Label printer

Abstract

The label printer comprises a host, a thermal transfer ribbon box and a flip cover, the host is provided with a thermal transfer ribbon box installation cavity with one open side, the thermal transfer ribbon box installation cavity is suitable for installing the thermal transfer ribbon box, and a first positioning structure is arranged in the thermal transfer ribbon box installation cavity; the thermal transfer ribbon box is mounted in the thermal transfer ribbon box mounting cavity, a second positioning structure is arranged on the thermal transfer ribbon box, and the second positioning structure and the first positioning structure are matched to enable the thermal transfer ribbon box to be positioned and mounted in the thermal transfer ribbon box mounting cavity; the flip cover is rotatably connected with the host and can open and close the open side of the thermal transfer ribbon box mounting cavity, a pressing piece is arranged on the flip cover, when the flip cover closes the thermal transfer ribbon box mounting cavity, the pressing piece abuts against the surface of the thermal transfer ribbon box so as to limit movement of the thermal transfer ribbon box in the open direction of the thermal transfer ribbon box mounting cavity, and when the flip cover opens the thermal transfer ribbon box mounting cavity, the pressing piece is separated from the thermal transfer ribbon box so as to limit movement of the thermal transfer ribbon box in the open direction of the thermal transfer ribbon box mounting cavity. According to the structure, stable installation of the thermal transfer ribbon box can be achieved, the thermal transfer ribbon box is prevented from moving up and down in the printing process, and the stability of the thermal transfer ribbon box in the printing process is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of ribbon cartridge installation and fixing technology, specifically to a label printer. Background Technology

[0002] A wire marking machine (also known as a cable marking machine or number tube printer) is a specialized piece of equipment used to create identification labels for electrical wires. These machines are widely used in electrical engineering, automation control, power systems, communications, and other fields to mark wires, cables, terminals, pipes, and other components that require clear identification, facilitating subsequent maintenance, repair, and management. The ribbon cartridge is an essential component of this type of machine, responsible for supplying ink or dye during the printing process.

[0003] CN108638674A discloses a ribbon cartridge mounting structure and a printer. The ribbon cartridge mounting structure includes a print panel, a ribbon cartridge, and a limiting block. The ribbon cartridge and the limiting block are located on the same side of the print panel, with the ribbon cartridge mounted on the print panel. The print panel has a positioning structure to restrict the ribbon cartridge from moving laterally or longitudinally on the print panel. The limiting block can move relative to the ribbon cartridge. In the first position, the limiting block is located between the limiting block and the print panel, and the limiting block cooperates with the print panel to restrict the ribbon cartridge from moving away from the print panel. In the second position, the limiting block is detached from the ribbon cartridge, and the ribbon cartridge can move away from the print panel to reduce the impact of disassembly and assembly on printer performance.

[0004] However, existing printers still have defects. The ribbon cartridge lacks a stable upper and lower limit structure during the printing process, which causes it to move slightly up and down during printing, affecting the printing effect. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this utility model is to overcome the above-mentioned technical deficiencies and propose a label printer that solves the technical problem that the ribbon cartridge of the printer lacks a stable upper and lower limit structure during the printing process, and there is still a slight vertical movement during the printing process, which affects the printing effect.

[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned technical objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] This utility model provides a label printer, including: a main unit, a ribbon cartridge, and a flip cover.

[0008] The host has a ribbon cartridge mounting cavity with one side open, the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity is suitable for mounting a ribbon cartridge, and a first positioning structure is provided inside the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity;

[0009] The ribbon cartridge is installed in the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity. The ribbon cartridge is provided with a second positioning structure. The second positioning structure cooperates with the first positioning structure to position the ribbon cartridge in the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity.

[0010] The flip cover is rotatably connected to the main unit. The flip cover can open and close the open side of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity. The flip cover is provided with a clamping member. When the flip cover closes the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the clamping member presses against the surface of the ribbon cartridge to restrict the movement of the ribbon cartridge in the open direction of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity. When the flip cover opens the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the clamping member separates from the ribbon cartridge.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first positioning structure includes a positioning post disposed at the bottom of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, and the second positioning structure includes a positioning hole disposed at the bottom of the ribbon cartridge. When the ribbon cartridge is installed in the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the positioning post can engage with the positioning hole to limit the horizontal movement of the ribbon cartridge.

[0012] In some embodiments, at least two sets of positioning posts and positioning holes are provided, wherein the two sets of positioning holes are located at the corners of the bottom of the ribbon box and are both on the diagonal line of the bottom of the ribbon box.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first positioning structure includes a first fixing fastener disposed on the side of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, and the second positioning structure includes a second fixing fastener disposed on the side of the ribbon cartridge. When the ribbon cartridge is installed in the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the first fixing fastener can engage with the second fixing fastener to limit the vertical position of the ribbon cartridge.

[0014] In some embodiments, at least two sets of the first fixing buckle and the second fixing buckle are provided, and are respectively arranged on both sides of the bottom of the ribbon box.

[0015] In some embodiments, the clamping element is elastic, meaning it can be compressed when the flip is closed and elastically return to its initial state when the flip is opened.

[0016] In some embodiments, the outer periphery of the clamping member is provided with reinforcing ribs.

[0017] In some embodiments, a conduit groove is also provided, and when the flip cover is opened, both the conduit groove and the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity are opened accordingly.

[0018] In some embodiments, when the flip cover is open, in the projection of the open side of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the flip cover is located outside the outer contour of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity.

[0019] In some embodiments, the label printer further includes a positioning detection structure, which includes a positioning detection contact, a positioning detection sensor, and a sensor PCB board. The positioning detection contact is installed at the bottom of the ribbon cartridge, and the positioning detection sensor and the sensor PCB board are both installed on the host computer. The positioning detection sensor is electrically connected to the sensor PCB board. When the flip cover is closed and the ribbon cartridge is correctly installed on the host computer, the positioning detection contact will contact the positioning detection sensor to activate the circuit on the sensor PCB board.

[0020] Compared with existing technologies, the label printer provided by this utility model, by setting up a main unit, a ribbon cartridge, a flip cover, a first positioning structure, a second positioning structure, and a clamping component, wherein the first and second positioning structures are respectively set on the main unit and the ribbon cartridge, when the ribbon cartridge is installed into the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the second positioning structure cooperates with the first positioning structure to help guide the ribbon cartridge to accurately enter and install in the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity; the clamping component is set on the flip cover, and when the flip cover closes the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the clamping component presses against the surface of the ribbon cartridge, effectively restricting the movement of the ribbon cartridge in the open direction of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, thereby preventing the ribbon cartridge from moving up and down during use, which not only improves the stability of the ribbon cartridge, but also enhances its safety during use, ensuring the reliable operation of the equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the front cross-sectional structure of the label printer provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0022] Figure 2 This is a top view cross-sectional structural diagram of the label printer provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the ribbon cartridge for a label printer provided in this embodiment of the utility model.

[0024] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0025] 1. Main unit; 2. Ribbon box; 3. Flip cover;

[0026] 4. First positioning structure; 41. Positioning post; 42. First fixing buckle;

[0027] 5. Second positioning structure; 51. Positioning hole; 52. Second fixing buckle;

[0028] 6. Clamping components;

[0029] 7. Position detection structure; 71. Position detection contact; 72. Position detection sensor; 73. Sensor PCB board. Detailed Implementation

[0030] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the present utility model and are not intended to limit the present utility model.

[0031] To address the technical problem of slight vertical movement of the ribbon cartridge during printing due to the lack of a stable upper and lower limiting structure, which affects print quality, this invention provides a label printer. This structure makes the installation and removal of the ribbon cartridge more convenient and quick, enables stable installation of the ribbon cartridge, prevents vertical movement during printing, and improves the stability of the ribbon cartridge during printing.

[0032] Please see Figures 1 to 3 This application provides a label printer, including: a main unit 1, a ribbon cartridge 2, and a flip cover 3. The main unit 1 is designed with a ribbon cartridge mounting cavity open on one side, allowing the ribbon cartridge 2 to be installed inside the main unit 1. A first positioning structure 4 is designed inside the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity.

[0033] The ribbon cartridge 2 is designed to be installed within the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity. To achieve precise positioning, the ribbon cartridge 2 is provided with a second positioning structure 5. When the ribbon cartridge 2 is installed into the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the second positioning structure 5 cooperates with the first positioning structure 4, thereby enabling the ribbon cartridge 2 to be precisely positioned and installed within the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity.

[0034] Furthermore, to protect the ribbon cartridge 2 and ensure its stability during use, the flip cover 3 is rotatably connected to the main unit 1, allowing the user to open or close the open side of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity as needed. The flip cover 3 is designed with a clamping element 6. When the flip cover 3 closes the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the clamping element 6 presses against the surface of the ribbon cartridge 2, thereby restricting the movement of the ribbon cartridge 2 in the open direction of the mounting cavity, ensuring the stability and safety of the ribbon cartridge 2 during use. When the flip cover 3 opens the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the clamping element 6 separates from the ribbon cartridge 2, allowing the user to easily remove or replace the ribbon cartridge 2.

[0035] To ensure precise positioning during ribbon cartridge 2 installation, in one embodiment, the first positioning structure 4 includes a positioning post 41 located at the bottom of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, and the second positioning structure 5 includes a positioning hole 51 located at the bottom of the ribbon cartridge 2. When the ribbon cartridge 2 is installed into the mounting cavity, the positioning post 41 in the first positioning structure 4 precisely engages with the positioning hole 51 in the second positioning structure 5. This engagement effectively limits the horizontal positioning of the ribbon cartridge 2, ensuring its stability during installation. This design is easy to operate; users can easily connect the ribbon cartridge 2 with a simple insertion action, and disconnect it simply by pulling it out, greatly improving ease of use.

[0036] To improve the positioning effect of the ribbon cartridge 2, in some embodiments, at least two sets of positioning posts 41 and positioning holes 51 are provided. The two sets of positioning holes 51 are located at the corners of the bottom of the ribbon cartridge 2, and are both on diagonally opposite lines at the bottom of the ribbon cartridge 2. It should be noted that no restrictions are set on the specific number of positioning posts 41 and positioning holes 51, or on their shapes. They can be flexibly designed and formulated according to specific application scenarios and requirements. The positioning holes 51 can adopt various different shapes, including but not limited to square holes or circular holes, to adapt to different functional requirements.

[0037] To improve the stability of the ribbon cartridge 2 during installation, in another embodiment, the first positioning structure 4 includes a first fixing fastener 42, which is located on the side of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity. The second positioning structure includes a second fixing fastener 52, which is installed on the corresponding side of the ribbon cartridge 2. When the ribbon cartridge 2 is installed into the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the first fixing fastener 42 and the second fixing fastener 52 cooperate to form a fastening structure, thereby effectively limiting the vertical positioning of the ribbon cartridge 2. This fastening design not only prevents the ribbon cartridge 2 from accidentally falling when the equipment is inverted, but also ensures a clear sense of engagement during installation and retrieval through precise fastening, thus significantly improving the user's operating experience.

[0038] To further enhance the stability of the ribbon cartridge 2, in some specific embodiments, the first fixing buckle 42 and the second fixing buckle 52 are each set to at least two sets, and these buckle sets are respectively arranged on both sides of the bottom of the ribbon cartridge 2. This can ensure the stability of the ribbon cartridge 2 in the mounting cavity, and keep the ribbon cartridge 2 stable, preventing it from shifting or falling, whether during normal use of the equipment or in the event of accidental inversion of the equipment.

[0039] Preferably, this embodiment incorporates the features of the two embodiments described above. Specifically, the first positioning structure 4 includes a positioning post 41 and a first fixing buckle 42, and the second positioning structure 5 includes a positioning hole 51 and a second fixing buckle 52. When the ribbon cartridge 2 is installed into the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the positioning post 41 in the first positioning structure 4 can achieve precise insertion and engagement with the positioning hole 51 in the second positioning structure 5. The first fixing buckle 42 and the second fixing buckle 52 can cooperate with each other to form a buckling structure, thereby limiting the ribbon cartridge 2 in both the horizontal and vertical directions, making the installation of the ribbon cartridge 2 simple and reliable, and greatly improving the installation efficiency and the stability of the equipment.

[0040] Preferably, in this embodiment, the clamping member 6 is elastic, and the clamping member 6 can be compressed when the flip cover 3 is closed, and elastically return to the initial state when the flip cover 3 is opened.

[0041] In some specific embodiments, the clamping member 6 includes a pressure pad, one end of which is pressed into the flip cover, and the other opposite end forms a clamping surface for clamping the ribbon cartridge. By using the pressure pad to clamp and fix the ribbon cartridge, the pressure pad can also help fix the position of the ribbon during printing, preventing the ribbon from slipping due to insufficient friction. When the cover is closed, the ribbon cartridge pressure pad presses against the upper shell of the ribbon cartridge, preventing the ribbon cartridge from moving up and down during printing. Of course, in other embodiments, the clamping member 6 can also be a spring or other structures.

[0042] In some possible embodiments, the outer periphery of the clamping member 6 is also provided with multiple reinforcing ribs. The reinforcing ribs are firmly fixed to the inner surface of the flip cover 3 in a crisscrossing layout. The reinforcing ribs are in close contact with the clamping member 6, which can significantly improve the overall strength of the flip cover 3 and effectively prevent the flip cover 3 from deforming during use.

[0043] In some possible embodiments, the host unit 1 also has a pipeline groove. When the flip cover 3 is opened, both the pipeline groove and the ribbon box mounting cavity are opened, thereby allowing the user to conveniently install and maintain the pipeline.

[0044] To ensure that the ribbon cartridge 2 can be easily placed inside the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, in some embodiments, when the flip cover 3 is open, in the projection of the open side of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the flip cover 3 is located outside the outer contour of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, so that sufficient space can be reserved when the flip cover 3 is open, so that the user can easily place the ribbon cartridge 2 into the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, ensuring that the installation process of the ribbon cartridge 2 is simple and quick, thereby improving the overall work efficiency.

[0045] Preferably, in this embodiment, the label printer further includes a positioning detection structure 7, which includes a positioning detection contact 71, a positioning detection sensor 72, and a sensor PCB board 73. The positioning detection contact 71 is installed at the bottom of the ribbon cartridge 2, and the positioning detection sensor 72 and the sensor PCB board 73 are both installed on the host 1. The positioning detection sensor 72 is electrically connected to the sensor PCB board 73.

[0046] When the user closes the flip cover 3 and ensures that the ribbon cartridge 2 is correctly installed on the host 1, the positioning detection contact 71 will contact the positioning detection sensor 72. This physical contact will trigger the circuit on the sensor PCB board 73, thereby completing the positioning detection process and ensuring the correct installation and operation of the device. When the ribbon cartridge 2 is placed into the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity provided on the host 1, the positioning detection contact 71 can contact the positioning detection sensor 72. When the positioning detection contact 71 contacts the positioning detection sensor 72, the positioning detection sensor 72 transmits a signal to the sensor PCB board 73 and triggers the circuit, thereby determining that the ribbon cartridge 2 has been correctly placed, preventing printing errors or equipment malfunctions caused by incorrect installation of the ribbon cartridge 2.

[0047] Working principle: When installing the ribbon cartridge 2, the ribbon cartridge 2 can be accurately positioned on the host 1 according to the positioning hole 51 and positioning post 41. When the position detection contact 71 contacts the position detection sensor 72, the position detection sensor 72 is pressed and detects that the ribbon cartridge 2 has been installed and can be used normally. At this time, the first fixing buckle 42 and the second fixing buckle 52 are engaged and the flip cover 3 is closed. At this time, the pressure pad is pressed on the ribbon cartridge 2 to prevent the ribbon cartridge 2 from moving up and down. When it is necessary to remove the ribbon cartridge 2, the flip cover 3 is opened. At this time, the pressure pad is detached from the ribbon cartridge 2, and then the ribbon cartridge 2 can be directly removed.

[0048] This invention comprises a main unit 1, a ribbon cartridge 2, a flip cover 3, a first positioning structure 4, a second positioning structure 5, and a clamping component 6. The first positioning structure 4 and the second positioning structure 5 are respectively disposed on the main unit 1 and the ribbon cartridge 2. When the ribbon cartridge 2 is installed into the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the second positioning structure 5 cooperates with the first positioning structure 4 to help guide the ribbon cartridge 2 accurately into and install it within the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity. The clamping component 6 is disposed on the flip cover 3. When the flip cover 3 closes the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the clamping component 6 presses against the surface of the ribbon cartridge 2, effectively restricting the movement of the ribbon cartridge 2 in the open direction of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity. This prevents the ribbon cartridge 2 from moving up and down during use, improving the stability of the ribbon cartridge 2 and enhancing its safety during use, thus ensuring the reliable operation of the equipment.

[0049] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "upper" and "lower," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application. Unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "connected," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication between two elements. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0050] It should be noted that in this application, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0051] The specific embodiments of this utility model described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this utility model. Any other corresponding changes and modifications made based on the technical concept of this utility model should be included within the scope of protection of the claims of this utility model.

Claims

1. A label printer, characterized in that, include: The host has a ribbon cartridge mounting cavity with one side open, the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity is adapted to install a ribbon cartridge, and a first positioning structure is provided inside the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity; A ribbon cartridge is installed in a ribbon cartridge mounting cavity. The ribbon cartridge is provided with a second positioning structure, which cooperates with the first positioning structure to position the ribbon cartridge in the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity. as well as, A flip cover is rotatably connected to the main unit. The flip cover can open and close the open side of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity. The flip cover is provided with a clamping member. When the flip cover closes the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the clamping member presses against the surface of the ribbon cartridge to restrict the movement of the ribbon cartridge in the open direction of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity. When the flip cover opens the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the clamping member separates from the ribbon cartridge.

2. The label printer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first positioning structure includes a positioning post disposed at the bottom of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity. The second positioning structure includes a positioning hole disposed at the bottom of the ribbon cartridge. When the ribbon cartridge is installed in the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the positioning post can engage with the positioning hole to limit the horizontal movement of the ribbon cartridge.

3. The label printer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The positioning pins and positioning holes are provided in at least two sets, wherein the two sets of positioning holes are located at the corners of the bottom of the ribbon box and are both on the diagonal line of the bottom of the ribbon box.

4. The label printer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first positioning structure includes a first fixing buckle, which is disposed on the side of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity. The second positioning structure includes a second fixing buckle, which is installed on the side of the ribbon cartridge. When the ribbon cartridge is installed in the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the first fixing buckle can engage with the second fixing buckle to limit the vertical position of the ribbon cartridge.

5. The label printer according to claim 4, characterized in that, Both the first and second fixing positions are provided in at least two sets, and are respectively arranged on both sides of the bottom of the ribbon box.

6. The label printer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping element is elastic, meaning it can be compressed when the flip cover is closed and elastically return to its initial state when the flip cover is opened.

7. The label printer according to claim 6, characterized in that, The outer periphery of the clamping member is provided with reinforcing ribs.

8. The label printer according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also has a pipeline groove, and when the flip cover is opened, both the pipeline groove and the carbon ribbon box mounting cavity are opened.

9. The label printer according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the flip cover is opened, in the projection of the open side of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity, the flip cover is located outside the outer contour of the ribbon cartridge mounting cavity.

10. The label printer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The label printer also includes a positioning detection structure, which includes a positioning detection contact, a positioning detection sensor, and a sensor PCB board. The positioning detection contact is installed at the bottom of the ribbon cartridge, and the positioning detection sensor and the sensor PCB board are both installed on the host. The positioning detection sensor is electrically connected to the sensor PCB board. When the flip cover is closed and the ribbon cartridge is correctly installed on the host, the positioning detection contact will contact the positioning detection sensor to activate the circuit on the sensor PCB board.

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