblies 16', 18' are attracted together, which in turn moves the print head 12' to the retracted position. In some embodiments, the stop element 32' prevents the second magnet assembly 18' from moving too far.

[0117] It will be appreciated that the operation would be the same if the magnetic elements 16a', 16b' were opposite one another but the motor 14' had to move the first magnet assembly 16' in the other direction along the axis A'.

[0118] In an embodiment where the first magnetic element and the second magnetic elements 16a', 16b' of the first magnet assembly 16' have different strengths, the motor 14' operates in the same manner to move the first magnet assembly 16' from one side to the other, and when the repulsive force between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly 16', 18' changes, the biasing mechanism 34' acts to move the print head 12' upward (or downward).

[0119] When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. These terms should not be interpreted as excluding the presence of other features, steps or components.

[0120] The features disclosed in the above description, or in the following claims, or in the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific form or as means for performing the disclosed functions, or as methods or processes for achieving the disclosed results, may be used, as the case may be, separately or in any combination of such features, to implement different forms of the invention.

[0121] Although certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described, the scope of the appended claims is not intended to be limited only to these embodiments. The claims should be interpreted literally, objectively, and / or including equivalents.

Claims

1. A print head moving system for moving a print head, characterized in that: include: motor, a first magnet assembly and a second magnet assembly, each of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly including a respective first magnetic element having a first magnetic parameter, and at least one of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly including a second magnetic element having a second magnetic parameter, One of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly is coupled to the motor, and one of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly may be directly or indirectly coupled to the print head, and wherein The motor is operable to change the distance and / or orientation of the second magnet assembly and the first magnet assembly relative to each other so that the force between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes and the distance between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes to move the print head.

2. The print head moving system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The printhead movement system also includes a drive shaft coupled to one of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly.

3. The print head moving system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The drive shaft is coupled to the motor such that the drive shaft rotates or moves longitudinally relative to the motor when driven by the motor.

4. A print head moving system, characterized in that: include: a motor having a channel and a drive shaft received in the channel and capable of reciprocating along the channel, the drive shaft being coupleable to the print head, The first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly each include a respective first magnetic element having a first magnetic parameter, and one of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly includes a second magnetic element having a second magnetic parameter, The first magnet assembly is coupled to the drive shaft via a first coupling, wherein the first coupling allows the first magnet assembly to rotate when the drive shaft is driven by a motor, and the second magnet assembly is fixed relative to the motor via a second coupling, wherein the motor is operable to change the orientation of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly relative to each other so that the force between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes, and the distance between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes, and the drive shaft moves along the channel to move the print head.

5. A print head moving system for moving a print head, characterized in that: include: motor, The first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly each include a respective first magnetic element having a first magnetic parameter, and one of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly includes a second magnetic element having a second magnetic parameter, The first magnet assembly is coupled to the motor through a first coupling, the first coupling allowing the first magnet assembly to rotate when the motor is driven and allowing the first magnet assembly to reciprocate along the axis, The print head may be coupled to the first magnet assembly, Wherein, the motor is operable to change the orientation of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly relative to each other so that the force between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes and the distance between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes to move the print head.

6. The print head moving system according to claim 4, characterized in that: The second coupling is a non-rotatable coupling.

7. The print head moving system according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that: The first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly have a common general central axis.

8. The print head moving system according to claim 7, characterized in that: The first coupling allows the corresponding first magnet assembly to rotate about the central axis.

9. The print head moving system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The system includes a drive shaft coupled to the motor for rotational movement.

10. The print head moving system according to claim 9, characterized in that: The passage through the motor is also substantially aligned with the central axis such that the drive shaft moves along the central axis.

11. The print head moving system according to any one of claims 8 or 9, characterized in that: A first coupling connects the first magnet assembly to a fixed location on the drive shaft.

12. The print head moving system according to claim 11, characterized in that: The drive shaft includes an outer surface.

13. The print head moving system according to claim 12, characterized in that: The outer surface of the driving shaft is hexagonal, pentagonal or spline-shaped.

14. The print head moving system according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that: The second magnet assembly is supported in a fixed position relative to the motor.

15. The print head moving system according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that: The second magnet assembly is adjacent to the motor or spaced apart from the motor.

16. The print head moving system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The system includes a drive shaft coupled to the motor for rotational movement, and the first coupling includes a sleeve member engaged with the drive shaft and supporting a first magnet assembly.

17. The print head moving system according to claim 16, characterized in that: The sleeve member is engaged with the drive shaft so that rotation of the drive shaft is transmitted to the sleeve member and the sleeve member is reciprocally movable along the drive shaft.

18. A print head moving system, characterized in that: include: a motor coupled to the first magnet assembly for linear movement, a print head coupled to the second magnet assembly, The first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly each include a respective first magnetic element having a first magnetic parameter, and one of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly includes a second magnetic element having a second magnetic parameter, The motor is operable to change the position of the first magnet assembly relative to the second magnet assembly so that the force between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes and the distance between the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly changes to move the print head.

19. The print head moving system according to claim 18, characterized in that: The first magnet assembly is connected to a drive shaft that is coupled to a motor such that the drive shaft moves linearly when driven by the motor.

20. The print head moving system according to claim 19, characterized in that: The drive shaft is or includes a lead screw to provide linear movement upon operation of the motor.

21. The print head moving system according to claim 18, characterized in that: The motor is a linear motor, and the first magnetic assembly is coupled to the motor to produce linear movement when the motor is driven.

22. The print head moving system according to any one of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that: The first magnet assembly faces the second magnet assembly.

23. The print head moving system according to any one of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that: The linear movement direction of the first magnet assembly is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the second magnet assembly.

24. The print head moving system according to any one of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that: The first magnetic element and the second magnetic element are both disposed on the first magnet assembly.

25. The print head moving system according to claim 23, characterized in that: The first magnetic element and the second magnetic element are arranged adjacent to each other and are substantially aligned with an axis of linear movement of the first magnet assembly.

26. The print head moving system according to claim 18, characterized in that: The first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly each have an outer surface that generally faces toward an outer surface of the other of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly.

27. The print head moving system according to claim 18, characterized in that: The first magnetic parameter and the second magnetic parameter include polarity and / or magnetic strength.

28. The print head moving system according to claim 27, characterized in that: The first magnetic parameter and the second magnetic parameter are polarities of a side of the corresponding magnetic element, the side facing outward from the corresponding magnet assembly, in the direction of the second magnet assembly.

29. The print head moving system according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that: The polarity of the outer surface of the first magnetic element of the same magnet assembly is opposite to the polarity of the outer surface of the second magnetic element.

30. The print head moving system according to claim 27, characterized in that: The magnetic strength of the first magnetic element is different from the magnetic strength of the second magnetic element on the same magnet assembly.

31. The print head moving system according to claim 18, characterized in that: The first magnetic element and the second magnetic element of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly are permanent magnets.

32. The print head moving system according to claim 18, characterized in that: The first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly each include a first magnetic element and a second magnetic element.

33. The print head moving system according to claim 32, characterized in that: The first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly each include more than two magnetic elements.

34. The print head moving system according to claim 33, characterized in that: The magnetic elements of one or both of the first magnet assembly and the second magnet assembly are arranged in a generally annular pattern.

35. The print head moving system according to claim 18, characterized in that: The system moves a coupled print head from a retracted position to a printing position and / or from a printing position to a retracted position.

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