Printing apparatus

Abstract

A printing apparatus includes: a tape cartridge housing portion capable of selectively housing a first tape cartridge that houses at least a printing medium and a second tape cartridge that houses at least the printing medium and that is different from the first tape cartridge; and a first member that, when the first tape cartridge is housed in the tape cartridge housing part, is movable from a first position, which is a position where the first tape cartridge is not housed, to a second position where the housing of the first tape cartridge is not obstructed, and that, when the second tape cartridge is housed in the tape cartridge housing part, does not move from the first position, and does not move from the second position when the second tape cartridge is not housed in the tape cartridge housing part. The tape cartridge storage device is further provided with a second member that, when the first tape cartridge is stored in the tape cartridge storage part, is moved while at least a portion of the first tape cartridge is brought into contact with the second member, and is capable of moving from a third position, which is a position where the first tape cartridge is not stored, to a fourth position where storage of the first tape cartridge is not obstructed. When the second tape cartridge is housed in the tape cartridge housing portion, the second member does not move by the second tape cartridge.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on September 14, 2022, with application number 202211113032.3 and title "Printing Apparatus". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a printing apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-144250 discloses a tape printing apparatus comprising: a cartridge mounting portion for mounting a tape cartridge, the tape cartridge having a first housing and a second housing, the first housing having a peripheral wall portion from which a first hook protrudes from a front end face, the recess depth of a first base end side portion on the outer peripheral surface of the peripheral wall portion differing between various tape cartridges (cassettes) as a portion closer to the base end of the first hook; the second housing having a first hook receiving portion that engages with the first hook; and a first base end side portion detection sensor that, when the tape cartridge is mounted in the cartridge mounting portion, outputs a change based on the recess depth of the first base end side portion. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The problem the invention aims to solve As described in Patent Document 1, there is a problem with the following: for a printing apparatus (label printer) that installs a box or case containing the tape for printing, even if it is desired to install multiple types of boxes of different shapes, the parts for installing one type of box interfere with another type of box and cannot be installed. Only one type of box with a shape suitable for the main body of the printing apparatus can be installed to avoid interference.

[0005] In view of the above, the object of the present invention is to provide a printing apparatus capable of mounting multiple tape boxes of different shapes or types.

[0006] Problem-solving methods To achieve the above objectives, one aspect of the printing apparatus of the present invention is characterized by comprising: The cartridge storage section is capable of selectively storing a first cartridge and a second cartridge, wherein the first cartridge at least contains printed media, and the second cartridge at least contains printed media and is of a different type than the first cartridge; and The first component, when the first tape holder is stored in the tape holder storage section, can move from a first position (where the first tape holder is not stored) to a second position that does not obstruct the storage of the first tape holder. On the other hand, when the second tape holder is stored in the tape holder storage section, the first component does not move from the first position. It also includes a second component, which, when the first tape box is stored in the tape box storage part, moves by having at least a portion of the first tape box abutting against the second component, and the second component can move from a third position, which is the position when the first tape box is not stored, to a fourth position that does not obstruct the storage of the first tape box. On the other hand, when the second tape box is stored in the tape box storage part, the second component does not move due to the second tape box.

[0007] The effects of the invention According to the present invention, a printing apparatus capable of mounting multiple boxes of different shapes or types can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the printing apparatus according to Embodiment 1.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the main parts of Embodiment 1.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a top view showing the structure of the main parts of Embodiment 1.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a top view showing the structure of the main part after the narrow-width or wide-width strap box is housed in Embodiment 1.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a top view showing the structure of the main part of the tape box for storing ink-attached bandwidth in Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the storage mechanism in Embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism in Embodiment 1 before the narrow-width strap box is stored.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism for storing the narrow-width strap box in Embodiment 1.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism for storing the narrow-width strap box according to Embodiment 1.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism in Embodiment 1 before the wide strap box is stored.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism in the middle of the storage box of Embodiment 1.

[0019] Figure 12 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism after storing the wide strap box according to Embodiment 1.

[0020] Figure 13 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism in Embodiment 1, which is about to house the ink-attached bandwidth tape box.

[0021] Figure 14 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism after storing the ink-attached bandwidth tape box according to Embodiment 1.

[0022] Figure 15 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism in Embodiment 2.

[0023] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of the storage mechanism of Embodiment 2, showing the box base supporting the installed box and the release guide.

[0024] Figure 17A It is along Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the storage mechanism in its initial state, cut off by section line XVII-XVII.

[0025] Figure 17B It is along Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the storage mechanism cut off by section line XVII-XVII, in the state after the box base and release guide have been moved.

[0026] Figure 18 This is a top view showing the relationship between the storage mechanism of Embodiment 2 and the narrow-width or wide-width strap box in its initial state.

[0027] Figure 19 This diagram shows the state of the storage mechanism in Embodiment 2 before the narrow-width strap box is stored, and it is along... Figure 18 A sectional view cut off by section line XIX-XIX.

[0028] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the storage mechanism in Embodiment 2 after the narrow-width strap box has been stored.

[0029] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the storage mechanism in Embodiment 2 after the wide strap box has been stored.

[0030] Figure 22 This is a top view showing the relationship between the storage mechanism and the ink-attached bandwidth tape box of Embodiment 2 in its initial state.

[0031] Figure 23This diagram shows the state of the storage mechanism in Embodiment 2 before the ink-retaining bandwidth tape cartridge is stored, and it is along... Figure 22 A sectional view cut off by section lines XXIII-XXIII.

[0032] Figure 24 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the storage mechanism in Embodiment 2 after the ink-attached bandwidth tape box has been stored. Detailed Implementation

[0033] (Implementation Method 1) Hereinafter, the printing apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the same or equivalent parts in the drawings are labeled with the same reference numerals, and for the three mutually orthogonal axes (X-axis, Y-axis, Z-axis) indicated in each drawing, the direction in which the arrow points is defined as positive, and the direction opposite to the positive direction is defined as negative. The printing apparatus 1 of Embodiment 1 is a label printer that prints characters, marks, patterns, or images on a label (strip)-shaped printing medium (strip member M) conveyed by a transport unit.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the frame 2 of the printing apparatus 1 is cylindrical, with an elliptical base. The surface of the frame 2, corresponding to the side surface of the column, has two planes 2a orthogonal to the base and two curved surfaces 2b connecting the two planes 2a. Furthermore, a recess 2c is formed on one of the two curved surfaces 2b.

[0035] An outlet 2d is formed in the recess 2c. The printed tape member M is discharged from the outlet 2d to the outside of the device after being printed inside the printing apparatus 1. The outlet 2d is a slit-shaped opening extending in a direction parallel to the bottom surface. The frame 2 may include: a connection terminal for connecting to an information processing device (external device) including a personal computer, smartphone, tablet terminal, etc. (not shown); an insertion port for inserting a storage medium including a memory card; and a power terminal for connecting a power cord (not shown). In addition, as described above, the printing apparatus 1 can perform printing based on printing data received by a wired connection to an information processing device such as a personal computer, smartphone, tablet terminal, etc. (not shown) via a wired cable, or it can perform printing based on printing data received via a wireless connection based on short-range wireless communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0036] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the main part 8 of the internal structure of the printing apparatus 1 housed in the frame 2 in Embodiment 1. Figure 2As shown, the main part 8 of the internal structure, which is composed of various components, is housed inside the frame 2. The main part 8 has a base part 11 and a box holding part 12. The base part 11 has a flat plate part 11a on which various components are mounted, and the box holding part 12 is disposed on the base part 11.

[0037] The box holding part 12 includes: a holding part body 12a, capable of holding (storing) the box described later; and a plurality of legs 12b, erected on the flat part 11a, separating the flat part 11a from the holding part body 12a. For example, there are four legs 12b. Figure 2 The diagram shows one of them. The main body 12a of the holding part has a box storage part 12c (box storage part 12c) which is divided into storage space for storing the box. The box can be easily loaded and unloaded and stored in the box storage part 12c.

[0038] In this embodiment 1, the cartridge storage unit 12c can selectively store one of the narrow-width cartridge 100, the wide-width cartridge 200, and the ink-coated wide-width cartridge 300, and can perform printing on the strip-shaped printing medium (cartridge member M) extracted from each cartridge. Furthermore, "narrow-width," "wide-width," etc., are used for convenience; in reality, it can store cartridges of various widths corresponding to tape members M with widths (widths of tape members M) of 6mm, 9mm, 12mm, 18mm, 24mm, 36mm, 46mm, etc. In this embodiment 1, the tape widths stored in the narrow-width cartridge 100, the wide-width cartridge 200, and the ink-coated wide-width cartridge 300 (hereinafter, these cartridges are sometimes simply referred to as cartridges) are described as 12mm, 46mm, and 24mm, respectively. Furthermore, the storage of the narrow-width ink tape cassette into the cassette storage section 12c is the same as the storage of the wide-width ink tape cassette 300, so the description is omitted in this embodiment 1.

[0039] Furthermore, the narrow-width tape cassette 100 and the wide-width tape cassette 200 are tape cassettes with different thicknesses in the Y-axis direction depending on the width of the tape member M they house, but have the same shape except for the thickness and the pressing protrusion (described later). On the other hand, the wide-width inked tape cassette 300 houses not only the tape member M, but also at least the ink ribbon R for printing (heat transfer) on the tape member M and the ribbon winding core 3005 (described later) for recycling the used ink ribbon R' after printing. Therefore, its shape is different from that of the narrow-width tape cassette 100 and the wide-width tape cassette 200.

[0040] The tape members housed in the narrow-width tape cassette 100 and the wide-width tape cassette 200 differ in their printing method from those housed in the inked wide-width tape cassette 300. In the narrow-width tape cassette 100 and the wide-width tape cassette 200, a thermal tape that changes color upon heating is used as the printing medium, and printing is performed by heating the thermal tape by energizing the thermal printhead 10. On the other hand, in the inked wide-width tape cassette 300, printing is performed by thermally transferring the ink tape R onto the tape member by energizing the thermal printhead. In this embodiment 1, for simplicity, the tape members in both printing methods are represented as tape member M.

[0041] Figure 3 This is a top view of the main internal structure, part 8. Figure 4 This is a top view showing the narrow-width tape box 100 and the wide-width tape box 200 housed in the box storage section 12c. Figure 5 This is a top view of the ink-attached wideband tape cassette 300 housed in the cassette storage section 12c.

[0042] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, each tape cassette has a thermal head insertion portion 1006 (thermal head insertion portion 2006) and a thermal head insertion portion 3006 formed therein for inserting the thermal head 10 (printing section 10). The narrow-width tape cassette 100 (wide-width tape cassette 200) has at least a housing 1001 (housing housing 2001) for receiving the tape member M. A tape core 1002 (tape core 2002) is provided in the housing 1001 (housing housing 2001). In addition, the ink-coated wide-width tape cassette 300 has at least a housing 3001 for receiving the tape member M and the ink tape R (used ink tape R'). A tape core 3002, a tape supply core 3004, and a tape winding core 3005 are provided in the housing 3001.

[0043] The tape component M is rolled onto the respective tape cores 1002 (tape core 2002) and 3002 inside the box housing 1001 (box housing 2001) and box housing 3001, respectively. The tape component M is, for example, a tape having a substrate and a release liner, the substrate having an adhesive layer, and the release liner being peelably adhered to the substrate in a manner that covers the adhesive layer. The ink tape R for printing (thermal transfer) is rolled onto the tape supply core 3004 inside the box housing 3001 with its leading end wound on the tape winding core 3005. The tape component M and the ink tape R are arranged such that they overlap and cross the concave thermal head insertion portion 3006.

[0044] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the main part 8 includes: a thermal head 10 with multiple heating elements for printing on the tape component M; a pressure roller 21 for conveying the tape component M and the ink ribbon R; and a tape winding drive shaft 23 for winding the used ink ribbon R'. The thermal head 10 and the pressure roller 21 are positioned to clamp the tape component M that crosses the thermal head insertion part 1006 (thermal head insertion part 2006), or to clamp the tape component M and the ink ribbon R that cross the thermal head insertion part 3006. The tape winding drive shaft 23 is configured to pass through (insert through) the holding part body 12a in the Y-axis direction and protrude into the box storage part 12c.

[0045] Although the diagram is omitted, the main part 8 is still at the outlet 2d ( Figure 1 Near the label (as shown), there is a full cutter 17 and a half cutter 16. The full cutter 17 is a cutter that cuts the (printed) tape member M to make a tape sheet (label sheet). On the other hand, the half cutter 16 is a cutter used to form a slit at the front end of the tape member M, so that the release layer can be easily peeled off from the substrate with the adhesive layer.

[0046] like Figure 4 As shown, the retaining body 12a is provided with a claw (locking part 12d), which locks against a locking part 1009 (locking part 2009) located on the side of the housing 1001 (housing housing 2001) of the narrow-width strap box 100 (wide-width strap box 200). The narrow-width strap box 100 (wide-width strap box 200) is positioned in the Y-axis direction by being locked by the claw (locking part 12d) when stored in the box storage part 12c. Figure 2 As shown, the claw (locking portion 12d) has a protrusion 12f that extends from the retaining body 12a in the +Y direction, and its cross-section protruding into the inner side of the box storage portion 12c is mountain-shaped. Additionally, as... Figure 7 as well as Figure 9 As shown, the locking portion 1009 (locking portion 2009) is a convex portion formed on the side of the box housing 1001 (box housing 2001). When the narrow-width strap box 100 (wide-width strap box 200) is stored in the box storage portion 12c, the protrusion 12f of the claw (locking portion 12d) can be engaged with the locking portion 1009 (locking portion 2009) by making the locking portion 1009 (locking portion 2009) pass over the protrusion 12f of the claw (locking portion 12d).

[0047] like Figure 4 and 5As shown, the holding body 12a is provided with a base 12e, which is used to arrange the support cutouts 1001a (support cutouts 2001a) and 3001a of the housing 1001 (housing 2001a) of the narrow-width tape cassette 100 (wide-width tape cassette 200) and the housing 3001 of the ink-filled wide-width tape cassette 300, respectively. The base 12e protrudes from the holding body 12a in the positive direction of the Y-axis and has a flat upper portion, which is set to approximately the same height (same position in the Y-axis direction) as the cassette base fixing portion 5111 described later. At least a portion of the narrow-width tape cassette 100 (wide-width tape cassette 200) and the ink-filled wide-width tape cassette 300 are supported by the base 12e.

[0048] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, when the case is stored in the case storage section 12c, the thermal head 10 is inserted into the thermal head insertion sections 1006 (thermal head insertion section 2006) and 3006 respectively formed on the case housing 1001 (case housing 2001) and case housing 3001. Furthermore, as... Figure 5 As shown, a tape winding core 3005 is engaged with the tape winding drive shaft 23. Furthermore, as... Figure 4 As shown, a through hole 1005 (2005) for the tape winding drive shaft is provided in the housing 1001 (housing 2001) and is not engaged with the tape winding drive shaft 23 but is inserted through it.

[0049] The pressure roller 21 has a cylindrical shape extending along the Y-axis and rotates about the pressure roller shaft 21a. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the pressure roller 21 forward-feeds the belt member M, or the belt member M and ink ribbon R, by pressing it against the thermal head 10 while rotating counterclockwise. This forward-feeding period is called the forward feeding period, during which the belt member M is fed in the positive direction of the X-axis (towards discharge port 2d). Conversely, by rotating the pressure roller 21 clockwise, the belt member M, or the belt member M and ink ribbon R, is fed in the reverse direction. This reverse feeding period is called the reverse feeding period, during which the belt member M is fed in the negative direction of the X-axis (opposite to the direction of discharge port 2d).

[0050] The tape winding drive shaft 23 can be Figure 5The shaft 25 shown rotates clockwise or counterclockwise around its center. The tape winding drive shaft 23 rotates clockwise during forward transport. As a result, the ink tape R, which is forward-conveyed by the pressure roller 21, is wound onto the tape winding core 3005. Conversely, during reverse transport, the ink tape R (used ink tape R') that is reverse-conveyed by the pressure roller 21 is pulled out from the tape winding core 3005, thereby causing the tape winding drive shaft 23 to rotate counterclockwise.

[0051] Inside the frame 2, there is also a control unit for controlling the conveying section (paper pressure roller 21) and the printing section (thermal head 10). The control unit is configured to include, for example, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). In addition, the conveying section is driven by a stepper motor or the like (not shown).

[0052] The narrow-width tape cassette 100 and the wide-width tape cassette 200 are housed in the cassette storage section 12c by moving the cassette base 511 and the release guide 521 (described later). The narrow-width tape cassette 100 and the wide-width tape cassette 200 are also collectively referred to as the first tape cassette. The first tape cassette at least houses the printed medium (tape member M). On the other hand, the inked wide-width tape cassette 300 does not move the cassette base 511 and the release guide 521 when it is housed in the cassette storage section 12c. The inked wide-width tape cassette 300 is also referred to as the second tape cassette. The second tape cassette at least houses the printed medium (tape member M) and is a different type of tape cassette from the first tape cassette. In this embodiment 1, it houses the tape member M and the ink tape R.

[0053] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the storage mechanism of Embodiment 1, including the box storage section 12c. Furthermore, for simplicity, structures such as the thermal head 10 and the pressure roller 21 are omitted, and other structures besides the storage mechanism are shown in solid lines. Additionally, as... Figure 6 As shown, the storage mechanism includes a base portion 11, a box base 511, a box base button 512, a box base spring 513 as a first elastic member, a release guide 521, and a release spring 522 as a second elastic member.

[0054] The holding body 12a has the size and shape (depth in the Y-axis direction, etc.) to accommodate each cartridge. The material of the holding body 12a is not particularly limited, and it can be made of resin or metal, for example.

[0055] The cartridge base 511 includes: a cartridge base fixing portion 5111 that abuts against a portion (first cutout 3007) of the ink-attached wide tape cartridge 300; a button guide portion 5112 (guide portion) that is recessed in the positive direction of the Z-axis to guide a guided protrusion 512a provided on the side of the cartridge base button 512 in a positive direction of the Z-axis; and a cartridge detection switch 5113. Figure 7 As shown, the button guide portion 5112 extends in a direction parallel to the XY plane. Furthermore, the button guide portion 5112 has a shape in which at least a portion extends along the Y-axis direction and one end (the upper end) bends at a predetermined angle in the negative direction of the X-axis direction (a shape in which at least a portion extends at an angle relative to the Y-axis direction). That is, the button guide portion 5112 has a first extension portion 5112a extending along the Y-axis direction and a second extension portion 5112b connected to the +Y direction side end of the first extension portion 5112a and extending at an angle relative to the Y-axis. Additionally, as... Figure 6 As shown, the cartridge base 511 is movably mounted on the base portion 11 in the X-axis direction. The material of the cartridge base 511 is not particularly limited; it can be made of, for example, resin or metal. Furthermore, the cartridge detection switch 5113 is a switch that, for example, abuts against a portion (first cutout 3007) of the ink-broadband cartridge 300 and is pressed, and the pressed switch varies depending on the shape of the ink-broadband cartridge 300 (the shape of the first cutout 3007). Thus, for example, the tape width can be detected. Furthermore, the cartridge detection switch 5113 is not limited to cartridges containing ink tape; it can also be pressed by cartridges that do not contain ink tape. In this case, the cartridge detection switch 5113 can also detect the type of cartridge. Furthermore, the number of cartridge detection switches 5113 is not limited to the number shown in the figure.

[0056] When it is desired to store the ink-coated wide tape cassette 300 in the cassette storage section 12c (when the ink-coated wide tape cassette 300 is moved in the negative direction of the Y-axis), the cassette base 511 abuts against the first cutout 3007 of the ink-coated wide tape cassette 300. The cassette base 511 is a component (first component) used when storing each tape cassette in the cassette storage section 12c. It moves when it abuts against the narrow-width tape cassette 100 or the wide-width tape cassette 200, and does not move when it abuts against the ink-coated wide tape cassette 300. Furthermore, when it is desired to store the narrow-width tape cassette 100 or the wide-width tape cassette 200 in the cassette storage section 12c, a portion of the narrow-width tape cassette 100 or the wide-width tape cassette 200 (the pressing protrusion described later) abuts against the cassette base button 512 that protrudes from the cassette base 511 in the positive direction of the Y-axis.

[0057] The box base button 512 is a member (pressed portion) comprising a rod-shaped main body extending along the Y-axis and a guided protrusion 512a guided by a button guide 5112. The main body abuts against a pressing protrusion 1008 (pressing protrusion 2008), which is respectively disposed below the narrow-width box 100 and the wide-width box 200, extending in the direction of being housed in the box storage portion 12c. Furthermore, one end of a box base spring 513, serving as a force-applying member extending along the Y-axis, is fixed below the box base button 512, and the other end of the box base spring 513 is fixed to the flat plate portion 11a of the base portion 11. Thus, the box base button 512 is installed so that it can move (apply force) relative to the base portion 11 in the Y-axis direction. The material of the box base button 512 is not particularly limited; for example, it may be made of resin or metal. Furthermore, the base spring 513 may be, for example, a metal coil spring, but the material and structure are not limited thereto. One end of the base button 512 is positioned in the +Y direction further than the end of the base fixing portion 5111.

[0058] When the narrow-width tape box 100 or the wide-width tape box 200 is stored in the box storage section 12c, the box base button 512 abuts against the pressing protrusion 1008 (pressing protrusion 2008) provided below the narrow-width tape box 100 and the wide-width tape box 200, and as the narrow-width tape box 100 or the wide-width tape box 200 is pressed, the box base button 512 is pressed in the negative direction of the Y-axis.

[0059] The release guide 521 is a component (second component) that abuts against the loosening prevention portion provided in the second cutout portion 3008 of the ink-coated tape cassette 300 when it is desired to house the ink-coated tape cassette 300 in the cassette housing portion 12c (when the ink-coated tape cassette 300 is moved in the negative direction of the Y-axis). One end of a release spring 522, which extends in the Y-axis direction and serves as a force-applying component, is fixed inside the release guide 521, and the other end of the release spring 522 is fixed to the flat plate portion 11a of the base portion 11. Thus, the release guide 521 is installed so that it can move (apply force) relative to the base portion 11 in the Y-axis direction. The material of the release guide 521 is not particularly limited; for example, it can be made of resin or metal. Furthermore, the release spring 522 is, for example, a metal helical spring, but the material and structure are not limited to these.

[0060] Furthermore, the release guide 521 is a component that abuts against the ink-coated belt width cartridge 300. It serves to release the loosening prevention function of the loosening prevention portion (not shown) located below the second cutout 3008, which is provided to prevent the belt member M housed in the ink-coated belt width cartridge 300 from loosening (unfolding). When the loosening prevention portion does not abut against the release guide 521, the loosening prevention portion restricts the movement of the roller-shaped belt member M in the outer circumferential direction within the ink-coated belt width cartridge 300. On the other hand, when the loosening prevention portion abuts against the release guide 521 and is pushed upwards in the positive direction of the Y-axis, the restriction on the movement of the roller-shaped belt member M in the outer circumferential direction within the ink-coated belt width cartridge 300 is released. Thus, the belt member M can be transported normally. Furthermore, the loosening (unfolding) phenomenon of the belt member M is particularly significant in belt members M with relatively wide widths (36mm, 46mm, etc.), such as the ink-coated belt width cartridge 300.

[0061] On the other hand, when the narrow-width tape box 100 or the wide-width tape box 200 is housed in the box storage section 12c, the release guide 521 moves in the negative direction of the Y-axis while abutting against a part (lower surface) of the wide-width tape box 200.

[0062] The following uses Figures 7 to 14 This describes the operation of the storage mechanism when the narrow-width tape cassette 100, the wide-width tape cassette 200, and the ink-filled wide-width tape cassette 300 are stored in the cassette storage section 12c.

[0063] Figures 7 to 9 This is a side view showing the operation of the storage mechanism of Embodiment 1 when the narrow-width box 100 is stored in the box storage section 12c. (Refer to...) Figures 7 to 9 The operation of the box base 511, box base button 512, box base spring 513, release guide 521 and release spring 522 when the narrow-width box 100 is stored in the box storage section 12c is explained. Figure 7 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism before the narrow-width box 100 is housed in the box storage section 12c. (See attached image.) Figure 7 As shown, the position of the narrow-width strap box 100 installed on the box base 511 before the box storage section 12c is set as the initial position (first position). In addition, the position of the narrow-width strap box 100 installed on the release guide 521 before the box storage section 12c is set as the initial position (third position).

[0064] like Figure 7 As shown, when the narrow-width tape box 100 is pressed toward the box storage section 12c (towards the negative direction of the Y-axis), the pressing protrusion 1008 located on the lower part of the narrow-width tape box 100 first abuts against the box base button 512.

[0065] Figure 8 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism in which the narrow-width box 100 is stored midway within the box storage section 12c. (See attached image.) Figure 8 As shown, when from Figure 7 When the button 512 is pressed further, the base button 512 is pressed in the negative direction of the Y-axis. At this time, as the guided protrusion 512a of the base button 512 is guided by the second extension 5112b of the button guide 5112, the base 511 moves in the negative direction of the X-axis. That is, the base 511 moves to a clearance position (second position) that does not obstruct the storage of the narrow-width strap box 100. In other words, the base 511 moves from the initial position (first position) to the clearance position (second position) through the indirect action of at least a part of the narrow-width strap box 100 (pressing protrusion 1008). In addition, by moving the base button 512 in the negative direction of the Y-axis, the base spring 513 is compressed.

[0066] Figure 9 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism where the narrow-width box 100 is housed after being placed in the box storage section 12c. (See attached image.) Figure 9 As shown, when from Figure 8 When the button 512 is pressed further, the base button 512 moves further in the negative Y-axis direction. Meanwhile, as the narrow-width tape box 100 is pressed in the negative Y-axis direction, the release guide 521 abuts against the lower surface of the narrow-width tape box 100 and moves together with the narrow-width tape box 100 in the negative Y-axis direction. That is, the release guide 521 moves to a clearance position (fourth position) that does not obstruct the storage of the narrow-width tape box 100. Furthermore, by moving the release guide 521 in the negative Y-axis direction, the release spring 522 is compressed.

[0067] At this time, the locking part 1009 provided on the side of the box housing 1001 is locked by the claw (locking part 12d) provided on the holding part body 12a, thereby restricting the movement of the narrow width strap box 100 in the Y-axis direction. Thus, the narrow width strap box 100 is stored (fixed) in the box storage part 12c.

[0068] The following describes the operation of the box base 511, box base button 512, box base spring 513, release guide 521, and release spring 522 when the narrow-width strap box 100 is removed from the box storage section 12c.

[0069] When the claw (locking part 12d) provided on the holding part body 12a is disengaged from the locking part 1009 provided on the side of the box housing 1001 and the narrow-width strap box 100 is pulled up and taken out from the box storage part 12c, the compressed box base spring 513 extends and the box base button 512 moves in the positive direction of the Y-axis.

[0070] When the base button 512 moves in the positive direction of the Y-axis, the guided protrusion 512a of the base button 512 is guided by the second extension setting part 5112b of the button guide part 5112, causing the base 511 to move in the positive direction of the X-axis, and the base 511 and the base button 512 move to their initial positions respectively.

[0071] On the other hand, when the narrow-width tape box 100 is pulled up and removed from the box storage section 12c, the already compressed release spring 522 extends and the release guide 521 moves to the initial position.

[0072] Figures 10 to 12 This is a side view showing the operation of the storage mechanism of Embodiment 1 when the wide-band box 200 is stored in the box storage section 12c. (Refer to...) Figures 10 to 12 The operation of the box base 511, box base button 512, box base spring 513, release guide 521 and release spring 522 when the wide-width box 200 is stored in the box storage section 12c is explained. Figure 10 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism that houses the wide-band box 200 before it is placed in the box storage section 12c. (See attached image.) Figure 10 As shown, the position of the box base 511 before the wide strap box 200 is installed in the box storage section 12c is set as the initial position (first position). In addition, the position of the release guide 521 before the narrow strap box 100 is installed in the box storage section 12c is set as the initial position (third position).

[0073] like Figure 10 As shown, when the wide strap box 200 is pressed toward the box storage section 12c (towards the negative direction of the Y-axis), the pressing protrusion 2008 provided on a part of the lower surface of the wide strap box 200 first abuts against the box base button 512.

[0074] The pressing protrusion 2008 of the wide strap box 200 is configured to be longer than the pressing protrusion 1008 of the narrow strap box 100 along the Y-axis direction. In other words, the pressing protrusion 2008 of the wide strap box 200 is configured to be longer than the pressing protrusion 1008 of the narrow strap box 100 along the width direction of the strap member M.

[0075] Figure 11This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism that houses the wide-band box 200 midway within the box storage section 12c. (See attached image.) Figure 11 As shown, when from Figure 10 When the button 512 is pressed further, the base button 512 is pressed in the negative direction of the Y-axis. At this time, as the guided protrusion 512a of the base button 512 is guided by the second extension 5112b of the button guide 5112, the base 511 moves in the negative direction of the X-axis. That is, the base 511 moves to a clearance position (second position) that does not obstruct the storage of the narrow-width strap box 100. In other words, the base 511 moves from the initial position (first position) to the clearance position (second position) through the indirect action of at least a part of the narrow-width strap box 100 (pressing protrusion 1008). In addition, by moving the base button 512 in the negative direction of the Y-axis, the base spring 513 is compressed.

[0076] Figure 12 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism where the wide-band box 200 is housed after the box storage section 12c. (Example) Figure 12 As shown, when from Figure 11 When the button 512 is pressed further, the base button 512 moves further in the negative Y-axis direction. Meanwhile, as the wideband cassette 200 is pressed in the negative Y-axis direction, the release guide 521 abuts against the lower surface of the wideband cassette 200 and moves together with the wideband cassette 200 in the negative Y-axis direction. That is, the release guide 521 moves to a clearance position (fourth position) that does not obstruct the storage of the wideband cassette 200. Furthermore, by moving the release guide 521 in the negative Y-axis direction, the release spring 522 is compressed.

[0077] At this time, the locking part 2009 provided on the side of the box housing 2001 is locked by the claw (locking part 12d) provided on the holding part body 12a, thereby restricting the movement of the wide strap box 200 in the Y-axis direction. Thus, the wide strap box 200 is stored (fixed) in the box storage part 12c.

[0078] The following describes the operation of the box base 511, box base button 512, box base spring 513, release guide 521, and release spring 522 when the wide strap box 200 is removed from the box storage section 12c.

[0079] When the claw (locking part 12d) provided on the holding part body 12a is disengaged from the locking part 2009 provided on the side of the box housing 2001 and the wide strap box 200 is pulled up and taken out from the box storage part 12c, the compressed box base spring 513 extends and the box base button 512 moves in the positive direction of the Y axis.

[0080] When the base button 512 moves in the positive direction of the Y-axis, the guided protrusion 512a of the base button 512 is guided by the second extension setting part 5112b of the button guide part 5112, causing the base 511 to move in the positive direction of the X-axis, and the base 511 and the base button 512 move to their initial positions respectively.

[0081] On the other hand, when the narrow-width tape box 100 is pulled up and removed from the box storage section 12c, the compressed release spring 522 extends and the release guide 521 moves to the initial position.

[0082] like Figures 10 to 12 As shown, during the process of storing or removing the wide strap box 200 into or from the box storage section 12c, the box base 511, box base button 512, box base spring 513, release guide 521, and release spring 522 operate (move) in the same way as when storing and removing the narrow strap box 100. However, because the wide strap box 200 has a greater thickness than the narrow strap box 100, the box base button 512 and release guide 521 move more in the negative Y-axis direction than when the narrow strap box 100 is stored.

[0083] Figure 13 and Figure 14 This is a side view showing the operation of the storage mechanism of Embodiment 1 when the ink-coated tape cassette 300 is housed in the cassette storage section 12c. (Refer to...) Figure 13 and Figure 14 This describes the situation where the ink-attached bandwidth tape 300 is stored in the tape storage section 12c.

[0084] Figure 13 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism before the ink-attached bandwidth tape 300 is housed in the cartridge storage section 12c. Figure 14 This is a side view showing the structure of the storage mechanism where the ink-attached bandwidth tape 300 is housed after the tape storage section 12c. (As shown) Figure 13 As shown, when the ink-attached bandwidth tape 300 is pressed towards the cartridge storage section 12c (towards the negative direction of the Y-axis), as... Figure 14As shown, the ink-filled tape holder 300 abuts against the holder base 511 and the release guide 521. At this time, since there is no pressing protrusion for pressing the holder base button 512 below the ink-filled tape holder 300, the ink-filled tape holder 300 does not press or move the holder base button 512, and the first cutout 3007 located below abuts against the holder base fixing part 5111. Furthermore, since the holder base 511 can only move in the X-axis direction, even if the ink-filled tape holder 300 is pressed in the negative Y-axis direction, the holder base 511 does not move in the negative Y-axis direction. Therefore, the movement of the ink-filled tape holder 300 in the negative Y-axis direction is restricted by the holder base 511, and thus the holder base 511, holder base button 512, and release guide 521 do not move from their respective initial positions. Thus, storage (fixation) in the holder storage part 12c is completed.

[0085] On the other hand, in the ink-attached wide tape cassette 300, a loosening prevention part (not shown) located below the second cutout 3008 abuts against the release guide 521. Since the force applied by the release spring 522 in the positive direction of the Y-axis is stronger than the force by which the loosening prevention part pushes the release guide 521 back, the release guide 521 does not move in the negative direction of the Y-axis.

[0086] Furthermore, the storage of the narrow-width ink tape cassette (e.g., tape width 12mm) into the cassette storage section 12c is the same as the storage of the wide-width ink tape cassette 300. The storage (fixation) of the narrow-width ink tape cassette into the cassette storage section 12c is accomplished by restricting further movement of the narrow-width ink tape cassette in the negative direction of the Y-axis by abutting the cutout provided below the narrow-width ink tape cassette against the cassette base fixing section 5111.

[0087] With the above structure, the printing apparatus 1 of this embodiment 1 can install multiple tape boxes of different shapes and types even in the same box storage section.

[0088] To realize a printing apparatus capable of mounting multiple boxes of different shapes and types, the overall size of the printing apparatus would be increased by enlarging the mounting area of ​​the boxes to avoid interference between the components and the boxes, or by providing multiple box storage sections. The printing apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 is a small printing apparatus capable of mounting multiple boxes of different shapes and types.

[0089] To enable a printing apparatus capable of mounting multiple tape boxes of different shapes and types, sometimes, in cases where the mounting area for the tape boxes is enlarged to avoid interference between components and tape boxes, or multiple tape storage sections are provided, other components, i.e., accessories, are sometimes used that allow tape boxes to be mounted at the mounting area, even if they were not originally mounted there. This increases the workload for the user in installing the accessories and may result in misalignment or forgetting to install them. The printing apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 enables a printing apparatus capable of mounting multiple tape boxes of different shapes without using accessories.

[0090] (Implementation Method 2) Next, Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In Embodiment 1, the guided protrusion 512a is guided by a second extension portion 5112b that extends at an angle relative to the Y-axis, causing the box base 511, which is the first member, to move along the X-axis direction. In contrast, in Embodiment 2, a sliding surface (sliding portion) is formed between the first member and the second member. By moving the second member along the Y-axis direction, the first member slides on the contacting sliding surface, causing it to move along the X-axis direction. Furthermore, the sliding surface is an inclined surface that is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the direction of the storage box. The structure of Embodiment 2 differs from that of Embodiment 1 in that the first member, the second member, and the structure surrounding these members are different, but otherwise they are common. Therefore, in the following description, the focus will be on the structure different from that of Embodiment 1, and the common structures will be labeled with the same reference numerals, omitting detailed descriptions.

[0091] like Figure 18 As shown, the main part 108 has a box base 50 as a first component and a release guide 60 as a second component. Furthermore, as... Figure 16 As shown, the main part 108 has a sliding support 70, which supports the box base 50 so that the box base 50 can be positioned between the main part 108 and the retaining body 12a. Figure 15 They slide along the X-axis between each other.

[0092] The base 50 and the protrusions 100b of the narrow-width tape cassette 100, the wide-width tape cassette 200 and the ink-attached wide-width tape cassette 300 ( Figure 20 ), 200b ( Figure 21 ) and 300b ( Figure 24 It contacts and supports each belt box. For example... Figure 16 As shown, the box base 50 has a sliding base portion 51, a main body portion (first component main body portion) 52 erected on the sliding base portion 51, and an extension portion 53 extending from the sliding base portion 51 toward the release guide 60 in the +X direction. The sliding base portion 51, the main body portion 52, and the extension portion 53 are integrally formed, and the box base 50 moves integrally along the X-axis.

[0093] The sliding base portion 51 is supported on the bottom plate portion 12g of the box holding portion 12. Figure 18 The sliding base 51 and the sliding support 70 can slide in the X-axis direction. The sliding surface 51a on the +Y direction side of the sliding base 51 and the base plate 12g ( Figure 18 (Outer surface contact)

[0094] The main body 52 is a columnar member erected from the sliding base 51 in the +Y direction. For example... Figure 18 As shown, the main body 52 protrudes from the box base opening 31 formed in the holding body 12a to the inside of the holding body 12a, defining a portion of the storage space for storing the box. Figure 16 As shown, a protruding contact portion 52a supporting each of the boxes is formed at the upper end (the end on the +Y direction side) of the main body 52.

[0095] The extension 53 is a plate-shaped member that extends from the sliding base 51 in the +X direction. An inclined surface 53a, which is parallel to the Z-axis and whose normal vector has +X and +Y components, is formed at the corner of the front end of the extension 53 on the +Y direction side. The inclined surface 53a functions as a sliding part that allows the release guide 60 to slide.

[0096] Additionally, a plate 54 is installed at the intersection of the extension 53 and the sliding base 51. A hole 54a for hooking the tension spring 75, which serves as a third elastic member, is formed in the center of the plate 54. The plate 54 reinforces the base of the extension 53.

[0097] like Figure 15 As shown, the sliding support 70 is threaded onto a protrusion 13 that protrudes from the retaining body 12a in the -Y direction. Specifically, as shown in FIG17, the sliding support 70 is mounted on the outside of the retaining body 12a via four screws 71 passing through the four corners. Figure 16 As shown, a recess 70a is formed in the sliding support portion 70, which opens toward the +Y direction. A sliding base portion 51 is housed in this recess 70a. The recess 70a is provided with sufficient length in the X-axis direction to allow the sliding base portion 51 to move.

[0098] As shown in Figure 17, the tension spring 75 is arranged along the X-axis on the outside of the retaining body 12a. A hook 75a at one end of the tension spring 75 is hooked onto the plate 54 provided on the box base 50. On the other hand, a hook 75b at the other end is hooked onto the hook portion 12h formed in the base plate 12g. The tension spring 75 connects the retaining body 12a and the box base 50, and applies force to the box base 50 in the +X direction.

[0099] like Figure 16As shown, the release guide 60 has: a main body 62 with a flange 61 formed at one end; and a compression spring 65, which serves as a fourth elastic member to connect the main body 62 to the base 11. Figure 19 )connect.

[0100] A flange 61 is formed at the end of the main body 62 on the -Y direction side. A cutout 61a is formed in the flange 61. The guide rail 14 (described later) is located in this cutout 61a. Figure 15 The guide rail 14 guides the release guide 60 along the Y-axis. The flange 61 passes through the surface on the +Y direction side and connects with the base plate portion 12g ( Figure 18 The main body 62 is positioned by the compression spring 65 applying force in the +Y direction to the surface of the -Y direction.

[0101] The main body 62 contacts and supports the narrow-width strap box 100 and the wide-width strap box 200 via a contact portion 62a at its end on the +Y direction side. When the storage mechanism is in its initial state, as... Figure 19 As shown, the contact portion 62a is located on the +Y direction side of the contact portion 52a of the box base 50. Therefore, the release guide 60 contacts the narrow-width strap box 100 and the wide-width strap box 200 stored therein before the box base 50. On the other hand, as... Figure 22 As shown, the ink-attached wide tape cassette 300 has a second cutout 3008 that avoids the main body portion 62. As a result, the ink-attached wide tape cassette 300 does not contact the contact portion 62a, and a portion of the main body portion 62 is housed within the second cutout 3008.

[0102] And, as Figure 16 As shown, the main body 62 has a columnar portion 63 erected in the +Y direction and a protrusion 64 protruding from the columnar portion 63. Figure 18 As shown, the main body 62 protrudes from the release guide opening 32 formed in the holding body 12a to the inside of the holding body 12a, and defines a portion of the storage space for storing the cassette.

[0103] When viewed from the +Y direction, columnar portion 63 is roughly fan-shaped, such as... Figure 18 As shown, the outer surface 63b forming the arc portion contacts the main body 12a of the retaining portion. Figure 15 As shown, two linear protrusions 63a extending in the Y-axis direction are formed on the outer surface 63b. These two protrusions 63a are inserted into a slit 12i extending in the Y-axis direction formed in the holding body 12a. As a result, the release guide 60 can be moved stably in the Y-axis direction.

[0104] like Figure 16As shown, the protrusion 64 is a portion that protrudes from the +Z direction of the columnar portion 63, and like the columnar portion 63, it is an upright portion in the Y-axis direction. An inclined surface 64a, which is parallel to the Z-axis direction and whose normal vector has -X and -Y components, is formed at the corner of the protrusion 64 on the -Y direction side. This inclined surface 64a functions as a sliding portion for sliding the box base 50. When the release guide 60 is not pressed and is in its initial position, the inclined surface 64a is in partial contact with the inclined surface 53a formed in the extension 53. The inclined surfaces 53a and 64a are inclined in the same direction and come into surface contact with each other when the release guide 60 moves in the -Y direction. Furthermore, the contact state between the inclined surfaces 53a and 64a when the release guide 60 is in its initial position can be arbitrarily set, and they can also be in full surface contact.

[0105] Compression spring 65 is located between the main body 62 and the base 11 of release guide 60. Figure 15 Between ), the compression spring 65 moves in the -Y direction as the release guide 60 moves, exerting a large restoring force to return the release guide 60 to its original position.

[0106] In addition, such as Figure 15 As shown in Figure 17, a guide rail 14 is formed on the surface of the retaining body 12a facing the -Y direction. The guide rail 14 guides the pressed release guide 60 in the -Y direction. The guide rail 14 extends from the release guide opening 32 formed in the retaining body 12a. Figure 18 The periphery of the base portion 11 extends to the base portion 11. For example... Figure 17A , Figure 17B As shown, the cross-section of the guide rail 14 when cut with a plane orthogonal to the Y-axis is approximately "Π". Furthermore, a slit 14a extending in the Y-axis direction is formed in the guide rail 14 for the insertion of the extension 53. The protrusion 64 of the release guide 60 is housed inside the guide rail 14. Thus, the pressed release guide 60 is guided along the extension direction of the guide rail 14, i.e., the Y-axis.

[0107] Next, the operation of the storage mechanism when the narrow-width tape cassette 100, the wide-width tape cassette 200, and the ink-coated wide-width tape cassette 300 are housed in the cassette storage section 12c will be explained. Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the tape width housed (stored) in the ink-coated wide-width tape cassette 300 was described as 24 mm, but in this embodiment, the tape width is 46 mm.

[0108] exist Figure 18In the diagram, the narrow-width tape box 100 and the wide-width tape box 200 are indicated by double-dotted lines, and the extent of the tape box is filled with a shading line. That is, the shading line is for ease of understanding the extent of the tape box, not to represent its cross-section. The narrow-width tape box 100 and the wide-width tape box 200 each have protrusions 100b and 200b projecting from the side, as shown... Figure 19 and Figure 21 As shown. When the narrow-width strap box 100 and the wide-width strap box 200 are housed in the box storage portion 12c, the protrusions 100b and 200b contact the box base 50. Furthermore, as... Figure 19 and Figure 21 As shown, the narrow-width strap box 100 and the wide-width strap box 200 have thick-walled portions 100a and 200a, which are inserted deeper than the protrusions 100b and 200b in the -Y direction. The wider the strap member M is housed, the thicker the thick-walled portions 100a and 200a become. Figure 20 In the middle, the thick-walled portions 100a and 200a of the narrow-width band box 100 and the wide-width band box 200 are shaded with a darker color.

[0109] like Figure 18 As shown, when viewing the tape cassettes 100 and 200 positioned in a predetermined planar position (within the XZ plane) from the +Y direction, the thick-walled portions 100a and 200a overlap with the contact portions 52a of the cassette base 50 and 62a of the release guide 60. Therefore, the tape cassettes 100 and 200, moving in the -Y direction for storage, interfere with the cassette base 50 and release guide 60 in their initial state. In other words, within the storage space defined by the cassette base 50 and release guide 60 in their initial state, space is not guaranteed for storing the narrow-width tape cassette 100 and the wide-width tape cassette 200. In the printing apparatus of this embodiment, the narrow-width tape cassette 100 and the wide-width tape cassette 200 press against the release guide 60, thereby securing storage space for the tape cassettes.

[0110] In the case of storing a narrow-width 100mm box, firstly, as Figure 18 As shown, the narrow-width tape box 100 is positioned in a predetermined planar position relative to the main body 12a of the retaining part.

[0111] Subsequently, as Figure 19As shown, the narrow-width strap box 100 is moved in the -Y direction (towards storage) and approaches the holding body 12a. Furthermore, a pressing protrusion 101 protruding in the -Y direction is formed on the surface of the narrow-width strap box 100 facing the -Y direction. The pressing protrusion 101 is positioned to abut against the contact portion 62a of the release guide 60. As described above, the contact portion 62a is located closer to the strap boxes 100 and 200 in the +Y direction than the contact portion 52a of the box base 50. Therefore, the narrow-width strap box 100, moving in the -Y direction, initially brings the pressing protrusion 101 into contact with the contact portion 62a of the release guide 60.

[0112] From the state where the pressing protrusion 101 contacts the contact portion 62a, the narrow width tape holder 100 is further moved in the -Y direction. Then, the narrow width tape holder 100 resists the compression spring 65 ( Figure 16 The restoring force applied by the spring 75 causes the release guide 60 to move (press) in the -Y direction. The released guide 60, thus pressed, has its protrusion 64 guided by the guide rail 14 to move in the -Y direction. At this time, the inclined surface 53a formed in the extension 53 slides on the inclined surface 64a that moves in the -Y direction. Therefore, the box base 50 having the extension 53 resists the tension spring 75... Figure 16 The release guide 60 moves in the -X direction due to the restoring force of the release guide 60. Thus, by moving the release guide 60 in the -Y direction and the box base 50 in the -X direction, the storage space of the box is expanded. The box base 50, due to the indirect effect of the pressing protrusion 101 (which is part of the narrow-width box 100) pressing the release guide 60, moves in the -X direction while abutting against the release guide 60.

[0113] By further moving the narrow-width tape box 100 in the -Y direction, such as Figure 20 As shown, the inclined surface 53a and the inclined surface 64a no longer contact each other, and the front end 53b of the extension 53 slides on the side 64b of the protrusion 64. By achieving this state, the box base 50 stops moving in the -X direction. At this time, the box base 50 is in a second position that does not obstruct the storage of the narrow-width strap box 100. Then, by further moving the narrow-width strap box 100 in the -Y direction, the protrusion 100b of the narrow-width strap box 100 contacts the contact portion 52a of the box base 50. At this time, the narrow-width strap box 100 is stopped by the locking portion 12d ( Figure 18 ( ) Locking. Thus, the narrow-width strap box 100 can be stored and held in the holding body 12a.

[0114] To remove the narrow-width strap box 100, simply remove the locking part 12d provided on the holding body 12a from the narrow-width strap box 100. This releases the guide member 60. Figure 16The restoring force of the compression spring 65 shown causes the narrow-width strap box 100 to move in the +Y direction and be removed from the storage space.

[0115] Additionally, by disengaging the locking portion 12d from the narrow-width tape box 100, the release guide 60 is compressed by the spring 65. Figure 16 It moves in the +Y direction due to the restoring force of ). Then, as Figure 19 As shown, the release guide 60 returns to its initial position (second position) by abutting against the wall surface 72 on the +X direction side of the defined recess 70a, formed on the wall 51b on the +X direction side of the sliding base portion 51. Furthermore, the box base 50 is subjected to the tension spring 75 ( Figure 16 It moves in the +X direction due to the restoring force of ). Then, as Figure 17A As shown, the box base 50 is reset to its initial position (first position) by abutting against the bottom plate 12g through the flange 61.

[0116] Next, we will explain the operation of the storage mechanism when storing a 200mm wide strap box. First, as... Figure 18 As shown, the wide strap box 200 is positioned in a predetermined planar position relative to the retaining body 12a.

[0117] Then, the wideband cassette 200 is moved in the -Y direction, close to the holding part body 12a. Furthermore, a pressing protrusion 201 protruding in the -Y direction is formed on the surface of the wideband cassette 200 facing the -Y direction. The pressing protrusion 201 is positioned to abut against the contact portion 62a of the release guide 60.

[0118] From the state where the pressing protrusion 201 contacts the contact portion 62a, the wide-width tape holder 200 is further moved in the -Y direction. Then, the wide-width tape holder 200 resists the compression spring 65 ( Figure 16 The restoring force applied causes the release guide 60 to move (press down) in the -Y direction. Therefore, similar to the case of housing the narrow-width strap box 100, the box base 50 with the extension 53 resists the tension spring 75. Figure 16 The release guide 60 moves in the -X direction while the box base 50 moves in the -X direction, thus expanding the storage space of the box. The box base 50 moves in the -X direction while abutting against the release guide 60, indirectly acting by pressing the release guide 60 with the pressing protrusion 201, which is part of the wide-width box 200.

[0119] By further moving the wideband cassette 200 in the -Y direction, such as Figure 21 As shown, the protrusion 200b of the wide-width strap box 200 contacts the contact portion 52a of the box base 50. At this time, the wide-width strap box 200 is locked by the locking portion 12d ( Figure 18 (This is achieved by) locking the tape box 200 in place. Thus, the wide tape box 200 can be stored and held in the holding body 12a. Furthermore, the wide tape box 200 is thicker than the narrow tape box 100, so as compared... Figure 20 and Figure 21 As is understandable, the wideband box 200 will press the release guide 60 further in the -Y direction.

[0120] The method for removing the wide-width tape box 200 from the main body 12a of the holding section is the same as the method for removing the narrow-width tape box 100, so the description is omitted.

[0121] Next, the operation of the storage mechanism will be explained when the ink-attached bandwidth tape 300 is stored in the tape storage section 12c. Figure 22 In the diagram, the width of the inked tape cassette 300 is represented by a double-dotted line, and the extent of the cassette is filled with a shading line. That is, the shading line is for ease of understanding the extent of the cassette, not to represent its cross-section. The width of the inked tape cassette 300 has a protrusion 300b projecting from the side, such as... Figure 24 As shown. When the ink-coated tape cassette 300 is housed in the cassette housing portion 12c, the protrusion 300b contacts the cassette base 50. Furthermore, as... Figure 24 As shown, the ink-attached wide tape cartridge 300 has a thick-walled portion 300a, which is inserted in the -Y direction into a portion deeper than the protrusion 300b. Figure 22 In the middle, the thick-walled portion 300a of the ink-attached bandwidth tape 300 is shaded with a darker color.

[0122] like Figure 22 As shown, when the ink-coated bandwidth tape cassette 300, positioned in a predetermined planar location, is viewed from the +Y direction, the thick-walled portion 300a does not overlap with the contact portion 52a of the cassette base 50 and the contact portion 62a of the release guide 60. Therefore, by moving the ink-coated bandwidth tape cassette 300 in the -Y direction, the ink-coated bandwidth tape cassette 300 can be directly stored in the cassette storage portion 12c. That is, as... Figure 23 As indicated by the arrow, the ink-retaining tape cassette 300 is moved in the -Y direction, close to the holding body 12a. Then, the thick-walled portion 300a of the ink-retaining tape cassette 300 is directly inserted into the storage space partially formed by the cassette base 50 in its initial position and the release guide 60. At this time, a portion of the protrusion 64 of the release guide 60 is inserted into the second cutout 3008 of the ink-retaining tape cassette 300, and the ink-retaining tape cassette 300 moves in the -Y direction while its side slides on the protrusion 64. Furthermore, the release guide 60 is supported by a compression spring 65 (… Figure 16A force is applied in the +Y direction. Therefore, the release guide 60 does not move in the -Y direction, but remains stationary. Therefore, the box base 50 also does not move in the -X direction, but remains stationary. Ultimately, as... Figure 24 As shown, the protrusion 300b of the ink-receiving bandwidth tape cassette 300 abuts against the contact portion 52a of the cassette base, thus restricting the movement of the ink-receiving bandwidth tape cassette 300 in the -Y direction. Therefore, the ink-receiving bandwidth tape cassette 300 can be housed within the holding body 12a.

[0123] According to embodiment 2, the cartridge base 50, which defines a portion of the cartridge's storage space, and the release guide 60, which is a second component, can be moved via the cartridge. This allows for variations in the size of the cartridge's storage space, enabling the installation of multiple types of cartridges of different shapes and sizes onto the printing apparatus without requiring the loading or unloading of accessories.

[0124] Furthermore, the movement direction of the release guide 60 is set to the thickness direction of the cassette (Y direction), and the movement direction of the cassette base 50 is set to the in-plane direction of the cassette (X direction). In this way, since the size of the receiving space can be changed in two mutually orthogonal directions, it is easy to define the receiving space corresponding to cassettes of different shapes and sizes.

[0125] Furthermore, in the box base 50 and release guide 60, which define a portion of the receiving space for the box, the box base 50, which is a component of the other, can be moved as the release guide 60, which is a component of the box, moves via the box. In this way, by moving only one component, the dimensions of the receiving space in both directions can be changed, and receiving spaces corresponding to boxes of different shapes and sizes can be easily defined.

[0126] Furthermore, by configuring compression spring 65 and tension spring 75 to apply force to the cartridge base 50 and release guide 60 towards their initial positions, the storage mechanism can automatically return to its initial state when the cartridge is removed. This allows for easy repositioning of the cartridge stored in the printing apparatus.

[0127] Furthermore, by forming opposing inclined surfaces on the release guide 60 and the cartridge base 50, the cartridge base 50 can move in a direction orthogonal to the moving direction of the release guide 60. This simplifies the structure of the printing apparatus and reduces manufacturing costs.

[0128] (Modified example) The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but these embodiments are only examples, and the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, the embodiments of the present invention can have various applications, and all embodiments are included within the scope of the present invention.

[0129] The printing device 1 has a thermal printhead, but is not limited to it. It can also be any type of printing device, including inkjet printers and laser printers.

[0130] The printing apparatus 1 may also include an input section for inputting various types of information and a display section for displaying the various types of information input by the input section. Furthermore, it may be connected to external input or display devices to process information input from users or to provide information prompts to users.

[0131] In Embodiment 1 described above, the pressing protrusions 1008 and 2008, which are formed for pressing the base button 512, protrude from the surfaces of the narrow-width strap box 100 and the wide-width strap box 200. However, by further extending the base button 512 in the +Y direction, the protrusions used for pressing can be omitted. Furthermore, in Embodiment 2 described above, by further increasing the height of the release guide 60 in the Y-axis direction, the pressing protrusions 101 and 201 formed protruding from the surfaces of the narrow-width strap box 100 and the wide-width strap box 200 can also be omitted.

[0132] In addition, in the above embodiment 2, inclined surfaces are formed on both the box base 50, which is the first component, and the release guide 60, which is the second component. However, it is also possible to provide an inclined surface on only one of the components and not provide an inclined surface on the other component, but to provide a curved surface that slides on the inclined surface.

[0133] Furthermore, the sliding surface formed on the first member and the second member is not limited to an inclined surface; for example, it can also be a structure that makes the curved surfaces formed on the first member and the second member contact each other and allow them to slide.

[0134] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the angle of the second extension portion 5112b relative to the Y-axis can be arbitrarily set according to the amount of movement of the box base button 512. Additionally, in Embodiment 2, the angles of the inclined surface 64a of the protrusion 64 and the inclined surface 53a of the extension portion 53 can also be arbitrarily set according to the amount of movement of the box base 50.

[0135] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, it was described that the movement directions of the first member (box base 511, 50) and the second member (release guide 521, 60) that define a portion of the receiving space of the cassette are orthogonal to each other. However, as long as the size of the receiving space of the cassette can be appropriately changed, the movement directions of the first member and the second member may not be orthogonal to each other. That is, the movement direction of the second member may also be set to a direction that is at an angle relative to the in-plane direction of the cassette.

[0136] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. The present invention includes the invention as described in the claims and its equivalents.

Claims

1. A printing apparatus, characterized in that, have: The cartridge storage section is capable of selectively storing a first cartridge and a second cartridge. The first cartridge contains at least the printed media, and the second cartridge contains at least the printed media and is of a different type than the first cartridge. as well as The first component, when the first tape holder is stored in the tape holder storage section, can move from a first position (where the first tape holder is not stored) to a second position that does not obstruct the storage of the first tape holder. On the other hand, when the second tape holder is stored in the tape holder storage section, the first component does not move from the first position. It also includes a second component, which, when the first tape box is stored in the tape box storage part, moves by at least a portion of the first tape box abutting against the second component, and the second component moves from a third position, which is the position when the first tape box is not stored, to a fourth position that does not obstruct the storage of the first tape box. On the other hand, when the second tape box is stored in the tape box storage part, the second component does not move due to the second tape box.

2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The first cartridge has a pressing part. The printing apparatus includes a pressing part, and when the first tape holder is stored in the tape holder, the first member moves from the first position to the second position because the pressing part is pressed by the pressing part.

3. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The first component has a guide portion for guiding a guided protrusion disposed on the side of the pressed portion. The guide portion has the following shape: at least a portion of the guide portion extends in the direction of housing the first cassette in the cassette housing portion, and at least another portion of the guide portion extends at an angle relative to the housing direction.

4. A printing apparatus, characterized in that, have: The cartridge storage section is capable of selectively storing a first cartridge and a second cartridge. The first cartridge contains at least the printed media, and the second cartridge contains at least the printed media and is of a different type than the first cartridge. as well as The first component, when the first tape holder is stored in the tape holder storage section, can move from a first position (where the first tape holder is not stored) to a second position that does not obstruct the storage of the first tape holder. On the other hand, when the second tape holder is stored in the tape holder storage section, the first component does not move from the first position. The first cartridge has a pressing part. The printing apparatus further includes a pressing part, which, when the first tape holder is stored in the tape holder, causes the first member to move from the first position to the second position due to the pressing part pressing the pressing part. The first tape cassette does not contain the ink tape used for printing on the printed medium, while the second tape cassette does contain the ink tape used for printing on the printed medium.

5. The printing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, It also includes a second component, which, when the first tape box is stored in the tape box storage part, moves by having at least a portion of the first tape box abutting against the second component, and the second component can move from a third position, which is the position when the first tape box is not stored, to a fourth position that does not obstruct the storage of the first tape box. On the other hand, when the second tape box is stored in the tape box storage part, the second component does not move due to the second tape box.

6. The printing apparatus according to claim 1 or 4, wherein, The first component has a guide portion for guiding a guided protrusion disposed on the side of the pressed portion. The guide portion has the following shape: at least a portion of the guide portion extends in the direction of housing the first cassette in the cassette housing portion, and at least another portion of the guide portion extends at an angle relative to the housing direction.

7. The printing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The pressed portion contacts the first cassette before the first component.

8. The printing apparatus according to claim 1 or 4, wherein, It also has a locking part that engages with the locking part provided on the side of the first tape box, and locks the first tape box stored in the tape box storage part.

9. The printing apparatus according to claim 1 or 5, wherein, At least one of the first component and the second component has a sliding portion that allows the other component to slide. When the first tape box is moved toward being housed in the tape box storage section, the other component moves the first component from the first position to the second position by sliding on the sliding section.

10. The printing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The first component has a first inclined surface that is inclined relative to a plane intersecting the direction of storage as the sliding part. The second component has a second inclined surface opposite to the first inclined surface as the sliding part. When the first tape box is not contained, the first component and the second component are configured such that at least a portion of the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface are in contact.

11. The printing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, The first component has: a first component body portion that supports either the first tape box or the second tape box, which are selectively housed; And an extension portion that extends from the main body of the first component toward the second component, and has the first inclined surface formed at the front end.

12. The printing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, It also has: The main body of the retaining unit includes the boxed storage unit; and A sliding support portion is mounted on the retaining body, and the first member is supported between the sliding support portion and the retaining body so that it can slide between the first position and the second position.

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