Cassette and printer

Abstract

The application discloses a tape cartridge and a printer. The tape cartridge comprises a main shell, a first winding shaft and a hollow front arm. The first winding shaft is located in the main shell and used for mounting a carbon tape roll. The hollow front arm is located at a first side end of the main shell and connected with the same. The first side end of the hollow front arm away from the main shell comprises a detection area corresponding to a position of a detection area of the printer, and a transition connection area between the detection area and a fourth side end. At least part of the detection area and at least part of the transition connection area are hollow structures. In the tape cartridge and the printer provided with the same, the hollow structures can save shell materials, and can also facilitate staff to quickly identify the type of the tape cartridge and observe the use of the carbon tape in the tape cartridge at any time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of printing technology, and in particular to a tape tray and a printer equipped with the tape tray. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of thermal transfer technology, printers using this technology have become indispensable equipment in daily office work and life. A tape cassette is a device used to hold printing media such as ribbons and printing tapes, and can be detachably installed onto the printer body. In this type of printing technology, printing media come in various types, depending on different application scenarios and needs, and are categorized and contained within the tape cassette. When the tape cassette is installed on the printer, the printer's detection head detects information in the detection area of ​​the tape cassette to obtain printing information such as the type of printing media and printing mode. However, in existing technologies, the tape cassette detection area is often a single panel structure, making it impossible for humans to directly identify the tape cassette type. This makes it difficult to quickly match the tape cassette with the corresponding type of printing media to be installed in it, thus affecting production efficiency and making it difficult to verify the accurate matching of printing media and tape cassette type after assembly. Moreover, since printing media such as ribbons and printing tapes are enclosed within the tape cassette, humans cannot directly identify their specific type and usage. Utility Model Content

[0003] In view of this, the purpose of this application is to provide a tape tray and a printer having the tape tray, which can save tape tray material and facilitate visual observation of the internal condition and type of the tape tray.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution:

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a tape box, the tape box comprising:

[0006] The main housing includes a first side end and a second side end located on both sides of the first center line, and a third side end and a fourth side end located on both sides of the second center line.

[0007] A first mandrel, located within the main housing, is used to mount a carbon ribbon roll; in a direction perpendicular to the first centerline, the central axis of the first mandrel is closer to the first side end than the second side end; in a direction perpendicular to the second centerline, the central axis of the first mandrel is farther from the fourth side end than the third side end.

[0008] A second mandrel, located within the main housing, is used to mount a first roll of material configured as an output printing tape or a backing tape; in a direction perpendicular to the first centerline, the distance between the first side end and the central axis of the second mandrel is greater than the distance between the second side end and the central axis of the second mandrel.

[0009] A hollow forearm is located at and connected to the first side end of the main housing, and the hollow forearm extends in a direction substantially parallel to the first center line.

[0010] The first side of the hollow forearm away from the main housing includes a detection area corresponding to the location of the printer detector, and a transition connection area between the detection area and the fourth side end. At least a portion of the detection area and at least a portion of the transition connection area are hollow structures.

[0011] In the tape cassette provided in this application, not only is the detection area provided with a hollow structure, but the transition connection area is also provided with a hollow structure on the first side of the hollow forearm away from the main housing. This saves housing material, reduces production costs, and allows workers to easily observe the internal condition of the tape cassette through the hollow structure, especially clearly observing the first roll mandrel and its ribbon roll usage status located inside the main housing. Furthermore, the specific shape of the hollow structure in the detection area allows workers to directly identify the tape cassette type with the naked eye, enabling them to quickly match the tape cassette with the corresponding type of printing media to be installed in it. After assembly, it also facilitates verification of the accurate matching between the printing media and the tape cassette type, thereby improving production efficiency.

[0012] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, the perforated structure in the detection area is configured to avoid at least one detection unit in the first region of the printer detector, and the non-perforated structure of the detection area is configured to abut against at least one detection unit in the second region of the printer detector.

[0013] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, the transition connection area is provided with a hollow structure, at least a portion of which is configured as a window suitable for observing the use of the carbon ribbon.

[0014] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, the hollow forearm includes a top plate and a bottom plate, and the detection area is provided with a plurality of one or more action units; each action unit is configured to abut against at least one detection unit in the printer detector; wherein:

[0015] At least one of the said actuating units protrudes from the inner side of the base plate and extends toward the inner side of the top plate; the area between the top plate and the base plate in the detection area, except for the said actuating unit, is the hollow structure;

[0016] And / or, at least one of the said actuating units protrudes from the inner side of the top plate and extends toward the inner side of the bottom plate; the area between the top plate and the bottom plate in the detection area, except for the actuating unit, is the hollow structure.

[0017] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, the action unit includes a first action unit, which is a plate-like structure, wherein:

[0018] The plate-like structure protrudes from the inner side of the bottom plate, extends towards the top plate, and maintains a greater than zero distance from the inner side of the top plate.

[0019] The plate-like structure includes a detector contact area and a switch control area. The detector contact area is configured to contact at least one detection unit in the printer detector, and the switch control area is configured to cooperate with a cover control switch in the printer body to control the opening and closing of the target cover.

[0020] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, the space between the switch control area and the inner side of the base plate is a partially hollowed-out structure;

[0021] Alternatively, the switch control area and the inner side of the base plate are connected via a portion of the detector contact area.

[0022] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, the functional unit further includes:

[0023] The second action unit is a first column structure. The first column structure is further away from the fourth side end relative to the first action unit. The first column structure protrudes from the inner side of the bottom plate, extends towards the top plate, and maintains a greater than zero distance from the inner side of the top plate. Alternatively, the first column structure protrudes from the inner side of the top plate, extends towards the bottom plate, and maintains a greater than zero distance from the inner side of the bottom plate.

[0024] The third function unit is a second column structure, which is closer to the fourth side end than the first column structure. The second column structure protrudes from the inner side of the top plate and extends towards the bottom plate, and forms a reserved gap with the top of the first function unit.

[0025] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, the second functional unit is located in the hollow cavity of the hollow forearm near the side of the main housing and is provided with a groove.

[0026] And / or, the first functional unit is located in the hollow cavity of the hollow forearm on the side near the main housing, and is provided with reinforcing ribs;

[0027] And / or, the third action unit is located on the side of the main housing near the hollow cavity of the hollow forearm and is provided with reinforcing ribs.

[0028] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, a first support column is provided at the end of the first side of the hollow forearm away from the fourth side end;

[0029] The hollow forearm forms an outlet near the second side of the main housing and the first support column, allowing printing media to be output.

[0030] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, the first support column and the nearest functional unit have a hollow structure.

[0031] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, the first support column includes:

[0032] The first column segment protrudes from the inner side of the bottom plate of the hollow forearm and extends toward the inner side of the top plate of the hollow forearm.

[0033] The second column segment protrudes from the inner side of the top plate of the hollow forearm and extends toward the inner side of the bottom plate of the hollow forearm.

[0034] Either the first column segment or the second column segment is a stepped shaft, and the other column segment has a blind hole at its top end that is inserted into the top section of the stepped shaft.

[0035] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, the hollow forearm includes a top plate and a bottom plate, and a following is disposed between the top plate and the bottom plate in the transition connection area:

[0036] The second support column, the projection of the second support column in the direction parallel to the second center line, is located near the carbon ribbon roll;

[0037] The third support column is closer to the fourth side end than the second support column; the projection of the third support column in the direction parallel to the second center line is located on the carbon ribbon.

[0038] A connecting plate, which is closer to the fourth side end relative to the third support column, and is connected to the side plate of the main housing located at the fourth side end.

[0039] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, the second support column, the third support column, and the connecting plate are arranged at intervals, and the hollow structure is formed between the second support column, the third support column, and the connecting plate.

[0040] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, a first positioning post is also included, wherein:

[0041] The first positioning post protrudes from the inner side of the top plate and extends toward the bottom plate; the third support post protrudes from the inner side of the bottom plate and extends toward the top plate; the top of the third support post is provided with a first positioning hole that is adapted to be inserted into the first positioning post.

[0042] or,

[0043] The first positioning post protrudes from the inner side of the base plate and extends toward the top plate; the third support post protrudes from the inner side of the top plate and extends toward the base plate; the top of the third support post is provided with a first positioning hole that is adapted to be inserted into the first positioning post.

[0044] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, one end of the second support column is fixedly connected to the inner side of the top plate of the hollow forearm, and the inner side of the bottom plate of the hollow forearm is provided with a second positioning hole for insertion into the other end of the second support column.

[0045] Alternatively, one end of the second support column is fixedly connected to the inner side of the bottom plate of the main housing, and the inner side of the top plate of the main housing is provided with a second positioning hole for insertion into the other end of the second support column.

[0046] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, a thinning zone is provided in a portion of the outer surface of the top plate of the hollow forearm that is away from the main housing;

[0047] And / or, a thinning zone is provided in a portion of the outer surface of the base plate of the hollow forearm, away from the main housing.

[0048] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, a receiving surface is further included, the receiving surface being disposed near the connection between the first side end and the third side end of the main housing; the receiving surface is configured to cooperate with the conveyor wheels of the printer body to provide clamping force.

[0049] In one possible implementation of the first aspect of this application, a fixed wheel is also included;

[0050] The fixed wheel is detachably disposed at the connection between the first side end and the third side end of the main housing, and the fixed wheel has a bearing surface exposed on the main housing.

[0051] Secondly, this application provides a printer that includes a printer body and the tape cassette described above.

[0052] The technical effects of the second aspect of this application can be referred to the technical effects of the first aspect of this application, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0053] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0054] Figure 1 The top view of a tape box containing four rolls (one of which is a recycled carbon tape roll) provided for the first specific embodiment of this application.

[0055] Figure 2 The top view of a tape box containing three rolls (one of which is a recycled carbon tape roll) provided for the first specific embodiment of this application.

[0056] Figures 3 to 5 These are isometric views of a box at different angles provided in the first specific embodiment of this application.

[0057] Figure 6 An isometric view of a box-shaped base plate provided for the first specific embodiment of this application.

[0058] Figure 7 An isometric view of a box-top plate provided for the first specific embodiment of this application.

[0059] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a combined structure of a box base plate and internal cores provided in the first specific embodiment of this application.

[0060] Figure 9 This is a partial structural diagram of a central control forearm with a box, provided for the first specific embodiment of this application.

[0061] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the distribution structure of multiple functional units in a cassette detection area provided in the first specific embodiment of this application.

[0062] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the distribution structure of multiple functional units in a cassette detection area provided in the second specific embodiment of this application.

[0063] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the distribution structure of multiple functional units in a cassette detection area provided in the second specific embodiment of this application.

[0064] Wherein: 1-Cylindrical guide surface, 2-First support column, 3-Second action unit, 4-Third action unit, 5-First action unit, 6-Second support column, 7-Third support column, 8-Connecting plate, 9-Thinning area, 10-Fixing wheel, 11-Step, 21-First column segment, 22-Second column segment, 23-Top shaft segment, 24-Blind hole, 31-, 41-Third reinforcing rib, 51-First reinforcing rib, 52-Second reinforcing rib, 60-Second positioning hole, 70-First positioning hole, 71-First positioning column, 100-Main shell, 200-Hollow forearm, 300-Label, 101-Base plate. 102-Top plate, 201-Detection area, 202-Transition connection area, 301-First roll, 3011-First strip, 302-Ribbon roll, 3021-Ribbon, 303-Second roll, 3031-Second strip, 401-Second roll mandrel, 402-First roll mandrel, 403-Third roll mandrel, 404-Ribbon recovery shaft, 501-Detector contact area, 502-Switch control area, 600-Clearing space, 601-Print head, L1-First center line, L2-Second center line, C1-First side end, C2-Second side end, C3-Third side end, C4-Fourth side end. Detailed Implementation

[0065] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0066] In this application, the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and local features may be enlarged or reduced to more clearly show the details of the local features.

[0067] Unless otherwise stated, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. The term "and / or" as used in this application includes any one and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The singular forms "a," "the," and "the" as used in this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0068] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified. In the description of this application, "several" means one or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0069] In the description of this application, the terms “length”, “width”, “thickness”, “inner”, “outer”, etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the purpose of simplifying the description of this application and do not indicate that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. In other words, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0070] In the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly defined, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," "fixing," "setting," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can also refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0071] In the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly defined, the terms "above," "over," "on top of," "below," "below," "under," or "below" for "first feature over second feature" can refer to the first and second features being in direct contact, or to the first and second features being in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "below," and "over" for "first feature over second feature" can mean the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the horizontal height of the first feature is higher than the horizontal height of the second feature. Similarly, "below," "below," and "below" for "first feature over second feature" can mean the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the horizontal height of the first feature is lower than the horizontal height of the second feature.

[0072] In related technologies, a printer includes a printer body and a tape cassette. The printer body uses a mechanical structure to detect the presence and type of tape cassette. For example, a detection area is provided on one outer surface of the tape cassette. This detection area carries information for detection by a detector in the printer body. When the tape cassette is inserted into the printer body, this detection area triggers a detector inside the printer body (such as a microswitch or other type of sensor) to identify whether a tape cassette is inserted and to identify the type of tape cassette.

[0073] The cartridge includes a box structure formed by a bottom cover and a top cover fastened together. This box structure includes a main housing 100 and a hollow front arm 200, as well as multiple roll cores located inside the box structure. Each roll core is used to mount a roll of printing media, including a printing tape for carrying printing information, a carbon ribbon for forming the printing information, and a backing strap (e.g., adhesive tape) located on one side of the printing tape and attached to it. In specific implementations, the number of rolls of media in the cartridge depends on the requirements and can be three or four.

[0074] For example, when the number of rolls is four, such as Figure 1 As shown, a type of tape cassette contains three types of tapes, respectively mounted on a first spindle 402, a second spindle 401, and a third spindle 403. The ribbon roll 302 mounted on the first spindle 402 provides the ribbon 3021, which is then recycled via a ribbon recycling shaft 404 after printing. The first roll 301 mounted on the second spindle 401 provides the first strip 3011 (i.e., a backing tape, specifically adhesive tape). The second roll 303 mounted on the third spindle 403 provides the second strip 3031, which is printed to form a printed tape carrying printing information. During printing, the print head 601 of the printer body inserts into the clearance space 600 of the tape cassette and cooperates with the impression roller 700 to print the ribbon 3021 and the second strip 3031 output from the free end opening of the hollow forearm 200. The printed ribbon 3021 is retrieved through the ribbon recovery shaft 404, and the printed second strip 3031 carries the printing information and adheres to the first strip 3011 from the first roll 301 to form a label 300. It should be noted that after the printing action of the print head 601, the ribbon 3021 re-enters the tape cassette through the guide structure inside the tape cassette and is then retrieved through the ribbon recovery shaft 404; the second strip 3031, after the printing action of the print head 601, is conveyed to the receiving part of the fixed roller 10 through the guide structure, and after adhering to the first strip 3011 at the receiving part of the fixed roller 10, it is output from the finished product port of the tape cassette to form the label 300.

[0075] For example, when the number of rolls is three, such as Figure 2As shown, in one type of tape cassette, two types of rolls are provided, respectively mounted on a first roll mandrel 402 and a second roll mandrel 401. The first roll 301 mounted on the second roll mandrel 401 provides a first strip 3011, which is printed to form a printed tape carrying printing information. The ribbon roll 302 mounted on the first roll mandrel 402 provides a ribbon 3021, which is then recycled via a ribbon recycling shaft 404. During printing, the print head 601 of the printer body is inserted into the clearance space 600 of the tape cassette and cooperates with the impression roller 700 to print the ribbon 3021 and the first strip 3011 output from the free end opening of the hollow forearm 200. The printed ribbon 3021 is recycled via the ribbon recycling shaft 404, and the printed first strip 3011, carrying printing information, forms a label 300. It should be noted that after the printing action of the print head 601, the ribbon 3021 re-enters the tape cassette through the guide structure inside the cassette, and is then recycled through the ribbon recycling shaft 404; the first strip 3011 after printing is guided by the guide structure and the receiving part of the fixed wheel 10 and output from the finished product port of the tape cassette to form the label 300.

[0076] The aforementioned tape cassettes have the following drawbacks: the tape cassette detection area is often a single panel structure, making it impossible for manual identification of the tape cassette type. This makes it difficult to quickly match the tape cassette with the corresponding type of printing media to be installed within it, thus affecting production efficiency. Furthermore, it is difficult to verify the accurate matching of the printing media and tape cassette type after assembly. Moreover, printing media such as ribbons and printing tapes are all enclosed within the tape cassette, making it impossible for manual identification of their specific type and usage.

[0077] First Specific Embodiment

[0078] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 4 The first specific embodiment of this application provides a tape box, which includes a main housing 100, a first roll mandrel 402, a second roll mandrel 401, and a hollow forearm 200.

[0079] in:

[0080] The main housing 100 includes a first side end C1 and a second side end C2 located on both sides of the first center line L1, and a third side end C3 and a fourth side end C4 located on both sides of the second center line L2.

[0081] The second mandrel 401 is located inside the main housing 100 and is used to mount the first roll 301. The first roll 301 is configured to output a printing tape (e.g., PET film or ribbon) carrying printing information or to output a backing tape (e.g., adhesive tape) located on the back side of the printing tape. In a direction perpendicular to the first center line L1, the distance between the central axis of the first side end C1 and the second mandrel 401 is greater than the distance between the central axis of the second side end C2 and the second mandrel 401.

[0082] The first spindle 402 is located inside the main housing 100 and is used to mount the carbon ribbon roll 302. In a direction perpendicular to the second centerline L2, the central axis of the first spindle 402 is farther from the fourth side end C4 than from the third side end C3; that is, in a direction perpendicular to the second centerline L2, the distance between the third side end C3 and the central axis of the first spindle 402 is greater than the distance between the fourth side end C4 and the central axis of the first spindle 402. In a direction perpendicular to the first centerline L1, the central axis of the first spindle 402 is closer to the first side end C1 than to the second side end C2; that is, in a direction perpendicular to the first centerline L1, the distance between the second side end C2 and the central axis of the first spindle 402 is greater than the distance between the first side end C1 and the central axis of the first spindle 402.

[0083] The hollow forearm 200 is located at and connected to the first side end C1 of the main housing 100, and extends in a direction parallel to the first centerline L1. It should be noted that... (See also...) Figure 5 In the second side of the hollow forearm 200 near the first side end C1, a portion of the area near the fourth side end C4 is connected to the first side end C1 of the main housing 100, and a portion of the area away from the fourth side end C4 forms a clearance space 600 between the first side end C1 of the main housing 100 and the clearance space 600 that allows the print head 601 of the printer body to extend into.

[0084] Furthermore, the first side of the hollow forearm 200 away from the main housing 100 includes a detection area 201 corresponding to the area where the printer detector is located, and a transition connection area 202 located between the detection area 201 and the fourth side end C4. A portion of the detection area 201 and at least a portion of the transition connection area 202 are hollow structures. Specifically, the hollow structure in the detection area 201 is configured to avoid at least one detection unit in the first area of ​​the printer detector, and the non-hollow structure in the detection area 201 is configured to abut against at least one detection unit in the second area of ​​the printer detector; the hollow structure in the transition connection area 202 is configured as a window suitable for observing the ribbon usage. It should be noted that the hollow structure mentioned in this application specifically refers to an area where no panel is provided, allowing the hollow cavity inside the hollow forearm 200 to be directly connected to the external environment of the tape cartridge. It should also be noted that the patterns formed by the distribution of the non-perforated structure in the detection area 201 can intuitively display the tape cartridge type, allowing staff to directly identify the type of tape cartridge by visual inspection and directly know the type of printing media that needs to be matched with the tape cartridge. At the same time, displaying type information through the non-perforated structure in the detection area 201 not only facilitates quick identification by staff, but also makes it easier for the non-perforated structure to accurately adapt to the detection head at the target position of the printer body after the tape cartridge is installed. Meanwhile, the perforated structure can also prevent the tape cartridge from unnecessary contact or obstruction of the detection heads in other positions of the printer body during installation.

[0085] As can be seen, in the tape cassette provided in this embodiment, not only is the detection area 201 provided with a hollow structure on the first side of the hollow forearm 200 away from the main housing 100, but the transition connection area 202 is also provided with a hollow structure. This saves housing material, reduces production costs, and allows workers to easily observe the internal condition of the tape cassette through the hollow structure, especially clearly observing the usage status of the first roll mandrel 402 and its carbon ribbon roll 302 located inside the main housing 100. Furthermore, the specific shape of the hollow structure in the detection area 201 visually displays the tape cassette type, allowing workers to easily identify the tape cassette type by visual inspection and directly determine the type of printing media that needs to be matched with it. This enables workers to quickly match the tape cassette with the corresponding type of printing media to be installed in it based on the tape cassette type. After assembly, it also facilitates verification of whether the printing media and tape cassette type are accurately matched, thereby helping to improve production efficiency.

[0086] In some embodiments, the hollow forearm 200 includes a top plate 102 and a bottom plate (101), and its detection area 201 is provided with one or more actuating units (the one or more actuating units constitute a non-perforated structure), each actuating unit being configured to abut against at least one detection unit in the printer detector. At least one actuating unit protrudes from the inner side of the bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200 and extends toward the inner side of the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200; and / or, at least one actuating unit protrudes from the inner side of the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200 and extends toward the inner side of the bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200. Furthermore, the area between the top plate 102 and the bottom plate 101 in the detection area 201, excluding the actuating units, is a perforated structure.

[0087] Specifically, please see Figure 4 and Figure 5 The aforementioned functional unit located in the detection area 201 includes a first functional unit 5, which is a plate-like structure. This plate-like structure protrudes from the inner side of the bottom plate 101, extends towards the top plate 102, and maintains a greater than zero distance from the inner side of the top plate 102. Furthermore, as... Figure 10 As shown, the plate-like structure includes a detector contact area 501 and a switch control area 502. The detector contact area 501 is configured to contact the detection unit at the target location of the target area in the printer detector; the switch control area 502 is configured to cooperate with the cover control switch in the printer body to control the opening and closing of the target cover in the printer body, and the switch control area 502 and the inner side of the base plate 101 have a partially open structure.

[0088] Furthermore, the aforementioned functional units located in the detection area 201 also include a second functional unit 3 and a third functional unit 4. Specifically: the second functional unit 3 is a first columnar structure, located further away from the fourth side end C4 relative to the first functional unit 5. This first columnar structure protrudes from the inner surface of the base plate 101, extending towards the top plate 102, and maintains a greater than zero distance from the inner surface of the top plate 102. The third functional unit 4 is a second columnar structure, located closer to the fourth side end C4 relative to the first columnar structure. This second columnar structure protrudes from the inner surface of the top plate 102, extending towards the base plate 101, and forms a reserved gap 53 with the top of the first functional unit 5. This reserved gap 53 ensures a preset clearance between the third functional unit 4 and the first functional unit 5, preventing interference caused by machining tolerances.

[0089] When the tape cassette with the aforementioned functional units is installed into the printer body, the non-perforated area formed by the first functional unit 5, the second functional unit 3, and the third functional unit 4 abuts against a portion of the detection units in the target area of ​​the printer body. Furthermore, the area between the top plate 102 and the bottom plate 101 of the detection area 201, excluding the first functional unit 5, the second functional unit 3, and the third functional unit 4, is a perforated structure to avoid other detection units in the printer body, thus allowing the printer detector to identify the tape cassette type. Moreover, for operators, the structural pattern formed by the distribution of the first functional unit 5, the second functional unit 3, and the third functional unit 4 allows for easy visual identification of the tape cassette type and direct identification of the type of printing media matching the inside of the tape cassette. Furthermore, in the tape cartridge provided in this application, the detection area 201 has a solid structure (i.e., the functional unit of the aforementioned column or plate structure) only in the area that abuts against the detector in the printer body, while other areas do not have a solid structure (i.e., other areas are hollow structures), thereby forming a window that facilitates the staff to observe the use of the ribbon, and the area of ​​the window is large enough to facilitate the observation of the specific situation inside the cartridge, especially the observation of the use of the ribbon, and can maximize the saving of material costs.

[0090] Please see Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 In some embodiments, the side of the second action unit 3 near the main housing 100 is located in the hollow cavity of the hollow forearm 200, and is provided with a groove 31 extending along the protruding direction of the first column (which is also a direction approximately perpendicular to the inner side of the bottom plate 101); and / or, the side of the first action unit 5 near the main housing 100 is located in the hollow cavity of the hollow forearm 200, and is provided with a first reinforcing rib 51 and / or a second reinforcing rib 52, the first reinforcing rib 51 extending along a direction approximately perpendicular to the inner side of the bottom plate 101, and the second reinforcing rib 52 extending towards the fourth side end C4; and / or, the side of the third action unit 4 near the main housing 100 is located in the hollow cavity of the hollow forearm 200, and its root is provided with a third reinforcing rib 41 extending along the protruding direction of the second column (which is also a direction approximately perpendicular to the inner side of the top plate 102). As can be seen, the cross-sections of the aforementioned functional units are all irregular, which helps to maintain their average wall thickness, prevents irregular depressions during injection molding, and also helps the top plate 102 and bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200 maintain an average wall thickness at the connection with the aforementioned functional units. Furthermore, the aforementioned groove 31 and reinforcing rib structure allow the first functional unit 5, the second functional unit 3, and the third functional unit 4 to have a larger thickness in the direction parallel to the second central axis L2, thereby enabling them to cooperate with the step 11 inside the hollow forearm 200 to limit the carbon ribbon and / or printing tape, preventing them from moving up and down.

[0091] Please see Figures 3 to 5 In some embodiments, the first side of the hollow forearm 200 away from the main housing 100 has a first support post 2 at the end away from the fourth side end C4. Furthermore, to save housing material, the first support post 2 and the second working unit 3 have a hollow structure. Additionally, the second side of the hollow forearm 200 near the main housing 100 and the first support post 2 form an outlet for printing media output. This printing media includes a second strip 3031 (i.e., a printing strip for carrying printing information) output from the second roll 303 on the third mandrel 403 and a ribbon 3021 output from the ribbon roll 302 on the first mandrel 402. Preferably, the second side of the hollow forearm 200 near the main housing 100 has a cylindrical guide surface 1 at the end away from the fourth side end C4 to facilitate the smooth output of the ribbon 3021.

[0092] Please see Figures 3 to 5 In some embodiments, the first support column 2 includes a first column segment 21 and a second column segment 22. Specifically: the first column segment 21 protrudes from the inner side of the bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200 and extends towards the inner side of the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200; the second column segment 22 protrudes from the inner side of the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200 and extends towards the inner side of the bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200; furthermore, either the first column segment 21 or the second column segment 22 is a stepped shaft, and the other has a blind hole at its top for insertion into the top section of the stepped shaft. For example, please refer to... Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first column segment 21 is a stepped shaft, with the diameter of its top shaft segment 23 being relatively thinner than that of its bottom shaft segment; correspondingly, the top of the second column segment 22 is provided with a blind hole 24 that can be inserted into the top shaft segment 23. When the top plate and bottom plate of the hollow forearm 200 are assembled, the top shaft segment 23 of the first column segment 21 and the blind hole 24 of the second column segment 22 are inserted to form the first support column 2.

[0093] In some embodiments, the transition connection area 202 of the hollow forearm 200, located on the first side away from the main housing 100 near the fourth side end C4, is provided with spaced-apart second support columns 6, third support columns 7, and connecting plates 8. Specifically: the projection of the second support column 6 in the direction parallel to the second center line L2 is located near the ribbon roll 302; the third support column 7 is closer to the fourth side end C4 than the second support column 6, and its projection in the direction parallel to the second center line L2 is located on the ribbon roll 302; the connecting plate 8 is closer to the fourth side end C4 than the third support column 7 and is connected to the side plate of the main housing 100 located at the fourth side end C4. The second support column 6, third support column 7, and connecting plate 8 form a hollow structure, i.e., the second support column 6, third support column 7, and connecting plate 8 are arranged at intervals, thereby saving materials and also forming a viewing window for convenient observation of the ribbon usage by the operator.

[0094] Please see Figure 6 and Figure 7In some embodiments, the third support column 7 protrudes from the inner side of the bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200 and extends towards the inner side of the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200. A first positioning hole 70 is provided at one end of the third support column 7 near the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200. Correspondingly, a first positioning post 71, which is inserted into and adapted to the first positioning hole 70, protrudes from the inner side of the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the third support column 7 may also protrude from the inner side of the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200 and extend towards the inner side of the bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200. A first positioning hole 70 is provided at one end of the third support column 7 near the bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200. Correspondingly, a first positioning post 71, which is inserted into and adapted to the first positioning hole 70, protrudes from the inner side of the bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200. In addition, in some embodiments, one end of the second support column 6 is fixedly connected to the inner side of the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200, and the inner side of the bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200 is provided with a second positioning hole 60 for insertion into the other end of the second support column 6; or, one end of the second support column 6 is fixedly connected to the inner side of the bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200, and the inner side of the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200 is provided with a second positioning hole 60 for insertion into the other end of the second support column 6. When the top plate 102 and the bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200 are assembled, the first positioning hole 70 located at the top of the third support column 7 is inserted into the first positioning column 71 located on the inner side of the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200; the top of the second support column 6 is inserted into the second positioning hole 60 located on the inner side of the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200. With the above-mentioned plug-in structure, the second support column 6 and the third support column 7 can be fixedly installed between the inner side of the top plate and the inner side of the bottom plate of the hollow forearm 200 without the need for other connecting parts. This not only facilitates assembly, but also makes it easier to accurately position the top and bottom covers with boxes during the assembly process.

[0095] Please see Figures 3 to 5 In some embodiments, a thinning region 9 is provided on a portion of the outer surface of the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200 away from the main housing 100; and / or, a thinning region 9 is provided on a portion of the outer surface of the bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200 away from the main housing 100. For example, the thinning region 9 on the outer surface of the bottom plate 101 of the hollow forearm 200 covers the area corresponding to the root of the second action unit 3 and the first action unit 5, and the thinning region 9 on the outer surface of the top plate 102 of the hollow forearm 200 covers the area corresponding to the root of the third action unit 4 and the root of the second column segment 22 of the first support column 2. Through this thinning region 9, the top and bottom covers of the box can maintain an average wall thickness during injection molding, preventing irregular depressions from forming on their surfaces.

[0096] Please see Figure 8In some embodiments, the tape cartridge provided in this application is further provided with a receiving surface, which is disposed near the connection between the first side end C1 and the third side end C3 of the main housing 100, and the receiving surface is configured to cooperate with the tape conveyor roller of the printer body to provide clamping force for the printed tape after printing. In a preferred embodiment, a fixing wheel 10 can be disposed inside the connection between the first side end C1 and the third side end C3 of the main housing 100. The fixing wheel 10 is detachably disposed at the connection between the first side end C1 and the third side end C3 of the main housing 100, and the portion of the surface of the fixing wheel 10 exposed outside the main housing 100 constitutes the aforementioned receiving surface, which is configured to cooperate with the tape conveyor roller of the printer body to provide clamping force.

[0097] During the printing process, when there are four cores in the tape cassette, the second strip 3031 output from the second roll 303 on the third roll spool 403 inside the tape cassette is the printing tape (i.e., the tape carrying printing information). The printed tape, after printing, is stacked on the receiving surface with the first strip 3011 output from the first roll 301 on the second roll spool 401 (specifically, it can be an adhesive backing tape). Under the interaction of the receiving surface and the first tape conveyor wheel in the printer body, they are clamped and bonded to form a label 300. Finally, the label 300 is discharged from the paper output port of the printer body. When there are three cores in the tape cassette, the first strip 3011 output from the first roll 301 on the second roll spool 401 inside the tape cassette is the printing tape. The printed tape, after printing, forms a label 300 and is discharged from the paper output port of the printer body under the interaction of the receiving surface and the first tape conveyor wheel in the printer body.

[0098] As can be seen, by replacing the second belt conveyor wheel with the first belt conveyor wheel in the prior art with the fixed wheel 10 in this application, the structural strength at this position can be improved, and the connection structure between the fixed wheel 10 and the tape box housing can be simplified, which is conducive to improving assembly efficiency. On the other hand, there is no need to reserve a clearance for the rotating wheel in the tape box, which is conducive to reducing the size of the tape box and to realizing the miniaturization design of the printer.

[0099] Second specific embodiment

[0100] Please see Figure 11 The second specific embodiment of this application provides a cassette, which differs from the cassette provided in the first specific embodiment in that: the second functional unit 3 is provided as a first column structure protruding from the inner side of the top plate 102, extending towards the bottom plate 101, and maintaining a greater than zero interval distance with the inner side of the bottom plate 101.

[0101] Third specific embodiment

[0102] Please see Figure 12The third embodiment of this application provides a tape box, which differs from the tape boxes provided in the first and second embodiments in that: there is no second action unit 3 and a third action unit 4; and the switch control area 502 in the first action unit 5 is not hollowed out from the inner side of the base plate 101, but is connected through a part of the detector abutment area 501.

[0103] When the tape cassette with the aforementioned functional units is installed into the printer body, the non-perforated area formed by the first functional unit 5 abuts against a portion of the detection units in the target area of ​​the printer body. Furthermore, the area between the top plate 102 and the bottom plate 101 of the detection area 201, except for the first functional unit 5, is a perforated structure to avoid other detection units in the printer body, thus allowing the printer detector to identify the tape cassette type. Moreover, for operators, the structural pattern formed by the distribution of the first functional units 5 allows for easy visual identification of the tape cassette type and direct identification of the type of printing media matching the inside of the cassette. In addition, in the tape cassette provided in this application, the detection area 201 only has a solid structure (i.e., the first functional unit 5 of the aforementioned plate structure) in the area abutting against the detector in the printer body; other areas are not solid (i.e., other areas are perforated structures), thus forming a window that facilitates observation of the ribbon usage by the operator. This window is also large enough to facilitate observation of the specific conditions inside the cassette, especially the ribbon usage, and maximizes material cost savings.

[0104] Fourth Specific Embodiment

[0105] This application also provides a printer, which includes a printer body and a tape cassette as described in any of the specific embodiments above. This printer includes, but is not limited to, a thermal transfer printer, a label printer, and a receipt printer. Specifically, the printer body is provided with a receiving chamber for mounting the tape cassette, which is detachably mounted in the receiving chamber of the printer body for providing printing media.

[0106] It is understood that in the various embodiments of this application, the sequence number of each process does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0107] It is understood that the various implementation methods described in this application can be implemented individually or in combination, and the embodiments of this application are not limited in this respect.

[0108] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the aforementioned method implementations, and will not be repeated here.

[0109] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A box-type device, comprising: The main housing (100) includes a first side end (C1) and a second side end (C2) located on both sides of the first center line (L1), and a third side end (C3) and a fourth side end (C4) located on both sides of the second center line (L2). A first spindle (402) is located inside the main housing (100) and is used to mount a carbon ribbon roll (302). In a direction perpendicular to the first center line (L1), the central axis of the first spindle (402) is closer to the first side end (C1) than to the second side end (C2). In a direction perpendicular to the second center line (L2), the central axis of the first spindle (402) is farther from the fourth side end (C4) than to the third side end (C3). Hollow forearm (200), the hollow forearm (200) is located at the first side end (C1) of the main housing (100). Its features are, The first side of the hollow forearm (200) away from the main housing (100) includes a detection area (201) corresponding to the location of the printer detector, and a transition connection area (202) located between the detection area (201) and the fourth side end (C4), wherein at least a portion of the detection area (201) and / or at least a portion of the transition connection area (202) is a hollow structure.

2. The cassette according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hollow structure in the detection area (201) is configured to avoid at least one detection unit in the first region of the printer detector, and the non-hollow structure in the detection area (201) is configured to abut against at least one detection unit in the second region of the printer detector; And / or, The transition connection area (202) is provided with a hollow structure, at least a portion of which is configured as a viewing window adapted to observe the carbon ribbon roll (302).

3. The cassette according to claim 2, characterized in that, The hollow forearm (200) includes a top plate (102) and a bottom plate (101), and the detection area (201) is provided with one or more action units; each action unit is configured to abut against at least one detection unit in the printer detector; in: At least one of the said actuating units protrudes from the inner side of the base plate (101) and extends toward the top plate (102); the area between the top plate (102) and the base plate (101) in the detection area (201), except for the actuating units, is the hollow structure; And / or, at least one of the said actuating units protrudes from the inner side of the top plate (102) and extends toward the bottom plate (101); the area between the top plate (102) and the bottom plate (101) in the detection area (201), except for the actuating units, is the hollow structure.

4. The cassette according to claim 3, characterized in that, The action unit includes a first action unit (5), which is a plate-like structure, wherein: The plate-like structure protrudes from the inner side of the bottom plate (101), extends toward the top plate (102), and maintains a greater than zero interval distance with the inner side of the top plate (102). The plate-like structure includes a detector contact area (501) and a switch control area (502). The detector contact area (501) is configured to contact at least one detection unit in the printer detector, and the switch control area (502) is configured to cooperate with a cover control switch in the printer body to control the opening and closing of a target cover.

5. The cassette according to claim 4, characterized in that, The switch control area (502) and the inner side of the base plate (101) are partially hollowed out. Alternatively, the switch control area (502) and the inner side of the base plate (101) are connected by a portion of the detector contact area (501).

6. The cassette according to claim 4, characterized in that, The functional unit further includes: The second action unit (3) is a first column structure, which is further away from the fourth side end (C4) relative to the first action unit (5). The first column structure protrudes from the inner side of the base plate (101), extends towards the top plate (102), and maintains a greater than zero distance from the inner side of the top plate (102); or, the first column structure protrudes from the inner side of the top plate (102), extends towards the base plate (101), and maintains a greater than zero distance from the inner side of the base plate (101). The third action unit (4) is a second column structure. The second column structure is closer to the fourth side end (C4) than the first column structure. The second column structure protrudes from the inner side of the top plate (102) and extends towards the bottom plate (101), and forms a reserved gap (53) with the top of the first action unit (5).

7. The cassette according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second functional unit (3) is located in the hollow cavity of the hollow forearm (200) on the side near the main housing (100), and is provided with a groove (31). And / or, the first action unit (5) is located in the hollow cavity of the hollow forearm (200) near the side of the main housing (100) and is provided with reinforcing ribs; And / or, the third action unit (4) is located in the hollow cavity of the hollow forearm (200) near the side of the main housing (100) and is provided with reinforcing ribs.

8. The cassette according to claim 3, characterized in that, A first support column (2) is provided at the end of the first side of the hollow forearm (200) away from the fourth side end (C4). The hollow forearm (200) forms an outlet between its second side near the main housing (100) and the first support column (2), allowing the printing media to be output.

9. The cassette according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first support column (2) and the nearest functional unit have a hollow structure.

10. The cassette according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first support column (2) includes: The first column segment (21) protrudes from the inner side of the base plate (101) and extends toward the top plate (102); The second column segment (22) protrudes from the inner side of the top plate (102) and extends toward the bottom plate (101); Either the first column segment (21) or the second column segment (22) is a stepped shaft, and the other has a blind hole (24) at its top end that is inserted into the top shaft segment (23) of the stepped shaft.

11. The cassette according to claim 2, characterized in that, The hollow forearm (200) includes a top plate (102) and a bottom plate (101), and a following is provided between the top plate (102) and the bottom plate (101) in the transition connection area (202): The projection of the second support column (6) in a direction parallel to the second center line (L2) is located near the carbon ribbon roll (302); The third support column (7) is closer to the fourth side end (C4) than the second support column (6); the projection of the third support column (7) in the direction parallel to the second center line (L2) is located on the carbon ribbon roll (302); The connecting plate (8) is closer to the fourth side end (C4) relative to the third support column (7) and is connected to the side plate of the main housing (100) located at the fourth side end (C4).

12. The cassette according to claim 11, characterized in that, The hollow structure is formed between the second support column (6), the third support column (7), and the connecting plate (8).

13. The cassette according to claim 11, characterized in that, It also includes a first positioning post (71), wherein: The first positioning post (71) protrudes from the inner side of the top plate (102) and extends toward the bottom plate (101); the third support post (7) protrudes from the inner side of the bottom plate (101) and extends toward the top plate (102); the top of the third support post (7) is provided with a first positioning hole (70) that is compatible with the first positioning post (71). or, The first positioning post (71) protrudes from the inner side of the base plate (101) and extends toward the top plate (102); the third support post (7) protrudes from the inner side of the top plate (102) and extends toward the base plate (101); the top of the third support post (7) is provided with a first positioning hole (70) that is compatible with the first positioning post (71).

14. The cassette according to claim 11, characterized in that, One end of the second support column (6) is fixedly connected to the inner side of the top plate (102), and the inner side of the bottom plate (101) is provided with a second positioning hole (60) that is inserted into the other end of the second support column (6). Alternatively, one end of the second support column (6) is fixedly connected to the inner side of the bottom plate (101), and the inner side of the top plate (102) is provided with a second positioning hole (60) that is inserted into the other end of the second support column (6).

15. The cassette according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, A thinning zone (9) is provided on the outer surface of the top plate (102) of the hollow forearm (200), in a portion of the area away from the main housing (100). And / or, a thinning zone (9) is provided in a portion of the outer surface of the base plate (101) of the hollow forearm (200) away from the main housing (100).

16. The cassette according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, It also includes a receiving surface disposed at the junction of the first side end (C1) and the third side end (C3) near the main housing (100); the receiving surface is configured to cooperate with the belt conveyor wheel of the printer body to provide clamping force.

17. The cassette according to claim 16, characterized in that, It also includes a fixed wheel (10), which is detachably disposed at the connection between the first side end (C1) and the third side end (C3) near the main housing (100), and the fixed wheel has a bearing surface exposed outside the main housing (100).

18. A printer, characterized in that, It includes the printer body and the tape cassette as described in any one of claims 1 to 17.

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