Printhead carrier

Abstract

Print head carrier (114, 400) comprising: a base (700) for supporting a printhead assembly (110, 704); a first pivot mechanism (414) for pivoting the base (700) about a first axis (702); a connector (1700); and a second pivot mechanism (900) for pivoting the connector (1700) about a second axis (902) different from the first axis (702), wherein the printhead assembly (110, 704) is removably coupled to the connector (1700) and pivotable about the second axis (902) away from the printhead carrier (114, 400).

Description

AREA OF REVELATION

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to media processing devices and, more particularly, to printhead carriers. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Some media processing devices include a printing mechanism for generating human-readable and / or machine-readable characters on a media surface. The printing mechanism includes a printhead that generates the characters based on received data, for example, by applying ink to the surface(s), thermally transferring ink to the surface(s), applying energy to specific portions of the surface(s), and / or via any other suitable printing technique. WO 2012 / 088 257 A1 discloses a printhead assembly for a 3D printer, comprising a printhead carriage and a plurality of replaceable printheads removably held in receptacles of the printhead carriage. DE 689 28 706 T2 discloses an inkjet printer in which a printhead can be pivoted into a carrier and locked to the carrier. US 4,755,836 A discloses a printhead cartridge and a carriage assembly for use with inkjet printers. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary media processing device that may utilize teachings of this disclosure. Fig. 2 shows an exemplary media processing device constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. Fig. 3 is a side view of internal components of the exemplary media processing device of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of internal components of the exemplary media processing device of Fig. 2 with a printhead carrier in a closed configuration. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of internal components of the exemplary media processing device of Fig. 2. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of internal components of the exemplary media processing device of Fig. 2 with a printhead carrier in an open configuration. Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the exemplary printhead carrier of Fig. 4, which corresponds to the closed configuration of Fig. 4 corresponds. Fig. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the exemplary printhead carrier of Fig. 4, which has a cover. Fig. 9A is a perspective view of the exemplary printhead carrier of Fig. 4 in an access configuration. Fig. Figure 9B is another perspective view of the exemplary printhead carrier of Fig. 4 in an access configuration. Fig. 10 is a rear perspective view of an exemplary adapter constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure and attached to an exemplary pivot mechanism. Fig. 11 is a front perspective view of the exemplary adapter of Fig. 10, which is attached to the exemplary swivel mechanism. Fig. 12 is a front perspective view of the exemplary adapter of Fig. 10, which is attached to the exemplary swivel mechanism. Fig. 13 is a rear perspective view of the exemplary printhead carrier of Fig. 4. Fig. 14 is a perspective view of a portion of the exemplary printhead carrier of Fig. 4, which has an exemplary prestressing element. Fig. 15 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the exemplary printhead carrier of Fig. 4, which shows an exemplary prestressing element of Fig. 14. Fig. 16 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the exemplary printhead carrier of Fig. 4, which has an exemplary prestressing element. Fig. 17 is a perspective view of an exemplary adapter constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. Fig. 18 is a perspective view of an exemplary printhead assembly for using the exemplary adapter of Fig. 17 to engage appropriately. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0003] Certain components of media processing devices are involved in precise operational sequences. For example, the performance of a printing mechanism depends on its components being properly aligned, oriented, biased, and / or otherwise configured. Although media processing devices are typically initially correctly configured (e.g., when the devices are shipped and / or delivered), it may still be necessary to remove, reinstall, or replace one or more components. In such cases, proper removal and installation are critical operations for maintaining a suitable configuration and thus desirable performance of the media processing device. In other words, improper removal and / or installation of certain components may impair the performance of the media processing device.

[0004] A printhead is an example component for which proper removal and installation is important. A thermal printhead, for example, is aligned and held in close proximity to print media during printing so that the printhead can apply energy to a thermal transfer ribbon or direct thermal print media. If it has not returned to the correct position (e.g., in terms of alignment, spacing, and / or orientation relative to a platen roller), the printhead may not be able to apply an expected amount of energy to an expected location on a thermal transfer ribbon or direct thermal print media. In some cases, appropriate force applied to the printhead toward the platen roller is also critical.For example, without adequate force or pressure applied to the platen roller, a conveyor system including the platen roller may not properly feed media over the printhead. In some examples, without adequate force or pressure applied to the platen roller, heat flux generated by the printhead may exhibit unintended or unexpected characteristics. Additional or alternative problems may arise for various types of printheads if they are removed and / or installed incorrectly.

[0005] Example printhead carriers disclosed herein, sometimes referred to herein as "carriers," facilitate appropriate access operations (e.g., removal, installation, maintenance, and / or cleaning) associated with a printhead assembly to be supported by the carrier. In particular, example carriers disclosed herein provide easy and convenient access to the printhead assembly and, thus, to a printhead of the printhead assembly. As described in more detail below, example carriers disclosed herein include first and second pivoting mechanisms that enable multiple configurations of the carriers. For example, carriers disclosed herein are placed in a closed configuration, an open configuration, or an access configuration.In the closed configuration, the exemplary carriers disclosed herein position the printhead proximate a media feed path and maintain the printhead in the correct position relative to, for example, a platen roller over which media is fed. In the open configuration, the exemplary carriers disclosed herein position the printhead some distance from the media feed path relative to the closed configuration. The open configuration allows, for example, cleaning of the printhead. The exemplary carriers disclosed herein transition from the closed configuration to the open configuration via the first pivot mechanism. In particular, exemplary carriers disclosed herein pivot about a first axis defined by the first pivot mechanism, thereby moving the printhead along a first arc away from the platen roller.In the exemplary open configuration disclosed herein, the printhead assembly remains attached to the carrier.

[0006] When in the printhead assembly-installed access configuration, the exemplary carriers disclosed herein display the printhead assembly in a position where the printhead assembly is removable from the carrier. Specifically, the second pivot mechanism of the exemplary carriers disclosed herein pivots the printhead assembly away from the carrier about a second axis different from the first axis, thereby moving the printhead away from the carrier along a first arc different from the second arc. In other words, the second pivot mechanism of the exemplary carriers disclosed herein allows the printhead assembly, when installed, to move a certain distance away from the carrier, thereby providing clearance for accessing the installed printhead assembly at an accessible angle.

[0007] When installed in the access configuration without a printhead assembly installed, the exemplary carriers disclosed herein allow the printhead assembly to be installed with clearance at an accessible angle. Specifically, the second pivot mechanism of the exemplary carriers disclosed herein pivots to provide a connector for receiving the printhead assembly with sufficient clearance and at an accessible angle. Importantly, exemplary carrier assemblies provide these and other advantages while maintaining a compact footprint for the media processing device.

[0008] As described in detail below, the printhead assembly is removably connected to an exemplary adapter disclosed herein. In known media processing devices, coupling and decoupling the printhead involves connecting and disconnecting multiple connectors, which are typically terminal ends of cables or wires.For example, when installing the printhead in such known media processing devices, the person must locate the power cable, bring the power cable connector within reach of the printhead, properly align the power cable connector with the mating power connector on the printhead, properly connect the two power connectors, locate one or more data cables, bring the one or more data cables within reach of the printhead, align the one or more data cable connectors with the mating data connector(s) on the printhead, and properly connect the two data cable connectors.

[0009] Example adapters disclosed herein enhance the processes for coupling and decoupling a printhead assembly to and from a media processing device. As described in detail below, example adapters disclosed herein provide a consolidated interface arrangement that enables the printhead assembly to be coupled to and decoupled from the media processing device via a single action (e.g., a single insertion or a single disconnection), rather than having to couple or decouple both to a power cable and one or more data cables. Example adapters disclosed herein include multiple input connectors (e.g., a power input connector and one or more data input connectors) connected to appropriate sources (e.g., power cables, data cables, and / or circuit board connectors) of the media processing device.Example adapters disclosed herein include a connector with alignment features (e.g., arms) that carry a plurality of outputs (e.g., ports) configured to engage mating inputs (e.g., pins or plugs) of a printhead assembly. Thus, the printhead assembly is coupled to the media processing device via a single connection of the printhead assembly to the connector of example adapters disclosed herein. Furthermore, the printhead assembly is decoupled from the media processing device by a single detachment of the printhead assembly from the connector of the example adapters disclosed herein. Notably, the coupling of the printhead assembly to the media processing device enabled by example adapters disclosed herein does not involve user interaction with any cables.Furthermore, the decoupling of the printhead assembly from the media processing device enabled by exemplary adapters disclosed herein does not disconnect the connection of cables with mating connectors.

[0010] In some examples, adapters disclosed herein are used in conjunction with exemplary carriers disclosed herein. In some examples, the media processing device uses carriers disclosed herein without an adapter disclosed herein. In some examples, the media processing device uses adapters other than those disclosed herein, which are disclosed in conjunction with additional or alternative types of carriers and / or printhead assemblies.

[0011] Fig. 1 is a block diagram representative of an exemplary media processing device 100 in which the teachings of this disclosure may be implemented. The exemplary media processing device 100 of Fig. 1 is a standalone unit. In some examples, the media processing device 100 is integrated into a device such as an automated teller machine (ATM), a kiosk, or a point-of-sale device. The exemplary media processing device 100 of Fig. 1 uses one or more printing technologies (e.g., direct thermal printing and / or thermal transfer printing) to produce characters on media.

[0012] The exemplary media processing device 100 of Fig. 1 includes a controller 102 configured to control certain components of the media processing device 100. In the illustrated example of Fig. 1, the controller 102 is a logic circuit configured to perform printing functions. The exemplary controller 102 of Fig. 1 is implemented by any suitable logic circuit, such as one or more processors, microprocessors, coprocessors, and / or integrated circuits (e.g., an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), etc.). In some examples, the controller 102 is configured to execute instructions stored in the memory 104 of the media processing device 100. The exemplary memory 104 of Fig. 1 is implemented by, for example, a volatile and / or non-volatile memory, which may be either fixed or removable. The exemplary memory 104 of Fig. 1 is configured to store information, data, applications, instructions, and / or the like to enable the controller 102 to perform printing functions.

[0013] The exemplary control 102 of Fig. 1 receives data representative of print tasks (e.g., print jobs) from memory 104 and / or an external data source 106. Examples of external data sources include a host device, a host system, a network device, and a removable storage device. In the illustrated example of Fig. 1, the controller 102 processes the received data such that the data is usable for printing characters on media. For example, the controller 102 of Fig. 1 a printing machine to generate lines of print data (e.g. directly or based on a bitmap image) based on the received data.

[0014] In the example of Fig. 1, the controller 102 transfers the print data lines (or any other type of data usable for printing characters on media) to a print mechanism 108 of the media processing device 100. The exemplary print mechanism 108 of Fig. 1 is configured to receive a printhead assembly 110 having a printhead 112. As described in detail below, the printhead assembly 110 is removably connected to the printing mechanism 108 via a printhead carrier 114. The exemplary printhead 112 is configured to generate characters on the media according to the data received at the printing mechanism 108. The exemplary printhead 112 of Fig. 1 comprises a driver implemented by a logic circuit configured to receive the data representing the characters to be printed. In addition, the driver of the print head 112 is configured to control one or more operations or functions of the print head 112 based on the received data. For example, if the print head 112 of Fig. 1 is implemented by a thermal printhead, the driver selectively energizes (e.g., heats) elements (e.g., printhead dots) of the printhead 112 according to the received data (e.g., print lines), thereby producing the corresponding characters on media fed through the media processing device 100 in proximity to the printhead 112. When the media processing device 100 is configured for direct thermal printing, direct thermal print media is fed via the printhead 112, and the elements of the printhead 112 apply energy directly to the media, which changes color (e.g., from white to black or color) in response to the energy.When the media processing device 100 is configured for thermal transfer printing, ink ribbon and blank media are fed via the printhead 112, and the elements of the printhead 112 apply energy to the ink ribbon, which transfers ink to the blank media disposed on the ink ribbon in response to the energy.

[0015] If the media processing device 100 is configured to use direct thermal printing or thermal transfer printing, correct positioning of the printhead 112 relative to, for example, the platen roller is important. The platen roller and other components of a conveyor system (e.g., rollers) are particularly configured to convey media and / or ribbons through a nip formed between the printhead 112 and the platen roller. Without an appropriate amount of pressure or force applied in conjunction with the contact between the printhead 112 and the platen roller, the media and / or ribbon may not be properly conveyed through the nip. For example, if too much pressure or force is exerted on the platen roller by the printhead 112, the ribbon may wrinkle.Alternatively, if insufficient pressure or force is applied to the platen roller by the printhead 112, the media may not be fed through the nip at the correct speed (or at all). Furthermore, the appropriate amount of pressure between the printhead 112 and the platen roller allows for proper heat flow from the heating elements of the printhead 112.

[0016] The exemplary printhead carrier 114, sometimes referred to herein as the carrier 114, is configured to position the printhead assembly 110 (and thus the printhead 112) in a suitable configuration for printing. The exemplary printing mechanism 108 of Fig. 1 uses a carrier constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure (e.g., the exemplary carrier 400 of Fig. 4 described in detail below) to provide convenient access to the printhead 112, to properly position and hold the printhead 112 for printing, and to facilitate effective installation, cleaning, and / or removal of the printhead 112 from the printing mechanism 108.

[0017] In the example shown by Fig. 1, the controller 102 and a power source 116 are placed in incoming and outgoing electrical communication with the printhead 112 in response to the printhead assembly 110 being installed and removed from the carrier 114. The exemplary printing mechanism 108 of Fig. 1 may utilize an exemplary adapter constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure (e.g., the exemplary adapter 906 of Fig. 9A, described in detail below) to provide one-touch installation and one-touch removal of the printhead assembly 110 to and from the media processing device 100.

[0018] In some examples, the example printing mechanism 108 of Fig. 1 an exemplary carrier disclosed herein (e.g., the exemplary carrier 400 of Fig. 4, which is described in detail below) in conjunction with an exemplary adapter disclosed herein (e.g., the exemplary adapter 906 of Fig. 9A, which is described in detail below). Alternatively, the exemplary printing mechanism 108 of Fig. 1 uses an exemplary carrier disclosed herein and does not use an exemplary adapter disclosed herein. Alternatively, the exemplary printing mechanism 108 of Fig. 1 illustrates an exemplary adapter disclosed herein and does not utilize an exemplary carrier disclosed herein.

[0019] Fig. 2 shows an exemplary implementation of the media processing device 100 of Fig. 1 constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. The exemplary media processing device 200 of Fig. 2 has a housing 202 with a door 204. As in Fig. 2, the door 204 is in a closed operating position, preventing access to internal components. In addition to preventing dirt, dust, and foreign matter from entering an internal cavity of the media processing device 200 and potentially contaminating consumables or electronics, the door 204 can also reduce noise and prevent accidental contact with sensitive components. The exemplary door 204 of Fig. 2 is pivotable about hinges 206 attached to a frame of the media processing device 200 so that the door 204 can be opened to provide access to the internal components of the media processing device 200. As described below in connection with Fig. 3, the frame includes a housing to which some components of the media processing device 200 are mounted. For example, as described below, a printing mechanism mounted on the housing generates indicia on the printing mechanism, which are fed to the printing mechanism by components mounted on the housing. The printing mechanism ejects the media at an exit 208 located along a front side 210 of the housing 202.

[0020] Fig. 3 shows a side view of a portion of the exemplary media processing device 200 of Fig. 2 with the door 204 removed. A similar view of the interior cavity is available when the door 204 is opened. As in Fig. 3, a housing 300 supports internal components of the media processing device 200, including a media spindle (not shown), a plurality of guide components (e.g., rollers that guide media and / or ribbon), a ribbon feed spindle 302, a ribbon take-up spindle 304, a transmissive sensor 306, a pressure plate assembly 308, and a print mechanism 310. The media spindle (not shown) is configured to hold a spool of media that is fed to the print mechanism 310 and the output 208 ( Fig. 2). The ribbon supply spindle 302 is configured to hold a spool of unused ribbon. The ribbon is fed from the ribbon supply spindle 302 to the print mechanism 310, which uses the ribbon to create characters on the media simultaneously fed to the print mechanism 310. The ribbon take-up spindle 304 is configured to hold a spool of used ribbon (e.g., a ribbon that has been fed through the print mechanism 310).

[0021] The exemplary printing mechanism 310 of Fig. 3 creates characters on the media at a nip formed by a roller of the platen assembly 308 and a printhead. In the illustrated example of Fig. 3, the printing mechanism 310 selectively applies heat to the ribbon in accordance with, for example, received print line data, thereby transferring characters (e.g., ink) to the media adjacent to the ribbon in the nip. Alternatively, when the direct thermal print media is fed to the printing mechanism 310 (e.g., when the media processing device 200 is in a direct thermal configuration), the ribbon is not fed to the printing mechanism 310 and heat is selectively applied directly to the direct thermal print media being fed over the printhead, causing a change in the appearance of the media at selected locations. The exemplary printing mechanism 310 includes a support structure 312 and removable covers 314 and 316 that shield the printing mechanism 310.

[0022] Fig. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the printing mechanism 310 with the covers 314 and 316 of Fig. 3 removed. Fig. 8 shows the removable cover 316 as installed, which is shown below in detail in connection with Fig. 8. The exemplary printing mechanism 310 of Fig. 4 includes a printhead carrier 400 (or simply “carrier 400”) constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure. As shown in Fig. 4, the exemplary carrier 400 is in a closed configuration from which printing operations are performed. However, as described below, the exemplary carrier 400 is alternatively converted to an open configuration ( Fig. 6) or an access configuration ( Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B) for different types of operations (e.g. printhead removal, printhead cleaning and / or printhead installation).

[0023] The exemplary printing mechanism 310 of Fig. 4 includes a rocker arm assembly 402 for maintaining the carrier 400 in the closed configuration and for allowing the carrier 400 to transition to the open or access configuration. The exemplary rocker arm assembly 402 is pivotally mounted to the housing 300 and is movable between an engaged position ( Fig. 4) and a release position ( Fig. 6) is movable. The exemplary rocker arm arrangement 402 of Fig. 4 comprises the drive elements 404 and 406 and a handle 408. Manual rotation of the handle 408 moves the rocker arm assembly 402 between an engaged position ( Fig. 4) and a release position ( Fig. 6).

[0024] When the rocker arm assembly 402 is in the engaged position, the drive elements 404 and 406 exert an adjustable force on the carrier 400. Although in Fig. 4, the removable cover 316 is engaged with the exemplary drive element 404 and 406 and the corresponding force is exerted by the removable cover 316 on the carrier 400. In the illustrated example of Fig. 4, drive members 404 and 406 comprise cylinders that are rotated (e.g., to predefined positions marked with indicators) to adjust the amount of force applied to the carrier 400. In some examples, drive members 404 and 406 have a curved profile configured to slidably engage a surface (e.g., of the removable cover 316) when the rocker arm assembly 402 is rotated. The curved profile of drive members 404 and 406 provides cam-like functionality that moves along the corresponding surface when the rocker arm assembly 402 is rotated from the disengaged position to the engaged position. Thus, drive members 404 and 406 position the carrier 400 for printing.In some examples, contact areas between the drive members 404 and 406 and the corresponding surface are configured to allow sliding movement when the rocker arm assembly 402 is rotated.

[0025] In some examples, the detents of the rocker arm assembly 402 are configured to hold the rocker arm assembly 402 in either the engaged position or the disengaged position. When the rocker arm assembly 402 is in the engaged position, the drive elements 404 and 406 hold the carrier 400 in a position for printing. For example, the drive elements 404 and 406 hold the carrier 400 in a position such that a printhead 600 ( Fig. 6) carried by carrier 400 is properly aligned and oriented with a roller 410 of platen assembly 308. Furthermore, exemplary drive elements 404 and 406 ensure that an appropriate amount of pressure is applied to printhead 600 in a direction toward platen roller 410.

[0026] In response to the rocker arm assembly 402 being moved (e.g., via the handle 408) from the engaged position to the disengaged position, the drive members 404 and 406 are disengaged and thus do not exert any force on the carrier 400. When the rocker arm assembly 402 is in the disengaged position, the exemplary carrier 400 can freely move from the closed configuration to the open configuration ( Fig. 6) or in the access configuration ( Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B). Whether the carrier 400 transitions to the open configuration or the access configuration in response to the rocker arm assembly 402 being disengaged is determined by whether the printhead 600 is attached to the carrier 400 or not. In the illustrated example of Fig. 4, the print head 600 is removably attached to the carrier 400 via a fastener (e.g., a bolt or a screw) 412. In order for the carrier 400 to be able to move from the closed configuration ( Fig. 4) into the open configuration ( Fig. 6), the fastener 412 is left in place so that the printhead 600 remains attached to the carrier 400 and the rocker arm assembly 402 is moved to the disengaged position. As described below, the carrier 400 is biased to the open configuration and, in response to the rocker arm assembly 402 disengaging, pivots away from the platen 410 in a first rotational direction toward the open configuration. In order for the carrier 400 to transition from the open configuration to the closed configuration, the rocker arm assembly 402 is moved from the disengaged position to the engaged position, causing the drive members 404 and 406 to apply pressure to the carrier 400 and position the printhead 600 for printing operations.

[0027] In order for the carrier 400 to change from the closed configuration ( Fig. 4) in the access configuration ( Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B), the fastener 412 is released or removed, so that the printhead 600 is unsecured from the carrier 400. When the printhead 600 is unsecured from the carrier 400 and the rocker arm assembly 402 is moved to the disengaged position, the carrier 400 pivots away from the platen 410 in the first rotational direction, and the printhead 600 pivots away from the carrier 400 in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

[0028] To enable pivoting of the carrier 400 toward and away from the roller 410, the exemplary carrier 400 is Fig. 4 pivotally mounted on the housing 300 via a first pivot mechanism 414. Fig. 4 shows a first side of the housing 300 and Fig. 5 shows a second opposite side of the housing 300. As in Fig. 5, one end of the first pivot mechanism 414 extends through the housing 300. A biasing member (e.g., a spring) 416 is attached to the end of the first pivot mechanism 414, which extends from the interior cavity covered by the door 204 through the housing 300. As shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, a portion of the biasing member 416 is located on another side of the housing, opposite the internal cavity. In the illustrated example, the first pivot mechanism 414 is biased via the biasing member 416 to move the carrier 400 into the open configuration. Accordingly, when the carrier 400 is free to move (e.g., not engaged by the drive members 404 and 406), the exemplary carrier 400 pivots about an axis defined by the first pivot mechanism 416 in the first rotational direction away from the platen roller 410. In the illustrated example, the biasing member 416 applies a range of motion (e.g., a number of degrees of rotation) to control the distance traveled by the carrier 400 away from the roller 410.That is, the exemplary biasing member 416 is configured to position the carrier 400 at a desired distance from the platen roller 410 for the open and access configurations, allowing the user to effectively interact with the carrier 400 and / or the printhead 600 supported by the carrier 400. The separation between the carrier 400 and the platen roller 410 provided by the first pivot mechanism 414 enables, for example, cleaning the printhead 600, installing or adjusting the ribbon, installing or adjusting the media, installing the printhead 600, and / or removing the printhead 600.

[0029] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the exemplary carrier 400 of Fig. 4 without the removable cover 316. Fig. Figure 8 illustrates the removable cover 316 installed on the installed carrier 400 to protect the components of the carrier 400. The exemplary carrier 400 of Fig. 7 includes a base 700 that is fixedly attached (e.g., by bolts or screws) to the first pivot mechanism 414. When the first pivot mechanism 414 rotates in response to the rocker arm assembly 402 transitioning from the engaged position to the disengaged position, the fixed base 700 pivots about a first axis 702 in the first rotational direction indicated by a first arrow D1 in Fig. 7. Consequently, a printhead assembly 704 carried by the carrier 400 also pivots about the first axis 702 in the first rotational direction D1. The exemplary printhead assembly 704 of Fig. 7 has the print head 600, which in Fig. 6. The print head 600 is positioned near the roller 410 in the closed configuration ( Fig. 4) for printing operations. Accordingly, the print head 600 pivots about the first axis 702 away from the roller 410 in the first rotational direction D1 when the carrier 400 moves from the closed configuration to the open configuration ( Fig. 6) moves or transitions and when the carrier 400 moves from the closed configuration to the access configuration ( Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B). In addition, the print head 600 pivots about the first axis 702 to the roller 410 in a second rotational direction D2 when the carrier 400 moves from the open configuration ( Fig. 6) into the closed configuration ( Fig. 4) moves or passes and when the carrier 400 moves away from the access configuration ( Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B) moves or transitions into the closed configuration. Specifically, the printhead 600 moves in the first and second rotational directions along an arc defined by dimensions of the base 700 (e.g., a length extending from the first pivot mechanism 414 to an opposite end of the base 700) and the first pivot mechanism 414 as it moves toward or away from the platen 410.

[0030] As described above, the printhead assembly 704 is attached to the carrier 400 via the fastening means 412. In the illustrated example of Fig. 7, the fastener 412 extends through an opening in the base 700 and is received by the print head assembly 704 (e.g., via a threaded hole). In the illustrated example of Fig. 7, a force distribution rod 708 has an arcuate cutout to accommodate the fastener 412. The exemplary force distribution rod 708 of Fig. 7 is not directly attached to the base 700 to allow for thermal expansion of, for example, the print head 600 and / or the base 700. As shown in Fig. 7 and Fig. 8, the exemplary force distribution rod 708 is attached to the removable cover 316 via rivets 710 and 712 (or any other suitable fastener(s)). The exemplary removable cover 316 is secured to the base 700 via screws 714 and 716 (or any other suitable fastener). The exemplary removable cover 316 is engaged by the drive members 404 and 406 of the rocker arm assembly 402, thereby applying a force to the force distribution rod 708.

[0031] When attached to the base 700 via the fastener 412, the printhead assembly 704 is held against the base 700. Thus, when the drive elements 404 and 406 no longer exert force on the force distribution rod 708 (through the thickness of the removable cover 316) and the fastener 412 holds the printhead assembly 704 against the base 700, the exemplary carrier 400 transitions from the closed configuration to the open configuration via the first pivot mechanism 414, which in Fig. 6 is illustrated.

[0032] Alternatively, if the drive elements 404 and 406 no longer exert force on the force distribution rod 708 and the fastener 412 does not hold the printhead assembly 704 against the base 700, the carrier 400 moves away from the roller 410 in the first rotational direction DI via the first pivot mechanism 414, and the printhead assembly 704 moves away from the base 700 in the second rotational direction D2 (e.g., falls off). This transition places the carrier 400 in the access configuration as shown in the Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B. To enable the movement of the print head assembly 704 away from the base 700 in the second rotational direction D2, the carrier 400 has a second pivot mechanism 900 ( Fig. 9A). The exemplary second pivot mechanism 900 pivots about an axis 902 defined by a shaft 904. When the second pivot mechanism 900 pivots about the axis 902 away from the base 700, an adapter 906 attached to the second pivot mechanism 900 pivots away from the base 700. In the illustrated example, the printhead assembly 704 is removably coupled to the carrier 400 via the adapter 906. Thus, when the printhead assembly 704 is installed, it rotates in conjunction with the second pivot mechanism 900. Furthermore, when the printhead assembly 704 is not installed, the adapter 906 is present for coupling to the printhead assembly 704 in the access configuration, as shown in Fig. 9A-B. Thus, the second pivot mechanism 900 enables convenient (e.g., with substantial clearance and at an accessible angle) coupling and decoupling between the printhead assembly 704 and the carrier 400.

[0033] In Fig. 9A is a view of the portions of the adapter 906 prevented by the cover 908. Fig. However, Figures 10-12 show the mounting of the adapter 906 on the second pivot mechanism 900. Fig. 10 is a rear perspective view of the exemplary adapter 906 attached to the exemplary second pivot mechanism 900 of Fig. 9A-B is mounted on mounting brackets 1000. As shown in Fig. 10, the exemplary adapter 906 is fixedly coupled to the second pivot mechanism 900 such that the exemplary adapter 906 rotates or pivots in conjunction with the second pivot mechanism 900.

[0034] Fig. 11 is a front perspective view of the exemplary adapter 906 attached to the exemplary second pivot mechanism 900 of Fig. 9A-B. The cover 908 is Fig. 9 not shown. As in Fig. 11, the exemplary adapter 906 is coupled to the mounting brackets 1000 of the second pivot mechanism 900 by any suitable fastening means 1100, such as screws or bolts. The exemplary adapter 906 of Fig. 11 has openings aligned with the mounting brackets 1000 of the second pivot mechanism 900 (e.g., arranged in register and spaced apart from each other).

[0035] Fig. 12 is the perspective front view of Fig. 11 with the cover 908. The exemplary cover 908 is shaped to fit into a corresponding opening in the base 700 such that the cover 908 and the adapter 906 are able to pivot in the opening in the base 700. The exemplary cover 908 has openings that allow access to the fasteners 1100 of Fig. 11. In addition, the cover 908 includes an alignment device 1200 that guides the coupling of the printhead assembly 704 to the adapter 906. The connection of the adapter 906 and the printhead assembly 704, as well as additional details of the exemplary adapter 906, are described below in connection with the Fig. 17 and Fig. 18 described.

[0036] Back to Fig. 9A-B, the adapter 906 pivots via the second pivot mechanism 900 along a second arc away from and toward the base 700 about the second axis 902 defined by the shaft 904. In the illustrated example, the second axis 902 is different from, but parallel to, the first axis 702 defined by the first pivot mechanism 414. The exemplary second pivot mechanism 900 of Fig. 9A is connected to the shaft 904 via first and second extension sections 910 and 1002 ( Fig. 10) of the second pivot mechanism 900. Each of the extension sections 910 and 1002 has an opening to receive the shaft 904. The extension sections 910 and 1002 extend from the second pivot mechanism 900 through openings in the base 700. In addition, the exemplary carrier 400 has first and second holders 912 and 1300 ( Fig. 13) that receive the shaft 904. In the illustrated example, the holders 912 and 1300 are separate components of the second pivot mechanism 900. Each of the exemplary holders 912 and 1300 is shaped to fit into an opening in the base 700 at a particular position and to be held in that position. In the illustrated example, each of the holders 912 and 1300 has one or more shoulders that engage a surface of the base 700 such that the holders 912 and 1300 are held in position. The shaft 904 extends through openings in the holders 912 and 1300 and through the extension portions 910 and 1002 of the second pivot mechanism 900. As in the example of Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the shaft 904 includes a bent end 1302 to restrict axial movement of the shaft 904 in a first direction. In the illustrated example, the removable cover 316 restricts axial movement of the shaft 904 in a second direction.

[0037] Furthermore, the exemplary carrier 400 includes first and second biasing elements 914 and 916 that couple the shaft 904 to the base 700. In the illustrated example, each of the biasing elements 914 and 916 is implemented by a torsion spring constructed using the teachings of this disclosure. Fig. 14-16 illustrate an exemplary implementation of the biasing elements 914 and 916 of Fig. 9. As in the example of Fig. 14, the biasing element 914 has a first portion 1400 into which the shaft 904 is inserted. The exemplary first portion 1400 of Fig. 14 has a diameter to allow the shaft 904 to pass through. When the carrier 400 is installed, the exemplary first portion 1400 of the first biasing element 914 is disposed between the first extension portion 910 and the first holder 912, which assists in locating the second pivot mechanism 900. The exemplary first biasing element 914 of Fig. 14 has a second portion 1402 into which a tab 1404 of the base 700 is inserted. The exemplary second portion 1402 of the first biasing member 914 has parameters (e.g., number of coils, wire diameter, tension correction factor, etc.) that result in a desired amount of torque. The first and second portions 1400 and 1402 of the first biasing member 914 are connected. The exemplary first biasing member 914 of Fig. 14 has a third section 1406 extending from the second section 1402. As in the example of Fig. 14, an arc of the exemplary third portion 1406 of the biasing member 914 is positioned in an opening 1408 in the base 700.

[0038] Fig. 15 illustrates one form of the exemplary first biasing member 914 of Fig. 14. As in Fig. 15, the third portion 1406 of the first biasing member 914 extends from the second portion 1402 to a side of the base 700 against which the printhead assembly 704 abuts (when installed), into the opening 1408 in the base 700, and back to the side of the base 700 to which the printhead assembly 704 is attached (when installed). For purposes of clarity and not limitation, the side of the base 700 to which the printhead assembly 704 is attached (e.g., in the closed configuration and the open configuration) is referred to herein as a bottom side, while the opposite side of the base 700 is referred to herein as a top side.

[0039] Fig. Figure 16 illustrates one form of the exemplary second biasing member 916 of Fig. 9A. The exemplary second biasing element 916 of Fig. 16 has a similar shape to the exemplary first biasing element 914 of Fig. 15. The exemplary second biasing element 916 of Fig. 16 has first, second and third sections 1600, 1602 and 1604.

[0040] The exemplary first and second biasing elements 914 and 916 ensure proper engagement of the printhead assembly 704 with the base 700 and thus alignment of the printhead 600. Specifically, the first and second biasing elements 914 and 916 engage the shaft 904 in a manner that compensates for downward bias exerted by the adapter 906 and component(s) (e.g., a power cable and / or data cable) coupled to the adapter 906. For example, the biasing elements 914 and 916 provide a floating arrangement by which the shaft 904 (and thus the second pivot mechanism 900) is coupled to the base 700. While the printhead assembly 704 is secured to the base 700 via the fastener 412 at an upstream end of the carrier 400, components positioned near a downstream end of the carrier bias the printhead assembly 704 downward.However, the biasing elements 914 and 916 and the shaft 904 counteract this downward bias by catching the downstream end of the printhead assembly 704 against the base 700 with tolerances provided by the biasing elements 914 and 916 and the floating arrangement between the biasing elements 914 and 916 and the shaft 906. In other words, the exemplary biasing elements 914 and 916 and the shaft 904 maintain proper (e.g., flush or parallel) engagement of the printhead assembly 700 with the base 700 of the carrier 400.

[0041] Fig. Figure 17 illustrates an exemplary implementation of the adapter 906 constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. While the exemplary adapter 906 of Fig. 17 in the exemplary carrier 400 described above, the exemplary adapter 906 of Fig. 17 be implemented in alternative printing mechanisms (e.g., without the exemplary carrier 400 of Fig. 4). The exemplary adapter 906 from Fig. 17 is configured to implement a removable coupling of the exemplary printhead assembly 704, as shown in Fig. 18. The exemplary printhead assembly 704 of Fig. 18 corresponds to the printhead assembly 704 described above in connection with Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. The exemplary adapter 906 of Fig. 17 can, however, be implemented to interface with alternative printhead arrangements.

[0042] The exemplary printhead assembly 704 of Fig. 18 is removable with the exemplary adapter 906 from Fig. 17 with only one action or movement by matingly engaging or disengaging a female connector 1700 of the adapter 906 and a male connector 1800 of the printhead assembly 704. The exemplary female connector 1700 of the adapter 906 includes alignment arms 1702 and 1704 configured to be received in the alignment receptacles 1802 and 1804 of the printhead assembly 704. The exemplary female connector 1700 of the adapter 906 includes a plurality of terminals 1706 arranged to mate with mating male connectors 1806 of the exemplary male connector 1800 of the printhead assembly 704. Accordingly, multiple electrical connections are made simultaneously via the single engagement of the adapter 906 and the printhead assembly 704. Furthermore, multiple electrical connections are simultaneously severed by the individual disengagement of the adapter 906 and the printhead assembly 704.

[0043] The exemplary adapter 906 from Fig. 17 includes a power input connector 1708 and a data input connector 1710. In some examples, the example adapter 906 includes a different number of power input connectors and / or a different number of data input connectors. The example power input connector 1708 of Fig. 17 is connected (e.g., via one or more cables or directly to a circuit board) to a power source of, for example, the exemplary media processing device 200 of Fig. 2. The exemplary data input connector 1710 of Fig. 17 is connected (e.g., via one or more cables or directly to a circuit board) to a data source of, for example, a logic circuit of the exemplary media processing device 200 of Fig. 2 and / or an external data source.

[0044] In the example shown by Fig. 17, the power input connector 1708 and the data input connector 1710 are mounted on a circuit board 1712. The terminals 1706 of the socket connector 1700 are in electrical connection with the power input connector 1708 and the data input connector 1710 via the circuit board 1712. Thus, if the exemplary adapter 906 of Fig. 17 is connected to the plug connector 1800 of the printhead assembly 704, it transmits power and data received from the respective sources of the media processing device 200 to the printhead assembly 704. Thus, the printhead assembly 704 receives the power required to operate the thermocouples of the printhead 600 (e.g., selectively energizing thermal elements of the printhead) and the data representing the characters to be generated on the media, as described above in connection with Fig. 1-3 described.

[0045] Notably, the power connection and the data connection between the exemplary adapter 906 of Fig. 17 and the corresponding sources (e.g., the power source of the media processing device 200 and the data source) are maintained even when the printhead assembly 704 is removed from the media processing device 200. In some examples, the power connection and / or the data connection between the exemplary adapter 906 of Fig. 17 and the corresponding sources are implemented by one or more cables that are difficult to maneuver in the limited space of the media processing device 200 (e.g., due to one or more loops formed in the cables due to a length of the respective cables), and / or may be incorrectly connected and / or disconnected. Accordingly, maintaining the power connection and the data connection between the media processing device 200, even when the printhead assembly 704 is removed from the media processing device 200, as is achieved by the exemplary adapter 906 of Fig. 17, the processes of removing and installing the printhead assembly 704.

[0046] While the exemplary connector 1700 of the adapter 906 above is shown as a socket and the exemplary connector 1800 of the printhead assembly 704 of Fig. 18 are described as plug connectors, connector 1700 of adapter 906 may be configured as a plug connector and connector 1800 of printhead assembly 704 may be configured as a socket connector. That is, the electrical connections between adapter 906 and printhead assembly 704 are achieved via any suitable relationship between the connectors. Furthermore, the exemplary adapter 906 may utilize any suitable additional or alternative type of connector or alternative types of connectors.

[0047] As described above, the exemplary adapter 906 is attached to the second pivot mechanism 900, and the printhead assembly 704 is received against the base 700 of the carrier 400. Proper alignment of the printhead assembly 704 is important for successful printing operations. The exemplary adapter 906 and the exemplary carrier 400 establish and maintain proper alignment using several devices. For example, the alignment arms 1702 and 1704 of the adapter 906 cooperate with the alignment receptacles 1802 and 1804 to establish and maintain alignment between the adapter 906 and the printhead assembly 704. Additionally, the alignment device 1200 of the cover 908 guides the printhead assembly 704 into and out of engagement with the adapter 906. In addition, the exemplary carrier 400 includes openings 1304 and 1306 ( Fig. 13) configured to connect posts 1308 and 1310 ( Fig. 13) extending from the printhead assembly 704, thereby aligning the printhead assembly 704 with the carrier 400 and the platen roller 410 (e.g., by positioning an edge of the printhead 600 parallel to a longitudinal axis of the platen roller 410). As shown in Fig. 13, the exemplary force distribution rod 708 is shaped to receive posts 1308 and 1310 that protrude through openings 1304 and 1306. Additionally, the fastener 412 is received by a threaded receptacle 1808 of the printhead assembly 704 to position the printhead 600 at a desired location against the base 700 of the carrier 400.

Claims

[1] Print head carrier (114, 400) comprising: a base (700) for supporting a printhead assembly (110, 704); a first pivot mechanism (414) for pivoting the base (700) about a first axis (702); a connector (1700); and a second pivot mechanism (900) for pivoting the connector (1700) about a second axis (902) different from the first axis (702), wherein the printhead assembly (110, 704) is removably coupled to the connector (1700) and pivotable about the second axis (902) away from the printhead carrier (114, 400). [2] The printhead carrier (114, 400) of claim 1, wherein the first axis (702) is parallel to the second axis (902). [3] The printhead carrier (114, 400) of claim 1, further comprising an opening in the base (700), wherein the connector (1700) can pivot in the opening. [4] Printhead carrier (114, 400) according to claim 1, wherein the first axis (702) is defined by the first pivot mechanism (414); and the second axis (902) is defined by a shaft (904) coupled to the second pivot mechanism (900). [5] The printhead carrier (114, 400) of claim 4, wherein the shaft (904) is coupled to the base (700) via a biasing member (914, 916). [6] The printhead carrier (114, 400) of claim 5, wherein the biasing member (914, 916) comprises a first portion (1400, 1600) coupled to the shaft (904) and a second portion (1402, 1602) coupled to the base (700). [7] The printhead carrier (114, 400) of claim 6, wherein the biasing member (914, 916) comprises a third portion (1406) positioned in an opening (1408) of the base (700). [8] The printhead carrier (114, 400) of claim 5, wherein the biasing member (914) is a first biasing member (914), and further comprises a second biasing member (916) coupling (700) the shaft (904) to the base. [9] The printhead carrier (114, 400) of claim 5, wherein a portion of the biasing member (914) is positioned between an extension portion (910) of the second pivot mechanism (900) and a holder (912). [10] The printhead carrier (114, 400) of claim 1, further comprising an adapter (906) having the connector (1700), a power input (1708) and a data input (1710), the connector (1700) having a plurality of outputs. [11] The printhead carrier (114, 400) of claim 10, wherein the adapter further comprises an alignment arm (1702, 1704) to guide engagement of the connector (1700) with the printhead assembly (114, 400). [12] Media processing device (100, 200) comprising: a printhead carrier (114, 400) according to one of claims 1 to 11; a logic circuit; wherein the first pivot mechanism (414) is mounted on a housing, wherein the first pivot mechanism (414) rotates the base (700) of the print head carrier (114, 400); a first biasing member (416) coupled to the first pivot mechanism (414) for biasing the first pivot mechanism (414) in a first rotational direction; and wherein the second pivot mechanism (900), coupled to the base (700) of the printhead carrier (114, 400) via a shaft (904) and a second biasing member (914, 916), rotates the connector (1700) in a second rotational direction different from the first rotational direction, the connector (1700) removably coupling a printhead assembly (110, 704) to the logic circuit. [13] The media processing device (100, 200) of claim 12, further comprising: a rocker arm assembly (402) for limiting movement of the base (700) in the first rotational direction when in one of a plurality of positions; and a fastening means (412) for restricting movement of the connector (1700) in the second rotational direction.

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