Auxiliary tape cartridge and printing tape cartridge

Abstract

Provided is a sub-tape cartridge capable of appropriately transporting a print tape. The present disclosure is a sub-tape cartridge provided with a roll of a sub-tape for printing of a print tape being transported. The sub-tape cartridge has a housing that houses the roll, an ejection port that ejects the print tape from the inside of the housing to the outside, and a guide surface that is provided to an inner surface or an outer surface of the housing and that guides the print tape supplied from the outside of the housing toward the ejection port. The print tape is wound to the guide surface in a manner that a spiral portion having a rotation angle of 180° or more around a central axis parallel to a winding axis of the roll is formed. The guide surface has a curved surface that guides at least a portion of the spiral portion on an upstream side of the ejection port in a direction of ejection of the print tape.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to auxiliary tape boxes and printing tape boxes. Background Technology

[0002] In a printing apparatus for printing with a printing tape, the printing tape is replaced and supplied by attaching and detaching a cassette containing the printing tape from the main body of the printing apparatus. As such a cassette, a cassette formed by overlapping an ink tape cassette containing an ink tape and a printing tape cassette containing the printing tape is known (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 63-156762 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In the aforementioned cartridge, printing is performed with the printing tape ejected from the printing tape cassette overlapping with the ink tape in the ink tape cassette. If the path of the printing tape to the ink tape cassette is not properly set, the printing tape may not be properly transported due to factors such as tape twisting.

[0008] One aspect of this disclosure is to provide an auxiliary tape holder and a printing tape holder that can properly transport printing tape.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] One aspect of this disclosure is an auxiliary tape cassette comprising a roll of auxiliary tape and a housing for storing the roll, the auxiliary tape being supplied for printing with a transported printing tape. The housing has: a discharge port for discharging the printing tape from the interior to the exterior of the housing; and a guide surface disposed on the inner or outer surface of the housing for guiding the printing tape supplied from the exterior of the housing toward the discharge port.

[0011] The printing tape is wound onto a guide surface in such a manner that it forms a spiral portion with a rotation angle of 180° or more around a central axis parallel to the winding axis of the tape. The guide surface has a curved surface that guides at least a portion of the spiral portion upstream of the discharge port in the discharge direction of the printing tape.

[0012] With this structure, defects such as twisting of the printing tape being conveyed to the head opening via the guide surface of the auxiliary tape cassette are suppressed. Therefore, the printing tape can be properly conveyed to the head opening provided in the auxiliary tape cassette.

[0013] Another aspect of this disclosure is a printing tape cassette comprising a roll of printing tape and a housing for storing the roll. The housing has an outlet for discharging the printing tape to the outside of the housing and a guide surface for guiding the printing tape discharged from the outlet. The printing tape is wound toward the guide surface in a manner forming a helical portion about a central axis parallel to the winding axis of the roll with a rotation angle of 180° or more.

[0014] With this structure, defects such as twisting of the printing tape being conveyed to the external printing section via the guide surface of the printing tape cassette are suppressed. Therefore, the printing tape can be properly conveyed to, for example, a head opening provided in an auxiliary tape cassette.

[0015] Another aspect of this disclosure is a printing tape cassette comprising a roll of printing tape and a housing for storing the roll. The housing has a connecting surface intersecting the winding axis of the roll and a discharge port disposed on the connecting surface and discharging the printing tape to the outside of the housing in a direction intersecting the connecting surface.

[0016] With this structure, the printing tape can be properly conveyed to, for example, a head opening provided in an auxiliary tape cassette by discharging the printing tape from the outlet provided on the connecting surface of the housing. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view showing the main body of the printing device in the embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is a schematic perspective view of the printing box in the embodiment.

[0019] Figure 3A and Figure 3B yes Figure 2A A schematic 3D diagram with a box for printing.

[0020] Figure 4 yes Figure 2A A schematic exploded perspective view of a printing box.

[0021] Figure 5A and Figure 5B yes Figure 2A A schematic 3D diagram of the auxiliary box.

[0022] Figure 6A and Figure 6B Is with Figure 2A Schematic perspective view of the printing box in different implementations.

[0023] Figure 7A yes Figure 6A The printed schematic 3D diagram with a box is shown. Figure 7B yes Figure 6AA schematic 3D diagram of the auxiliary box.

[0024] Figure 8A and Figure 8B Is with Figure 2A Schematic perspective view of the printing box in different implementations.

[0025] Figure 9A and Figure 9B yes Figure 8A A schematic 3D diagram with a box for printing.

[0026] Figure 10A and Figure 10B yes Figure 8A A schematic 3D diagram of the auxiliary box.

[0027] Figure 11 Is with Figure 2A Schematic perspective view of the printing box in different implementations.

[0028] Figure 12A and Figure 12B Is with Figure 2A Schematic perspective view of the printing box in different implementations.

[0029] Figure 13 yes Figure 12A A schematic 3D diagram of a printing box.

[0030] Figure 14 yes Figure 12A A schematic three-dimensional diagram of a gearbox.

[0031] Figure 15A and Figure 15B Is with Figure 2A Schematic perspective view of the printing box in different implementations.

[0032] Figure 16A and Figure 16B yes Figure 15A A schematic 3D diagram with a box for printing.

[0033] Figure 17A and Figure 17B yes Figure 15A A schematic 3D diagram of the auxiliary box.

[0034] Figure 18 yes Figure 17A A schematic exploded perspective view of the auxiliary box.

[0035] Figure 19 Is with Figure 2A Schematic exploded perspective view of the printing box in different implementations.

[0036] Figure 20A and Figure 20B Is with Figure 2A Schematic perspective view of the printing box in different implementations.

[0037] Figure 21A and Figure 21B Is with Figure 2A Schematic perspective view of the printing box in different implementations. Detailed Implementation

[0038] [1. First Implementation Method]

[0039] [1-1. Structure]

[0040] Figure 1 The main body 100 of the printing device shown is Figure 2A , 2B The printing cartridge 10 shown together constitute a printing apparatus. This printing apparatus is used for printing on tape-shaped printing media.

[0041] In this embodiment, the axial direction of the output gear 21 is set to the up-down direction, the direction in which the output gear 21 and the winding shaft 16 are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the up-down direction is set to the front-back direction, and the direction perpendicular to both the up-down and front-back directions is set to the left-right direction.

[0042] <Main body of the printing device>

[0043] like Figure 1 As shown, the main body 100 of the printing device includes a box storage section 101, a print head 102, an impression roller 103, an impression gear 104, a drive shaft 105, a drive source 107, and a housing 110.

[0044] (Box Storage Department)

[0045] The box storage section 101 is a recess for assembling the printing box 10. The box storage section 101 has a positioning function for the printing box 10. The box storage section 101 is provided in the outer casing 110.

[0046] (Print head)

[0047] The printhead 102 is disposed inside the cartridge storage section 101. The printhead 102 has multiple heating elements whose heating is independently controlled.

[0048] (Impression roller)

[0049] The impression roller 103 is disposed inside the cartridge storage section 101 near the print head 102, facing it. The impression roller 103 can swing relative to the print head 102 in a direction of approach or away. The rotation axis L1 of the impression roller 103 is parallel to the vertical direction.

[0050] (Imprinted gears)

[0051] An impression gear 104 is connected to an impression roller 103. In this embodiment, the rotation axis L2 of the impression gear 104 and the rotation axis L1 of the impression roller 103 are arranged on the same line. The impression gear 104 can oscillate together with the impression roller 103.

[0052] (Drive shaft)

[0053] The drive shaft 105 is inserted into the take-up reel 16 and input gear 22 of the printing cartridge 10. The drive shaft 105 causes the take-up reel 16 and input gear 22 to rotate.

[0054] The drive shaft 105 is disposed inside the box storage section 101. The rotation axis L3 of the drive shaft 105 is parallel to the vertical direction. The drive shaft 105 rotates around the rotation axis L3 via the drive source 107.

[0055] (Driver source)

[0056] The drive source 107 drives the drive shaft 105 to rotate. As the drive source 107, for example, a mechanism combining an electric motor and gears can be used.

[0057] <Printing box>

[0058] Figure 2A , 2B The printing cartridge 10 shown includes printing media (i.e., printing tape 11A). The printing cartridge 10 can be assembled into and detached from the printing device body 100. By replacing the printing cartridge 10, the printing media can be replenished and the type of printing media (e.g., size, color, material, etc.) can be changed.

[0059] The printing cartridge 10 includes a printing tape cassette 30 and an auxiliary tape cassette 40. The printing cartridge 10 is assembled to the main body 100 of the printing device with the printing tape cassette 30 and the auxiliary tape cassette 40 connected together.

[0060] (Printing box)

[0061] Figure 3A , 3B The printing tape cassette 30 shown includes a printing tape housing 35 that accommodates at least a portion of the printing tape 11A. Additionally, as... Figure 4 As shown, the printing tape cassette 30 includes a first roll 11, a first supply roll 12, and spacers 13A and 13B.

[0062] (Volume 1)

[0063] The first roll 11 is obtained by winding the printing tape 11A to be printed onto the first supply spool 12. The surface of the printing tape 11A is printed by the print head 102 of the printing apparatus main body 100 and the ink tape 14A (an example of an auxiliary tape).

[0064] Two spacer membranes 13A and 13B are disposed on the outer side of the first roll 11 in the vertical direction, sandwiching the first roll 11. The spacer membranes 13A and 13B are disposed between the first roll 11 and the first housing portion 31, and between the first roll 11 and the second housing portion 32.

[0065] (First Supply Reel)

[0066] The first supply roll 12 is rotatable about the rotation axis L4. The first supply roll 12 rotates in conjunction with the impression roller 103 of the printing apparatus body 100 to transport the printing tape 11A, thereby supplying the printing tape 11A to the print head 102. The rotation axis L4 of the first supply roll 12 is parallel to the vertical direction and coincides with the winding axis of the first roll 11.

[0067] (Printing with casing)

[0068] The printing housing 35 has a first housing portion 31, a second housing portion 32, and a first guide surface 35A (see reference). Figure 3A , 3B ) and the first row of exits 35B (refer to Figure 3A , 3B ).

[0069] The first housing portion 31 forms the upper end of the printing tape housing 35. The second housing portion 32 forms the lower end of the printing tape housing 35. The second housing portion 32 is disposed below the first housing portion 31 and is connected to the first housing portion 31 in the vertical direction. The first roll 11 is disposed in the space surrounded by the first housing portion 31 and the second housing portion 32.

[0070] The first housing portion 31 has a first sidewall 31A and a first cutout 31B. The second housing portion 32 has a second sidewall 32A, a second cutout 32B, and a first positioning portion 32C.

[0071] The first sidewall 31A and the second sidewall 32A form the side surface of the outer surface of the printing tape housing 35 that surrounds the first roll 11 in the circumferential direction. A first cut 31B is provided at the front of the first sidewall 31A. A second cut 32B is provided at the front of the second sidewall 32A. The first cut 31B and the second cut 32B are connected to each other to form the first discharge outlet 35B of the printing tape 11A.

[0072] like Figure 2A , 2BAs shown, a portion of the side of the printing tape housing 35 forms a first guide surface 35A that guides the printing tape 11A discharged from the first outlet 35B of the printing tape housing 35.

[0073] The first outlet 35B is located on the side of the printing tape housing 35 and discharges the printing tape 11A to the outside of the printing tape housing 35. The printing tape 11A discharged from the first outlet 35B in the radial direction of the first roll 11 is wound in a spiral shape toward the first guide surface 35A with a central axis parallel to the vertical direction, and is transported downward from the first outlet 35B (that is, toward the auxiliary tape cassette 40).

[0074] like Figure 3A As shown, the first positioning part 32C is a hole provided in the first connecting surface 35C that faces and contacts the auxiliary tape cassette 40 located below when the printing tape housing 35 is inserted into the cassette storage part 101. The first positioning part 32C positions the printing tape housing 35 relative to the auxiliary tape cassette 40. The second positioning part 41E of the auxiliary tape cassette 40 is inserted into the first positioning part 32C.

[0075] The first connecting surface 35C is a plane on the outer surface of the printing tape housing 35 that intersects (specifically, is orthogonal) the vertical direction. An auxiliary tape cassette 40 can be configured on the first connecting surface 35C.

[0076] (Auxiliary box)

[0077] Figure 5A , 5B The auxiliary tape cassette 40 shown is detachable from the printing tape cassette 30. The auxiliary tape cassette 40 has an auxiliary tape housing 45 that houses at least a portion of the ink tape 14A and at least a portion of the drive transmission unit 20.

[0078] In this embodiment, the auxiliary belt box 40 is also a gear box that houses gears. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the auxiliary tape box 40 includes a second roll 14, a second supply roll 15, a take-up roll 16, a clutch spring retainer 17, and a drive transmission unit 20.

[0079] (Volume 2)

[0080] Volume 14 is obtained by winding the printing ink tape 14A, which is used for printing, onto the second supply reel 15.

[0081] The ink ribbon 14A overlaps with the transported printing tape 11A at the head opening 42B for printing by the print head 102. After printing, the ink ribbon 14A is wound onto the take-up reel 16.

[0082] For the second roll 14, rotational resistance is applied by the clutch spring (not shown) held in the clutch spring retainer 17. At least a portion of the second roll 14 is configured to overlap with the first roll 11 in the vertical direction.

[0083] (Second supply reel)

[0084] The second supply reel 15 is rotatable about a rotation axis L5. The rotation axis L5 of the second supply reel 15 is parallel to the rotation axis L4 of the first supply reel 12 (that is, parallel to the vertical direction) and coincides with the winding axis of the second reel 14. The second supply reel 15 rotates in conjunction with the take-up reel 16 taking up the ink tape 14A, thereby supplying the ink tape 14A to the head opening 42B.

[0085] (Roll up the scroll)

[0086] The take-up reel 16 is rotatable about its rotation axis L6. The rotation axis L6 of the take-up reel 16 is parallel to the rotation axis L5 of the second supply reel 15.

[0087] The take-up spool 16 is cylindrical and has a hollow portion defined by its inner circumferential surface 16A. Spline teeth 16B are provided on the inner circumferential surface 16A of the take-up spool 16. The drive shaft 105 of the printing device body 100 is connected to the spline teeth 16B. The take-up spool 16 is rotated by the drive shaft 105 to take up the ink tape 14A used after printing.

[0088] (Drive Transmission Section)

[0089] When the printing cartridge 10 is assembled into the main body 100 of the printing device, the drive transmission unit 20 transmits the driving force of the drive source 107 transmitted from the drive shaft 105 to the impression roller 103, and causes the impression roller 103 to rotate at a speed set for each printing cartridge 10.

[0090] The drive transmission unit 20 has an output gear 21, an input gear 22, and an intermediate gear 23. The drive transmission unit 20 is positioned above the second roll 14 (that is, near the printing tape cassette 30). In other words, the output gear 21 and the input gear 22 are arranged within the auxiliary tape housing 45 in a manner that separates them from the second roll 14 in the vertical direction.

[0091] (Output gear)

[0092] The output gear 21 is an external gear used to output the driving force supplied for transporting the printing belt 11A to the outside. Specifically, the output gear 21 outputs driving force to the impression gear 104 of the printing device body 100. The rotation axis L7 of the output gear 21 is parallel to the rotation axis L5 of the second supply roll 15. A portion of the output gear 21 is exposed in the space communicating with the head opening 42B.

[0093] When the printing cartridge 10 is assembled into the main body 100 of the printing device (that is, when the auxiliary tape housing 45 is stored in the cartridge storage section 101), the output gear 21 engages with the impression gear 104 in the space communicating with the head opening 42B.

[0094] (Input gear)

[0095] The input gear 22 engages indirectly with the output gear 21 via the intermediate gear 23, transmitting the driving force to the output gear 21.

[0096] The input gear 22 has an external gear 22A and a reel 22B. The reel 22B is fixed to one side of the external gear 22A and is a cylindrical internal gear with splined teeth on its inner circumferential surface. The external gear 22A rotates integrally with the reel 22B by the driving force input to the drive source 107 of the reel 22B.

[0097] The rotation axis L8 of the input gear 22 (that is, the rotation axis of the external gear 22A and the rotation axis of the winding spool 22B) is aligned with the rotation axis L6 of the winding spool 16. At least a portion of the input gear 22 is positioned to overlap with the first roll 11 in the vertical direction.

[0098] The rotation axis L8 of the input gear 22 overlaps with the hollow portion of the take-up reel 16 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the lower end of the reel 22B of the input gear 22 is inserted into the hollow portion of the take-up reel 16 from above.

[0099] Therefore, with the printing cartridge 10 assembled into the main body 100 of the printing device, the drive shaft 105 is simultaneously connected to the take-up reel 16 and the input gear 22. As a result, although the input gear 22 is not directly connected to the take-up reel 16, it rotates together with the take-up reel 16 by the drive shaft 105.

[0100] (Intermediate gear)

[0101] The intermediate gear 23 is driven to engage with the input gear 22 and the output gear 21, transmitting the driving force input to the input gear 22 to the output gear 21. In other words, the drive shaft 105 indirectly inputs driving force to the output gear 21 via the input gear 22 and the intermediate gear 23.

[0102] The intermediate gear 23 is a stepped gear arranged coaxially with the upstream gear 23A, which engages with the input gear 22, and the downstream gear 23B, which engages with the output gear 21. The diameter of the downstream gear 23B is smaller than that of the upstream gear 23A. In addition, the upstream gear 23A is positioned closer to the printing cartridge 30 in the vertical direction than the downstream gear 23B (that is, above).

[0103] The intermediate gear 23 reduces the rotational speed of the driving force input to the input gear 22 and transmits it to the output gear 21. In other words, the drive transmission unit 20 includes a reduction mechanism with a reduction ratio obtained by dividing the rotational speed of the input gear 22 by the rotational speed of the output gear 21.

[0104] (Auxiliary belt housing)

[0105] The auxiliary housing 45 has a third housing portion 41, a fourth housing portion 42, a fifth housing portion 43, and a second guide surface 45A (see reference). Figure 2A , 2B ).

[0106] The third housing portion 41 forms the upper end of the auxiliary belt housing 45. The fifth housing portion 43 forms the lower end of the auxiliary belt housing 45. The fourth housing portion 42 is disposed below the third housing portion 41 and above the fifth housing portion 43, and is connected to the third housing portion 41 and the fifth housing portion 43 in the vertical direction.

[0107] The second roll 14, the second supply roll 15, and the take-up roll 16 are disposed in the space surrounded by the fourth housing portion 42 and the fifth housing portion 43. A portion of the output gear 21, the input gear 22, and the intermediate gear 23 are disposed in the space surrounded by the third housing portion 41 and the fourth housing portion 42.

[0108] The third housing portion 41 has a third sidewall 41A, a first gear support portion 41B, a second gear support portion 41C, a third gear support portion 41D, and a second positioning portion 41E (see reference). Figure 5B The third sidewall 41A forms a side surface on the outer surface of the auxiliary tape housing 45 that is continuous with the side surface of the printing tape housing 35.

[0109] The first gear support 41B supports the output gear 21 in a rotatable manner. The second gear support 41C supports the input gear 22 in a rotatable manner. The third gear support 41D supports the intermediate gear 23 in a rotatable manner.

[0110] Figure 5B The second positioning part 41E shown is disposed on the second connecting surface 45B which faces and contacts the printing tape cassette 30 located above when the auxiliary tape housing 45 is inserted into the cassette storage part 101.

[0111] The second connecting surface 45B is a plane on the outer surface of the auxiliary tape housing 45 that intersects (specifically, is orthogonal) the vertical direction and is parallel to the first connecting surface 35C of the printing tape housing 35. The printing tape cassette 30 can be configured on the second connecting surface 45B.

[0112] The second positioning part 41E is a cylindrical or columnar part that protrudes upward from the second connecting surface 45B. When the auxiliary tape cassette 40 is connected to the printing tape cassette 30, the auxiliary tape cassette 40 is positioned relative to the printing tape cassette 30 in the front-back and left-right directions by inserting the second positioning part 41E into the first positioning part 32C of the printing tape housing 35.

[0113] Figure 4 The fourth housing portion 42 shown has a fourth side wall 42A, a head opening 42B, a second outlet 42C, a guide inner wall 42D, a first limiting portion 42E, and a top wall 42F. The fourth side wall 42A forms a side surface in the outer surface of the auxiliary belt housing 45 that surrounds the second roll 14 in the circumferential direction.

[0114] The head opening 42B is a portion obtained by cutting a part of the fourth sidewall 42A. The head opening 42B is the space in which the print head 102 is arranged inside the print cartridge 10 when the print cartridge 10 is assembled into the main body 100 of the printing device.

[0115] At the head opening 42B, the print head 102 prints onto the printing tape 11A. The head opening 42B opens downwards into the auxiliary tape cassette 40 so that the print head 102 can be inserted from below. At the head opening 42B, the printing tape 11A and the ink tape 14A are positioned in the left-right direction.

[0116] The second outlet 42C discharges the printed printing tape 11A to the outside of the printing cassette 10. In other words, the second outlet 42C discharges the printing tape 11A from inside the auxiliary tape housing 45 to the outside. The printed printing tape 11A is then discharged from the second outlet 42C to the outside of the printing device.

[0117] The guide inner wall 42D is a plate-shaped portion having a front surface that guides the printing tape 11A in the left-right direction within the auxiliary tape housing 45 (that is, contacts the printing tape 11A from the rear). The guide inner wall 42D forms part of the second guide surface 45A that guides the printing tape 11A toward the second discharge outlet 42C.

[0118] The guide inner wall 42D is continuously provided from the fourth side wall 42A. In addition, the guide inner wall 42D is disposed upstream of the head opening 42B and forward of the head opening 42B in the discharge direction of the printing tape 11A.

[0119] At least a portion of the guide inner wall 42D is positioned vertically at the same location as the second outlet 42C. That is, at least a portion of the guide inner wall 42D overlaps with the second outlet 42C in a direction orthogonal to the vertical direction. The printing tape 11A is conveyed on the guide inner wall 42D in a direction orthogonal to the vertical direction (specifically, the left-right direction).

[0120] The first limiting part 42E restricts the movement of the printing tape 11A transported along the width direction of the second guide surface 45A formed by the guide inner wall 42D. Specifically, the first limiting part 42E has a lower surface disposed above the guide inner wall 42D and orthogonal to the vertical direction.

[0121] The top wall 42F is positioned in front of the guide inner wall 42D, separate from it. The top wall 42F and the guide inner wall 42D form a transport path for the printing belt 11A. The top wall 42F is connected to the first limiting part 42E. The inner surface (i.e., the rear surface) of the top wall 42F forms a limiting surface positioned opposite the second guide surface 45A (i.e., the guide inner wall 42D).

[0122] The fifth housing portion 43 has a fifth sidewall 43A and a second limiting portion 43B.

[0123] The fifth sidewall 43A, together with the fourth sidewall 42A of the fourth housing portion 42, forms the side of the auxiliary housing 45 that surrounds the second roll 14 in the circumferential direction.

[0124] The second limiting part 43B restricts the movement of the printing tape 11A transported along the second guide surface 45A in the width direction. Specifically, the second limiting part 43B has an upper surface disposed below the guide inner wall 42D of the fourth housing part 42 and orthogonal to the vertical direction. The second limiting part 43B and the first limiting part 42E of the fourth housing part 42 face each other in the vertical direction.

[0125] like Figure 2B As shown, the inner guide wall 42D, top wall 42F, first limiting part 42E, and second limiting part 43B constitute an arm portion 45C with a space. The printing belt 11A, which is transported along the second guide surface 45A of the auxiliary belt housing 45, passes through the interior of this space. The printing belt 11A that has passed through the arm portion 45C is supplied to the head opening 42B.

[0126] Within the arm portion 45C, the forward and backward movement (i.e., the thickness direction) of the printing tape 11A is restricted by the guide inner wall 42D and the top wall 42F, and the vertical movement (i.e., the width direction) of the printing tape 11A is restricted by the first restricting part 42E and the second restricting part 43B.

[0127] like Figure 2A , 2BAs shown, a portion of the side of the auxiliary tape housing 45 forms a second guide surface 45A that guides the printing tape 11A supplied from the outside of the auxiliary tape housing 45 (that is, from the printing tape cassette 30) toward the second discharge outlet 42C. The second guide surface 45A further guides the printing tape 11A, which is guided by the first guide surface 35A of the printing tape housing 35, toward the head opening 42B.

[0128] <Transportation and printing of the printing tape by the main body of the printing device>

[0129] When the printing cartridge 10 is assembled into the main body 100 of the printing device, the printing tape 11A is wound around the first guide surface 35A of the printing tape housing 35 and the second guide surface 45A of the auxiliary tape housing 45 in such a way that the rotation angle around the central axis parallel to the vertical direction (that is, the winding angle of the tape housing 35 and the auxiliary tape housing 45 when viewed from the vertical direction) is more than 180°.

[0130] The spiral portion 11B of the printed tape 11A being transported is wound around the side of the printed tape housing 35 and the side of the auxiliary tape housing 45. Specifically, the spiral portion 11B extends from the first row outlet 35B of the printed tape housing 35 to the interior of the arm portion 45C.

[0131] The first guide surface 35A and the second guide surface 45A each have a curved surface that guides at least a portion of the spiral portion 11B on the upstream side of the head opening 42B in the discharge direction of the printing tape 11A.

[0132] Specifically, the first guide surface 35A is entirely composed of curved surfaces. In addition, the portion of the second guide surface 45A, except for the inner part of the arm 45C (that is, the front surface of the guide inner wall 42D), is composed of curved surfaces.

[0133] In addition, the radius of curvature of at least a portion of the surface of the first guide surface 35A and the radius of curvature of at least a portion of the surface of the second guide surface 45A are respectively larger than 1 / 2 of the outer diameter of the second volume 14.

[0134] With the printing tape 11A wound around the guide surface and the printing cartridge 10 assembled into the main body 100 of the printing device, the print head 102 is positioned at the head opening 42B at a position that overlaps with the printing tape 11A and the ink tape 14A in the front-to-back direction.

[0135] The printing tape 11A is conveyed by the impression roller 103 to the head opening 42B, and is pressed by the impression roller 103 against the print head 102 after it has been heated by the heating element, with the ink tape 14A in between. As a result, a portion of the ink disposed on the surface of the ink tape 14A is transferred to the printing tape 11A, and text, symbols, etc. are printed onto the printing tape 11A.

[0136] The impression roller 103 transports the printed printing tape 11A from inside the printing cassette 10 toward the outside. The impression roller 103 rotates via the impression gear 104, which engages with the output gear 21. The impression roller 103 and the impression gear 104 can swing between a position away from the printing cassette 10 and a position where the impression gear 104 is engaged with the output gear 21.

[0137] With the auxiliary tape housing 45 of the printing cartridge 10 inserted into the cartridge storage section 101, the drive shaft 105 engages with the input gear 22 and the imprinting gear 104 engages with the output gear 21.

[0138] Specifically, with the drive shaft 105 inserted into the take-up roll 16 and input gear 22 of the printing cartridge 10, the impression roller 103 and impression gear 104 swing toward the head opening 42B of the printing cartridge 10, and the impression gear 104 engages with the output gear 21.

[0139] With the printing cartridge 10 assembled, the input gear 22 is rotated by the drive shaft 105, causing the output gear 21 to rotate. Furthermore, the rotation of the output gear 21 causes the impression gear 104 to rotate, and the rotation of the impression gear 104 causes the impression roller 103 to rotate.

[0140] <Modifications of the First Embodiment>

[0141] Figure 6A , 6B The printing cartridge 10A shown includes a printing tape cassette 30A and an auxiliary tape cassette 40A. The printing cartridge 10A is for... Figure 2A , 2B The arm 45C of the auxiliary tape cassette 40 is provided in the printing tape cassette 10 and is provided as the arm 35D of the printing tape cassette 30A.

[0142] like Figure 7A As shown, the arm 35D of the printing cartridge 30A has a slit-shaped transport path 35E, through which the printing tape 11A can pass. The arm 35D is arranged overlappingly. Figure 7B The front of the head opening 42B of the auxiliary tape box 40A shown (specifically, the front of the fourth side wall 42A). The arm portion 35D is composed of a downwardly projecting plate portion of the first housing portion 31 and a downwardly projecting plate portion of the second housing portion 32.

[0143] [1-2. Effects]

[0144] Based on the implementation methods detailed above, the following effects can be obtained.

[0145] (1a) By passing through the first guide surface 35A of the printing tape cassette 30 and the second guide surface 45A of the auxiliary tape cassette 40 respectively, defects such as twisting of the printing tape 11A conveyed to the head opening 42B are suppressed. Therefore, the printing tape 11A can be properly conveyed to the head opening 42B provided in the auxiliary tape cassette 40.

[0146] (1b) The first positioning part 32C of the printing tape cassette 30 and the second positioning part 41E of the auxiliary tape cassette 40 can suppress positional offset of the printing tape housing 35 and the auxiliary tape housing 45. As a result, the stability of the transport of the printing tape 11A can be improved.

[0147] (1c) By driving the transmission unit 20 and configuring it in the auxiliary tape housing 45 so as to be separated from the second roll 14 in the vertical direction, the size of the auxiliary tape housing 45 in the front-back direction and the left-right direction can be reduced while the printing tape 11A is properly transported to the head opening 42B.

[0148] (1d) The stability of transporting the printing tape 11A toward the head opening 42B can be improved by the first limiting part 42E and the second limiting part 43B.

[0149] (1e) The limiting surface of the top wall 42F can improve the stability of the transport of the printing belt 11A to the head opening 42B.

[0150] [2. Second Implementation]

[0151] [2-1. Structure]

[0152] Figure 8A , 8B The printing cartridge 210 shown replaces the printing cartridge 10 of the first embodiment and is directed towards... Figure 1 The main body 100 of the printing device is assembled. The printing cartridge 210 includes a printing tape cassette 230 and an auxiliary tape cassette 240.

[0153] (Printing box)

[0154] Figure 9A , 9B The printing tape cassette 230 shown has a printing tape housing 235 that houses the printing tape 11A and the drive transmission unit 20. The printing tape cassette 230 of this embodiment is also a gearbox that houses gears.

[0155] The printing tape cassette 230 is obtained by adding the third housing portion 41 of the auxiliary tape cassette 40 of the first embodiment as the third housing portion 33 to the printing tape cassette 30 of the first embodiment, and by placing the drive transmission portion 20 of the first embodiment inside the printing tape housing 235. The other structures in the printing tape cassette 230 are the same as those in the printing tape cassette 30 of the first embodiment.

[0156] The third housing portion 33 is connected to the lower part of the second housing portion 32, forming the lower end of the printing belt housing 235. A portion of the output gear 21, the input gear 22, and the intermediate gear 23 are disposed in the space surrounded by the second housing portion 32 and the third housing portion 33.

[0157] In other words, the output gear 21 and the input gear 22 are arranged in the printing tape housing 235 in a manner that separates them from the first roll 11, which is disposed in the space surrounded by the first housing portion 31 and the second housing portion 32, in the vertical direction.

[0158] The lower surface of the third housing portion 33 forms a first connecting surface 35C for accommodating the auxiliary tape cassette 240. An insertion hole 33A is provided on the first connecting surface 35C for the input gear 22 to pass through in the vertical direction. The printing tape housing 235 has a positioning portion relative to the auxiliary tape cassette 240, formed by the input gear 22 protruding from the first connecting surface 35C.

[0159] (Auxiliary box)

[0160] Figure 10A , 10B The auxiliary tape box 240 shown is obtained by disassembling the third housing part 41 and the drive transmission part 20 from the auxiliary tape box 40 of the first embodiment.

[0161] The auxiliary tape cassette 240 includes an auxiliary tape housing 245 having a fourth housing portion 42 and a fifth housing portion 43. The other structures in the auxiliary tape cassette 240 are the same as those in the auxiliary tape cassette 40 of the first embodiment.

[0162] In this embodiment, the upper surface of the fourth housing portion 42 forms a second connecting surface 45B into which the printing cartridge 230 can be disposed. An opening 42G is provided on the second connecting surface 45B, into which the input gear 22 of the printing cartridge 230 can be inserted. The opening 42G constitutes a positioning portion for assisting in positioning the cartridge 240 relative to the printing cartridge 230.

[0163] <Modifications of the Second Embodiment>

[0164] like Figure 11 As shown, the printing cartridge 210 of this embodiment may also have a cover 46 disposed below the auxiliary tape cartridge 240.

[0165] Figure 11 The 230A printing tape cassette is equipped with and Figure 7A The same arm 35D as the printing tape cassette 30A forms a frame 34 that houses the auxiliary tape cassette 240. The cover 46 forms the lid of the frame 34.

[0166] [2-2. Effect]

[0167] Based on the implementation methods detailed above, the following effects can be obtained.

[0168] (2a) It can have the same advantages as the first embodiment while making the printing cartridge 210 a structure in which the ink tape 14A can be replaced individually.

[0169] [3. Third Implementation Method]

[0170] [3-1. Structure]

[0171] Figure 12A , 12B The printing cartridge 310 shown replaces the printing cartridge 10 of the first embodiment and is directed towards Figure 1 The main body 100 of the printing device is assembled. The printing cartridge 310 includes a printing tape cartridge 30, an auxiliary tape cartridge 240, and a gear box 50.

[0172] The printing tape cassette 30 in the printing cassette 310 is the same as in the first embodiment. The auxiliary tape cassette 240 in the printing cassette 310 is the same as in the second embodiment.

[0173] (Gearbox)

[0174] like Figure 13 As shown, the gear box 50 is positioned between the printing tape cassette 30 and the auxiliary tape cassette 240. The gear box 50 can be mounted and dismounted relative to both the printing tape cassette 30 and the auxiliary tape cassette 240.

[0175] like Figure 14 As shown, the gearbox 50 has a gear housing 55 that houses the drive transmission unit 20 of the first embodiment. The gear housing 55 has a sixth housing portion 51, a seventh housing portion 52, and a third guide surface 55A.

[0176] The sixth housing portion 51 forms the upper end of the gear housing 55. The seventh housing portion 52 is connected to the lower part of the sixth housing portion 51 and forms the lower end of the gear housing 55. A portion of the output gear 21, the input gear 22, and the intermediate gear 23 are disposed in the space surrounded by the sixth housing portion 51 and the seventh housing portion 52.

[0177] The sixth housing portion 51 has a third positioning portion 51A, which is disposed on and in contact with the third connecting surface 55B that is located above the printing tape cassette 30 when the gear housing 55 is inserted into the cassette storage portion 101.

[0178] The third positioning part 51A is a cylindrical or columnar portion that protrudes upward from the third connecting surface 55B. When the gear box 50 is connected to the printing tape box 30, the third positioning part 51A is inserted into the first positioning part 32C of the printing tape housing 35.

[0179] like Figure 13 As shown, the lower surface of the seventh housing portion 52 forms a fourth connecting surface 55C for accommodating the auxiliary belt box 240. An insertion hole 52A is provided on the fourth connecting surface 55C for the input gear 22 to pass through in the vertical direction. The gear housing 55 has a fourth positioning portion formed by the input gear 22 protruding from the fourth connecting surface 55C.

[0180] like Figure 12A , 12B As shown, a portion of the side of the gear housing 55, which is composed of the sixth housing portion 51 and the seventh housing portion 52, forms a third guide surface 55A that further guides the printing tape 11A, which is guided by the first guide surface 35A of the printing tape cassette 30, toward the second guide surface 45A of the auxiliary tape cassette 240. The third guide surface 55A contacts the spiral portion 11B of the printing tape 11A.

[0181] [3-2. Effect]

[0182] Based on the implementation methods detailed above, the following effects can be obtained.

[0183] (3a) It can have the same advantages as the first embodiment, while making the printing cartridge 310 a structure in which the printing tape 11A, the drive transmission unit 20 and the ink tape 14A can be replaced individually.

[0184] [4. Fourth Implementation Method]

[0185] [4-1. Structure]

[0186] Figure 15A , 15B The printing cartridge 410 shown replaces the printing cartridge 10 of the first embodiment and is directed towards Figure 1 The main body 100 of the printing device is assembled. The printing cartridge 410 includes a printing tape cassette 430 and an auxiliary tape cassette 440.

[0187] It should be noted that, Figure 15A The image shows the state of the first housing part 431 of the printing cartridge 430 after it has been disassembled. Figure 15B The third housing portion 441 is shown with the auxiliary tape box 440 removed.

[0188] (Printing box)

[0189] Figure 16A , 16B The printing tape cassette 430 shown has a printing tape housing 435 for housing the printing tape 11A. The parts housed inside the printing tape housing 435 are the same as those in the printing cassette 10 of the first embodiment.

[0190] The printing tape housing 435 has a first housing portion 431, a second housing portion 432, a first guide surface 435A, and a first discharge port 435B. The first housing portion 431 forms the upper end of the printing tape housing 435. The second housing portion 432 is connected to the lower part of the first housing portion 431 and forms the lower end of the printing tape housing 435.

[0191] The second housing portion 432 has a first positioning portion 32C provided on the same first connecting surface 35C as in the first embodiment. Additionally, the second housing portion 432 has an inner wall 432A forming the first guide surface 435A and an opening forming the first outlet 435B. The inner wall 432A surrounds the first roll 11 radially outward.

[0192] The first outlet 435B is located on the first connecting surface 35C, and the printing tape 11A is discharged to the outside of the printing tape housing 435 in a direction intersecting the first connecting surface 35C (that is, in the up and down direction).

[0193] like Figure 15A As shown, the first guide surface 435A guides the printing tape 11A pulled from the first roll 11 toward the first outlet 435B. The printing tape 11A forms a spiral portion 11B on one side while being wound from the radially outer side of the first roll 11 toward the first guide surface 435A.

[0194] (Auxiliary box)

[0195] Figure 17A , 17B The auxiliary tape cassette 440 shown has an auxiliary tape housing 445 that houses the ink tape 14A and the drive transmission unit 20. The parts housed inside the auxiliary tape housing 445 are the same as those in the printing cassette 10 of the first embodiment.

[0196] The auxiliary housing 445 has a third housing portion 441, a fourth housing portion 442, a fifth housing portion 443, a second guide surface 445A, a first guide opening 445D, and a second guide opening 445E.

[0197] The third housing portion 441 forms the upper surface of the auxiliary belt housing 445 (that is, the second connecting surface 445B). The fifth housing portion 443 forms the lower end of the auxiliary belt housing 445. The fourth housing portion 442 is connected above the fifth housing portion 443.

[0198] The third housing portion 441 has the same second positioning portion 41E as in the first embodiment. Additionally, as... Figure 18 As shown, the third housing portion 441 supports the drive transmission portion 20. The third housing portion 441 is embedded inside the outer wall 442A of the fourth housing portion 442 in such a way that it blocks the internal space of the fourth housing portion 442 from above.

[0199] The fourth housing portion 442 has the same head opening 42B, second outlet 42C, guide inner wall 42D, first restrictive portion 42E, and top wall 42F as in the first embodiment. Additionally, the fourth housing portion 442 has an outer wall 442A and an inner wall 442B.

[0200] The inner wall 442B surrounds the second roll 14, the second supply roll 15, and the take-up roll 16 from the radially outer side of the second roll 14. A portion of the outer surface of the inner wall 442B forms the second guide surface 445A.

[0201] The outer wall 442A surrounds the inner wall 442B from the outside. For example... Figure 17B As shown, at the upper end of the auxiliary housing 445, a first guide opening 445D is formed by the third housing portion 441 and the fourth housing portion 442, which communicates the space between the outer wall 442A and the inner wall 442B.

[0202] The first guide opening 445D is provided on the second connecting surface 445B (an example of the first outer surface) connected to the printing tape cassette 430. The printing tape 11A discharged from the first outlet 435B of the printing tape housing 435 is transported from the first guide opening 445D into the auxiliary tape housing 445.

[0203] like Figure 15B As shown, the printing tape 11A, which is transported into the auxiliary tape housing 445, is wound from the radially outer side of the second roll 14 toward the second guide surface 445A while forming a spiral portion 11B.

[0204] Figure 18 The fifth housing portion 443 shown has the same second limiting portion 43B as in the first embodiment. Additionally, the fifth housing portion 443 has an opening that forms the second guide opening 445E. The second guide opening 445E is provided on the bottom surface 445C (an example of the second outer surface) in the auxiliary belt housing 445, where the second roll 14 is clamped vertically together with the second connecting surface 445B.

[0205] The second guide opening 445E communicates with the space between the outer wall 442A and the inner wall 442B of the fourth housing portion 442. Furthermore, at least a portion of the second guide opening 445E faces the first guide opening 445D. Moreover, the second guide opening 445E extends along the second guide surface 445A in a vertically overlapping manner with the transport path of the printing tape 11A in the fourth housing portion 442, to a position overlapping with the arm portion 45C (that is, the guide inner wall 42D).

[0206] Therefore, the printing tape 11A, which is inserted into the auxiliary tape housing 445 through the first guide opening 445D, can be pulled out from the second guide opening 445E toward the lower side of the auxiliary tape housing 445 and positioned in the transport path inside the auxiliary tape housing 445.

[0207] It should be noted that the second guide opening 445E does not overlap with the entire second roll 14 in the vertical direction. That is to say, the second guide opening 445E is formed in a shape that prevents the second roll 14 from falling downward through the fifth housing portion 443 and detaching from the auxiliary tape housing 445.

[0208] [4-2. Effect]

[0209] Based on the implementation methods detailed above, the following effects can be obtained.

[0210] (4a) By providing the first guide surface 435A and the second guide surface 445A on the inner surface of the housing respectively, protection for the printing band 11A can be achieved.

[0211] (4b) The printing tape 11A can be arranged in the transport path within the auxiliary tape housing 445 while being pulled out from the printing tape cassette 430 via the second guide opening 445E.

[0212] [5. Other implementation methods]

[0213] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, but this disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments, and various methods can be used.

[0214] (5a) The printing apparatus of the above embodiments is not limited to printing apparatus that uses ink tape for printing. The printing apparatus may also use thermal paper strips instead of printing tapes. In this case, laminated tape may be used as an auxiliary tape.

[0215] (5b) The printing cassette in the above embodiments may also not include a printing tape holder. For example, Figure 19 The printing box 510 shown includes a first housing portion 531 that supports the first roll 11, a second housing portion 532 that houses the drive transmission portion 20 together with the first housing portion 531, and a third housing portion 533 that houses the second roll 14 together with the second housing portion 532.

[0216] exist Figure 19 In the printing cartridge 510, the first roll 11 can be loaded and unloaded relative to the auxiliary cartridge composed of the first housing portion 531, the second housing portion 532, and the third housing portion 533. Therefore, it is possible to replace only the first roll 11 without replacing the printing cartridge.

[0217] exist Figure 19In the printing cartridge 510, the side of the first housing portion 531 forms a first guide surface 535A, and the side of the second housing portion 532 forms a second guide surface 545A.

[0218] (5c) In the printing cassette of the above embodiment, a guide surface may be formed on the inner surface of the housing of either the printing cassette or the auxiliary cassette, and a guide surface may be formed on the outer surface of the housing of the other.

[0219] For example, in Figure 20A and Figure 20B In the printing cartridge 610 shown, a first guide surface 635A is provided on the inner surface of the housing in the printing tape cassette 630, and a second guide surface 645A is provided on the outer surface of the housing in the auxiliary tape cassette 640.

[0220] The printing tape 11A, guided by the first guide surface 635A and discharged downward from the first row outlet 635B of the printing tape cassette 630, is guided by the second guide surface 645A and transported through the arm 45C toward the head opening 42B.

[0221] Additionally, for example, in Figure 21A and Figure 21B In the printing cartridge 710 shown, a first guide surface 735A is provided on the outer surface of the housing in the printing tape cassette 730, and a second guide surface 745A is provided on the inner surface of the housing in the auxiliary tape cassette 740.

[0222] The printing tape 11A discharged from the first row outlet 735B of the printing tape cassette 730 is guided by the first guide surface 735A and the second guide surface 745A and transported toward the head opening 42B.

[0223] (5d) The printing cartridge in the above embodiment may also not have an arm. That is, the housing of the printing cartridge and the auxiliary cartridge may not have a limiting part that restricts the movement of the printing tape being transported along the width direction of the guide surface and a limiting surface facing the guide surface.

[0224] (5e) The function of one component in the above embodiments may also be divided into multiple components, or the functions of multiple components may be combined into one component. Additionally, a portion of the structure in the above embodiments may be omitted. Furthermore, at least a portion of the structure in the above embodiments may be added to, substituted, or otherwise modified relative to the structures of other above embodiments. It should be noted that all solutions included in the technical concept determined by the statements described in the scope of the claims are embodiments of this disclosure.

[0225] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0226] 10… Printing cassette, 11… First roll, 11A… Printing tape, 11B… Spiral section, 14… Second roll, 14A… Ink tape, 16… Take-up spool, 20… Drive transmission section, 21… Output gear, 22… Input gear, 23… Intermediate gear, 30… Printing tape cassette, 32C… First positioning section, 35… Printing tape housing, 35A… First guide surface, 35B… First outlet, 35C… First connecting surface, 40… Auxiliary tape cassette, 41E… Second positioning section, 42B… Head opening, 42C… Second outlet, 42E… First limiting section, 42F… Top wall, 43B… Second limiting section, 45… Auxiliary tape housing, 45A… Second guide surface, 45B… Second connecting surface, 50… Gear box, 55… Gear housing, 100… Printing device body, 101… Cassette storage section, 102… Print head, 103… Impression roller.

Claims

1. An auxiliary belt box, comprising: A roll of auxiliary tape, which is supplied for printing on the transported printing tape; and A housing that contains the roll; The housing has: The discharge port discharges the printing tape from the inside of the housing to the outside; and A guide surface, disposed on the inner or outer surface of the housing, guides the printing tape supplied from the outside of the housing toward the discharge port. The printing tape is wound onto the guide surface in a spiral configuration that forms a rotation angle of 180° or more around a central axis parallel to the winding axis of the roll. The guiding surface has a curved surface that guides at least a portion of the spiral portion upstream of the discharge port in the discharge direction of the printing tape.

2. The auxiliary belt box according to claim 1, The radius of curvature of the surface is greater than half the outer diameter of the roll.

3. The auxiliary belt box according to claim 1 or 2, The housing has: The connecting surface of the cassette intersects the winding axis of the roll; and A positioning part is provided on the tape holder connecting surface and performs positioning relative to the printing tape holder containing the printing tape.

4. The auxiliary belt box according to claim 1 or 2, The housing has a gearbox connection surface that intersects the winding axis of the roll and is capable of accommodating a gearbox equipped with gears.

5. The auxiliary belt box according to claim 4, The housing has a positioning part disposed on the gearbox connection surface and positioned relative to the gearbox.

6. The auxiliary cassette according to claim 1 or 2, The auxiliary belt box also has gears. The gear is arranged within the housing in a manner that separates it from the roll in a direction parallel to the winding axis of the roll.

7. The auxiliary belt box according to any one of claims 1, 2, and 5, The housing has a limiting portion that restricts the movement of the printing tape being transported along the guide surface in the width direction.

8. The auxiliary belt box according to claim 7, The housing has a limiting surface configured to face the guiding surface.

9. The auxiliary belt box according to any one of claims 1, 2, 5, and 8, The guide surface is disposed on the inner surface of the housing. The housing has: The first outer surface intersects the winding axis of the roll; The second outer surface, together with the first outer surface, clamps the roll in a direction parallel to the winding axis of the roll; A first guide opening is disposed on the first outer surface; and The second guide opening is located on the second outer surface at a position opposite to the first guide opening.

10. A printing tape holder, comprising: Printing tape rolls; and The housing that contains the roll The housing has: The discharge port discharges the printing tape to the outside of the housing; and A guide surface guides the printing tape discharged from the outlet. The printing tape is wound onto the guide surface in such a manner that it forms a spiral portion with a rotation angle of 180° or more around a central axis parallel to the winding axis of the roll.

11. The printing tape holder according to claim 10, The housing has a connecting surface that intersects the winding axis of the roll and is capable of being configured with a gearbox equipped with gears.

12. A printing tape holder, comprising: Printing tape rolls; and The casing houses the roll. The housing has: The connecting surface intersects the winding axis of the roll; The guide surface is formed by the inner wall of the housing; and The outlet is located on the plane of the connecting surface that intersects with the winding axis of the roll, sandwiched between the outer wall of the housing and the inner wall of the housing that constitutes the guide surface, and discharges the printing tape to the outside of the housing via the plane in a direction intersecting with the plane of the connecting surface.

13. The printing tape holder according to claim 12, The connecting surface can be configured with a gearbox containing gears.

14. The printing cartridge according to claim 11 or 13, The housing has a positioning part disposed on the connecting surface and positioned relative to the gearbox.

15. The printing cartridge according to claim 10 or 12, The printing cartridge also features gears. The gear is arranged within the housing in a manner that separates it from the roll in a direction parallel to the winding axis of the roll.

Images