Variable cross-section duplex key printer

Abstract

The invention discloses a variable cross-section duplex key printer which comprises a printer body, an integrated elastic key is arranged on the printer body, a light guide assembly used for supporting the integrated elastic key is arranged in the middle of the integrated elastic key, and an upper turning cover is arranged on the printer body. An anti-reset limiting assembly is arranged between the upper turning cover and the printer body, the defects of split type keys can be overcome, the printer structure integrates cost control, efficiency improvement and appearance optimization, the turning cover is provided with an angle locking structure, the integrated elastic keys are matched with the appearance face of the printer, the problem of discordance of the split type keys is solved, and the printer is convenient to use. And the appearance defect during injection molding of the split key is overcome, and the product attractiveness is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of printer technology, and in particular to a variable cross-section dual-button printer. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, most desktop paperless printers with power-on and other function buttons use a separate button design, meaning that different functions have separate button components. This design has significant drawbacks in actual production and use: During assembly, the two independent function keys need to be installed separately, which not only increases the number of manual steps but also requires additional installation materials, leading to a double increase in labor and material costs. In terms of parts manufacturing, the separate buttons require the design of two or more molds or the adoption of a multi-part common mold production mode. After production, manual sorting of different button parts is still required, which reduces production efficiency and further increases parts manufacturing costs. In the logistics and warehousing stage, multiple independent button parts require separate packaging space during packaging and occupy more storage area during warehousing, increasing the difficulty and cost of logistics and warehousing management. In terms of appearance and user experience, the separate buttons have poor coordination with the printer housing, and they are prone to loosening and resetting when flipping the cover to change paper, requiring one hand to hold the cover open during operation, which is very inconvenient.

[0003] In view of the shortcomings of the existing technology, there is an urgent need to design a printer structure that can solve the defects of split buttons and take into account cost control, efficiency improvement and appearance optimization.

[0004] Therefore, the existing technology of printers needs further improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a variable cross-section dual-button printer that can solve the defects of split buttons, and has a printer structure that balances cost control, efficiency improvement and appearance optimization. The flip cover has an angle locking structure.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following solution: A variable cross-section dual-button printer includes a printer body, an integrated elastic button on the printer body, a light guide component for supporting the integrated elastic button in the middle of the integrated elastic button, an upper flip cover on the printer body, and an anti-reset limiting component between the upper flip cover and the printer body.

[0007] Furthermore, the integrated elastic button includes an elastic button panel, with elastic support arms at both ends of the elastic button panel, and two or more button contacts on the back of the elastic button panel.

[0008] Furthermore, the elastic support arm is C-shaped, and its two ends are respectively connected to both sides of one end of the elastic button panel.

[0009] Furthermore, the light guide assembly includes a cylindrical groove disposed on the back of the center of the elastic button panel, a cylindrical component is installed in the cylindrical groove, and a light guide component is disposed on the cylindrical component.

[0010] Furthermore, it also includes a lamp plate disposed within the printer body, and screw mounting holes for connecting and fixing to the lamp plate are provided at the middle position of the elastic support arm and at both ends of the light guide.

[0011] Furthermore, the printer body includes a lower outer cover assembly, a lower inner cover assembly, a protective cover assembly, a printhead assembly, and an upper inner cover assembly. The light panel is mounted on the upper inner cover assembly, and the integrated elastic button is mounted on the upper flip cover.

[0012] Furthermore, the protective cover assembly includes a first cover shell and a second cover shell, which are connected by a single three-section snap fastener.

[0013] Furthermore, the anti-reset limiting component includes an arc-shaped slot on the upper flip cover, an arc-shaped spring arm is provided in the arc-shaped slot, a C-shaped slot is provided at the outer end of the arc-shaped spring arm, and a card plate is provided on the printer body for locking into the C-shaped slot.

[0014] Furthermore, the anti-reset limiting component includes a rotating ring disposed on the upper flip cover, the center of the rotating ring being concentric with the rotating shaft of the upper flip cover, an arc-shaped groove being disposed on the outer wall of the rotating ring, a one-way ratchet being disposed at the lower end of the arc-shaped groove, an anti-reset rotating component being disposed inside the printer body, a limiting structure being disposed on the anti-reset rotating component for limiting the rotation angle of the anti-reset rotating component, a locking rod being disposed on the left side of the anti-reset rotating component; a rotating rod reset top rod being disposed on the outer wall of the rotating ring below the one-way ratchet, which can cause the anti-reset rotating component to flip outward, a reset trigger end being disposed on the anti-reset rotating component, and a top rod being disposed on the upper flip cover for driving the locking rod to flip inward into the arc-shaped groove.

[0015] Furthermore, the rotating ring in the anti-reset limiting assembly is made of modified polyoxymethylene material, and the anti-reset rotating component is made of reinforced polyhexamethylene adipamide material.

[0016] In summary, the advantages of this invention over the prior art are: This invention addresses the shortcomings of existing printer technology. Through its structural design, it offers the following advantages: significantly reduced costs; the integrated flexible button replaces two traditional separate buttons with a single component, reducing material usage and costs; assembly requires only one installation, simplifying the assembly process, improving efficiency, and reducing labor costs; parts manufacturing requires only one mold and easily achieves "one mold, multiple cavities" production, improving manufacturing efficiency and reducing per-piece manufacturing costs; simultaneously, the single component reduces sorting and warehousing difficulties, lowering logistics and warehousing costs; during parts manufacturing, the simplified mold structure and "one mold, multiple cavities" capability accelerate button production; during assembly, the integrated button installation and the three-section snap-fit ​​protective cover assembly reduce assembly steps, improving overall assembly efficiency; and during logistics and warehousing, the single component reduces sorting and storage complexity, improving supply chain management efficiency. The reduced gaps between the buttons and the housing improve dust and water resistance; the integrated flexible buttons match the printer's appearance, avoiding the inconsistency of separate buttons and resolving the appearance defects caused by injection molding of separate buttons, thus improving the product's aesthetics; the flip cover is equipped with an anti-reset limit component to prevent the flip cover from automatically resetting, improving the convenience of operation. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is one of the exploded views of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the present invention; Figure 3 This is the second exploded view of the present invention; Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the integrated button of the present invention; Figure 5 This is the third exploded view of the present invention; Figure 6 For the present invention Figure 5 A magnified view of part A; Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of one of the second embodiments of the anti-reset limiting component of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a second schematic diagram of the second embodiment of the anti-reset limiting component of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a third schematic diagram of the second embodiment of the anti-reset limiting component of the present invention; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the three-section buckle of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0019] Please see Figures 1-11 This invention provides a variable cross-section dual-button printer, including a printer body 1. The printer body 1 has an integrated elastic button 2. A light guide component 3 for supporting the integrated elastic button 2 is located in the middle of the integrated elastic button 2. The printer body 1 has an upper flip-top cover 800. An anti-reset limiting component 4 is located between the upper flip-top cover 800 and the printer body 1. The anti-reset limiting component 4 is used to elastically self-closing the upper cover after it is opened, preventing it from closing automatically and facilitating paper replacement. The printer body 1 is the core carrier, and the integrated elastic button 2 on it integrates the functions of traditional separate buttons. The light guide component 3 in the middle supports the button and also assists in providing an indicator light function. The anti-reset limiting component 4 between the upper flip-top cover 800 and the printer body 1 supports the upper cover through elastic self-closing points after it is opened, preventing the upper cover from closing automatically and providing operating space for the user to replace paper. The overall design achieves button integration and convenient cover opening.

[0020] During the assembly stage, the integrated button installation and the three-section snap-fit ​​protective cover assembly both reduce assembly steps; The integrated elastic button 2 of the present invention includes an elastic button panel 201, with elastic support arms 202 at both ends of the elastic button panel 201, and two or more button contacts 203 on the back of the elastic button panel 201. The elastic button panel 201 of the integrated elastic button 2 is the main body for operation and function. The elastic support arms 202 at both ends provide feedback force when the button is pressed by their own elastic deformation, and drive the panel to return to its original position after being released. The two or more button contacts 203 on the back correspond to different functions such as power on and paper output. Pressing different areas of the panel can trigger the corresponding contacts to realize multi-functional operation.

[0021] The elastic support arm 202 of the present invention is C-shaped, and its two ends are respectively connected to both sides of one end of the elastic button panel 201. The C-shaped elastic support arm 202 has better elastic deformation capability due to its structural characteristics. The two ends are connected to both sides of one end of the elastic button panel 201 to form a symmetrical support structure. When the panel is pressed, the two support arms deform synchronously to ensure that the button is subjected to uniform force, improve the pressing feel, and reduce the offset and noise when pressing.

[0022] The light guide assembly 3 of the present invention includes a cylindrical groove 301 disposed on the back of the middle of the elastic button panel 201. A cylindrical member 302 is installed in the cylindrical groove 301, and a light guide member 303 is disposed on the cylindrical member 302. In the light guide assembly 3, the cylindrical groove 301 on the back of the elastic button panel 201 provides an installation and positioning space for the cylindrical member 302. The cylindrical member 302 carries the light guide member 303. The light guide member 303 can transmit the light from the internal light source of the printer, such as the light from the lamp board, to the button panel to realize the indicator light display function. At the same time, the cylindrical member and the light guide member cooperate to enhance the support stability of the middle part of the button panel and avoid excessive deformation of the panel when pressed.

[0023] The present invention also includes a lamp plate 100 disposed within the printer body 1. Screw mounting holes 200 are provided at the middle position of the elastic support arm 202 and at both ends of the light guide 303, allowing for connection and fixation with the lamp plate 100. The lamp plate 100 within the printer body 1 provides a light source for the indicator light function. The screw mounting holes 200 at the middle of the elastic support arm 202 and at both ends of the light guide 303 are used to fix the integrated elastic button 2, the light guide assembly 3, and the lamp plate 100 with screws. This ensures the relative position of the three components is stable, guarantees accurate light transmission by the light guide, and ensures the button is securely installed, preventing loosening during use.

[0024] The printer body 1 of the present invention includes a lower outer cover assembly 300, a lower inner cover assembly 400, a protective cover assembly 500, a printhead assembly 600, and an upper inner cover assembly 700. The lamp panel 100 is mounted on the upper inner cover assembly 700, and the integrated elastic button 2 is mounted on the upper flip cover 800.

[0025] The protective cover assembly 500 of the present invention includes a first cover shell 501 and a second cover shell 502. The first cover shell 501 and the second cover shell 502 are connected by a single three-section buckle 900. The first cover shell 501 and the second cover shell 502 of the protective cover assembly 500 are connected by a single three-section buckle 900. The three-section buckle 900 can achieve quick locking and fixing through its own structure, without the need for additional fasteners, simplifying the assembly steps of the protective cover assembly, improving assembly efficiency, and ensuring the sealing and firmness of the connection between the two cover shells.

[0026] The anti-reset limiting component 4 of the present invention includes an arc-shaped slot 401 disposed on the upper flip cover 800, an arc-shaped spring arm 402 disposed in the arc-shaped slot 401, and a C-shaped slot 403 disposed at the outer end of the arc-shaped spring arm 402. The printer body 1 is provided with a card plate 404 for engaging into the C-shaped slot 403. When the anti-reset limiting component 4 is working, the upper flip cover 800 flips and drives the arc-shaped spring arm 402 in the arc-shaped slot 401 to move. The arc-shaped spring arm 402 can deform due to its elasticity. When it flips to a certain angle, the card plate 404 on the printer body 1 engages into the C-shaped slot 403 at the outer end of the arc-shaped spring arm 402. The C-shaped slot and the card plate cooperate to form a limit, preventing the upper flip cover from rotating back and closing on its own. External force is required to release the engagement, such as flipping in the opposite direction, to reset the upper flip cover.

[0027] The anti-reset limiting component 4 of the present invention includes a rotating ring 4001 disposed on the upper flip cover 800, the center of the rotating ring 4001 being concentrically arranged with the rotating shaft of the upper flip cover 800, an arc-shaped groove 4002 being disposed on the outer wall of the rotating ring 4001, and a one-way ratchet 4003 being disposed at the lower end of the arc-shaped groove 4002. An anti-reset rotating component 4004 is disposed inside the printer body 1, and the anti-reset rotating component 4004 is provided with a mechanism for limiting the movement of objects. The anti-reset rotating member 4004 has a limiting structure 4005 for its rotation angle. A locking lever 4006 is provided on the left side of the anti-reset rotating member 4004. When the rotating ring 4001 rotates upwards, the anti-reset rotating member 4004 remains within the arc-shaped groove 4002. Due to the unidirectional nature and elasticity of the one-way ratchet 4003, the locking lever 4006 will pass over the one-way ratchet 4003 and extend below it. When the latch 4006 is engaged, the anti-reset rotating member 4004 cannot rotate. If rotation is required, it continues to flip upwards. A rotating rod reset top rod 4007 is provided on the outer wall of the rotating ring 4001 below the one-way ratchet 4003, which allows the anti-reset rotating member 4004 to flip outwards. The anti-reset rotating member 4004 is provided with a reset trigger end 4008. When it continues to flip upwards, the reset trigger end 4008 is pressed against the reset trigger end by the rotating rod reset top rod 4007. At point 4008, the locking lever 4006 flips outward and disengages from the limiting position of the one-way ratchet 4003. The rotating ring 4001 can rotate, causing the upper cover 800 to rotate. When the upper cover 800 is closed, a push rod 4009 is provided on the upper cover 800 to drive the locking lever 4006 to flip into the arc groove 4002, causing the locking lever 4006 to re-enter the arc groove 4002 and repeat the action. The rotating part of the anti-reset rotating component 4004 adopts an interference fit to increase rotational friction.

[0028] The rotating ring 4001 in the anti-reset limiting component 4 of the present invention is made of modified polyoxymethylene material, and the anti-reset rotating component 4004 is made of reinforced polyhexamethylene adipamide material.

[0029] The foregoing has shown and described the basic principles and main features of the present invention, as well as its advantages. Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. The embodiments and descriptions in the specification are merely illustrative of the principles of the invention. Various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from its spirit and scope, and all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the present invention as claimed. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A variable cross-section dual-button printer, comprising a printer body (1), characterized in that: The printer body (1) is provided with an integrated elastic button (2), and a light guide component (3) for supporting the integrated elastic button (2) is provided in the middle. The printer body (1) is provided with an upper flip cover (800), and an anti-reset limiting component (4) is provided between the upper flip cover (800) and the printer body (1).

2. A variable cross-section dual-button printer according to claim 1, characterized in that: The integrated elastic button (2) includes an elastic button panel (201), with elastic support arms (202) at both ends of the elastic button panel (201) and two or more button contacts (203) on the back of the elastic button panel (201).

3. A variable cross-section dual-button printer according to claim 2, characterized in that: The elastic support arm (202) is C-shaped and its two ends are respectively connected to the two sides of one end of the elastic button panel (201).

4. A variable cross-section dual-button printer according to claim 3, characterized in that: The light guide assembly (3) includes a cylindrical groove (301) disposed in the middle back of the elastic button panel (201), a cylindrical component (302) is installed in the cylindrical groove (301), and a light guide component (303) is disposed on the cylindrical component (302).

5. A variable cross-section dual-button printer according to claim 4, characterized in that: It also includes a lamp plate (100) disposed in the printer body (1), and screw mounting holes (200) that can be connected and fixed to the lamp plate (100) are provided at the middle position of the elastic support arm (202) and at both ends of the light guide (303).

6. A variable cross-section dual-button printer according to claim 5, characterized in that: The printer body (1) includes a lower outer cover assembly (300), a lower inner cover assembly (400), a protective cover assembly (500), a printhead assembly (600), and an upper inner cover assembly (700). The light panel (100) is mounted on the upper inner cover assembly (700), and the integrated elastic button (2) is mounted on the upper flip cover (800).

7. A variable cross-section dual-button printer according to claim 6, characterized in that: The protective cover assembly (500) includes a first cover (501) and a second cover (502), which are connected by a single three-section snap fastener (900).

8. A variable cross-section dual-button printer according to claim 7, characterized in that: The anti-reset limiting component (4) includes an arc-shaped slot (401) disposed on the upper flip cover (800), an arc-shaped spring arm (402) disposed in the arc-shaped slot (401), a C-shaped slot (403) disposed at the outer end of the arc-shaped spring arm (402), and a card plate (404) disposed on the printer body (1) for being inserted into the C-shaped slot (403).

9. A variable cross-section dual-button printer according to claim 7, characterized in that: The anti-reset limiting component (4) includes a rotating ring (4001) disposed on the upper flip cover (800). The center of the rotating ring (4001) is concentric with the rotating shaft of the upper flip cover (800). An arc groove (4002) is provided on the outer wall of the rotating ring (4001). A one-way ratchet (4003) is provided at the lower end of the arc groove (4002). An anti-reset rotating component (4004) is disposed inside the printer body (1). The anti-reset rotating component (4004) is provided with a feature for limiting the rotation angle of the anti-reset rotating component (4004). The limiting structure (4005) has a locking rod (4006) on the left side of the anti-reset rotating component (4004); a rotating rod reset top rod (4007) that can flip the anti-reset rotating component (4004) outward is provided on the outer wall of the rotating ring (4001) below the one-way ratchet (4003); a reset trigger end (4008) is provided on the anti-reset rotating component (4004); and a top rod (4009) for driving the locking rod (4006) to flip inward toward the arc groove (4002) is provided on the upper flip cover (800).

10. A variable cross-section dual-button printer according to claim 9, characterized in that: The rotating ring (4001) in the anti-reset limiting component (4) is made of modified polyoxymethylene material, and the anti-reset rotating component (4004) is made of reinforced polyhexamethylene adipamide material.

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