Printer

Abstract

A certain aspect of the present invention includes a main body case having a placement surface of a printer and formed with an accommodation chamber that accommodates a roll body of a band-shaped print medium wound around the roll body; a printer cover that opens and closes the accommodation chamber; a platen roller installed to the printer cover and that conveys the band-shaped print medium pulled out from the roll body; and a hinge having a hinge shaft, the hinge linking the main body case and the printer cover in a manner that enables the printer cover to swing about the hinge shaft with respect to the main body case, the printer cover having an upper surface portion and an inclined surface portion provided between the hinge shaft and the upper surface portion and inclined with respect to the placement surface, when a height from the placement surface to the hinge shaft is set as H1 and a height from the hinge shaft to a position in the upper surface portion that is highest from the placement surface is set as H2, H1 < H2.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to printers that print information onto printing media. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, it was known that a thermal printer (hereinafter referred to as "printer") used a thermal head and a paper pressure roller to press and hold the printing medium, and caused the heating element on the thermal head to selectively heat up, thereby printing the medium through thermal transfer.

[0003] In some printers, a pressure roller is installed in an openable printer cover located at the top of the roll housing chamber (e.g., Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-188708 and Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 6-52274).

[0004] Regarding the printer disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-188708, the printer cover opens around a hinge located near the upper part of the rear of the main body. Therefore, it cannot be said that the roll housing can be fully opened when open, and it is not easy for the roll to enter or exit relative to the roll housing.

[0005] In contrast, in the case of the printer disclosed in Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 6-52274, the printer cover opens around a hinge located near the lower end of the rear of the main body. The printer cover opens until the protrusion at the front end of the guide portion integrally formed with it abuts against a stop provided on the printer body. The maximum opening angle of the printer cover when the protrusion abuts against the stop is approximately 45 degrees.

[0006] Therefore, even with the printer cover opened to the maximum extent, more than half of the top half of the roll body receiving chamber is covered by the printer cover, making it difficult for the roll body to enter or exit the roll body receiving chamber. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a printer that can increase the maximum opening angle of the openable printer cover.

[0008] One aspect of the present invention is a printer comprising: a main body housing having a mounting surface for the printer and forming a receiving chamber for receiving a roll of printed media wound on a strip; a printer cover for opening and closing the receiving chamber; a pressure roller mounted on the printer cover for conveying the printed media strip pulled from the roll; and a hinge having a hinge axis that connects the main body housing and the printer cover in such a way that the printer cover can swing relative to the main body housing about the hinge axis.

[0009] The printer cover has an upper surface portion and an inclined surface portion disposed between the hinge shaft and the upper surface portion and inclined relative to the mounting surface.

[0010] When the height from the mounting surface to the hinge axis is defined as H1, and the height from the hinge axis to the highest position of the upper surface portion from the mounting surface is defined as H2, H1 < H2.

[0011] According to a certain aspect of the present invention, the maximum opening angle of the openable printer cover can be increased. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1A This is a perspective view showing the front, plan, and left side of the printer when the printer cover is closed, according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 1B This is a perspective view showing the front, plan, and left side of the printer when the printer cover of one embodiment is opened at its maximum opening angle.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a rear perspective view of the printer's back, front, and left side when the printer cover of one embodiment is opened at its maximum opening angle.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a side view of a printer with the printer cover closed, according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a rear view of the printer with the printer cover closed, according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a partially enlarged perspective view of the back of the printer when the printer cover is closed, according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a partially enlarged side view of a printer with the printer cover closed, according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a second rear view of the printer with the printer cover closed, according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a side view of a printer with its cover open at an angle less than the maximum opening angle, according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a side view of the printer with the printer cover opened at its maximum opening angle, according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 10This is a perspective view showing the back, bottom, and left side of a printer cover when it is opened to its maximum opening angle according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 11 This is a partially enlarged side view of a printer cover when it is opened at its maximum opening angle, according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 12 This diagram illustrates a printer cover in a closed state, a printer cover opened at an angle less than the maximum opening angle, and a printer cover opened at the maximum opening angle, according to one embodiment of the printer.

[0025] Figures 13A-13F This diagram is a schematic illustration of the opening angle of the printer cover.

[0026] Figures 14A-14F This diagram is a schematic illustration of the opening angle of the printer cover.

[0027] Figures 15A-15F This diagram is a schematic illustration of the opening angle of the printer cover.

[0028] Figures 16A-16C This diagram is a schematic illustration of the opening angle of the printer cover.

[0029] Figures 17A-17C This diagram is a schematic illustration of the opening angle of the printer cover.

[0030] Figure 18 This is a side sectional view of a printer according to one embodiment.

[0031] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the roll housing and the inner surface of the printer housing when the printer housing of a printer according to one embodiment is open.

[0032] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the inner surface of the outer printer cover of a printer according to one embodiment when the printer cover is open.

[0033] Figure 21 This is a top view of the inner surface of the roll housing and the printer cover when the printer cover of a printer according to one embodiment is opened at an opening angle less than the maximum opening angle.

[0034] Figure 22 This is a top view showing the roll housing and the inner surface of the printer housing when the printer housing of a printer according to one embodiment is opened at its maximum opening angle.

[0035] Figure 23 This is a partial side view of the printer cover of a printer according to one embodiment, when it is opened at its maximum opening angle.

[0036] Figure 24 This is a side view showing the position of the hinges of a printer and other printers according to one embodiment.

[0037] Figures 25A-25B This is a diagram representing the printer involved in the variation example.

[0038] Figures 26A-26B This is a diagram representing the printer involved in the variation example.

[0039] Figures 27A-27B These are diagrams representing the printers involved in the variant examples.

[0040] Figures 28A-28B This is a diagram representing the printer involved in the variation example.

[0041] Figure 29 This diagram illustrates the positional relationship between the main body housing, printer cover, and hinge of a printer according to one embodiment.

[0042] Figures 30A-30D It is a side view diagram showing the closed and open positions of various types of printers.

[0043] Figure 31 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a printer in one embodiment, with the printer cover in the closed position.

[0044] Figure 32 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a printer in one embodiment where the printer cover is in an open position. Detailed Implementation

[0045] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the printer according to the present invention will be described.

[0046] [First Implementation]

[0047] (1) The structure of a printer

[0048] The following is for reference Figure 1A , Figure 1B as well as Figure 2 The printer 1 involved in the implementation method will be described.

[0049] Figure 1A This is a perspective view showing the front, plan, and left side of the printer cover 3 of the printer 1 according to the embodiment in a closed state. Figure 1B This is a perspective view showing the front, plan, and left side of the printer cover 3 of the printer 1 according to the embodiment in an open state. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the back, top surface, and left side of the printer 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] like Figure 1A , Figure 1B as well as Figure 2 As shown, the printer 1 of this embodiment includes a main body housing 2, a printer cover 3, a display panel 4, a paper pressure roller 10, and a thermal head 28.

[0051] For example, as in Figure 1A As understood in the diagram, the bottom surface of printer 1 is roughly rectangular, and the direction along its long side is defined as the front-back direction. That is, the side where the display panel 4 is located is defined as the front (-Y), and the opposite side of the printer cover is defined as the rear (+Y). Based on this front-back direction, the right side (-X), left side (+X), top side (+Z), and bottom side (-Z) are defined. Furthermore, in the following description, the direction of the right side (-X) or left side (+X) is appropriately referred to as the horizontal direction, and the direction of the top side (+Z) or bottom side (-Z) is referred to as the vertical direction. In the accompanying drawings, the directions are defined using the XYZ axes.

[0052] like Figure 2 As shown, the printer 1 may also have a roll receiving chamber 9 inside for receiving the roll of paper when printing onto the roll of paper wound into a roll, and the main body housing 2 may also have an inner bottom surface 2a for holding the roll (see reference). Figure 18 ).

[0053] The printer cover 3 is a cover that opens or closes the interior of the printer 1 (e.g., the roll housing 9). A hinge 8 is provided at the rear end of the printer cover 3, and the hinge 8 includes a hinge axis 81 for supporting the printer cover 3 so that it can rotate rearward relative to the main housing. Here, "rearward opening" means that the printer cover 3 is opened about the hinge 8 located on the rear end side of the printer cover 3 as the axis of rotation.

[0054] Display panel 4 provides input / output interfaces for the user, such as an LCD display panel with touch panel functionality.

[0055] like Figure 2 As shown, the inner surface portion 161 of the printer cover 3, located on the side opposite to the hinge 8, i.e., the front inner surface portion 161, has a mounting portion 163. The mounting portion 163 supports the pressure roller 10 so that it can rotate in both directions. Figure 18 As shown, when the printer cover 3 is closed, the pressure roller 10 is positioned behind the thermal head 28.

[0056] The pressure roller 10 is a conveying unit mounted on the printer housing 3, which conveys continuous paper CP pulled from a roll R housed in a roll housing chamber 9 and held in place by a pair of roll body guides 6. The pressure roller is formed to extend along the width direction of the roll body R. In addition, the pressure roller 10 is driven by a mechanical connection such as a stepper motor (not shown).

[0057] The roll body R includes a core 7 of the roll body R and a strip of continuous paper CP wound around the core 7.

[0058] The roll guide 6 is supported and housed on both sides of the roll body R within the roll body housing chamber 9. The center of the roll guide 6 coincides with the center of the roll body R.

[0059] like Figure 18 As shown, hinge 8 is positioned lower than the axis 6a of the roll guide 6. Therefore, hinge 8 is positioned lower than the axis of the roll body R mounted to the printer 1 via the roll guide 6. Thus, compared to the case where hinge 8 is positioned at the same height as the axis 6a of the roll guide 6, hinge 8 can be positioned further forward in the front-rear direction, thereby reducing the front-rear dimension of the printer 1.

[0060] The thermal printhead 28 is a printing unit that prints information such as text, symbols, graphics, or barcodes onto a roll of paper in the roll body R. For example... Figure 18 As shown, when the printer cover 3 is closed, the printing surface of the thermal head 28 faces the paper feed path of the roll and is opposite to the pressure roller 10. On the printing surface of the thermal head 28, multiple heating resistors (not shown) that heat up when energized are arranged along the width direction of the roll of paper. The thermal head 28 is connected to a circuit board (not shown) that transmits printing signals to the thermal head 28.

[0061] like Figure 18 As shown, a helical spring 157 is provided on the back side of the thermal head 28 as a force-applying component that applies force to the thermal head 28.

[0062] When printing is performed with the printer cover 3 closed, the roll of paper is fed by the pressure roller 10 and clamped between the pressure roller 10 and the thermal head 28. At this time, the thermal head 28 is pressed against the pressure roller 10 by the aforementioned force, thereby generating a head pressure suitable for printing.

[0063] (2) Main shell

[0064] A roll housing 9 is formed in the main body shell 2. The main body shell 2 covers the lower half of the roll housing 9 from the left, right, and rear sides. Figure 3 As shown, the bottom surface of the main body housing 2 becomes the mounting surface 20 when the printer 1 is mounted and operated.

[0065] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2 is inclined in a manner that is inclined downward and backward.

[0066] (3) Printer cover

[0067] The printer cover 3 is located near the roll body receiving chamber 9, covering the upper half of the roll body receiving chamber from the left and right sides, the rear, and the top.

[0068] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3 is inclined in a manner that is tilted towards the rear and upward.

[0069] Therefore, a rear protrusion is formed at the boundary between the upper edge 127 of the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2 and the lower edge 129 of the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3. Thus, the boundary between the upper edge 127 of the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2 and the lower edge 129 of the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3 exists at a position protruding towards the rear of the printer 1.

[0070] Moreover, such as Figure 3 As shown, when the printer cover 3 is in the closed position, a set of front edges 125a on the left and right sides of the printer cover 3 tilts downwards as it moves from front to back. Here, the set of front edges 125a is located at the position furthest from the hinge 8 among the side edges 125 of the printer cover 3 that are axially separated and opposite each other on the hinge axis 81. The set of front edges 125a tilts towards the hinge 8 as it moves from the open side of the printer cover 3 towards the closed side. Therefore, when the printer cover 3 is opened and closed, the side edges 125 do not interfere with the main body housing 2.

[0071] Printer cover 3 Figure 3 The closing position shown is the same as Figure 9 The hinge 8 can be opened and closed between its open positions at the maximum opening angle and the axis of rotation of the hinge 8. Here, the maximum opening angle refers to the angle at which the printer cover 3 cannot be rotated further because the cover-side buffer member 151 provided on the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3 abuts against the main body-side buffer member 141 provided on the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2.

[0072] Moreover, such as Figure 18As shown, when viewed from the side, the printer cover 3 has an upper surface portion 122, an inclined surface portion 124, and a rear surface portion 123. On the opposite side of the hinge 8 on the rear surface portion 123, the inclined surface portion 124 and the upper surface portion 122 are sequentially connected relative to the rear surface portion 123. Furthermore, when viewed from the direction extending from the hinge 8 (i.e., from the side), the rear surface portion 123 and the inclined surface portion 124 are connected at an obtuse interior angle (approximately 135 degrees), the inclined surface portion 124 and the upper surface portion 122 are connected at an obtuse interior angle (approximately 135 degrees), and the angle between the rear surface portion 123 and the upper surface portion 122 is approximately 90 degrees. The upper surface portion 122, the inclined surface portion 124, and the rear surface portion 123 surround the roll body R housed in the roll body housing chamber 9. Therefore, the printer cover 3 can be miniaturized. Furthermore, when the printer cover 3 is open, as... Figure 9 As shown, the tilted face 124 is almost horizontal at its maximum opening angle. If the tilted face 124 were not present and the upper surface 122 and the rear surface 123 were directly connected, the angle at which the edge at the boundary between the upper surface 122 and the rear surface 123 abuts the printer mounting surface would be the maximum opening angle, resulting in a maximum opening angle that is greater than... Figure 9 The printer cover 3 shown has a small maximum opening angle when open. Therefore, by setting the tilted face 124, the maximum opening angle can be increased.

[0073] like Figure 19 As shown, in one embodiment, from the viewpoint of robustness, the printer cover 3 has a two-layer structure consisting of an inner printer cover 36 and an outer printer cover 37. However, the printer cover 3 is not limited to having a double-layer structure and can also be constructed from a single component.

[0074] (4) Hinges

[0075] Hinge 8 connects the printer cover 3 to the main body housing 2 in a manner that allows it to open and close relative to the main body housing 2. In other words, hinge 8 is configured to connect the main body housing 2 and the printer cover 3 in a manner that allows the printer cover 3 to swing relative to the main body housing 2 about hinge axis 81 (described later).

[0076] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, a hinge 8 is provided to rotatably connect the upper edge 127 of the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2 and the lower edge 129 of the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3. The hinge 8 extends laterally along the main body housing 2. Therefore, the hinge 8 is located near the boundary between the upper edge 127 of the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2 and the lower edge 129 of the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3.

[0077] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 19 As shown, the hinge 8 includes a hinge shaft 81, an elongated hole 82 for the main body side bearing, a round hole 83 for the inner printer cover side bearing, a round hole 84 for the outer printer cover side bearing, and a torsion spring 85.

[0078] A pair of elongated holes 82 for the main body side bearings are provided at the left and right ends near the rear end of the drum housing 9. Furthermore, the elongated holes 82 for the main body side bearings have a long axis in the front-rear direction (i.e., the Y-axis direction). Alternatively, the direction of the long axis of the elongated holes 82 for the main body side bearings can be slightly deviated from the front-rear direction.

[0079] A pair of round holes 83 are provided at the rear end of the inner printer cover 36 for the side bearings of the inner printer cover.

[0080] A pair of round holes 84 are provided at the rear end of the outer printer cover 37 for the side bearings of the outer printer cover.

[0081] The hinge shaft 81 is inserted into a pair of inner printer cover side bearing round holes 83 and a pair of outer printer cover side bearing round holes 84. Both ends of the hinge shaft 81 are inserted into a pair of body side bearing elongated holes 82.

[0082] The hinge pin 81 is provided in a manner that extends laterally along the upper edge 127 of the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2. Therefore, the elongated hole 82 for the main body side bearing, the round hole 83 for the inner printer cover side bearing, and the round hole 84 for the outer printer cover side bearing are also provided at the upper edge 127 of the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2. The round hole 83 for the inner printer cover side bearing and the round hole 84 for the outer printer cover side bearing of the printer cover 3 are provided at the boundary line 133 (see reference) in the horizontal direction between the main body housing 2 and the printer cover 3. Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 (Lower position)

[0083] Although not illustrated, the inner printer cover 36 and the outer printer cover 37 are integrated via a threaded connection. When the inner printer cover 36 and the outer printer cover 37 are threadedly connected, they can rotate relative to the hinge axis 81 in an integrated state. On the other hand, when the inner printer cover 36 and the outer printer cover 37 are not threadedly connected, they can rotate independently relative to the hinge axis 81. Figure 19 The inner printer cover 36 and the outer printer cover 37 are shown as an integral unit connected by a threaded connection. Figure 20 The inner printer cover 36 and the outer printer cover 37 are shown as separate from each other without being threaded together.

[0084] Therefore, if the hinge axis 81 slides in the front-back direction, the integrated inner printer cover 36 and outer printer cover 37 slide together in the front-back direction. In other words, if the hinge axis 81 slides in the front-back direction, the printer cover 3 slides in the front-back direction.

[0085] The integrated inner printer cover 36 and outer printer cover 37 can rotate together about the hinge axis 81. In other words, the printer cover 3 can rotate about the hinge axis 81.

[0086] The torsion spring 85 applies force to the printer cover 3 in a manner that opens the printer cover 3 from its closed state.

[0087] By providing an elongated hole 82 for the bearing on the main body side with a long axis in the front-back direction, the rotation axis of the hinge 8 can slide in the front-back direction.

[0088] Alternatively, if the printer cover 3 is not a double-layered structure of inner printer cover 36 and outer printer cover 37, but a single-layered structure, then it is not necessary to have both inner printer cover side bearing hole 83 and outer printer cover side bearing hole 84; a single printer cover side bearing hole can be provided.

[0089] (5) Side buffer components and main body side buffer components

[0090] like Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, multiple body-side buffer members 141 are arranged laterally on the rear surface portion 121 of the body housing 2. Figure 4 In the example shown, the main body side buffer members 141 are arranged in three on each side of the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2 along the lateral direction.

[0091] Similarly, in one embodiment, multiple cover-side buffer members 151 are provided in a transverse arrangement on the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3. Figure 4 In the example shown, three side buffer members 151 are arranged laterally on the left and right sides of the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3. However, this is not a limitation, and each buffer member may also be provided individually.

[0092] In one implementation, such as Figure 4 As shown, the main body side buffer member 141 and the cover side buffer member 151 are configured with a hinge 8 between them.

[0093] Figure 4 In the example shown, the main body side buffer member 141 and the cover side buffer member 151 are arranged in pairs at the same position in the lateral direction.

[0094] Figure 5 Will Figure 4 A portion is shown enlarged. For example... Figure 5 As shown, in one embodiment, the main body side buffer member 141 has a total of five surfaces, consisting of a front end surface 142, an upper side surface 143, a lower side surface 144, a left side surface 145, and a right side surface 146. Furthermore, the cover side buffer member 151 also has a total of five surfaces, consisting of a front end surface 152, an upper side surface 153, a lower side surface 154, a left side surface 155, and a right side surface 156.

[0095] (6) Non-interference between the printer cover and the main body housing 2

[0096] like Figure 12 As shown, within the range of the opening angle of the printer cover 3 from the angle when it is in the closed position (the angle with contour PF1) to the maximum opening angle (the angle with contour PF3), the printer cover 3 does not interfere with the main body housing 2.

[0097] (7) Printer cover closed

[0098] Figure 12 The outline PF1 shown illustrates the outline of the printer cover 3 in the closed position (open angle of zero degrees).

[0099] When the printer cover 3 is in the closed position, the roll body R is covered by the main housing 2 and the printer cover 3, so that when viewed from the side, a portion of the roll body R installed on the printer 1 overlaps with the printer cover 3.

[0100] from Figure 1B It can be seen that, regardless of the opening angle of the printer cover 3, when observed on the projection surface later, a part of the printer cover 3 covers a part of the roll body R installed on the printer 1.

[0101] Therefore, according to Figure 1B as well as Figure 12 It can be seen that when the printer cover 3 is in the closed position, when viewed from any of the above, side, and rear projection planes, a portion of the printer cover 3 overlaps with at least a portion of the roll body R mounted on the printer 1. Therefore, the printer cover 3 covers the roll body R mounted on the printer 1 from above, sides, and rear, creating a spatial separation.

[0102] In one implementation, such as Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 As shown, when the printer cover 3 is in the closed position, the front end faces 152 of the multiple cover-side buffer members 151 and the front end faces 142 of the multiple body-side buffer members 141 are on the same plane P. The plane P is orthogonal to the mounting surface 20, so that the printer 1 is suitable for vertical placement.

[0103] Printer 1 does not have any parts or components located further back than plane P. Specifically, the rear surface portion 121 of the main housing 2 is located on the front side of the main housing, which is further back than plane P; the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3 is located on the front side of the main housing, which is further back than plane P; and the hinge 8 is also located on the front side of the main housing, which is further back than plane P. Other parts and components of printer 1 are also located on the front side of the main housing, which is further back than plane P.

[0104] Therefore, the front end face 152 of the cover-side buffer member 151 and the front end face 142 of the main body-side buffer member 141 can function as the bottom surface when the printer 1 is placed vertically.

[0105] (8) The open state of the printer cover at an opening angle less than the maximum opening angle.

[0106] Figure 8 This is a side view of the printer cover 3 when it is open at an angle less than the maximum opening angle.

[0107] When the printer cover 3 is opened at an angle less than the maximum opening angle, the cover-side buffer member 151 does not come into contact with the main body-side buffer member 141.

[0108] like Figure 8 As shown, when the printer cover 3 is opened at an angle less than the maximum opening angle, an open space S1 is formed entirely above the roll body R. Furthermore, the open space S1 extends to the area enclosed by the upper surface portion 122, the inclined surface portion 124, the rear surface portion 123, and the pair of side portions 125 of the printer cover 3, which extends rearward beyond the hinge 8 in the front-rear direction.

[0109] Figure 12 as well as Figure 21 The outline PF2 shown illustrates the outline of the printer cover 3 viewed from the side and the outline viewed from above, respectively, in the open position corresponding to the open angle θ which is less than the maximum open angle.

[0110] like Figure 12 As shown, when viewed from the side, there is a gap of distance SP between the roll body R mounted on the printer 1 and the side surface 125 of the printer cover 3. Furthermore, as... Figure 21 As shown, when viewed from above, there is a gap of distance SP between the roll body R mounted on the printer 1 and the rear surface 123 of the printer cover 3.

[0111] (9) Printer cover in its open state at maximum opening angle

[0112] Figure 9 This is a side view of the printer cover 3 with its maximum opening angle.

[0113] When the printer cover 3 is opened to its maximum opening angle, a portion of the roll body R is exposed when viewed from the side. This portion of the roll body R refers to the part of the roll body R installed in the printer 1 that overlaps with the printer cover 3 when viewed from the side and the printer cover 3 is in the closed position. For example, as... Figure 1A , Figure 1B as well as Figure 2 As shown, a portion of the exposed roll body R is mounted on the roll body R of the printer 1 at a height above the lower end of the core 7 via the roll body guide 6.

[0114] Furthermore, when viewed from the side, the roll body guide 6 overlaps with the printer cover 3 when the printer cover 3 is in the closed position, and is exposed when the printer cover 3 is opened to its maximum opening angle. Therefore, by opening the printer cover 3 to its maximum opening angle, the roll body R can be easily removed from the roll body guide 6 or a new roll body R can be installed on the roll body guide 6.

[0115] If the printer cover 3, which is in the closed position, is opened in a manner that gradually increases the opening angle, the cover-side buffer member 151 abuts against the main body-side buffer member 141, thus preventing the opening angle from increasing further. At this point, the opening angle is the maximum opening angle, and the printer cover 3 is fully open.

[0116] like Figure 9 As shown, when the printer cover 3 is opened at its maximum opening angle, the entire upper part of the roll body R is opened, forming an open space S3. Furthermore, the open space S3 extends to the area enclosed by the upper surface portion 122, the inclined surface portion 124, the rear surface portion 123, and the pair of side portions 125 of the printer cover 3, which extends rearward beyond the hinge 8 in the front-rear direction.

[0117] Figure 9 The open space S3 shown is compared to Figure 8 The open space S1 shown is larger than the portion S5 created by the difference in the opening angle of the printer cover 3.

[0118] In addition, such as Figure 9 As shown, when the printer cover 3 is opened at its maximum opening angle, the upper part of the printer cover 3, that is, the two ends E1 (the parts where the front side 125a and the lower side 125b of the side 125 come into contact with each other) is at a position lower than the top of the roll body R.

[0119] Therefore, the user can receive the roll R in the roll receiving chamber 9 from a fairly wide range of above. In other words, it can be received not only from directly above, but also from a slightly inclined above.

[0120] Conversely, the user can remove the roll R contained in the roll housing 9 from a fairly wide upward orientation. In other words, the roll R stored in the roll housing 9 can be removed not only directly upwards, but also at a certain degree of upward tilt.

[0121] In order to correct the orientation of the roll body R, which is temporarily housed in the roll body housing chamber 9 in an incorrect orientation, the user can easily pinch the sides of the roll body R from the radial outward direction to remove it from the pair of roll body guides 6, and then install the roll body R onto the pair of roll body guides 6 after reversing its orientation.

[0122] Reference Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 Specifically, the front end face 152 of the cover-side buffer member 151 abuts against the upper side face 143 of the main body-side buffer member 141, thereby achieving the maximum opening angle of the printer cover 3. At this time, when viewed from the side, a portion of the cover-side buffer member 151 is positioned forward of the rear end of the main body-side buffer member 141, and the upper side face 143 of the main body-side buffer member 141 abuts against the front end face 152 of the cover-side buffer member 151. Therefore, compared to the case where a portion of the cover-side buffer member 151 is not positioned forward of the rear end of the main body-side buffer member 141, the maximum opening angle can be increased.

[0123] When the printer cover 3 is opened, the upper side 143 of the main body side buffer member 141, which abuts against the cover side buffer member 151, is in contact with the printer cover 3. Figure 6 The front end face 142 of the main body side buffer member 141 on the plane P shown is different. Furthermore, the front end face 152 of the cover side buffer member 151, which abuts against the main body side buffer member 141 when the printer cover 3 is open, is positioned as described above. Figure 6 Plane P shown (reference) Figure 6 )superior.

[0124] Figure 12 as well as Figure 22 The outline PF3 shown illustrates the outline of the printer cover 3 viewed from the side and the outline viewed from above, respectively, in the open position corresponding to the maximum opening angle θmax.

[0125] like Figure 12 As shown, when viewed from the side, there is a gap of distance SP between the roll body R mounted on the printer 1 and the side surface 125 of the printer cover 3. Furthermore, as... Figure 22 As shown, when viewed from above, there is a gap of distance SP between the roll body R mounted on the printer 1 and the rear surface 123 of the printer cover 3.

[0126] In addition, such as Figure 19 as well as Figure 22As shown, the front inner surface portion 161 faces upward, allowing the pressure roller 10 to be mounted and dismounted relative to the mounting portion 163 from above. Therefore, by opening the printer cover 3 to its maximum opening angle, the pressure roller 10 can be easily mounted from above to the mounting portion 163, or removed from the mounting portion 163.

[0127] like Figure 12 As shown, in one embodiment, when the printer cover 3 is opened at its maximum opening angle, the distance D from the lower end of the printer cover 3, i.e., the ridge E2, to the mounting surface on which the printer 1 is placed, is within a range from zero to a predetermined distance. The ridge E2 is the portion where the rear surface portion 123 contacts the inclined surface portion 124. This predetermined distance is relative to the horizontal dividing line 133 (see reference) from the mounting surface on which the printer 1 is placed to the horizontal direction of the printer cover 3. Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 The distance up to the printer cover 3 is very short, for example, a few percentage points. In other words, the maximum opening angle can be set in such a way that the distance from the mounting plane on which the printer 1 is mounted to the lower part of the printer cover 3 (i.e., the ridge E2) is very short.

[0128] (10) Shape of the rear surface and buffer components

[0129] Next, we will study the influence of the shape, size, and hinge position of the printer cover, main housing, and buffer components on the opening angle of the printer cover.

[0130] Figures 13A to 13F This shows how the maximum opening angle varies depending on the height of the main housing and the printer cover.

[0131] Figure 13A This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 1 when it is closed. Figure 13B This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 1 when it is opened at its maximum opening angle. Figure 13C This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 2 when it is closed. Figure 13D This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 2 when it is opened at its maximum opening angle. Figure 13E This is a side view of Comparative Example 3 with the printer cover closed. Figure 13F This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 3 when it is opened at its maximum opening angle.

[0132] In addition, in the structures of Comparative Examples 1 to 3, it is envisioned that the rear surface of the main body housing and the rear surface of the printer cover are perpendicular, and the upper edge of the rear surface of the main body housing and the lower edge of the rear surface of the printer cover are connected in an openable and closable manner by a hinge.

[0133] Figure 13A as well as Figure 13B Comparative Example 1 shows that when the height of the main housing 201 is the same as the height of the printer cover 202, the printer cover 202 can be opened 180 degrees with the hinge 203 as the center of rotation.

[0134] Figure 13C as well as Figure 13D Comparative Example 2 shows that when the height of the main housing 211 is greater than the height of the printer cover 212, the printer cover 212 can be opened 180 degrees with the hinge 213 as the center of rotation.

[0135] Figure 13E as well as Figure 13F Comparative Example 3 shows a situation where, when the height of the main housing 221 is lower than the height of the printer cover 222, the printer cover 222 collides with the printer mounting surface 20 before it opens 180 degrees with the hinge 223 as the center of rotation.

[0136] Figures 14A to 14F This shows how the maximum opening angle varies depending on the hinge's installation position in the front-to-back direction.

[0137] Figure 14A This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 1 when it is closed. Figure 14B This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 1 when it is opened at its maximum opening angle. Figure 14C This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 4 when it is closed. Figure 14D This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 4 when it is opened at its maximum opening angle. Figure 14E This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 5 when it is closed. Figure 14F This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 5 when it is opened at its maximum opening angle.

[0138] In addition, in the structures of Comparative Examples 1, 4, and 5, it is conceivable that the rear surface of the main body housing and the rear surface of the printer cover are perpendicular, and the height of the main body housing and the height of the printer cover are the same.

[0139] Figure 14A as well as Figure 14B Comparative Example 1 shows that when the hinge 203 is located at the upper rear end of the main body housing 201 and the lower rear end of the printer cover 202, the printer cover 202 can open 180 degrees with the hinge 203 as the center of rotation. Figure 14A as well as Figure 14B respectively with Figure 13A as well as Figure 13B same.

[0140] Figure 14C as well as Figure 14DComparative Example 4 shows that when the hinge 233 is positioned forward of the upper rear end of the main body housing 231 and at the lower rear end of the printer cover 232, the printer cover 232 can only open 90 degrees with the hinge 233 as the center of rotation.

[0141] Figure 14E as well as Figure 14F Comparative Example 5 shows that when the hinge 243 is positioned at the upper rear end of the main body housing 241 and forward of the lower rear end of the printer cover 242, the printer cover 242 can only open 90 degrees with the hinge 243 as the center of rotation.

[0142] Therefore, in order to rotate the printer cover 180 degrees, the height of the printer cover needs to be the same as the height of the main body, or the height of the printer cover needs to be higher than the height of the main body, and the hinge needs to be located at the top rear of the main body and the bottom rear of the printer cover.

[0143] Next, consider the scenario where the printer is placed vertically, and a main body side buffer member and a cover side buffer member are respectively provided on the rear surface of the main body housing and the rear surface of the printer cover.

[0144] Figures 15A to 15F This shows how the maximum opening angle varies depending on the shape of the main body side buffer member and the cover side buffer member.

[0145] Figure 15A This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 6 when it is closed. Figure 15B This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 6 when it is opened at its maximum opening angle. Figure 15C This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 7 when it is closed. Figure 15D This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 7 when it is opened at its maximum opening angle. Figure 15E This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 8 when it is closed. Figure 15F This is a side view of the printer cover in Comparative Example 8 when it is opened at its maximum opening angle.

[0146] In addition, in the structures of Comparative Examples 6 to 8, it is conceivable that the height of the printer cover of the main body shell is the same.

[0147] like Figure 15A as well as Figure 15B As shown, in Comparative Example 6, a main body-side buffer member 254 is provided on the rear surface of the main body housing 251, and a cover-side buffer member 255 is provided on the rear surface of the printer cover 252. Here, when the rear surfaces of the main body housing 251 and the printer cover 252 are tilted, the printer cover 252 can be opened 180 degrees with the hinge 253 as the center of rotation, provided with buffer members on each rear surface.

[0148] The structure of Comparative Example 6 is basically the same as Figure 3 The structure corresponds to that of the printer 1 shown. Specifically, in printer 1, the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2 is inclined downwards and backwards, while the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3 is inclined upwards and backwards. Furthermore, a rear protrusion is formed at the boundary of the upper edge 127 of the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2 and the lower edge 129 of the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3. Therefore, even with a main body-side buffer member 141 provided on the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2 and a cover-side buffer member 151 provided on the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3, the printer cover 3 can be opened to nearly 180 degrees around the hinge 8 as the center of rotation.

[0149] However, in Figure 15A as well as Figure 15B In Comparative Example 6 shown, there are areas where the thickness of the main body side buffer member 254 and the cover side buffer member 255 is insufficient (e.g., near the hinge 253).

[0150] like Figure 15C as well as Figure 15D As shown, in Comparative Example 7, the rear surface of the main housing 261 and the rear surface of the printer cover 262 are perpendicular to the mounting surface of the main housing 261. Furthermore, a main-side buffer member 264 with a triangular side cross-section is provided on the rear surface of the main housing 261, and a cover-side buffer member 265 with a triangular side cross-section is provided on the rear surface of the printer cover 262. In this case, the printer cover 262 can open to an angle slightly smaller than 180 degrees with the hinge 263 as the center of rotation.

[0151] However, in Figure 15C as well as Figure 15D In Comparative Example 7 shown, there are areas where the thickness of the main body side buffer member 264 and the cover side buffer member 265 is insufficient (e.g., near the hinge 263).

[0152] like Figure 15E as well as Figure 15F As shown, in Comparative Example 8, the rear surface of the main housing 271 and the rear surface of the printer cover 272 are perpendicular to the mounting surface of the main housing 271. Furthermore, a main body side buffer member 274 with a quadrilateral side cross-section is provided on the rear surface of the main housing 271, excluding the periphery of the hinge 273, and a cover side buffer member 275 with a quadrilateral side cross-section is provided on the rear surface of the printer cover 272, excluding the periphery of the hinge 273.

[0153] At this point, although there are no areas of insufficient thickness in the main body-side buffer member 274 and the cover-side buffer member 275, the printer cover 272 can only open to an angle less than 90 degrees with the hinge 273 as the center of rotation. To eliminate this situation, for example... Figure 16A As shown, a main body-side buffer member 284 is considered to be provided on the rear surface of the main body housing 281, and a cover-side buffer member 285 is considered to be provided on the rear surface of the printer cover 282. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and possibly contains errors.) Figure 15A The main body side buffer member 254 and the cover side buffer member 255 shown are compared, and the structure with the same size that extends throughout the whole and increases the thickness is Figure 16A The main body side buffer member 284 and the cover side buffer member 285 in the structure.

[0154] However, in Figure 16A In the structure shown, it is completely impossible to open the printer cover 282.

[0155] Therefore, Figure 16A The structure shown is changed to Figure 16B The structure shown. For Figure 16B Regarding the structure shown, with Figure 16A The structural comparison shown shows that the cover-side buffer member 285 is changed to the cover-side buffer member 285B. The cover-side buffer member 285B is a structure in which the portion near the hinge 283 is removed from the cover-side buffer member 285.

[0156] exist Figure 16B In the case of a structure as shown, such as Figure 16C As shown, the printer cover 282 can be opened to approximately 60 degrees. However, for example, as... Figure 17A As shown, if the printer cover 282 is opened by about 135 degrees, it will cause interference between the cover-side buffer member 285B and the main body-side buffer member 284B.

[0157] Therefore, Figure 16B The structure shown is changed to Figure 17B The structure shown. For Figure 17B Regarding the structure shown, with Figure 16B The structural comparison shown involves changing the main body side buffer member 284 to a main body side buffer member 284B. The main body side buffer member 284B is a structure derived from the main body side buffer member 284 by removing the portion near the hinge 283. This allows for an increase in the opening angle of the printer cover 282. Figure 17C In the example shown, the printer cover 282 can be opened by about 135 degrees.

[0158] exist Figure 17B as well as Figure 17CIn the structure shown, the rear surface of the main housing 281 is inclined downwards and backwards, and the rear surface of the printer cover 282 is inclined upwards and backwards. A main body side buffer member 284B is disposed on the rear surface of the main housing 281, excluding the area around the hinge 283. Furthermore, a cover side buffer member 285B is disposed on the rear surface of the printer cover 282, excluding the area around the hinge 283. In this configuration, the printer cover 282 can be opened to approximately 135 degrees with the hinge 283 as the center of rotation.

[0159] Figure 17B as well as Figure 17C The structure shown corresponds to the structure of printer 1. That is, in printer 1, the shape of the main body side buffer member 141 provided on the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2 and the shape of the cover side buffer member 151 provided on the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3 are made into Figure 5 As shown, the main body side buffer member 141 and the cover side buffer member 151 have a certain thickness in the front-rear direction. In the printer 1 with the thickness of the buffer members, the maximum opening angle at which the printer cover 3 can open around the hinge 8 to the point where the main body side buffer member 141 and the cover side buffer member 151 abut is increased. Specifically, a portion of the main body side buffer member 141 is missing such that it has an upper side surface 143, and a portion of the cover side buffer member 151 is missing such that it has a lower side surface 154. As a result, the maximum opening angle at which the printer cover 3 can open to the point where the main body side buffer member 141 and the cover side buffer member 151 abut is increased. Furthermore, by appropriately setting the missing portion, the maximum opening angle can be adjusted.

[0160] (11) Hinge configuration

[0161] Figure 23 The outline PF1 of the printer cover 3 in the closed position, the outline PF3 of the printer cover 3 in the open position at the maximum opening angle, and the center C of the hinge axis 81 are shown.

[0162] The center C of hinge axis 81 is located at Figure 23 As shown, the printer cover 3 can be opened and closed between the closed position and the open position with the maximum opening angle.

[0163] like Figure 24 As shown, for example, if the center of the hinge axis 81 is C21, C22, C23 (i.e., located behind C), the printer cover 3 can be opened and closed between the closed position and the open position with the maximum opening angle.

[0164] However, for example, if the center of hinge axis 81 is C91, C92 (i.e., it is located further forward than C), then unless additional structural changes are made to avoid interference between the printer cover and the main body housing, the printer cover 3 cannot rotate.

[0165] (12) Variation

[0166] like Figure 25A as well as Figure 25B As shown in the printer 1B, the hinge 10B can also be provided at the ridge formed at the junction of the upper edge of the rear surface portion 121B of the main body housing 2B and the lower edge of the rear surface portion 123B of the printer cover 3B.

[0167] like Figure 26A as well as Figure 26B As shown in the printer 1C, the hinge 10C can also be positioned below the ridge RD1 formed at the junction of the upper edge of the rear surface portion 121C of the main body housing 2C and the lower edge of the rear surface portion 123C of the printer cover 3C.

[0168] like Figure 27A as well as Figure 27B As shown in the printer 1D, the hinge 10D can also be positioned above the ridge RD2 formed at the junction of the upper edge of the rear surface portion 121D of the main body housing 2D and the lower edge of the rear surface portion 123D of the printer cover 3D.

[0169] like Figure 28A As shown, the printer cover 3 can also be offset rearward by positioning the lower edge 129 of the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3 further rearward than the upper edge 127 of the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2. In this case, by positioning the hinge C24 in the illustrated position, it is possible to... Figure 12 The same situation also increases the maximum opening angle.

[0170] Moreover, such as Figure 28B As shown, the printer cover 3 can also be shifted forward by positioning the lower edge 129 of the rear surface portion 123 of the printer cover 3 further forward than the upper edge 127 of the rear surface portion 121 of the main body housing 2. In this case, by positioning the hinge C25 in the illustrated position, it is possible to... Figure 12 The same situation also increases the maximum opening angle.

[0171] (13) Positional relationship of the main body shell, printer cover and hinge

[0172] Next, the positional relationship between the main body shell 2, the printer cover 3, and the hinge 8 of printer 1 will be explained. Figure 29This is a side view of a printer 1 according to one embodiment, showing the outline PF1 of the printer cover 3 in the closed position and the outline PF3 of the printer cover 3 open at the maximum opening angle.

[0173] As with Figure 3 As described in connection, the printer cover 3 of the printer 1 has an upper surface portion 122, an inclined portion 124, and a rear surface portion 123. The inclined portion 124 is disposed between the hinge shaft 81 and the upper surface portion 122, and is inclined relative to the mounting surface 20.

[0174] Reference Figure 29 When the height from the mounting surface 20 to the hinge axis 81 is set to H1, and the height from the hinge axis 81 to the highest position 122e of the upper surface portion 122 from the mounting surface 20 is set to H2, H1 < H2. In other words, in the printer 1, the hinge axis 81 is set relatively low in the height direction of the printer 1. In this way, by setting the hinge axis 81 relatively low, the interior of the printer can be opened more when the printer cover 3 is in the open position. At this time, the printer cover 3 has an inclined surface 124, so the inclined surface 124 can be brought closer to the mounting surface 20, and the maximum opening angle of the printer cover can be increased compared to the case where there is no inclined surface 124.

[0175] Reference Figures 30A to 30D The positional relationship between the main body shell, the printer cover, and the hinge is further explained. Figure 30A This is a side view diagram showing the printer in the closed and open positions in the comparative example. Figures 30B to 30D This is a side view showing the printer in the closed and open positions according to the embodiment.

[0176] Figures 30A to 30D The printer shown is configured such that when the height from the mounting surface 20A to the hinge axis 81A is set to H1 and the height from the hinge axis 81A to the upper surface is set to H2, H1 < H2.

[0177] Figure 30A The printer shown is a printer in which the main housing 2A and the printer cover 3A are connected by a hinge shaft 81A. In this printer, the printer cover 3A does not have an inclined surface, and the upper surface portion 122A and the rear surface portion 123A are continuous. In this case, when the printer cover 3A is in the open position, the rear corner of the printer cover 3A abuts against the mounting surface 20A, preventing the maximum opening angle θa from increasing.

[0178] Figure 30BThe printer shown is a printer in which the main housing 2A and the printer cover 3B are connected by a hinge shaft 81A. In this printer, an inclined surface 124B is formed on the printer cover 3B, which is connected to... Figure 29 The printer 1 shown is similar in form. In this case, when the printer cover 3B is in the open position, the maximum opening angle θb of the printer cover 3B is relatively large (θb > θa) due to the tilted face 124B.

[0179] Figure 30C The printer shown is a printer in which the main housing 2A and the printer cover 3C are connected by a hinge shaft 81A. Figure 30B Compare, Figure 30C The printer shown is located at a point on the inclined surface 124C of the printer housing 3C that extends from or near the hinge axis 81A toward the upper surface portion 122C. Figure 30B Different. In this case, when the printer cover 3C is in the open position, the maximum opening angle θc of the printer cover 3C is larger (θc > θa) due to the tilted face 124C.

[0180] Figure 30D The printer shown is a printer in which the main body housing 2A and the printer cover 3D are connected by a hinge axis 81A. Figure 30D The printer shown is Figure 30B as well as Figure 30C The difference lies in the fact that the inclined surface 124D of the printer cover 3D is a curved surface. In this case, when the printer cover 3D is in the open position, the maximum opening angle θd of the printer cover 3D can be larger (θd > θa) due to the inclined surface 124D.

[0181] As explained above, even when the hinge axis is set relatively low to satisfy H1 < H2, the maximum opening angle of the printer cover can be increased by providing an inclined surface that is inclined relative to the mounting surface between the hinge axis and the upper surface in the printer cover.

[0182] (14) Ease of replacing the drum body

[0183] Next, refer to Figure 31 as well as Figure 32 The ease of replacing the roll body R in printer 1 according to one embodiment will be explained.

[0184] Figure 31 This is a partial cross-sectional view of printer 1 with printer cover 3 in the closed position. Figure 32 This is a partial cross-sectional view of printer 1 with printer cover 3 in an open position.

[0185] like Figure 32As shown, when the printer cover 3 is in the open position, the hinge axis 81 is positioned lower than the center RC of the roll body R (which is the same as the center of the roll body guide 6). Therefore, a larger portion of the outer circumferential surface of the roll body R is exposed, making it easy for a hand to access the roll body R near the hinge axis 81. This provides the advantage of easy replacement of the roll body R.

[0186] like Figure 19 As shown, a pointed portion 31 is provided on the printer cover 3. (As indicated) Figure 31 As shown, the pointed portion 31 is formed into a pointed shape by utilizing the paper-through surface 311 and the curved surface 312.

[0187] The paper passage surface 311 is opposite to the continuous paper CP pulled from the roll body R to form the paper passage path PP. That is, as shown... Figure 31 As shown in the enlarged view, when the printer cover 3 is in the closed position, the paper passage surface 311 of the tip 31 is opposed to the inclined surface 29 provided inside the printer with a small gap, thereby forming a paper passage path PP for continuous paper CP.

[0188] The curved surface 312 is formed by a surface along the outer peripheral surface of the roll body R, and supports the roll body R housed in the roll body housing chamber 9 when the printer cover 3 is in the closed position.

[0189] like Figure 31 As shown, the tip 31 is configured such that, when the printer cover 3 is in the closed position, the imaginary line L1 connecting the front end 313 of the tip 31 and the hinge axis 81, when viewed from the side, passes through a position lower than the center RC of the roll body R (i.e., the center of the roll body guide 6). Therefore, when the printer cover 3 is in the open position for replacing the roll body R, as... Figure 32 As shown, a space is formed in front of the roll body R that is easy for a hand to enter (the space occupied by the tip 31 when the printer cover 3 is in the closed position). That is, it is configured such that when the user takes the roll body R out of the roll body receiving chamber 9, it is easy for a hand to enter the space in front of and behind the roll body R and grasp the roll body R.

[0190] This invention can be implemented in various other forms without departing from its spirit or essential features. Therefore, the above embodiments are merely illustrative and should not be interpreted as limiting. The scope of this invention is shown by the claims and is not limited by the text of the specification. Furthermore, all modifications and alterations falling within the equivalent scope of the claims are within the scope of this invention.

[0191] This invention relates to Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-191645, filed with the Japanese Patent Office on November 18, 2020, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-156365, filed with the Japanese Patent Office on September 27, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A printer, characterized in that, have: The main housing has a mounting surface for the printer and forms a receiving chamber for accommodating a roll of printed media wound on a strip. A printer cover that opens and closes the containment chamber; A pressure roller, which is mounted on the printer housing, conveys the strip of printing media pulled out from the roll body; as well as A hinge having a hinge axis connects the main body housing and the printer cover in a manner that allows the printer cover to swing relative to the main body housing about the hinge axis. The printer cover has an upper surface portion, a rear surface portion, and an inclined surface portion disposed between the hinge shaft and the upper surface portion and inclined relative to the mounting surface. When H1 is defined as the height from the mounting surface to the hinge axis, and H2 is defined as the height from the hinge axis to the highest point on the upper surface portion from the mounting surface, H1 < H2. Viewed from the side, the upper surface portion and the inclined surface portion are disposed on the opposite side of the hinge of the rear surface portion, the rear surface portion and the inclined surface portion are connected at an obtuse interior angle, and the inclined surface portion and the upper surface portion are connected at an obtuse interior angle. The hinge rotatably connects the upper edge of the rear surface of the main housing to the lower edge of the rear surface of the printer cover. With the printer cover in its most open position, the inclined face is approximately parallel to the mounting surface when the printer is viewed from the side.

2. The printer according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes a roll guide that supports both sides of the roll house housed in the receiving chamber. The hinge axis is located lower than the center of the roll guide.

3. The printer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The printer cover has a pointed portion, which is formed by a curved surface that supports the roll body housed in the receiving chamber when the printer cover is in the closed position, and a paper-passing surface that forms a paper-passing path opposite to the strip-shaped printing medium pulled out from the roll body. The pointed portion is configured such that, when viewed from the side, the imaginary line connecting the front end of the pointed portion and the hinge axis passes through a position lower than the center of the roll guide.

4. The printer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The printer cover consists of two layers: an inner printer cover and an outer printer cover.

5. The printer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The main housing has a main body side buffer component. The printer cover has a cover-side buffer member. The main body side buffer member and the cover side buffer member are arranged apart from each other by the hinge and are configured to abut against each other when the printer cover is in the open position.

6. The printer according to claim 5, characterized in that, The main body side buffer member and the cover side buffer member each have an end face located on the same plane orthogonal to the mounting surface when the printer cover is in the closed position.

7. The printer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The printer cover has a mounting portion for the paper pressure roller to be installed and removed in a detachable manner. The mounting part is configured such that when the printer cover is in the open position, the mounting part faces upward, so that the pressure roller can be loaded and unloaded.

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