Printer material holder system and method

Abstract

A material holder for a printer is provided. The material holder may hold a roll of printable media having various widths (e.g., a roll of printable adhesive label affixed to a liner). In some examples, the material holder may include two flanges, a spindle having arms and keyhole regions, and a side clamp. The flange may be positioned along an arm of the spindle with a suitable distance therebetween to receive a desired roll of printable media. A roll of media may be sandwiched between the two flanges and configured to rotate about an arm of the spindle. Side clamps may be coupled to arms of the spindle and may prevent sliding or other unexpected movement.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] none. Background Art

[0003] Printers designed to print images, text, or other graphics on various forms of printable media (e.g., labels, signs, stickers, tags, magnets, paper rolls, plastics, or other materials) typically utilize a material retainer to hold and dispense the printable media roll while the printer is in use. In most cases, these material retainers include side flanges that sit on the sides of the printable media roll and hold it in place. However, these side flanges typically have a ring or similar circular shape, which can make the material retainer susceptible to unintentional rolling or dropping when placed on a smooth or sloped surface, such as during transport or installation.

[0004] Many material holders are difficult for users to manipulate, in part due to their generally rounded shape and smooth surfaces. For example, users may have difficulty gripping and picking up a material holder, particularly when installing or removing a media roll from a printer with numerous complex and tightly packed parts. The lack of handles, flat surfaces, or other features that facilitate easy gripping and other manipulation of the material holder can increase the difficulty of tasks associated with operating or maintaining the printer (e.g., installing a new media roll). This can lead to inconvenience, frustration, accidental drops, and other undesirable consequences for the consumer.

[0005] Material retainers can also be a source of waste or pollution because they are often made of plastic or other synthetic materials. Most material retainers contain a variety of unique and complex parts, making them more difficult to manufacture, more susceptible to damage or failure, and therefore more likely to need replacement. Ultimately, this means they have a shorter lifespan. Furthermore, many material retainers are manufactured for use only with a specific size of printable media and are constructed symmetrically around that specific size of media roll. For consumers who wish to print on media of different sizes, the lack of interchangeability and / or reusability increases costs.

[0006] In view of the above problems, there is a need for a material retainer that resists rolling on smooth or sloped surfaces, facilitates handling during installation and maintenance, and can be manufactured more easily and / or more efficiently by using fewer parts or less overall material. It is also desirable for the material retainer to be reusable, thereby reducing costs to the user and potentially reducing environmental waste. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present disclosure relates to a material retainer for a printer.

[0008] A material retainer for a printer is disclosed. The material retainer includes a frame configured in the form of a first flange and a second flange. The first flange has a first body and a first aperture, the first body being defined by a first outer periphery surrounding the first body, the first aperture forming an opening in the first body. The second flange has a second body and a second aperture, the second body being defined by a second outer periphery surrounding the second body, the second aperture forming an opening in the second body. The material retainer further includes a spindle having an arm and a keyhole region, the arm extending through and engaging with each of the first and second apertures, the keyhole region defining a first handle extending upward from the keyhole region. The material retainer further includes a side clamp coupled to a first end of the arm, the side clamp including a second handle extending upward from the side clamp.

[0009] In some aspects, the first flange and the second flange are each imparted with a generally polygonal shape, and the first outer perimeter and the second outer perimeter each include a plurality of flat edges.

[0010] In some aspects, the first flange and the second flange are each substantially octagonal.

[0011] In some aspects, at least one material viewing window extends through at least one of the first flange and the second flange.

[0012] In some aspects, the material viewing window of at least one of the first flange and the second flange includes a core viewing notch configured to align with a core of a media roll mounted on the material holder. The core can be viewed through the viewing notch to estimate the remaining life of the media roll.

[0013] In some aspects, each of the first and second flanges further comprises a first external locating notch positioned along the first or second outer periphery and a second external locating notch positioned along the first or second outer periphery opposite the first external locating notch. Either the first or second flange can be centered and symmetrically oriented relative to the media roll by comparing the portion of the media roll visible through the first external locating notch to the portion of the media roll visible through the second external locating notch and adjusting the position of the media roll until the areas of the two portions are approximately equal.

[0014] In some aspects, the side clamp further comprises a living hinge, a first half hingedly coupled to the living hinge, and a second half hingedly coupled to the living hinge. The first half is designed to releasably rotate relative to the second half about the living hinge.

[0015] In some aspects, the side clamp further comprises a first locking mechanism and a second locking mechanism different from the first locking mechanism.

[0016] In some aspects, the first flange and the second flange each further include a toothed ring disposed around the first or second hole, and a plurality of barbs coupled to and extending outwardly from the toothed ring, the plurality of barbs being configured to engage a core of the media roll when the media roll is disposed in the material holder.

[0017] In some aspects, the spindle further includes a locating wall to ensure that the material holder is properly oriented when installed in the printer.

[0018] In some aspects, at least one of the first flange or the second flange includes a driven gear configured to engage a gear drive assembly of the printer so that the printer can drive rotation of at least one of the first flange or the second flange when the material retainer is in use.

[0019] In some aspects, the printer is provided in the form of an inkjet printer, a thermal printer, or a laser printer.

[0020] A material retainer for a printer is also disclosed. The material retainer includes a media roll and a spindle. The media roll has a generally hollow core defining an opening and a media supply wound around the core. The spindle has an arm extending through the opening and a keyhole region providing an elongated handle surface. A first flange is positioned between the media roll and the keyhole region, and a second flange is positioned adjacent to the media roll and opposite the first flange. A side clamp is coupled to the arm and positioned adjacent to the second flange.

[0021] In some aspects, the first flange and the second flange are each defined by a plurality of planar edges.

[0022] In some aspects, the first flange and the second flange are each generally octagonal in shape.

[0023] In some aspects, the first flange and the second flange each further include at least one material viewing window. The material viewing window can expose at least a portion of the media roll to a user so that the user can estimate the portion of the media roll's life remaining before the media roll must be replaced.

[0024] In some aspects, the side clamp further comprises a second elongated handle surface.

[0025] In some aspects, the elongated handle surface and the second elongated handle surface each extend in the same direction relative to the media roll.

[0026] In some aspects, the spindle further includes a spring tab configured to receive the first flange. When the first flange is received by the spring tab, the first flange is positioned adjacent to the keyhole area.

[0027] A method for assembling a material retainer for a printer is also disclosed. The method includes inserting an arm of a spindle into a first hole of a first flange. The first hole is configured to allow the first flange to rotate about the arm. The method further includes inserting the arm into the core of a media roll so that the media roll is positioned adjacent to a first toothed ring of the first flange, wherein the first toothed ring includes a first plurality of barbs. The method further includes pressing the media roll into the first flange so that the first plurality of barbs engage the core. The method further includes inserting the arm into a second hole of a second flange. The second hole of the second flange is configured to allow the second flange to rotate about the arm. The second flange is configured so that a second toothed ring of the second flange is aligned with the core of the media roll, and the second toothed ring includes a second plurality of barbs. The method further includes pressing the second flange into the media roll so that the second plurality of barbs engage the core. The method further includes coupling a side clamp to the arm, the side clamp positioned adjacent the second flange and configured to prevent each of the first flange, the media roll, and the second flange from sliding along the arm. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Figure 1 illustrating an isometric view of a first exemplary printer;

[0029] Figure 2 Example Figure 1 The rear view of the printer;

[0030] Figure 3 Example Figure 1 an isometric view of a printer in an open configuration;

[0031] Figure 4 illustrating an isometric view of a second exemplary printer;

[0032] Figure 5 Example Figure 4 an isometric view of a printer transitioning between a closed configuration and an open configuration;

[0033] Figure 6 Example Figure 4 a top isometric view of the printer in a fully open configuration;

[0034] Figure 7 illustrating an isometric view of a third exemplary printer;

[0035] Figure 8 Example Figure 7 The rear view of the printer;

[0036] Figure 9 Example Figure 7 an isometric view of a printer in an open configuration;

[0037] Figure 10 Examples of devices constructed according to the teachings of the present disclosure for use with Figure 1-9 a first side isometric view of a material holder for use with one or more printers in;

[0038] Figure 11 Example Figure 10 a second side isometric view of the material retainer;

[0039] Figure 12 Example Figure 10 A top plan view of a material retainer;

[0040] Figure 13 Example Figure 10 A front elevation view of a material retainer;

[0041] Figure 14 Example Figure 10 A front isometric view of a flange of a material retainer;

[0042] Figure 15 Example Figure 14 an enlarged view of a portion of a flange;

[0043] Figure 16 illustrating an isometric view of an exemplary media roll for use with the material retainers disclosed herein;

[0044] Figure 17 Example Figure 14 A front elevation view of a flange;

[0045] Figure 18 Example Figure 14 a rear isometric view of the flange;

[0046] Figure 19 Example Figure 14 an enlarged side isometric view of a portion of a flange;

[0047] Figure 20 Example Figure 10 A front isometric view of the spindle of the material holder;

[0048] Figure 21 Example Figure 20 A front elevation view of the main shaft;

[0049] Figure 22 Example Figure 20 The rear view of the main shaft;

[0050] Figure 23 Example Figure 20 A first front view of the main shaft;

[0051] Figure 24 Example Figure 20 a second side elevation view of the main shaft;

[0052] Figure 25 Example Figure 20 an enlarged isometric view of a portion of the main shaft;

[0053] Figure 26 Example Figure 25 a side elevation view of a portion of the spindle shown in ;

[0054] Figure 27 Example Figure 20 an enlarged isometric view of another portion of the spindle;

[0055] Figure 28 Example Figure 20 A first rear isometric view of the main shaft;

[0056] Figure 29 Example Figure 20 A second rear isometric view of the main shaft;

[0057] Figure 30 Example Figure 14 of and Figure 20 an isometric view of the flange of the spindle engagement;

[0058] Figure 31 Example Figure 14 of and Figure 20a side elevation view of the flange engaging the spindle;

[0059] Figure 32 Example Figure 31 The flange and the main axis along Figure 31 a cross-sectional view taken along line 32-32;

[0060] Figure 33 Example illustrating an exploded view of a spindle containing an intelligent unit;

[0061] Figure 34 Example Figure 33 A cross-sectional view of a spindle mounted in a printer;

[0062] Figure 35 Example Figure 10 A front isometric view of the side clamp of the material retainer;

[0063] Figure 36 Example Figure 35 a front elevation view of the side clamp in an open configuration;

[0064] Figure 37 Example Figure 36 an enlarged view of an insert of a first attachment mechanism of a side clamp in an open configuration;

[0065] Figure 38 Example Figure 36 an enlarged view of the cavity of the first attachment mechanism of the side clamp in the open configuration;

[0066] Figure 39 Example Figure 35 an enlarged view of the first attachment mechanism of the side clamp in the closed configuration;

[0067] Figure 40 Example Figure 35 a first rear isometric view of the side clamp;

[0068] Figure 41 Example Figure 35 a second rear isometric view of the side clamp;

[0069] Figure 42 Example Figure 35 The side clamp is connected to Figure 20 A schematic diagram of a portion of a portion of a main shaft;

[0070] Figure 43 Example Figure 10 an enlarged view of a portion of a material retainer;

[0071] Figure 44A Example Description Assembly Figure 10The first step in the method of a material retainer;

[0072] Figure 44B Example Description Assembly Figure 10 The second step of the method of the material retainer;

[0073] Figure 44C Example Description Assembly Figure 10 The third step of the method of the material retainer;

[0074] Figure 44D Example Description Assembly Figure 10 The fourth step of the method of the material retainer;

[0075] Figure 45 Example description based on Figures 44A-44D A top isometric view of a material holder assembled as shown in the method.

[0076] While the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the drawings and detailed description presented herein are not intended to limit the present disclosure to the specific embodiments disclosed, but on the contrary, the present disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0077] Before describing any embodiment in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following figures, which are limited only by the claims that follow this disclosure. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and can be practiced or implemented in various ways. Moreover, it should be understood that the words and terms used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered restrictive. The use of the terms "comprises," "includes," or "has" and variations thereof in this document is intended to encompass the items listed thereafter and their equivalents and additional items. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mount," "connect," "support," and "couple" and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass direct and indirect mounting, connection, support, and coupling. Furthermore, "connect" and "couple" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

[0078] The following description is provided to enable those skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the present disclosure. Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but to be consistent with the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The following detailed description will be read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same elements in different drawings have the same reference numerals. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0079] Additionally, while the following discussion may describe features associated with particular devices or embodiments, it should be understood that additional devices and / or features may be used with the described systems and methods, and that the devices and features discussed are intended to provide examples of possible embodiments without limitation.

[0080] The present disclosure relates to a material holder designed to hold and dispense rolls of printable media having various widths. The material holder can be used with various printers. For example, the material holder can be used with one or more inkjet printers, thermal printers, laser printers, or any other suitable device capable of printing text, images, or other graphics onto printable media.

[0081] First reference Figure 1-3 , an exemplary inkjet printer 100 can have a housing 101 defining a first end 102 (e.g., at the front of the printer) and a second end 104 (e.g., at the rear of the printer) opposite the first end 102. The housing 101 of the inkjet printer 100 is provided in the form of a base portion 106 and a housing cover 108. The base portion 106 and the housing cover 108 can be hingedly attached or otherwise coupled to each other so that the housing cover 108 can be removably opened and / or attached to allow access to the internal components of the inkjet printer 100 and to allow installation or maintenance of the internal components. The housing cover 108 can be attached to the housing 101 via a hinge 124 or other attachment means (see Figure 3 ) is connected to the base portion 106.

[0082] The inkjet printer 100 may include one or more indicators 110 and one or more buttons 112 disposed on the housing cover 108. Figure 1In the example shown, inkjet printer 100 includes two indicators 110 and three buttons 112. However, inkjet printer 100 may include any number of indicators 110 and / or buttons 112. Indicators 110 may be arranged to alert a user to various operating conditions of inkjet printer 100. For example, indicators 110 may be provided in the form of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) configured to indicate to the user when inkjet printer 100 is powered on or when inkjet printer 100 is low on ink. Alternatively, indicators 110 may serve any other suitable purpose. Buttons 112 may be arranged to allow a user to operate, maintain, or otherwise interact with inkjet printer 100. For example, button 112 may be configured to allow a user to load new printable media into inkjet printer 100. In some embodiments, pressing or otherwise actuating button 112 causes housing cover 108 to disengage from base portion 106.

[0083] The inkjet printer 100 can include a linear exit slot 114 positioned on and extending through the base portion 106. For example, the exit slot 114 can be provided in the form of a "mouth" or opening provided on the base portion 106 at the first end 102. Media that has been printed by the inkjet printer 100 can exit the inkjet printer 100 at the exit slot 114, where it can be retrieved by a user.

[0084] Steering Figure 2 , the inkjet printer 100 can have a control area 116 disposed on the base portion 106. For example, the control area 116 can be located on the base portion 106 at the second end 104. In the illustrated example, the control area 116 can include a power switch 118, an input port 120, and a power port 122. The power port 122 can facilitate connection between the inkjet printer 100 and an external power source, such that a user can turn on the power of the inkjet printer 100 using the power switch 118. The input port 120 can facilitate connection or communication between the inkjet printer 100 and an external device (e.g., a smartphone, a desktop computer, a digital camera, etc.).

[0085] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG, the housing cover 108 of the inkjet printer 100 is designed to rotate into the open configuration. The housing cover 108 can rotate about a connection axis formed by the hinge 124. Thus, a user can place the inkjet printer 100 in the open configuration by lifting the housing cover 108 away from the base portion 106 and rotating it about the hinge 124.

[0086] The base portion 106 can include a media area 126 proximate the first end 102 and a print area 128 proximate the second end 104. The media area 126 can include a mount 130 capable of supporting media 132 (e.g., a roll of printable labels) for printing. The print area 128 can include one or more of a printhead (not shown), an ink cartridge (not shown), electronic circuitry or a controller (not shown), a waste area (not shown), or any other components or mechanisms that facilitate printing images, text, or other graphics on the media 132.

[0087] Although a specific exemplary inkjet printer 100 is described, it should be understood that an inkjet printer 100 for use with the material holders disclosed herein may include or omit additional components known in the art.

[0088] Now refer to Figure 4-6 , describes an exemplary thermal printer 160 for use with the material holders disclosed herein. Thermal printer 160 can be provided in the form of a direct thermal printer, a thermal transfer printer, a handheld thermal printer, or any other similar device. Thermal printer 160 includes a body 162 defined by a first body portion 162A and a second body portion 162B opposite first body portion 162A. Thermal printer 160 can include a first cover panel 164 and a second cover panel 166. The first and second body portions 162A, 162B, together with the first and second cover panels 164, 166, can define a housing that holds the internal components of thermal printer 160. First cover panel 164 can include one or more of a release latch 168, a display 170, and a power button 172. Thermal printer 160 can include an output area 174 disposed below first cover panel 164 and extending between first body portion 162A and second body portion 162B.

[0089] Steering Figure 5The thermal printer 160 can be designed to pivot between a closed position (in which the second cover panel 166 is flush with the first cover panel 164) and an open position, thereby exposing the components enclosed within the first and second body portions 162A, 162B and the first and second cover panels 164, 166. A release latch 168 can engage the connection between the first and second cover panels 164, 166, allowing a user 176 to separate or disengage the first and second cover panels 164, 166 by pulling the release latch 168 upward. The first and second cover panels 164, 166 can both be hingedly connected to the first and second body portions 162A, 162B via a hinge (not shown) or other connection means. Therefore, when the release latch 168 is pulled by the user 176, the user 176 can then move each of the first and second cover panels 164, 166 upward and away from the enclosed space, thereby exposing the internal components of the thermal printer 160.

[0090] Now refer to Figure 6 The thermal printer 160 may include a printhead 178 and a ribbon holder 180 positioned on an interior surface of a first cover panel 164. A label well 182 may be positioned below the second cover panel 166, and one or more media guides 184 may be positioned between the label well 182 and the output area 174. The thermal printer 160 may include a cutter 186 positioned between the media guides 184 and the output area 174. Thus, prior to using the thermal printer 160, printable media (e.g., a roll of printable labels) may be installed in the label well 182. Such printable media may be fed through the media guides 184, printed by the printhead 178 and a ribbon (not shown) disposed in the ribbon holder 180, and cut by the cutter 186 before being dispensed from the thermal printer 160 via the output area 174.

[0091] Although a specific exemplary thermal printer 160 is described, it should be understood that a thermal printer 160 for use with the material holders disclosed herein may include or omit additional components known in the art.

[0092] Steering Figure 7-9, an exemplary LED printer or laser printer 210 can include a feeder assembly 212, a printer device 214 positioned on and supported by the feeder assembly 212, and a rewinder 216. On the front side 218 of the laser printer 210, one or more of the feeder assembly 212 and / or the printer device 214 can include a display 220 and one or more buttons 222 via which a user can interact with the laser printer 210, and the one or more buttons 222 can correspond to various settings or functions of the laser printer 210. The feeder assembly can include a front cover 224 positioned on the front side 218. The printer device 214 can include a top cover 226 positioned opposite the feeder assembly 212. The rewinder 216 can be positioned on a support plate 228. As Figure 8 , which shows the back side 230 of the laser printer 210 without the rewinder 216, the support plate 228 can be coupled to the back side 230 via one or more fasteners 232. The laser printer 210 can also include one or more ports 234, one or more power outlets 236, and an outlet slot 238 located on the back side 230.

[0093] refer to Figure 9 The front cover 224 and the top cover 226 can be opened to expose various internal components of the feeder assembly 212 and the printer mechanism 214, respectively. The internal components of the feeder assembly 212 can be positioned on and supported by a tray 240. The tray 240 can be slidably coupled to the feeder assembly 212 so that the tray 240 can be retracted when the front cover 224 is opened. The tray 240 of the feeder assembly 212 can support one or more of a spindle pin 242, an extension arm 244, one or more media guides 246, and an electrostatic bar 248. The spindle pin 242 can provide a rotatable support structure for printable media to be printed by the printer mechanism 214. The extension arm 244 and the media guide 246 can help support the media or guide the media toward an opening (not shown) through which the media can be transferred from the feeder assembly 212 to the printer mechanism 214. The media may be directed past electrostatic bars 248 before entering the printer mechanism 214 , and the electrostatic bars 248 may condition the media to attract toner (eg, by imparting an electrical charge to the media).

[0094] The internal components of the printer device 214 may include one or more drum units 250, one or more toner cartridges 252, and one or more LED heads 254. Figure 9In an exemplary printer, the printer assembly 214 may include four drum units 250, four toner cartridges 252 (e.g., C, M, Y, and K toners), and four LED heads 254. The drum units 250 may be given a uniform or substantially uniform initial charge. For example, the printer assembly 214 may include a high-voltage wire or charging roller (not shown) configured to apply a charge to the drum units 250. The LED heads 254 may be arranged to direct light toward the drum units 250, and the light generated by the LED heads 254 may invert the local charge of the drum units 250 in the areas affected by the light. Thus, the LED heads 254 can selectively direct light toward specific areas of the drum units 250 corresponding to the image or text being printed.

[0095] The areas of the drum unit 250 whose charge has been reversed by the LED head 254 can attract toner from the toner cartridge 252 (e.g., the toner can be imparted with an opposite charge relative to the areas of the drum unit 250 affected by the LED head 254). As the media (which has been charged by the static bar 248) passes over the drum unit 250, the toner can be transferred to printable media fed from the feeder assembly 212 to the printer mechanism 214. The media can then pass through a fuser (not shown), which can be provided in the form of one or more heated rollers that can melt the toner, thereby "fusing" it or otherwise attaching it to the media. The printer mechanism 214 can include a fuser release lever 256 extending upward from the fuser (not shown) to allow a user to lift or remove the fuser from the printer mechanism 214 (e.g., for maintenance).

[0096] In some examples, the printer device 214 may include a laser beam (not shown) and one or more reflective mirrors (not shown) in place of the LED head 254. In these examples, the laser beam can be selectively directed toward the drum unit 250 to invert the localized charge in areas corresponding to the text or image being printed, causing the toner to be attracted to those areas. The laser beam can be stationary, and one or more movable reflective mirrors can be configured to direct the laser beam toward specific areas of the drum unit 250.

[0097] Although a specific exemplary laser printer 210 is described, it should be understood that a laser printer 210 for use with the material holders disclosed herein may include or omit additional components known in the art.

[0098] Now turn Figure 10The material holder 280 can be designed to hold and support rolls of printable media having various widths. The material holder 280 can be used with the inkjet printer 100, the thermal printer 160, the laser printer 210, or any other suitable printing device. For example, the material holder 280 can be installed in the media area 126 of the inkjet printer 100, in the label well 182 of the thermal printer 160, or within the feeder assembly 212 of the laser printer 210. The material holder 280 can be installed in the printer disclosed herein or otherwise configured for use with the printer disclosed herein in a manner known in the art.

[0099] The material holder 280 is provided in the form of a frame having two opposing flanges 282a, 282b, a main shaft 284 disposed therebetween, and side clamps 286. Figure 10 As best seen in FIG, flanges 282a, 282b can be substantially identical to one another. However, it is contemplated that in other examples, material retainer 280 can include one or more flanges 282 that are not identical.

[0100] The spindle 284 extends between the flanges 282a, 282b and includes a generally cylindrical arm 288 and a keyhole area 290 at one end of the arm 288. The keyhole area 290 may include a base 292 and a spindle handle 294 coupled to and extending upwardly from the base 292. Figure 11 , the side clamp 286 can include an attachment area 296 and a discrete side clamp handle 298 positioned above and connected to the attachment area 296. The shape of the side clamp 286 can mirror or be substantially similar to the shape of the keyhole region 290 of the spindle 284. For example, the shape of the spindle handle 294 can be the same as or can be a mirror image of the shape of the side clamp handle 298.

[0101] Each flange 282 can include a central opening 300 configured to allow the arm 288 of the spindle 284 to pass therethrough. For example, the geometry of the opening 300 can be substantially mirrored with the outer geometry of the arm 288, or can be substantially circular. Thus, each opening 300 can receive the arm 288 of the spindle 284 so that each of the flanges 282a, 282b can be slidably or adjustably coupled to the spindle 284 at any position along the arm 288. At the same time, the flanges 282a, 282b can be configured to rotate about the arm 288. The flanges 282a, 282b can be arranged on the spindle 284 so that the flanges 282a, 282b are spaced apart from each other along the arm 288. Figure 11, the attachment area 296 of the side clamp 286 can be designed to facilitate securely attaching the side clamp 286 to the spindle 284 along the length of the arm 288. For example, the side clamp 286 can be attached to the spindle 284 such that the side clamp 286 is disposed along the arm 288 in a position adjacent to the flange 282b and opposite the flange 282a.

[0102] In some examples, the flange 282, the spindle 284, and the side clamps 286 can be formed from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). For example, the flange 282, the spindle 284, and the side clamps 286 can be formed from Hostalen GC 7260 with a resin code of 2 (e.g., which is highly recyclable). The flange 282, the spindle 284, and the side clamps 286 can also be formed from polypropylene, although polypropylene may be less recyclable than HDPE. In other examples, the flange 282, the spindle 284, and the side clamps 286 can be formed from any suitable material having a coefficient of friction greater than 0 and less than approximately 0.4 and / or a resin code of 1 or 2.

[0103] Now turn Figure 14-19 Each flange 282 may be given a generally polygonal shape. A "polygonal shape" is a closed planar figure defined by at least three boundaries. Figure 14 In one example shown in FIG, each flange 282 can be substantially octagonal in shape. However, in other examples, each flange 282 can be substantially triangular, quadrilateral, pentagonal, or any other suitable shape, including irregular shapes. Giving the flanges 282 a polygonal shape with substantially flat edges can make the flanges 282 resist rolling on smooth and / or inclined surfaces or can cause higher resistance due to friction.

[0104] An annular ring 302 can be centrally located on an outer side 304 of the flange 282. The ring 302 can be integrally formed with the flange 282, or the ring 302 can be coupled to the outer side 304 and extend outward therefrom. The ring 302 can include an outer surface 306 and a first inner surface 308, each of which can be substantially smooth. The first inner surface 308 of the ring 302 can be sized and shaped to be substantially equal to the size and shape of the opening 300. The first inner surface 308 can be aligned with the first bearing surface 301 and be substantially equal in size and shape to the first bearing surface 301. The first bearing surface 301 can be substantially cylindrical in shape and can define the opening 300. The ring 302 can also have a stepped annular surface 310 adjacent to and extending between the outer surface 306 and the first inner surface 308.

[0105] In addition, each flange 282 may include a driven gear 312 connected to the ring 302. The driven gear 312 may be integrally formed with the ring 302, or may be coupled to the annular surface 310 of the ring 302 and protrude outwardly therefrom. The driven gear 312 may be generally annular in shape and may be generally coaxial with the ring 302. The second interior surface 314 of the driven gear 312 may be generally smooth. The driven gear 312 may have a plurality of teeth 316 that surround the outer periphery of the driven gear 312 opposite the second interior surface 314 and are evenly spaced along the outer periphery. In some examples, the teeth 316 of the driven gear 312 may be given an involute, cycloidal, or trochoidal profile. In other examples, the teeth 316 may be given any other suitable profile. The driven gear 312 can be configured to align and engage with a gear drive assembly of a printer (not shown), such as the inkjet printer 100, the thermal printer 160, the laser printer 210, or any other suitable printing device, when the material retainer is installed. The flange 282 is preferably not formed of a polycarbonate (PC) material because the coefficient of friction between the flange 282 and the gear drive assembly may be too high and cause damage or failure of the material retainer 280.

[0106] Each flange 282 defines a plurality of segments 318 extending therearound. Figure 14 As shown in FIG, each flange 282 can include eight segments 318A-H surrounding the ring 302. Each segment 318 can be substantially similar in shape and size. In other examples, each flange 282 can include any number of segments 318, depending on the general shape given to the flange 282. Figure 14 and 15 , a plurality of structural ribs 320 can extend between the ring 302 and the peripheral edge 322 of the flange 282. The structural ribs 320 can define the lateral boundaries of the segment 318, while the upper and lower boundaries of the segment 318 can be defined by the peripheral edge 322 of the flange 282 and the outer surface 306 of the ring 302, respectively. In some examples, each flange 282 includes eight structural ribs 320. However, in other examples, the flange 282 can include any number of structural ribs 320, depending on the general shape given to the flange 282.

[0107] Each segment 318 can be configured as one of a solid pane segment 324, a standard window segment 326, or a viewing window segment 328. The solid pane segment 324 can be opaque, while the standard window segment 326 and the viewing window segment 328 can include through-holes that provide visibility to the user (e.g., to see how much of the printable media roll has been used). The segments 318 can be arranged so that each adjacent segment 318 alternates between a solid pane segment 324 and either a standard window segment 326 or a viewing window segment 328. However, in other examples, the segments 318 can be arranged in any other suitable configuration. For example, in other examples, the flange 282 can include any number of segments 318, all of which can be configured as viewing window segments 328.

[0108] Still refer to Figure 14 In some examples, the segments 318 can be configured such that each flange 282 includes four solid pane segments 324, two standard window segments 326, and two viewing window segments 328. For example, segments 318B, 318D, 318F, and 318H can be provided as solid pane segments 324, segments 318C and 318G can be provided as standard window segments 326, and segments 318A and 318E can be provided as viewing window segments 328.

[0109] like Figure 15 As best shown in FIG, each viewing window section 328 may include a proximal end 330 and a distal end 332. The proximal end 330, the distal end 332, and two adjacent structural ribs 320 may define the boundaries of the viewing window section 328. A viewing window 334 may be disposed between the proximal end 330 and the distal end 332, and between two adjacent structural ribs 320. The viewing window 334 may include a core viewing notch 336 positioned adjacent to the proximal end 330. The core viewing notch 336 may be configured in the form of a domed rectangle with an "arched top" positioned near the proximal end 330. However, in other examples, the core viewing notch 336 may be configured in any suitable shape. The core viewing notch 336, together with the viewing window 334, may allow a user to view the amount of printable media remaining in the roll (not shown) relative to the core of the roll.

[0110] The viewing window section 328 may also include an external locating notch 338 positioned adjacent the distal end 332. The external locating notch 338 may be disposed on the peripheral edge 322 and may be positioned approximately equidistant from each of the two adjacent structural ribs 320. The external locating notch 338 may be configured as a triangular notch or indentation with rounded edges. However, in other examples, the external locating notch may have any other suitable shape or configuration. When installing a roll of printable media (not shown), the external locating notch 338 may help a user symmetrically orient and position the roll relative to the one or more flanges 282 and orient and center it.

[0111] Now turn Figure 16 , describes a media roll 340 for use with the material holder 280 disclosed herein. The media roll 340 can include a core 342 and a media supply 344 and can be positioned or mounted between flanges 282a, 282b (see Figure 44C The core 342 can be provided in the form of an annular cylinder and can be formed from cardboard or any other suitable material. The media roll 340 can be defined by a width W, which can extend linearly in a direction generally parallel to the radial axis of symmetry of the media roll 340.

[0112] The media supply 344 can be provided in the form of a continuous strip of printable media. For example, in some examples, the media supply 344 can be provided in the form of a continuous liner strip 346, with a plurality of adhesive labels 348 positioned on the continuous liner strip 346 and evenly spaced apart from each other. However, in other examples, the media supply 344 can be provided in the form of any other printable media (e.g., a roll of wristbands connected end-to-end, a roll of paper, a roll of labels connected end-to-end, a roll of plastic, a roll of magnetic material or foil, a roll of a continuous strip of adhesive labels optionally positioned on a continuous liner strip, etc.). In some examples, the media supply 344 can be wound around the core 342 so that the media supply 344 forms a neatly coiled, multi-layer roll. Therefore, as the media supply 344 is used up during the printing process, the media supply 344 can smoothly unwind from the outermost layer inward.

[0113] When the media supply 344 is wound around the core 342, the media supply 344 can be defined by a thickness T. The thickness T can be measured radially between the outer diameter 350 of the core 342 and the outer perimeter 352 of the media roll 340. As the media supply 344 is used up, the thickness T can decrease. Thus, the thickness T can indicate the life of the media roll 340 (e.g., how much of the media supply 344 remains before the media roll 340 must be replaced).

[0114] like Figure 17As shown in FIG, the viewing window sections 328 enable a user to view or at least estimate the thickness T (e.g., determine how much of the media supply 344 is remaining) without having to disassemble the material holder 280. When the media roll 340 is positioned between the two flanges 282, at least a portion of the core 342 can be viewed through the core viewing notch 336. Additionally, at least a portion of the media supply 344 can be viewed through the viewing window 334 and / or the external positioning notch 338. Thus, one or more of the viewing window sections 328 enable a user to view or estimate the thickness T of the media supply 344.

[0115] The external positioning notch 338 can expose a portion of the media supply 344. For example, a first visible portion 354A of the media supply 344 can be visible through the external positioning notch 338 of section 318A, and a second visible portion 354E of the media supply 344 can be visible through the external positioning notch 338 of section 318E. Thus, a user can centrally and symmetrically orient the media roll 340 relative to the one or more flanges 282 by comparing the first and second visible portions 354A, 354E. For example, a user can adjust the positioning of the media roll 340 so that the portions of the external positioning notch 338 visibly occupied by the first and second visible portions 354A, 354E are substantially equal.

[0116] Steering Figure 18 The back face 356 of each flange 282 can have a toothed ring 358 connected thereto. The first bearing surface 301 can form the interior surface of a hub 360. The hub 360 can be integrally formed with the back face 356 or can be coupled to and extend outwardly from the back face 356. The toothed ring 358 and the hub 360 can be substantially coaxial (e.g., concentric) and can each be substantially cylindrical in shape.

[0117] The flange 282 may also include a support structure 362 disposed between the toothed ring 358 and the hub 360. The support structure 362 may be provided in the form of a plurality of spokes 364 and a support ring 366. The plurality of spokes 364 may be evenly spaced apart from one another and may extend radially between the toothed ring 358 and the hub 360. The support ring 366 may be disposed between the toothed ring 358 and the hub 360 and may be substantially coaxial therewith. The support ring 366 may be connected to or integrally formed with the plurality of spokes 364 and may extend in a circular manner between the plurality of spokes 364. However, in other examples, the support structure 362 may be provided in any other suitable form. The support structure 362 may, for example, increase stability and / or structural rigidity for the toothed ring 358, the hub 360, and / or other components of the flange 282.

[0118] The peripheral ring 368 can surround the toothed ring 358. One or more core viewing notches 336 can be located along the periphery of the peripheral ring 368. In addition to the core viewing notches 336, the peripheral ring 368 can be generally circular in shape and can be generally coaxial (e.g., concentric) with the toothed ring 358, the support ring 366, and / or the hub 360. The peripheral ring 368 can be integrally formed with the back face 356 or can be coupled to the back face 356 and project outwardly therefrom. A plurality of holes 370 can be formed in the back face 356. The plurality of holes 370 can be disposed between the peripheral ring 368 and the toothed ring 358 and can be radially spaced apart from one another. Figure 18 , the plurality of holes 370 can be radially aligned with the plurality of spokes 364 of the support structure 362. However, in other examples, the flange 282 can be provided with any number of holes 370, and the holes 370 can be arranged in any suitable configuration.

[0119] A plurality of barbs 372 may be arranged around the toothed ring 358. The barbs 372 may be configured to engage (eg, be inserted into) the core 342 (eg, a cardboard core) of the media roll 340 when the material retainer 280 is assembled for use. Figure 19 As best shown in FIG, a plurality of barbs 372 can be connected to an angled wall 374 of the toothed ring 358 and project radially away from the angled wall 374. In some examples, the plurality of barbs 372 can be provided with a "snake-bite" geometry. In other examples, the plurality of barbs 372 can be provided with an angled geometry or any other suitable geometry that causes a releasable engagement between the plurality of barbs 372 and the core 342 of the media roll 340. In this manner, the plurality of barbs 372 can increase the amount of engagement between the flange 282 and the core 342 through cylindrical hoop stress.

[0120] like Figure 19 As seen in FIG, each barb 372 may be provided in the form of a main body portion 376 and an end portion 378. The shape of the main body portion 376 may be defined by a wedge-shaped member having a base 380 positioned proximate the end portion 378 and an end point 382 opposite the base 380. For example, the main body portion 376 may protrude from the inclined wall 374 of the toothed ring 358 to a greater extent at the base 380 than at the end point 382. An upper surface 384 of the main body portion 376 may extend between the first and second ends 380, 382. The upper surface 384 may be imparted with an inclined geometry and may curve in a downward direction (e.g., toward the toothed ring 358) from the base 380 to the end point 382. For example, the upper surface 384 may be generally parabolic, concave, logarithmic, or any other suitable shape. In other examples, the upper surface 384 may be generally linear.

[0121] The end portion 378 can include a first side 386 proximate to the main body portion 376 and a second side 388 opposite the first side 386. The first side 386 can be substantially linear, while the second side 388 can be imparted with a parabolic or other curved geometry. The end portion 378 can be integrally formed with the main body portion 376, or can be coupled to the main body portion 376 by abutting the first side 386 of the end portion 378 against the base 380 of the main body portion 376.

[0122] Steering Figure 20 and 21 The spindle 284 can provide an axis about which the media roll 340 can rotate. The spindle 284 can generally include an arm 288 and a keyhole area 290, wherein the keyhole area 290 includes a base 292 and a spindle handle 294. The arm 288 can be integrally formed with the keyhole area 290, or can be coupled to and extend outward from an inner side 410 of the keyhole area 290. The arm 288 is defined by a first end 412 proximate to the keyhole area 290 and a second end 414 opposite the first end 412. The smart unit compartment 416 can be disposed on an outer side 418 of the keyhole area 290. The outer side 418 can be positioned opposite the inner side 410. The smart unit compartment 416 can be integrally formed with the keyhole area 290, or can be coupled to and extend outward from the outer side 418. The smart unit bay 416 is provided in the form of a housing 420 and a plurality of support members 422 coupled to the housing and extending inwardly therefrom.

[0123] like Figure 22 4. As best shown in FIG. 4 and viewed clockwise about arm 288, arm 288 is defined by top portion 424, first side rail 426, base portion 428, and second side rail 430. Top portion 424, first side rail 426, base portion 428, and second side rail 430 can be configured to impart a generally T-shaped geometry to arm 288. Second bearing surface segments 432A-432D can be formed on outermost surfaces of top portion 424, first side rail 426, base portion 428, and second side rail 430, respectively. Second bearing surface segments 432A-432D can each be provided in the form of arcs (i.e., segments or portions) taken from respective areas of a single generally circular or elliptical shape. The second bearing surface segments 432A- 423D may together comprise a second bearing surface 432 that may correspond to and be substantially a mirror image of the geometry of the first bearing surface 301 of the one or more flanges 282 .

[0124] Joints 434A-434D may be provided between any two of top portion 424, first side rail 426, base portion 428, and second side rail 430. For example, top portion 424 and first side rail 426 may abut at joint 434A; first side rail 426 and base portion 428 may abut at joint 434B; base portion 428 and second side rail 430 may abut at joint 434C; and second side rail 430 and top portion 424 may abut at joint 434D. Figure 22 As shown in FIG, the joints 434A-434D can each be arranged in a right angle. However, in other examples, the joints 434A-434D can be arranged in any suitable shape.

[0125] Steering Figure 23 , the first side rail 426 can be provided with a first serrated surface 436 disposed above the first side rail 426 (e.g., near the top portion 424) and a second serrated surface 438 disposed below the first side rail 426 (e.g., near the base portion 428). The first serrated surface 436 can include a first plurality of teeth 440, and the second serrated surface 438 can include a second plurality of teeth 442. Figure 22 As best shown in FIG, a first plurality of teeth 440 can be connected to the first side rail 426 proximate the joint 434A and extend upwardly therefrom, and a second plurality of teeth 442 can be connected to the first side rail 426 proximate the joint 434B and extend downwardly therefrom.

[0126] like Figure 24 As shown in , the second side rail 430 can be configured in a substantially similar manner to the first side rail 426. The second side rail 430 can include a third serrated surface 444 disposed below the second side rail 430 (e.g., near the base portion 428) and a fourth serrated surface 446 disposed above the second side rail 430 (e.g., near the top portion 424). The third serrated surface 444 can include a third plurality of teeth 448, and the fourth serrated surface 446 can include a fourth plurality of teeth 450. Referring again to Figure 22 , a third plurality of teeth 448 can be connected to the second side rail 430 near the joint 434C and extend downward therefrom, and a fourth plurality of teeth 450 can be connected to the second side rail 430 near the joint 434D and extend upward.

[0127] The first, second, third, and fourth pluralities of teeth 440, 442, 448, 450 can be configured, for example, as trapezoidal thread-type teeth. Alternatively, the first, second, third, and fourth pluralities of teeth 440, 442, 448, 450 can be configured as sawtooth-type teeth or tail-lock-type teeth. In other examples, the first, second, third, and fourth pluralities of teeth 440, 442, 448, 450 can be configured in any other suitable configuration. In some embodiments, one or more of the first, second, third, and fourth pluralities of teeth 440, 442, 448, 450 can be configured differently relative to another of the first, second, third, and fourth pluralities of teeth 440, 442, 448, 450.

[0128] like Figure 23 and 24 , the arms 288 project outwardly from a base 292 of the keyhole region 290 and terminate at an end tab 452 positioned opposite the keyhole region 290. The end tab 452 may include a main body portion 456, which may be generally rectangular or rectilinear in shape, and an appendage 458 connected to the main body portion 456 and extending downwardly therefrom.

[0129] The arm 288 may also include a wall stop 460 and a spring tab 462 having a catch 464. The wall stop 460 may be positioned on the top portion 424 near the base 292 of the keyhole area 290. The spring tab 462 may also be positioned on the top portion 424 near the base 292 and may abut the wall stop 460.

[0130] A positioning wall 466 can be disposed below the base 292 of the keyhole region 290 (e.g., opposite the spindle handle 294 relative to the base 292). The positioning wall 466 can include a first end 468 adjacent to the base 292 and a second end 470 opposite the first end 468. The positioning wall 466 can be integrally formed with the keyhole region 290 and / or the arm 288, or the positioning wall 466 can be coupled to the keyhole region 290 and / or the arm 288 and extend downward therefrom. The positioning wall 466 can be configured such that a gap 472 is formed between the positioning wall 466 and the base portion 428 of the arm 288. The gap 472 can, for example, be generally rectangular in shape. However, in other examples, the gap 472 can be given any suitable shape.

[0131] The locating wall 466 projects downwardly from the first end 468 of the base 292 and terminates at a chamfered surface 474. The chamfered surface 474 defines an angled edge of the locating wall 466. For example, due to the chamfered surface 474, the locating wall 466 may have a greater width (measured in a direction generally parallel to the arm 288) at the first end 468 than at the second end 470.

[0132] like Figure 25 As best shown in FIG, the positioning wall 466 can be generally semicircular in shape. Thus, the chamfered surface 474 can be provided in the form of an arc that generally reflects the curvature of the positioning wall 466 and can be provided around the perimeter 476 of the positioning wall 466 and be angled by an angle A (see FIG. Figure 26 ) is defined. Angle A can be assigned a value of about 10 degrees to about 80 degrees. For example, Angle A can be assigned a value of about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees, or about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, or about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees. In some examples, Angle A can be assigned a value of about 45 degrees. However, in other examples, Angle A can be assigned any suitable value. Chamfered surface 474 can facilitate installation of material retainer 280. For example, when material retainer 280 is installed for use (see Figure 34 ), the chamfered surface 474 can be arranged to align with and be received by a complementary angled surface of a printer (e.g., inkjet printer 100, thermal printer 160, laser printer 210, or any other suitable printing device). For at least this reason, the locating wall 466 can help a user install the material holder 280 in a printer in the proper orientation and / or position.

[0133] like Figure 27 As best shown in FIG, the wall stop 460 can project upwardly from the top portion 424 and terminate at a cover 478 that is provided in the form of a generally smooth curved surface. The curvature of the cover 478 can generally mirror the curvature of the second bearing surface segment 432A. The spring tab 462 can be positioned opposite the base 292 relative to the wall stop 460. A first end 480 of the spring tab 462 can abut the wall stop 460. A catch 464 can be positioned at a second end 482 of the spring tab 462 that is opposite the first end 480. The catch 464 can be integrally formed with the spring tab 462 or can be coupled to the spring tab 462 and extend upwardly therefrom.

[0134] The channel 484 may surround the spring tab 462 on at least one side. Figure 27 , the channel 484 can surround the spring tab 462 on three sides (excluding the side of the spring tab 462 at the first end 480 where the spring tab 462 abuts the wall stop 460). The channel 484 can be provided in the form of an angled groove or slot formed in the top portion 424 adjacent the perimeter of the spring tab 462. However, in other examples, the channel 484 can be provided in any suitable form and can be positioned in any suitable manner.

[0135] The arm 288 may include a poke yoke 486 in the form of a linear groove or channel formed in or carved from the top portion 424. For example, referring to Figure 22 , the error-proofing device 486 can be positioned between the joint 434A and the second support surface section 432A. Figure 27 , the poka-yoke 486 is defined by a base plate 488, sidewalls 490, and a back stop 492. However, in other examples, the poka-yoke 486 can be given any suitable shape or structure. The poka-yoke 486 can extend along at least a portion of the length of the top portion 424. The back stop 492 can be positioned proximate the second end 470 of the spring tab 462. The base plate 488 and sidewalls 490 can extend linearly between the back stop 492 and the distal end 454 of the arm 288 in a direction generally parallel to the arm 288. However, in other examples, the poka-yoke 486 can be positioned in any other suitable manner.

[0136] Now refer to Figure 30-32 The flange 282a can be mounted or docked onto the spindle 284 via engagement with the spring tab 462. For example, the flange 282a can be disposed along the arm 288 and positioned adjacent the keyhole region 290. The flange 282a can slide over the spring tab 462 so that the catch 464 engages the hub 360 and prevents the flange 282a from unintentionally moving away from the keyhole region 290. The engagement between the catch 464 and the hub 360 can allow the flange 282a and the spindle 284 to be securely coupled to each other, thereby reducing the likelihood that the material holder 280 could break or become detached during use, transportation, or in the event of an accident (e.g., dropping the material holder 280). The catch 464, together with the wall stop 460, can position the flange 282a as close as possible to the keyhole region 290 of the spindle 284. Preventing the flange 282a from sliding or moving linearly along the arm 288 away from the keyhole area 290 can increase engagement between the driven gear 312 and a gear drive assembly (not shown) of a printer (e.g., an inkjet printer 100, a thermal printer 160, a laser printer 210, or any other suitable printing device) used with the material retainer 280.

[0137] The flange 282a and the spindle 284 can be designed and constructed to have complementary geometries that facilitate a secure fit when the flange 282a is mounted on the spindle 284 adjacent the keyhole region 290. Figure 32As best shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG, in some examples, the hub 360 can engage and surround the arm 288 so that the first bearing surface 301 is substantially flush with the spring tab 462. The hub 360 can be positioned between the catch 464 on one side and the wall stop 460 on the other side, and the annular surface 310 of the ring 302 can be substantially flush with the wall stop 460. In other examples, the flange 282a and the spindle 284 can be given any suitable complementary geometric shapes or structural features to facilitate engagement.

[0138] Steering Figure 33 The spindle 284 can include a smart unit 510 designed to be positioned within the smart unit bay 416. Specifically, the smart unit 510 can be positioned within the housing 420 of the smart unit bay 416 and can be at least partially secured in place by a plurality of surrounding support elements 422. A smart unit cover 512 having a barbed member 514 and an opening 516 can be provided to help prevent the smart unit 510 from becoming loose or accidentally ejecting from the smart unit bay 416 (e.g., if the spindle 284 is dropped). The barbed member 514 of the smart unit cover 512 can correspond to a receiving member (not shown) provided within the housing 420. Thus, after the smart unit 510 is positioned within the housing 420, the opening 516 of the smart unit cover 512 can be aligned with the smart unit 510, and the smart unit cover 512 can be pressed in the direction of the spindle 284 until the barbed member 514 engages the receiving member of the housing 420. This engagement between the barb members 514 and the receiving members of the housing 420 can secure the smart unit cover 512, and therefore the smart unit 510, in place. To remove the smart unit cover 512 and / or the smart unit 510, a user can press a button 518 provided on the housing 420. The button 518 can be aligned with the position of the barb members 514 within the housing 420 so that pressing the button 518 downward can apply downward pressure on the barb members 514 and disengage the barb members 514 from the receiving members of the housing 420.

[0139] The smart unit 510 may include one or more conductive panes 520. Figure 33 In the example shown, the smart unit 510 includes three conductive panes 520. However, in other examples, the smart unit 510 may include any number of conductive panes 520. The conductive panes 520 may facilitate electrical connection or communication between the smart unit 510 and a printer (e.g., inkjet printer 100, thermal printer 160, laser printer 210, or any other suitable printing device) used with the material holder 280.

[0140] like Figure 34As best shown in FIG, the material holder can be used with a printer 522 that includes one or more contacts 524 configured to read a smart unit 510. The printer 522 can further include a chassis 526 that includes a positioning fixture 528. The positioning fixture 528 can correspond to and / or be complementary to the positioning wall 466 of the spindle 284, such that when the material holder 280 is installed in the printer 522, the chassis 526 can ensure that the spindle 284 is positioned in a position where the smart unit 510 can be read by the contacts 524. Thus, the positioning wall 466 can also prevent the material holder 280 from being installed backwards. Additionally, the positioning fixture 528 can include an angled member 529 that can be configured to align with and receive the chamfered surface 474 of the positioning wall 466, thereby ensuring proper orientation and / or position of the material holder 280 relative to the printer 522.

[0141] The smart unit 510 can identify the material holder 280 and / or the media roll 340 provided with the material holder 280 as being suitable or unsuitable for use with the printer 522. For example, the printer 522 may be designed specifically for use with printable media produced by a particular manufacturer. In this case, the printer 522 can read the smart unit 510 via the contacts 524 to determine whether the material holder 280 and / or media roll 340 is produced by the desired manufacturer. If so, the printer 522 can proceed with printing or another operation. If not, the printer 522 may be unable to operate until the appropriate material holder 280 and / or media roll 340 is installed. Figure 34 In the example of FIG, printer 522 is not shown in its entirety, but may be provided in substantially the same form as inkjet printer 100, thermal printer 160, laser printer 210, or any other suitable printing device.

[0142] Steering Figure 35, the side clamp 286 can have a body 540 defined by a first end 550 and a second end 552 opposite the first end 550. Similarly, the side clamp 286 can have a first side 554 and a second side 556 opposite the first side 554. The body 540 is defined by an attachment area 296 proximate the first end 550, a side clamp handle 298 proximate the second end 552, and a midsection 558 disposed between the attachment area 296 and the side clamp handle 298. The midsection 558 can have a bottom end 560 proximate the attachment area 296 and a top end 562 proximate the side clamp handle 298. In some examples, the attachment area 296, the side clamp handle 298, and the midsection 558 can each be integrally formed with one another. In other examples, the attachment area 296 can be connected to and extend downward from the bottom end 560 of the middle section 558, and the side clamp handle 298 can be connected to and extend upward from the top end 562 of the middle section 558.

[0143] In some examples, the side clamp can include a first locking mechanism 564, a second locking mechanism 566, and a living hinge 568. The first locking mechanism 564 can be disposed on the attachment area 296 near the first end 550 of the side clamp 286. The second locking mechanism 566 can be disposed on the midsection 558 between the attachment area 296 and the side clamp handle 298. The living hinge 568 can be disposed on the side clamp handle 298 near the second end 552 of the side clamp 286.

[0144] The side clamp 286 can include a first half 570 and a second half 572 and is designed to pivot between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The first and second halves 570, 572 can be rotatably coupled to each other via a living hinge 568 and can be detachably coupled to each other via first and second locking mechanisms 564, 566. Figure 35 ) and the open configuration (shown in Figure 36 ), a user can rotate one of the first or second halves 570, 572 about the living hinge 568 relative to the other of the first or second halves 570, 572.

[0145] like Figure 36 , the side clamp 286 can include an extension 574 and a seat 576, each of which can be disposed at the second end 552 of the side clamp 286 proximate the living hinge 568. The extension 574 and the seat 576 can be designed and arranged to complement each other so that the seat 576 can receive the extension 574 when the side clamp 286 transitions from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

[0146] The second locking mechanism 566 can be given a rounded interference geometry so that when the side clamps 286 are transitioned from the open configuration to the closed configuration, the second locking mechanism 566 can snap together. For example, the second locking mechanism can include a first leg 578 and a first mating member 580 disposed on the first half 570 at the midsection 558, and a second leg 582 and a second mating member 584 disposed on the second half 572 at the midsection 558. The first mating member 580 can be positioned on the first half 570 so that it can abut against or be positioned near the bottom end 560 of the midsection 558, while the second mating member 584 can be positioned on the second half 572 so that it can abut against or be positioned near the top end 562 of the midsection 558.

[0147] The first mating member 580 can include a first mating surface 586 positioned opposite the bottom end 560 of the middle section 558. The second mating member 584 can include a second mating surface 588 positioned opposite the top end 562 of the middle section 558. The first and second mating surfaces 586, 588 can each be imparted with a curved geometry. For example, the first mating surface 586 can be imparted with a concave geometry, and the second mating surface 588 can be imparted with a convex geometry that is substantially a mirror image and / or complementary to the concave geometry of the first mating surface 586. Thus, the first and second mating members 580, 584 can facilitate a "snap-fit" coupling between the first half 570 and the second half 572. For example, when the side clamp 286 is converted from an open configuration to a closed configuration, the first and second mating surfaces 586, 588 can enable the first and second mating members 580, 584 to couple to each other via a press fit, an interference fit, or the like.

[0148] The first locking mechanism 564 may also facilitate the coupling between the first half 570 and the second half 572 of the side clamp 286. The first locking mechanism 564 may be provided in the form of a tab or insert provided on the first half 570 of the side clamp 286 that "snaps" into a housing or cavity provided on the second half 572 of the side clamp 286. For example, Figures 37-39 As best shown in FIG, the first locking mechanism 564 may include an insert 590 disposed on the first half 570 of the side clamp 286 at the first end 550 (see FIG. Figure 37 ). The insert 590 may include a hook 592. The first locking mechanism 564 may also include a cavity 594 formed in the second half 572 at the first end 550 of the side clamp 286 (see Figure 38 ). Cavity 594 may be arranged to receive insert 590 (see Figure 39 ).

[0149] like Figure 37 As best seen in FIG, the insert 590 can be generally rectilinear in shape. However, in other examples, the insert 590 can be given any suitable shape or configuration. The insert 590 can be integrally formed with the first half 570 of the side clamp 286, or the proximal end 596 of the insert 590 can be coupled to the first half 570 and the insert 590 can extend outwardly therefrom. The hook 592 can be disposed at a distal end 598 of the insert 590 opposite the proximal end 596.

[0150] like Figure 38 , the cavity 594 can include a first opening 600 that is generally quadrilateral in shape. However, in other examples, the insert 590 and / or the first opening 600 can be given any suitable shape or size. However, the cavity 594 and the first opening 600 can be configured such that the cavity 594 can receive the distal end 598 of the insert 590 when the side clamp 286 is converted from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

[0151] like Figure 39 As best shown, when the insert 590 is positioned in the cavity 594 ( Figure 39 When inserted into the side clamp 286 (not shown), the first and second halves 570, 572 can be at a negligible distance from each other or can directly contact each other. In some examples, the insert 590 can extend through the second opening 602 of the cavity 594. The second opening 602 can be positioned opposite the first opening 600. When the distal end 598 of the insert 590 extends through the second opening 602, the hook 592 can engage the first end 550 of the second half 572 and prevent the insert 590 from being retracted from the cavity 594 via the first opening 600. To disengage the first locking mechanism 564, the user can apply upward pressure on the hook 592 so that the hook 592 no longer engages the first end 550 of the second half 572 of the side clamp 286. Thus, the user can remove the insert 590 from the cavity 594 by rotating the first half 570 away from the second half 572 via the living hinge 568 (e.g., simultaneously disengaging the second locking mechanism 566).

[0152] Steering Figure 40 and 41 The second locking mechanism 566 can be positioned at the midsection 558 between the first and second sides 554, 556 of the side clamp 286. The second locking mechanism 566 can facilitate locking via, for example, the above reference Figure 36The press-fit or other connection between the first and second mating members 580, 584 couples the first and second halves 570, 572 of the side clamp 286. The second locking mechanism 566 can include one or more lap joints that can limit twisting about the center of the second locking mechanism 566 (e.g., forces that might oppose the engagement between the first and second mating members 580, 584). Thus, the one or more lap joints can mitigate potential failure of the second locking mechanism 566. For example, a first lap joint 604 can be formed between the first mating member 580 and the second leg 582 at the bottom end 560 of the middle section 558. A second lap joint 606 can be formed between the second mating member 584 and the first leg 578 at the top end 562 of the middle section 558.

[0153] The attachment area 296 can be designed to facilitate the connection between the side clamp 286 and the arm 288 of the main shaft 284. Figure 41 As best seen in FIG, the outer side surface 608 of the attachment region 296 can be generally cylindrical in shape, except that the outer side surface 608 can include a first base member 610 positioned at the first end 550 of the first half 570 and a second base member 612 positioned at the first end 550 of the second half 572. The first and second base members 610, 612 can be integrally formed with the first and second halves 570, 572, respectively, or they can be coupled to and extend minimally downward from the first and second halves 570, 572, respectively. The second base member 612 can be adjacent to and substantially flush with the first base member 610. For example, the first and second base members 610, 612 together can provide a flat surface on which the side clamp 286 can rest in an upright position. In this manner, the first and second base members 610, 612 can provide security and stability to the material retainer 280.

[0154] The interior of the attachment region 296 (eg, the surface positioned opposite the exterior surface 608 ) may be imparted with structural properties that may mirror and / or complement the structural properties of the arms 288 of the spindle 284 .

[0155] For example, the attachment region 296 can include inner curved surface segments 614A-D corresponding to the second bearing surface segments 432A-D of the arm 288. The inner curved surface segment 614A can be positioned proximate to the midsection 558 and can include at least a portion disposed on each of the first and second halves 570, 572 of the side clamp 286. The inner curved surface segment 614A can be provided with a curved geometry that mirrors or complements the curved geometry of the second bearing surface segment 432A. The inner curved surface segment 614B can be positioned on the second half 572 between the midsection 558 and the first end 550 and can be provided with a curved geometry that mirrors or complements the curved geometry of the second bearing surface segment 432B. The inner curved surface segment 614C can be positioned proximate to the first end 550 relative to the inner curved surface segment 614A and can include at least a portion disposed on each of the first and second halves 570, 572 of the side clamp 286. The inner curved surface segment 614C can be imparted with a curved geometry that is a mirror image or complementary to the curved geometry of the second bearing surface segment 432C. The inner curved surface segment 614D can be positioned on the first half 570 between the midsection 558 and the first end 550 and can be imparted with a curved geometry that is a mirror image or complementary to the curved geometry of the second bearing surface segment 432D.

[0156] Additionally, the attachment region 296 can include bosses 616A-D that can correspond to the engagement portions 434A-D of the arm 288. For example, boss 616A can be positioned between the inner curved surface sections 614A, 614B and can be configured to be received by the engagement portion 434A. Boss 616B can be positioned between the inner curved surface sections 614B, 614C and can be configured to be received by the engagement portion 434B. Boss 616C can be positioned between the inner curved surface sections 614C, 614D and can be configured to be received by the engagement portion 434C. Boss 616D can be positioned between the inner curved surface sections 614D, 614A and can be configured to be received by the engagement portion 434D.

[0157] The attachment area 296 can further include an orientation boss 618 positioned between the inner curved surface section 614A and the boss 616A. The orientation boss 618 can correspond to and be configured to be received by the error-proofing device 486. Thus, the orientation boss 618 can ensure that the side clamp 286 is mounted on the arm 288 of the spindle 284 in the correct orientation.

[0158] The attachment area 296 may include a fifth serrated surface 620 having a fifth plurality of teeth 622 (see Figure 41), a sixth serrated surface 624 having a sixth plurality of teeth 626 (see Figure 40 ), a seventh band saw tooth surface 628 having a seventh plurality of teeth 630 (see Figure 40 ), and an eighth serrated surface 632 having an eighth plurality of teeth 634 (see Figure 41 ). A fifth serrated surface 620 may be provided on boss 616A, and a fifth plurality of teeth 622 may protrude from boss 616A in the direction of first end 550 of side clamp 286. A sixth serrated surface 624 may be provided on boss 616B, and a sixth plurality of teeth 626 may protrude from boss 616B in the direction of second end 552 of side clamp 286. A seventh serrated surface 628 may be provided on boss 616C, and a seventh plurality of teeth 630 may protrude from boss 616C in the direction of second end 552. An eighth serrated surface 632 may be provided on boss 616D, and an eighth plurality of teeth 634 may protrude from boss 616D in the direction of first end 550. The fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth pluralities of teeth 622 , 626 , 630 , 634 may each be provided in a complementary configuration and geometry to the first, second, third, and fourth pluralities of teeth 440 , 442 , 448 , 450 .

[0159] Figure 42 The following example illustrates the engagement between the fifth and sixth pluralities of teeth 622, 626, respectively, and the first and second pluralities of teeth 440, 442, when the side clamp 286 is mounted on the arm 288. The fifth and sixth pluralities of teeth 622, 626 can be configured as one-way teeth, which can mitigate side loads caused by slipping or accidental dropping. However, in other examples, the fifth and sixth pluralities of teeth 622, 626 can be configured in any suitable manner that provides engagement between the fifth and sixth pluralities of teeth 622, 626, respectively, and the first and second pluralities of teeth 440, 442, respectively. The foregoing may also apply to the seventh and eighth pluralities of teeth 630, 634 and the third and fourth pluralities of teeth 448, 450.

[0160] Therefore, if Figure 43 As seen in FIG, when the side clamp 286 is mounted on the arm 288, the first serrated surface 436 can be aligned with and engaged with the fifth serrated surface 620, the second serrated surface 438 can be aligned with and engaged with the sixth serrated surface 624, and the third serrated surface 444 ( Figure 43 ) can be connected with the seventh serrated surface 628 ( Figure 436 (not shown), and the fourth serrated surface 446 can be aligned and engaged with the eighth serrated surface 632. This engagement between the attachment area 296 and the arm 288 can prevent the side clamp 286 from unintentionally sliding or moving relative to the arm 288 while the material retainer 280 is in use or transport, for example.

[0161] refer to Figure 44A -D, describes a method of assembling a material holder 280 for a printer (e.g., inkjet printer 100, thermal printer 160, or laser printer 210). Figure 44A As shown in FIG, the first flange 282a is mounted on the spindle 286. Specifically, the user can insert the distal end 454 of the arm 288 of the spindle 286 into the opening 300 of the first flange 282a. The user can move the first flange 282a along the entire length of the arm 288 in a direction toward the keyhole area 290 until the first flange 282a is received by the spring tab 462, as described above with reference to FIG. Figure 30-32 For example, when installed, the first flange 282a can be positioned or secured between the catch 464 and the base 292 of the keyhole region 290. The first flange 282a can be oriented on the arm 288 such that the driven gear 312 of the first flange 282a abuts the base 292 of the keyhole region 290. The toothed ring 358 can extend from the first flange 282a in a direction toward the distal end 454 of the arm 288 and can be configured to receive the media roll 340.

[0162] like Figure 44B As shown in FIG, the media roll 340 is positioned adjacent to the first flange 282a along the arm 288 of the main shaft 284. The user can use the media roll 340 as described above with reference to FIG. Figure 17 The outer locating notches 338 of the first flange 282a align the media roll 340 symmetrically and centrally with respect to the first flange 282a. A user can press the media roll 340 in a direction toward the first flange 282a, causing the toothed ring 358 to engage the core 342 (e.g., a cardboard core) of the media roll 340. For example, the core 342 can be given a circular profile having approximately the same dimensions as the toothed ring 358. Thus, when the media roll 340 is pressed into the first flange 282a, the core 342 can slide over the barbs 372 and the barbs 372 can engage the inner surface 636 of the core 342. This engagement can allow the media roll 340 to be coupled to the first flange 282a via a press fit, an interference fit, a friction fit, etc. The barbs 372 (described above with reference to Figure 19 The aforementioned) can increase the amount of engagement between the toothed ring 358 of the first flange 282a and the core 342 of the media roll 340 via cylindrical hoop stress.

[0163] like Figure 44C, the second flange 282b is mounted so that the media roll 340 is sandwiched between the first flange 282a on one side (e.g., near the keyhole area 290) and the second flange 282b on the other side (e.g., near the distal end 454 of the arm 288). For example, a user can position the second flange 282b along the arm 288 adjacent to the media roll 340. A user can reverse the orientation of the second flange 282b relative to the first flange 282a (i.e., the driven gear 312 of the second flange 282b can face the distal end 454 of the arm 288, while the toothed ring 358 of the second flange 282b can directly abut the core 342 of the media roll 340). A user can use the method described above with reference to Figure 17 The outer locating notches 338 of the second flange 282b align the second flange 282b symmetrically and centrally relative to the media roll 340. The user can then press the second flange 282b forward so that the toothed ring 358 can engage the inner surface 636 of the core 342. Thus, the second flange 282b can be coupled to the media roll 340 (and thus to the first flange 282a) via a press fit, interference fit, friction fit, or other engagement between the toothed ring 358 of the second flange 282b and the spindle 342. The first flange 282a, media roll 340, and second flange 282b can thus be combined into a single unit that can be held in place via engagement between the spring tabs 462 of the spindle 284 and the first flange 282a. In this manner, the material retainer 280 can be right-aligned. For example, the unit formed by the first flange 282a, the media roll 340, and the second flange 282b can be anchored to a side of the material retainer 280 corresponding to the keyhole area 290 (eg, Figure 44C This alignment can enable the material holder 280 to hold media rolls 340 having different sizes, as described below with reference to Figure 45 As explained.

[0164] Figure 44D The side clamps 286 are depicted mounted on the material holder 280. The side clamps 286 can further stabilize the first flange 282a, the media roll 340, and the second flange 282b relative to the arm 288 (e.g., resist or prevent them from sliding). A user can position the side clamps 286 in an open configuration, such as Figure 36 As shown in , the user can position the side clamp 286 adjacent to the second flange 282b and orient the side clamp so that the attachment area 296 is positioned to align with the arm 288 of the main shaft 284, as described above with reference to Figures 40-43With the side clamp 286 correctly positioned, the user can rotate one of the first and second halves 570, 572 about the living hinge 568 until it contacts the other of the first and second halves 570, 572. In some examples, the first and second locking mechanisms 564, 566 can then engage and can help secure the side clamp 286 about the arm 288 in the closed configuration.

[0165] With the material holder 280 fully assembled, the spindle handle 294 and the side clamp handles 298 can allow a user to conveniently pick up, grip, and / or install the material holder 280 in the inkjet printer 100, the thermal printer 160, the laser printer 210, or any other suitable printing device. In some examples, the spindle handle 294 and / or the side clamp handles 298 can be coextensive with at least one standard viewing section 326 or at least one viewing window section 328. For example, the first and second flanges 282a, 282b can each be oriented such that the spindle handle 294 can be aligned with the standard window section 326 or viewing window section 328 of the first flange 282a, and the side clamp handle 298 can be aligned with the standard window section 326 or viewing window section 328 of the second flange 282b (see Figure 10 and 11 ). Such alignment can provide, for example, greater clearance or freedom for a user's hand or fingers to grasp or otherwise manipulate the material holder 280.

[0166] The driven gear 312 (see Figure 44A ) and the driven gear 312 of the second flange 282b can be positioned outwardly relative to the media roll 340. Thus, the printing device can be configured to engage the driven gear 312 of the first flange 282a and / or the driven gear 312 of the second flange 282b, for example, to drive rotation of the media roll 340.

[0167] Steering Figure 45 , the material retainer 280 can be configured for use with various sizes of media rolls 340. The main shaft 284 can be defined by a main shaft length L measured between the end tab 452 and the keyhole area 290 in a direction generally parallel to the arm 288. The media roll 340 can be defined by a roll width W measured in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the media roll 340 (e.g., the arm 288).

[0168] For example, the major axis length L may be assigned a value of at least about 160 mm, or at least about 162 mm, or at least about 164 mm, or at least about 166 mm, or at least about 168 mm, or at least about 170 mm, or at least about 172 mm, or at least about 174 mm, or at least about 176 mm, or at least about 178 mm, or at least about 180 mm. Figure 44A The assembly method described in FIG-D can enable the roll width W to be assigned a value less than approximately 108 mm without changing the spindle length L. For example, the roll width W can be assigned a value of approximately 25.4 mm, or approximately 50.8 mm, or any other suitable value. The positioning of the flanges 282a, 282b along the arm 288 of the spindle 284 can be adjusted to accommodate media rolls 340 of different sizes. For example, when the roll width W is assigned a value of approximately 50.8 mm, the flanges 282a, 282b can be positioned closer to each other along the arm 288 than when the roll width is assigned a value of approximately 25.4 mm.

[0169] In other examples, the roll width W can be assigned a value of approximately 203.2 mm. In this case, the spindle length L can be assigned a value of approximately 272.6 mm. For example, the spindle length L can be assigned a value of at least approximately 262 mm, or at least approximately 264 mm, or at least approximately 266 mm, or at least approximately 268 mm, or at least approximately 270 mm, or at least approximately 272 mm, or at least approximately 274 mm, or at least approximately 276 mm, or at least approximately 278 mm, or at least approximately 280 mm, or at least approximately 282 mm. Additionally, the roll width W can be assigned a value less than approximately 203.2 mm without changing the spindle length L. For example, the roll width W can be assigned a value of approximately 50.8 mm, or approximately 108 mm, or approximately 152.4 mm, or any other suitable value, and the positioning of the flanges 282a, 282b along the arm 288 can be adjusted accordingly.

[0170] In other examples, the roll width W can be assigned a value of approximately 254 mm. In this case, the spindle length L can be assigned a value of approximately 323.4 mm. For example, the spindle length L can be assigned a value of at least approximately 314 mm, or at least approximately 316 mm, or at least approximately 318 mm, or at least approximately 320 mm, or at least approximately 322 mm, or at least approximately 324 mm, or at least approximately 326 mm, or at least approximately 328 mm, or at least approximately 330 mm, or at least approximately 332 mm, or at least approximately 334 mm. Additionally, the roll width W can be assigned a value less than approximately 254 mm without changing the spindle length L. For example, the roll width W can be assigned a value of approximately 108 mm, or approximately 152.4 mm, or approximately 203.2 mm, or any other suitable value, and the positioning of the flanges 282a, 282b along the arm 288 can be adjusted accordingly.

[0171] In one specific embodiment, the roll width W may be assigned a value of approximately 108 millimeters (mm). In this case, the main axis length L may be assigned a value of approximately 171 mm.

[0172] It should be understood by those skilled in the art that although the above disclosure is described above in conjunction with specific embodiments and examples, the above disclosure is not necessarily so limited, and many other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications, and deviations from the embodiments, examples, and uses are intended to be covered by the appended claims. The entire disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated herein by reference, as if each such patent or publication were individually incorporated herein by reference. The various features and advantages of the above disclosure are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A material holder for a printer, comprising: a frame provided in the form of a first flange and a second flange, the first flange having a first body and a first hole, the first body being defined by a first outer periphery surrounding the first body, the first hole forming an opening in the first body, and the second flange having a second body and a second hole, the second body being defined by a second outer periphery surrounding the second body, the second hole forming an opening in the second body; a spindle having an arm extending through and engaging each of the first and second apertures and a keyhole region defining a first handle extending upwardly therefrom; as well as A side clamp is coupled to the arm at a first end thereof and has a second handle extending upwardly from the first end.

2. The material holder according to claim 1, wherein The first flange and the second flange are each imparted with a generally polygonal shape, and the first outer periphery and the second outer periphery each include a plurality of flat edges.

3. The material holder according to claim 2, wherein: The first flange and the second flange are each generally octagonal in shape.

4. The material holder according to claim 1, wherein At least one of the first flange or the second flange includes at least one material viewing window extending therethrough.

5. The material holder according to claim 4, wherein: The material viewing window of at least one of the first flange or the second flange includes a core viewing notch configured to align with a core of a media roll mounted on the material retainer, and wherein the core can be viewed through the viewing notch to estimate the remaining life of the media roll.

6. The material holder according to claim 1, wherein Each of the first flange and the second flange further comprises: a first external positioning notch located along the first external periphery or the second external periphery; and a second external positioning notch, the second external positioning notch being positioned along the first external periphery or the second external periphery opposite to the first external positioning notch; Wherein, either the first flange or the second flange can be oriented centrally and symmetrically relative to the media roll by comparing the portion of the media roll visible through the first exterior locating notch with the portion of the media roll visible through the second exterior locating notch and adjusting the position of the media roll until the portion of the media roll visible through the first exterior locating notch and the portion of the media roll visible through the second exterior locating notch are approximately equal in area.

7. The material holder according to claim 1, wherein: The side clamp further comprises: Living hinges; a first half hingedly coupled to the living hinge; and a second half hingedly coupled to the living hinge, The first half is designed to be releasably rotatable relative to the second half about the movable hinge.

8. The material holder according to claim 7, wherein: The side clamp further includes a first locking mechanism and a second locking mechanism different from the first locking mechanism.

9. The material holder according to claim 1, wherein: The first flange and the second flange each further comprise: a toothed ring disposed around the first hole or the second hole; and a plurality of barbs coupled to and extending outwardly from the toothed ring, Wherein, the plurality of barbs are configured to engage a core of a media roll when the material retainer contains the media roll disposed therein.

10. The material holder of claim 1, wherein: The spindle further includes a locating wall to ensure that the material holder is properly oriented when installed in the printer.

11. The material holder of claim 1 , wherein: At least one of the first flange or the second flange includes a driven gear configured to engage a gear drive assembly of the printer to enable the printer to drive rotation of at least one of the first flange or the second flange when the material retainer is in use.

12. The material holder of claim 1, wherein: The printer is provided in the form of an inkjet printer, a thermal printer, or a laser printer.

13. A material holder for a printer, comprising: a media roll having a generally hollow core defining an opening and a media supply wound around the core; a spindle having an arm and a keyhole region, the arm extending through the opening and the keyhole region providing an elongated handle surface; a first flange positioned between the media roll and the keyhole area; a second flange positioned adjacent the media roll and opposite the first flange; as well as A side clamp is coupled to the arm and positioned adjacent the second flange.

14. The material holder according to claim 13, wherein: The first flange and the second flange are each defined by a plurality of planar edges.

15. The material holder of claim 14, wherein: The first flange and the second flange are each generally octagonal in shape.

16. The material holder of claim 13, wherein: The first flange and the second flange each further include at least one material viewing window, wherein the material viewing window is capable of exposing at least a portion of the media roll to a user to enable the user to estimate the portion of the media roll's life remaining before the media roll must be replaced.

17. The material holder of claim 13, wherein: The side clamp further includes a second elongated handle surface.

18. The material holder of claim 17, wherein: The elongated handle surface and the second elongated handle surface each extend in the same direction relative to the media roll.

19. The material holder of claim 13, wherein: The spindle further includes a spring tab configured to receive the first flange, and wherein the first flange is positioned adjacent the keyhole area when the first flange is received by the spring tab.

20. A method of assembling a material holder for a printer, comprising: inserting an arm of the spindle into a first hole of a first flange, the first hole of the first flange being configured to allow the first flange to rotate about the arm; inserting the arm into a core of a media roll having a media supply wound around the core such that the media roll is positioned adjacent a first toothed ring of the first flange, the first toothed ring having a first plurality of barbs; pressing the media roll into the first flange so that the first plurality of barbs engage the core; inserting the arm into a second hole of a second flange, the second hole of the second flange being configured to allow the second flange to rotate about the arm, the second flange being configured such that a second toothed ring of the second flange is aligned with the core of the media roll, the second toothed ring including a second plurality of barbs; pressing the second flange into the media roll so that the second plurality of barbs engage the core; as well as A side clamp is coupled to the arm, the side clamp being positioned adjacent the second flange and configured to prevent each of the first flange, the media roll, and the second flange from sliding along the arm.

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