Linkage mechanism and printer
By linking the cover and locking mechanism, the problem of inconvenient replacement of function modules in the line marking printer is solved, thus simplifying operation and improving convenience.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511443319.6
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-10-09
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-18
AI Technical Summary
Some functional modules in a line marking printer have a short lifespan, but they need to be fixed to the frame by a fastening structure during installation, which makes replacement, disassembly, or adjustment inconvenient.
The system employs a linkage mechanism, which uses the linkage design between the cover and the locking element to unlock and lock the functional components, simplifying the operation steps and reducing the resistance when opening or closing the cover.
It simplifies printer operation, improves ease of use, reduces the likelihood of forgetting to lock the printer, and lowers the difficulty of replacing or adjusting functional components.
Smart Images
Figure CN120963221A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of printer technology, and more specifically, to a linkage mechanism and a printer. Background Technology
[0002] Wire marking printers are specialized devices used for marking wiring in electrical control and distribution equipment, as well as in structured cabling projects. Specifically, they can be used to print characters on materials such as PVC tubing, heat shrink tubing, and self-adhesive labels.
[0003] Wire marking printers consist of multiple functional modules, each with a different lifespan. For example, some wire marking printers include a frame, drive rollers, and printing media. The frame and drive rollers have relatively long lifespans, while the printing media has a relatively short lifespan and requires frequent replacement, disassembly, or adjustment. In related technologies, although some functional modules in wire marking printers have short lifespans, they still need to be secured to the frame using fastening structures during installation to meet printing requirements, leading to inconvenience in replacement, disassembly, or adjustment during use. Summary of the Invention
[0004] This invention discloses a linkage mechanism and a printer to solve the technical problem of inconvenient operation in related technologies.
[0005] To solve the above problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: In a first aspect, this application provides a linkage mechanism. This linkage mechanism can be used in a printer. The printer includes a first functional component. The linkage mechanism includes a mounting body, a cover, and a locking member. A first side of the cover is rotatably connected to the mounting body, and the cover can switch between a closed state and a first open state relative to the mounting body. The locking member is disposed on the mounting body and used to lock the first functional component. The locking member can be connected to the first side of the cover. During the process of the cover switching from the closed state to the first open state, the first side of the cover can release the locking member from the first functional component. When the cover is in the closed state, the locking member is locked to the first functional component.
[0006] The technical solution adopted in this invention can achieve the following beneficial effects: The linkage mechanism provided in this application unlocks the first functional component through cover linkage. Specifically, the action of opening the cover is linked to the unlocking action of the first functional component. When the linkage mechanism is used in a printer, the operator only needs to open the cover to unlock the first functional component, and locks the first functional component during the closing of the cover. This eliminates the need for the operator to perform any further operations to unlock or lock the first functional component, and also helps to avoid situations where the operator forgets to lock the first functional component. Therefore, this solution simplifies the operation steps of the printing mechanism and improves the convenience of printer operation. In addition, placing the locking element and the cover linkage part on the side where the cover is rotatably connected to the mounting body helps to reduce the lever arm of the force exerted by the locking element on the cover, thereby reducing the resistance when the cover is opened or closed, making it easier for the operator to open the cover.
[0007] Secondly, this application provides a printer. This printer has the same structural features as the linkage mechanism provided in this application and can achieve the same or similar technical effects. Further details will not be elaborated here. Attached Figure Description
[0008] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0009] Figure 1 This is an illustration of a printer provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 1 ; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A magnified view of a portion of point A in the middle; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 1 ; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 2 ; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the locking element and the first functional component locked together according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 6 This is an illustration of a printer provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 2 ; Figure 7 This is an illustration of a printer provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 3 (Parts of the casing are not shown); Figure 8This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a printer provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 1 ; Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A magnified view of a portion of point B in the middle; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 3 (The cover is not shown); Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 4 (The cover is not shown); Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a printer provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 2 ; Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A magnified view of a portion of point C in the middle; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 5 (The cover is not shown); Figure 15 This is an illustration of a printer provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 4 .
[0010] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 100-First functional component; 110-First fastening part; 200-Linkage mechanism; 210-Mounting body; 211-Shaft structure; 220-Cover; 221-First pushing part; 222-Second pushing part; 223-Groove structure; 230-Locking element; 231-Second transmission element; 2311-First connecting part; 2312-Second connecting part; 2313-Main body; 2314-Rotating shaft; 232-Limiting element; 2321-First sub-component; 2322-Second sub-component; 233-Second fastening part; 240-First elastic element; 250-First transmission element; 260-Second elastic element; 270-Third elastic element; 300-Second functional component; 400-Fixing roller. Detailed Implementation
[0011] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention will be described in detail below. Obviously, the described embodiments are merely some embodiments of this invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this invention, all other implementation methods obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.
[0012] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and not to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such use of data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of this application can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein, and the objects distinguished by "first," "second," etc., are generally of the same class and the number of objects is not limited; for example, a first object can be one or more. Furthermore, in the claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.
[0013] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figures 1 to 15 The linkage mechanism and printer provided in this application will be described in detail through specific embodiments and application scenarios.
[0014] This application provides a linkage mechanism. This linkage mechanism can be used with a printer. (See reference...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The printer includes a first functional component 100. Exemplarily, it can be used in a line marking printer. The first functional component 100 can be a part or component capable of performing one or more functions of the printer. Exemplarily, the first functional component 100 can be, but is not limited to, a print media cartridge.
[0015] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The linkage mechanism 200 includes a mounting body 210, a cover 220, and a locking element 230. The mounting body 210 is a basic structural component that provides a mounting base for other components. For example, the cover 220 is movably disposed on the mounting body 210, and the cover 220 can switch between a closed state and a first open state relative to the mounting body 210. The locking element 230 is disposed on the mounting body 210 and used to lock the first functional component 100.
[0016] There are many ways in which the cover 220 and the mounting body 210 can be movably connected. For example, the cover 220 can be rotatably connected to the mounting body 210, that is, the cover 220 can rotate relative to the mounting body 210.
[0017] Reference Figure 9 In some embodiments, the first side of the cover 220 is rotatably connected to the mounting body 210. (See reference...) Figure 8 and Figure 9 For example, in the cover 220 and the mounting body 210, one is provided with a shaft structure 211, and the other is provided with a hole structure or groove structure 223. For example, at least a portion of the shaft structure 211 is located within the groove structure 223 and rotatably engages with the groove structure 223.
[0018] The cover 220 and the mounting body 210 can also be connected by other rotational engagement methods in the prior art, such as being connected by a flexible or elastic element, and the relative rotation of the cover 220 and the mounting body 210 is achieved by utilizing the deformation of the flexible or elastic element. Therefore, some embodiments do not limit the specific method of rotational engagement between the cover 220 and the mounting body 210.
[0019] In some embodiments, the mounting body 210 can be a housing and / or a component fixedly connected to the housing. Specifically, the mounting body 210 can be a plate or base that is positioned and mounted on the housing. For different models and different line number printers, the morphological characteristics of the housing are different, and thus the shape characteristics of the corresponding mounting body 210 are also diverse. Therefore, this embodiment does not limit the shape characteristics of the mounting body 210.
[0020] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The locking element 230 can be connected to the cover 220. For example, the locking element 230 will connect to the cover 220 after it has moved to a preset position relative to the mounting body 210. The connection between the locking element 230 and the cover 220 establishes a transmission relationship, allowing the cover 220 to move or deform the locking element 230. For example, a first side of the cover 220 can be connected to the locking element 230. Specifically, during the rotation of the cover 220 relative to the mounting body 210, at least a portion of the first side of the cover 220 will be transmissionally connected to the locking element 230, allowing the cover 220 to move relative to the mounting body 210 by acting on the locking element 230, thereby locking or unlocking the locking element 230 with the first functional component 100.
[0021] In some embodiments, when the opening degree of the cover 220 is greater than or equal to a preset value, the cover 220 may be connected to the locking member 230. The preset value can be pre-set according to specific needs, specifying the shape and / or relative position of the locking member 230 and the cover 220.
[0022] In some embodiments, when the opening of the cover 220 is less than a preset value, the portion of the cover 220 that is connected to the locking member 230 can be separated from the locking member 230.
[0023] In some embodiments, the locking member 230 is connected to the cover 220, that is, the locking member 230 and the cover 220 can maintain a transmission connection.
[0024] During the transition from a closed state to a first open state, the cover 220 can be unlocked from the first functional component 100 by the locking member 230. For example, during this transition, at least a portion of the cover 220 may be lowered below the locking member 230, causing the locking member 230 to move or deform relative to the mounting body 210, thereby unlocking the locking member 230 from the first functional component 100. Unlocking the locking member 230 from the first functional component 100 means that the first functional component 100 can be released from its restraint by the locking member 230, allowing it to separate from the locking member 230.
[0025] When the cover 220 is in the closed state, the locking member 230 locks with the first functional component 100. Specifically, during operation, the first functional component 100 is simply placed in a preset position, and then the first functional component 100 is locked by the locking member 230 in conjunction with the cover 220 during the closing process, thus locking the first functional component 100 in the preset position. The preset position can be set according to the specific type of the first functional component 100 and the shape characteristics of the printer. Therefore, some embodiments of this application do not limit the positional characteristics of the cover 220 relative to the mounting body 210 after the first functional component 100 is locked.
[0026] In some embodiments, the first functional component 100 is located within the printer. The locking element 230 can engage with the first functional component 100. For example, see... Figure 2 and Figure 5 The first functional component 100 has a first latching portion 110. The locking member 230 has a second latching portion 233. The second latching portion 233 can engage with the first latching portion 110 to restrict the separation and / or movement of the first functional component 100 from the printer. (See reference...) Figure 5 In the first fastening part 110 and the second fastening part 233, one is a fastening groove and the other is a fastening protrusion. When the cover 220 is in the closed state, at least a portion of the fastening protrusion is located in the fastening groove, and the locking member 230 is locked to the first functional component 100 by the at least a portion of the fastening protrusion abutting against the inner wall of the fastening groove.
[0027] In the above embodiments, the linkage mechanism 200 can link the locking and unlocking of the cover 220 and the first functional component 100. This eliminates the need for additional locking and unlocking mechanisms for the first functional component 100, thus simplifying the internal structure of the printer and the operator's installation or removal of the first functional component 100, improving operational convenience. Furthermore, the locking or unlocking action of the cover 220 linkage locking member 230 is located closer to the cover 220 and the first functional component 100, which helps reduce the resistance encountered by the cover 220 during opening, facilitating its opening.
[0028] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 7 The cover 220 has a second pushing part 222.
[0029] In some embodiments, the locking element 230 can be connected to multiple first functional components 100, and can synchronously or sequentially drive multiple first functional components 100 to unlock or de-lock as needed. In other embodiments, the first functional component 100 has at least two different functional modules, and the locking element 230 can drive each functional module in the first functional component 100 to be in a working state or a non-working state. Here, the working state refers to the state in which each functional module can be used normally in the printer. The non-working state refers to the state in which each functional module cannot be used normally during disassembly, assembly, or maintenance.
[0030] In some embodiments, the first functional component 100 may be a consumable cartridge. For example, the first functional component 100 may be a printing media cartridge. Specifically, the first functional component 100 may be a ribbon cartridge.
[0031] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 ,in, Figure 7 Part of the housing in the printer (not shown). In some embodiments, the cover 220 includes a first abutment 221. When the cover 220 is in the closed state, the first abutment 221 can abut against the locking member 230 and restrict the locking member 230 from switching to an unlocked state relative to the mounting body 210.
[0032] For example, when the cover 220 is in the closed state, at least a portion of the first abutment 221 is located on the movement path of the locking member 230 as it switches to the unlocked state. During the switching process of the locking member 230 to the unlocked state, the first abutment 221 at least partially abuts against the locking member 230 to restrict the movement of the locking member 230 and prevent the locking member 230 from unlocking from the first functional component 100.
[0033] In some embodiments, when the cover 220 is in the closed state, the first push portion 221 abuts against the locking member 230 and restricts the locking member 230 from switching to the unlocked state relative to the mounting body 210, so that when the cover 220 is in the closed state, the locking member 230 and the first functional component 100 can be kept in a better locking engagement.
[0034] Reference Figure 7 In some embodiments, the first abutment 221 is disposed on the first side of the cover 220. Specifically, the first abutment 221 being disposed on the first side of the cover 220 helps to reduce the distance between the first abutment 221 and the rotatable connection between the cover 220 and the mounting body 210, thereby helping to reduce the lever arm of the force exerted by the locking member 230 on the first abutment 221 relative to the rotatable connection between the cover 220 and the mounting body 210. This helps to increase the resistance of the cover 220 to the locking member 230 switching to the unlocked state.
[0035] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some embodiments, when the linkage mechanism 200 is used for a printer, the cover 220 is in a generally horizontal state. It should be noted that "generally horizontal" should be understood as the angle between the extended plane of the cover 220 and the horizontal plane being less than 90°. In this way, the cover 220 can overcome the torque of the locking member 230 acting on the first pushing part 221 by the torque generated at the rotational connection between the cover 220 and the mounting body 210 due to its own weight. Furthermore, in this situation, the force arm of the cover 220's weight used to drive the cover 220 to rotate relative to the mounting body 210 is the first force arm, and the force of the locking member 230 acting on the first pushing part 221 used to drive the cover 220 to rotate relative to the mounting body 210 is the second force arm. The first force arm is greater than the second force arm, which is beneficial for the cover 220 to close properly.
[0036] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 In some embodiments, during the process of switching the cover 220 from the first open state to the closed state, the first pushing part 221 can push against the locking member 230 and move the locking member 230 to lock and engage with the first functional component 100.
[0037] In the above embodiments, the first pushing part 221, by abutting against the locking member 230, can maintain the locked state even when the locking member 230 and the first functional component 100 are in a locked state, thereby improving the reliability of the assembly of the first functional component 100. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the operator can also determine whether the engagement position between the locking member 230 and the first functional component 100 is accurate based on the magnitude of the resistance encountered by the cover 220 during the transition from the first open state to the closed state. Moreover, the locking engagement between the locking member 230 and the first functional component 100 can be directly understood based on the closed state of the cover 220, which is beneficial for quickly determining whether the locking engagement between the locking member 230 and the first functional component 100 has achieved the expected result.
[0038] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 In some embodiments, the cover 220 may have a second open state relative to the mounting body 210. When the cover 220 is in the second open state, the locking member 230 locks with the first functional component 100. For example, the cover 220 may be in multiple different open states relative to the mounting body 210, with each open state corresponding to a different degree of opening between the cover 220 and the mounting body 210. In some embodiments, the cover 220 and the mounting body 210 are rotatably coupled, and each open state corresponds to a different angle of opening between the cover 220 and the mounting body 210.
[0039] In the above embodiments, the cover 220 has a first open state and a second open state relative to the mounting body 210. In the first open state, the locking member 230 can be unlocked from the first functional component 100. In the second open state, the locking member 230 is locked to the first functional component 100, thereby confirming the locking status of the locking member 230 and the first functional component 100 when the cover 220 is open.
[0040] In some embodiments, the cover 220 has a first damping structure, and at least one of the mounting body 210 and the locking member 230 is provided with a second damping structure. When the cover 220 is in a first open state, the first damping structure can cooperate with the second damping structure for damping. This embodiment can increase the resistance to the relative movement of the mounting body 210 and the locking member 230 when the cover 220 is in the first open state by using the first damping structure and the second damping structure, so that the cover 220 can be maintained in the first open state under the action of resistance, thereby freeing the operator's hands and thus helping the operator to better operate the first functional component 100.
[0041] In some embodiments, one of the first damping structure and the other of the second damping structure is a groove, and the other is a protrusion. Specifically, the resistance to the relative movement of the mounting body 210 and the locking member 230 can be increased by having the protrusion at least partially embedded in the groove.
[0042] In other embodiments, both the first damping structure and the second damping structure are friction pads, which come into contact with each other and abut against each other to form a resistance that hinders the relative movement of the mounting body 210 and the locking member 230.
[0043] In some embodiments, existing technologies that increase the resistance to movement between two relatively moving parts can be applied to the mounting body 210 and the locking member 230 to enhance the mounting body 210 and the locking member 230 when the cover 220 is in the first open state. Therefore, some embodiments of this application do not limit the specific structures of the first damping structure and the second damping structure.
[0044] In some embodiments, when the cover 220 is in a first open state, the opening degree of the cover 220 is a first opening degree. When the cover 220 is in a second open state, the opening degree of the cover 220 is a second opening degree. For example, the first opening degree is smaller than the second opening degree. This embodiment is beneficial for further facilitating the operator to observe and confirm the locking engagement between the locking member 230 and the first functional component 100.
[0045] In some embodiments, the linkage mechanism 200 further includes a first elastic element 240. Exemplarily, the first elastic element 240 can undergo elastic deformation under the action of an external force. Specifically, the first elastic element 240 can be, but is not limited to, a spring or an elastic band.
[0046] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 In some embodiments, the first elastic element 240 is connected to both the mounting body 210 and the locking element 230. For example, the first elastic element 240 is a spring, with one end connected to the mounting body 210 and the other end connected to the locking element 230.
[0047] In some embodiments, of the first elastic member 240 and the cover 220, one can drive the locking member 230 to unlock from the first functional component 100 during the process of the cover 220 switching from a closed state to a first open state, while the other can drive the locking member 230 to lock with the first functional component 100 during the process of the cover 220 switching from a first open state to a closed state. In this embodiment, the forces exerted by the first elastic member 240 and the cover 220 on the locking member 230 are opposite or at least partially opposite, which is beneficial for resetting the locking member 230 by the first elastic member 240 after the cover 220 acts on the locking member 230.
[0048] Reference Figure 11During the transition from a closed state to a first open state, the cover 220 pushes the locking member 230 to move relative to the mounting body 210 along a first direction, causing the first elastic member 240 to elastically deform and store energy. During the transition from the first open state to a closed state, the first elastic member 240 recovers its elastic deformation and causes the locking member 230 to move in a second direction, the first direction being opposite to the second direction. For example, the first direction could be... Figure 10 The direction indicated by F2. In this embodiment, the elastic force generated by the first elastic member 240 can act on the locking member 230 and the first functional component 100 to maintain them in a locked state, thereby improving the reliability of the locking engagement between the locking member 230 and the first functional component 100.
[0049] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 In some embodiments, when the cover 220 is in the second open state, the cover 220 is separated from the locking member 230, and the locking member 230 can be locked with the first functional component 100 under the action of the first elastic member 240.
[0050] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 In some embodiments, the printer further includes at least one second functional component 300. The second functional component 300 is movably disposed on the mounting body 210. The second functional component 300 has an operating state and a non-operating state. A cover 220 may be connected to the second functional component 300. During the process of the cover 220 switching from a first open state to a closed state, the cover 220 may switch the second functional component 300 to an operating state. The second functional component 300 is in the operating state, i.e., the state in which the printer can print jobs normally. The second functional component 300 is in the non-operating state, i.e., the state in which the printer cannot print normally.
[0051] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 14 For example, the second functional component 300 may be a drive roller. The exemplary drive roller can be used to transport the printing substrate. Specifically, the printing substrate may be, but is not limited to, PVC tubing, heat shrink tubing, self-adhesive labels, etc. In some embodiments, the second functional component 300 includes multiple sets of drive rollers. In some embodiments, at least one set of drive rollers is a drive roller. In some embodiments, each set of drive rollers in the second functional component 300 may cooperate with a set of fixed rollers 400 disposed on the mounting body 210 to achieve transmission of the printing substrate.
[0052] Figure 15In the diagram, the dashed lines illustrate the path of the substrate transported within the printer. During the switching of the second functional component 300 to the operating state, the locking member 230 causes the drive roller and the fixed roller 400 to clamp and hold the substrate, allowing the substrate to be transported by rotation of the drive roller. During the switching of the second functional component 300 to the non-operating state, the locking member 230 causes the drive roller and the fixed roller 400 to release the substrate, allowing the substrate to be assembled between the drive roller and the fixed roller 400, improving the ease of substrate assembly. For example, one drive roller corresponds to one fixed roller 400, and the drive roller can abut against the opposite sides of the substrate, clamping it. During the switching of the second functional component 300 to the operating state, the drive roller moves closer to its corresponding fixed roller 400 and clamps the substrate. During the switching of the second functional component 300 to the non-operating state, the drive roller moves away from its corresponding fixed roller 400 and releases the substrate.
[0053] In the above embodiments, the cover 220 can be linked to both the first functional component 100 and the second functional component 300, which helps to further simplify the operation of the printer.
[0054] In some embodiments, the cover 220 may be directly and / or indirectly connected to the second functional component 300, so that the cover 220 can drive the second functional component 300 to move relative to the mounting body 210, thereby enabling the second functional component 300 to switch between a working state and a non-working state. There are many specific ways and structural features in which the cover 220 can be connected to the second functional component 300, such as: rotational connection, snap-fit connection, stop connection, fastening connection, etc. Therefore, this embodiment does not limit the specific way and structural features in which the cover 220 is connected to the second functional component 300.
[0055] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the locking element 230 is connected to the second functional component 300. During the process of the cover 220 switching from the first open state to the closed state, the cover 220 activates the locking element 230 and triggers the second functional component 300 to switch to the working state. The connection between the locking element 230 and the second functional component 300 allows the locking element 230 to drive the second functional component 300, thereby enabling the locking element 230 to be used both to unlock or lock the first functional component 100 and to drive the second functional component 300 to switch working states, achieving multiple uses and simplifying the structure of the linkage mechanism 200.
[0056] In some embodiments, the locking member 230 and the second functional component 300 have multiple connection structures. One connection structure can be used by the locking member 230 to switch the second functional component 300 from an operating state to a non-operating state, and another connection structure can be used by the locking member 230 to switch the second functional component 300 from a non-operating state to an operating state. For example, the locking member 230 and the second functional component 300 have two different abutment connections. During the unlocking process of the locking member 230, the locking member 230 can abut against the second functional component 300 through one abutment connection and can switch the second functional component 300 to a non-operating state. During the locking process of the locking member 230, the locking member 230 can abut against the second functional component 300 through the other abutment connection and can switch the second functional component 300 to an operating state. In optional embodiments, the two abutment connections can be protrusions or grooves located on opposite sides of the second functional component 300.
[0057] In the above embodiments, the locking member 230 and the second functional component 300 can be bidirectionally driven, so that the second functional component 300 can be driven to reset during the process of resetting the locking member 230 by the first elastic member 240, thereby eliminating the need to set an independent reset elastic member for the second functional component 300.
[0058] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the linkage mechanism 200 further includes a first transmission member 250 and a second elastic member 260. The first transmission member 250 is connected to the second functional component 300. One end of the second elastic member 260 is connected to the first transmission member 250, and the other end is connected to the locking member 230. Specifically, the second elastic member 260 can drive the first transmission member 250, which in turn drives the second functional component 300 to switch to a working state or a non-working state. In this embodiment, the first transmission member 250 and the locking member 230 are elastically connected through the second elastic member 260, thereby enabling elastic transmission between them. That is, the elastic deformation of the second elastic member 260 can adapt to changes in the position between the locking member 230 and the first transmission member 250.
[0059] In some embodiments, the first transmission member 250 is connected to the locking member 230. (See reference...) Figure 3 and Figure 4The first transmission member 250 and the locking member 230 can be directly abutted together. Of the second elastic member 260 and the locking member 230, one can drive the second functional component 300 to switch to the working state, and the other can drive the second functional component 300 to switch to the non-working state. For example, the second elastic member 260 can drive the second functional component 300 to switch to the working state under the action of the locking member 230. The locking member 230 drives the second functional component 300 to switch to the non-working state. Optionally, the locking member 230 is abutted together with the second functional component 300, so that the locking member 230 pushes the second functional component 300 to switch to the non-working state.
[0060] Reference Figure 4 In some embodiments, the locking member 230 is engaged with the first transmission member 250 to abut against each other, so that the locking member 230 can be connected to the second functional component 300 through the first transmission member 250.
[0061] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 In some embodiments, the linkage mechanism 200 further includes a third elastic element 270. The third elastic element 270 is disposed between the first transmission element 250 and the mounting body 210. Of the third elastic element 270 and the second elastic element 260, one can drive the second functional component 300 to switch to an operating state, and the other can drive the second functional component 300 to switch to a non-operating state. (Refer to...) Figure 10 For example, the second elastic element 260 can drive the second functional component 300 to switch to an operating state, and the third elastic element 270 can drive the second functional component 300 to switch to a non-operating state. For example, the third elastic element 270 can be a torsion spring.
[0062] Reference Figure 10 The locking member 230 includes a second transmission member 231 and a limiting member 232. The limiting member 232 is used to lock the first functional component 100. The second transmission member 231 can be connected to the limiting member 232 and acts to lock or unlock the limiting member 232 with the first functional component 100. The second elastic member 260 is connected to the second transmission member 231, and the second elastic member 260 can drive the second transmission member 231 to abut against the limiting member 232 and / or the first pushing part 221. In the above embodiments, the second elastic member 260 can be used to reset the second transmission member 231, which is beneficial for maintaining a stable abutment relationship between the second transmission member 231 and the limiting member 232. In addition, in some embodiments, the second elastic member 260 can also be used to adjust the clamping force between the transmission roller and the fixed roller 400 in the second functional component 300, thereby helping to adjust the driving force of the printer to transport the printing substrate.
[0063] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 7In some embodiments, the second transmission member 231 has a first connecting portion 2311. The first connecting portion 2311 is connected to the second elastic member 260, and the first connecting portion 2311 can abut against the first pushing portion 221 under the action of the second elastic member 260. This embodiment is beneficial in preventing the second transmission member 231 from shaking after the cover 220 is closed, and improving the reliability and accuracy of the assembly and transmission of each component in the linkage mechanism 200. In addition, in this embodiment, both the second elastic member 260 and the first connecting portion 2311 of the second transmission member 231 are acted upon, which is beneficial in balancing the force exerted by the second elastic member 260 on the second transmission member 231 by the first pushing portion 221, thereby improving the reliability of the second transmission member 231.
[0064] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The second transmission member 231 has a second connecting portion 2312. One of the opposite sides of the second connecting portion 2312 can abut against the limiting member 232, and the other can abut against the second pushing portion 222. For example, during the process of the second transmission member 231 pushing the limiting member 232 to move, the force can be directly transmitted to the limiting member 232 through the second connecting portion 2312, thereby helping to balance the force on the second connecting portion 2312 and improving the stability and accuracy of the linkage mechanism 200.
[0065] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the second transmission member 231 has a main body portion 2313 and a rotating shaft portion 2314. One end of the main body portion 2313 can abut against the limiting member 232 and the second pushing portion 222, and the other end can abut against the first pushing portion 221. The rotating shaft portion 2314 is rotatably connected to the mounting body 210, and the rotating shaft portion 2314 is offset relative to the main body portion 2313 towards the side closer to the first pushing portion 221.
[0066] Reference Figure 4 In some embodiments, the second elastic member 260 is biased relative to the main body 2313 toward the side of the main body 2313 adjacent to the first pushing part 221. Therefore, when the cover 220 is closed, the force on the second transmission member 231 is mainly the elastic force generated by the second elastic member 260 and the thrust generated by the first pushing part 221. Biasing the pivot portion 2314 relative to the main body 2313 toward the side closer to the first pushing part 221 is beneficial to improving the reliability of the second transmission member 231.
[0067] Reference Figure 4In some embodiments, the pivot portion 2314 is offset relative to the main body portion 2313 towards the side closer to the first push portion 221, which can form a clearance space at the end of the second transmission member 231 near the main body portion 2313 near the limiting member 232 and the second push portion 222, providing space for other components and thus improving the compactness of the structure of each component in the printer.
[0068] Reference Figure 4 In some embodiments, the second transmission member 231 can move relative to the limiting member 232, and the relative movement of the second transmission member 231 and the limiting member 232 allows the second transmission member 231 and the limiting member 232 to switch between transmission engagement and disengagement. For example, disengaging the transmission engagement between the second transmission member 231 and the limiting member 232 can be achieved by separating the second transmission member 231 and the limiting member 232 from each other, resulting in a state where transmission is impossible between them. In other embodiments, disengaging the transmission engagement between the second transmission member 231 and the limiting member 232 can also be achieved by ensuring that the second transmission member 231 and the limiting member 232 are not engaged in any direction of relative movement, thereby allowing relative movement between the second transmission member 231 and the limiting member 232, resulting in a state where the second transmission member 231 cannot drive the limiting member 232 during its movement.
[0069] Specifically, during the closing process of the cover 220, the first pushing part 221 can disengage the transmission engagement between the second transmission member 231 and the limiting member 232. During the opening process of the cover 220, the second elastic member 260 can engage the transmission engagement between the second transmission member 231 and the limiting member 232. For example, the first pushing part 221, by acting on the second transmission member 231, causes the second transmission member 231 to separate from the limiting member 232, and drives the second elastic member 260 to undergo elastic deformation. In some embodiments, this solution can be used to adjust the magnitude of the force exerted by the transmission roller and the fixed roller 400 on the printing substrate, thereby facilitating the adjustment of the force driving the printing substrate to transmit power.
[0070] Reference Figure 11 In some embodiments, the limiting member 232 includes a first sub-member 2321 and a second sub-member 2322. Both the first sub-member 2321 and the second sub-member 2322 are movably disposed on the mounting body 210. The first sub-member 2321 is connected to the second transmission member 231 and can move relative to the mounting body 210 along a second direction under the action of the second transmission member 231. The second sub-member 2322 is used to lock the first functional component 100. The second sub-member 2322 abuts against the first sub-member 2321 and can move relative to the mounting body 210 along a second direction under the action of the first sub-member 2321, where the first direction intersects the second direction. For example, the first direction is... Figure 10 The direction shown in F1, the second direction is Figure 10The direction indicated by F2.
[0071] Reference Figure 11 In some embodiments, the first sub-component 2321 and the second sub-component 2322 are engaged in a stop-and-hold engagement. Further optionally, a first elastic member 240 is disposed between the second sub-component 2322 and the mounting body 210. Referring to the figure, a second fastening portion 233 is disposed on the second sub-component 2322, and the second fastening portion 233 is released from the first fastening portion 110 by the second sub-component 2322 moving relative to the mounting body 210 in a second direction.
[0072] In the above embodiment, the limiting member 232 is configured as a first sub-part 2321 and a second sub-part 2322. The transmission direction is adjusted by the different moving directions of the first sub-part 2321 and the second sub-part 2322 relative to the mounting body 210, so as to adapt to the fastening engagement direction of the first fastening part 110 on the first functional component 100. This solves the problem in the related art that the locking engagement direction of the first functional component 100 is different from the moving direction of the cover 220 and therefore cannot be linked.
[0073] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, this application also provides a printer. The printer includes a first functional component 100, a second functional component 300, and a linkage mechanism 200 disclosed in embodiments of this application. Exemplarily, the first functional component 100 is a printing media cartridge. The second functional component 300 is a drive roller.
[0074] For example, the first functional component 100 can be locked in place with the locking element 230 in the linkage mechanism 200. Specifically, the locking element 230 can be unlocked from the first functional component 100 by opening the cover 220, so as to facilitate the replacement or inspection and maintenance of the print media cartridge.
[0075] In some embodiments, this application also provides a method for using a printer. This method is applicable to printers disclosed in some embodiments. The method includes: Step 101: Open the cover to the first open state. The first open state is when the cover's locking mechanism is in the unlocked position. Step 103, Install the first functional component; Step 105: Close the cover until the cover locking mechanism is in the locked position.
[0076] The unlocked position of the locking element refers to its position relative to the mounting body when it is unlocked from the first functional component installed in the preset position. The locked position of the locking element refers to its position relative to the mounting body when it is locked in engagement with the first functional component installed in the preset position. Specifically, when the locking element is in the unlocked position, it can be unlocked from the first functional component. When the locking element is in the locked position, it can be locked in engagement with the first functional component.
[0077] In some embodiments, after step 103 and before step 105, the printer usage method further includes step 107, opening the cover to a second open state. The second open state is characterized by the cover being open while the cover linkage locking member is in a locked position. This step is beneficial for checking the cooperation between the locking member and the first functional component.
[0078] In some embodiments, after step 107, the printer usage method further includes: checking the engagement of the locking member with the first functional component. This ensures that when the locking member and the first functional component are lockably engaged, the cover is closed until the cover-linked locking member is in the locked position.
[0079] If the locking element and the first functional component cannot lock into place or the locking engagement does not achieve the expected result, the printer usage method further includes: step 109, adjusting the position of the first functional component relative to the mounting body and / or replacing the first functional component.
[0080] In some embodiments, before step 105 and after step 101, the printer usage method further includes: mounting the substrate to the second functional component.
[0081] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Furthermore, it should be pointed out that the scope of the methods and apparatuses in the embodiments of this application is not limited to performing functions in the order shown or discussed, but may also include performing functions substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order, depending on the functions involved. For example, the described methods may be performed in a different order than described, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Additionally, features described with reference to certain examples may be combined in other examples.
[0082] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.
Claims
1. A linkage mechanism characterised in that, The linkage mechanism can be used in a printer, which includes a first functional component (100). The linkage mechanism (200) includes a mounting body (210), a cover (220), and a locking element (230). A first side of the cover (220) is rotatably connected to the mounting body (210), and the cover (220) can switch between a closed state and a first open state relative to the mounting body (210). The locking element (230) is disposed on the mounting body (210) and used to lock the first functional component (100). The locking element (230) can be connected to the first side of the cover (220). During the process of the cover (220) switching from the closed state to the first open state, the first side of the cover (220) can release the locking member (230) from the first functional component (100); When the cover (220) is in the closed state, the locking member (230) locks with the first functional component (100).
2. The linkage mechanism of claim 1, wherein The cover (220) includes a first push part (221). When the cover (220) is in the closed state, the first push part (221) abuts against the locking member (230) and restricts the locking member (230) from switching to the unlocked state relative to the mounting body (210).
3. The linkage mechanism of claim 2, wherein, The cover (220) may have a second open state relative to the mounting body (210), and when the cover (220) is in the second open state, the locking member (230) locks with the first functional component (100); And / or, the cover (220) has a first damping structure, and at least one of the mounting body (210) and the locking member (230) is provided with a second damping structure. When the cover (220) is in a first open state, the first damping structure can cooperate with the second damping structure for damping. And / or, the linkage mechanism (200) further includes a first elastic element (240), which is connected to the mounting body (210) and the locking element (230) respectively. In the process of the cover (220) switching from the closed state to the first open state, one of the first elastic element (240) can drive the locking element (230) to unlock the first functional component (100), and the other can drive the locking element (230) to lock the first functional component (100) during the process of the cover (220) switching from the first open state to the closed state. And / or, the first push part (221) is disposed on the first side of the cover (220).
4. The linkage mechanism according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The printer also includes a second functional component (300), which is movably disposed on the mounting body (210). The second functional component (300) has a working state and a non-working state. The cover (220) can be connected to the second functional component (300). During the process of the cover (220) switching from the first open state to the closed state, the cover (220) can switch the second functional component (300) to the working state.
5. The linkage mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, The locking element (230) is connected to the second functional component (300). During the process of the cover (220) switching from the first open state to the closed state, the cover (220) acts on the locking element (230) and links the second functional component (300) to switch to the working state.
6. The linkage mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, The linkage mechanism (200) further includes a first transmission member (250) and a second elastic member (260). The first transmission member (250) is connected to the second functional component (300). One end of the second elastic member (260) is connected to the first transmission member (250), and the other end is connected to the locking member (230). The second elastic member (260) can drive the first transmission member (250) and drive the second functional component (300) to switch to a working state or a non-working state through the first transmission member (250).
7. The linkage mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first transmission member (250) is connected to the locking member (230). Of the second elastic member (260) and the locking member (230), one can drive the second functional component (300) to switch to the working state, and the other can drive the second functional component (300) to switch to the non-working state. And / or, the linkage mechanism (200) further includes a third elastic element (270), which is disposed between the first transmission element (250) and the mounting body (210). One of the third elastic element (270) and the second elastic element (260) can drive the second functional component (300) to switch to the working state, and the other can drive the second functional component (300) to switch to the non-working state.
8. The linkage mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that, The locking member (230) includes a second transmission member (231) and a limiting member (232). The limiting member (232) is used to lock the first functional component (100). The second transmission member (231) can be connected to the limiting member (232) and can lock or unlock the limiting member (232) with the first functional component (100). The second elastic member (260) is connected to the second transmission member (231), and the second elastic member (260) can drive the second transmission member (231) to stop against the limiting member (232) and / or the first pushing part (221).
9. The linkage mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second transmission member (231) has a first connecting part (2311), which is connected to the second elastic member (260), and the first connecting part (2311) can stop against the first pushing part (221) under the drive of the second elastic member (260). And / or, the second transmission member (231) has a second connecting portion (2312), the cover (220) has a second pushing portion (222), and one of the opposite sides of the second connecting portion (2312) can abut against the limiting member (232), and the other can abut against the second pushing portion (222). And / or, the second transmission member (231) has a main body (2313) and a rotating shaft (2314), one end of the main body (2313) can stop against the limiting member (232) and the second pushing part (222), and the other end can stop against the first pushing part (221). The rotating shaft (2314) is rotatably connected to the mounting body (210), and the rotating shaft (2314) is offset relative to the main body (2313) towards the side closer to the first pushing part (221). And / or, the second transmission member (231) can move relative to the limiting member (232), and the relative movement of the second transmission member (231) and the limiting member (232) allows the second transmission member (231) and the limiting member (232) to switch between transmission engagement and disengagement. During the closing of the cover (220), the first pushing part (221) can disengage the second transmission member (231) from the limiting member (232); during the opening of the cover (220), the second elastic member (260) can engage the second transmission member (231) with the limiting member (232). And / or, the first functional component (100) is a print media cartridge; And / or, the second functional component (300) is a drive roller for transporting the substrate.
10. A printer, characterized in that, The printer includes the linkage mechanism described in any one of claims 1 to 9.