Retractable core system and method

Abstract

A spindle for facilitating removal of used ribbon material in a printer is disclosed.SOLUTION: The spindle includes a shaft movably mounted to the printer and a spindle arm disposed on the shaft for collecting used ribbon material. The spindle arm has a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The spindle includes a slider disposed between the shaft and the spindle arm and configured to move bi-directionally along the shaft between a first position and a second position. The spindle also includes a first wiper connected to the slider. A button is connected to the slider and operably engages the shaft. Engaging the button enables movement of the slider along the shaft from a first position to a second position, which causes the first wiper to move the used ribbon material toward the end of the spindle arm.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] Thermal transfer printers employ a digital printing method that uses a ribbon and printhead to selectively transfer ink onto a substrate (e.g., paper or other form of printable media). This method is known in the art for producing high-quality, high-resolution, and durable prints. For example, thermal transfer printers are commonly used to print labels (e.g., barcodes) that will be used in long-term applications or that will be exposed to harsh conditions such as heat, UV light, moisture, and chemicals. Thermal transfer printers are also capable of processing high-volume print jobs in an efficient and cost-effective manner. For these and other reasons, thermal transfer printers have become popular in a variety of industries, including retail, healthcare, manufacturing, and others.

[0002] However, thermal transfer printers present certain challenges, particularly with regard to the loading and unloading of ribbon material, which provides the ink used during a printing operation. The ribbon material is typically provided in the form of a thin film coated on one side with ink (e.g., wax, resin, or a wax-and-resin combination), which is melted via heat from the printhead and transferred to the printable medium to produce the desired print. A roll of unused ribbon material is attached to a supply spindle, and after the ribbon material is heated by the printhead, it is guided along the desired ribbon path from the supply spindle to a take-up or waste ribbon spindle. Spools of used ribbon material can accumulate on the take-up spindle while printing operations are being performed.

[0003] When a printer consumes all or a portion of the unused ribbon material from the supply spindle, the spool of used ribbon material may be removed from the take-up spindle to change the type of ribbon material being used, to install a new supply of ribbon material when the take-up spindle is full, or for other reasons. One of the challenges presented by thermal transfer printers is handling the roll of ribbon material, especially when removing the used spool of ribbon material from the take-up spindle. For example, the spool of used ribbon material, especially the tightly wound inner layer of ribbon material adjacent to the take-up spindle, is often easily inhibited from removal. Incomplete removal of the spool requires the user to expend additional time and energy to remove the used ribbon material, resulting in inconvenience, wasted time, and customer dissatisfaction.

[0004] In some cases, users must slice off layers of used ribbon material, for example, with a razor blade, before manually removing the ribbon material from the take-up spindle. However, this process often requires the user to make multiple passes with the razor blade, which is time-consuming and potentially dangerous if the blade is mixed up or mishandled. Often, manually removing an entire spool of used ribbon material in this manner can require dozens of passes through the blade. Slicing the used ribbon material can result in elements of the ribbon material scattering in the workspace surrounding the printer (requiring additional time and effort for cleanup) or reaching undesirable locations within the printer, potentially damaging the printer. Additionally, extensive handling of the used ribbon material can result in ink staining the user's clothing and / or skin.

[0005] Some devices have utilized take-up spindles with retractable portions to aid in the removal of used ribbon material. However, such devices typically require the user to use both hands to operate the second spindle. For example, one hand must stabilize a first portion of the take-up spindle while the other hand must operate (e.g., retract) the second portion. Furthermore, this retraction is achieved in some devices using rotating or threaded components, which in some cases can increase complexity (e.g., by requiring rotation in a specific direction) or can result in wear and potential mechanical failure. As a result of at least the above problems, a need exists for a mechanism to assist users in conveniently and efficiently removing spools of used ribbon material from thermal printers. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The inventive systems and methods disclosed herein overcome many of the drawbacks and limitations of the prior art devices discussed above.

[0007] In one aspect, a spindle for facilitating removal of used ribbon material from a printer is disclosed. The spindle includes a shaft movably mounted to the printer and a spindle arm disposed on the shaft to collect used ribbon material. The spindle arm has a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The spindle also includes a slider disposed between the shaft and the spindle arm. The slider is configured to move bidirectionally along the shaft between a first position and a second position. The spindle includes a first wiper connected to the slider and a button connected to the slider and operably engaged with the shaft. Engaging the button allows the slider to move along the shaft from the first position to the second position, causing the first wiper to move the used ribbon material toward the end of the spindle arm.

[0008] In another aspect, a retractable core assembly for recovering used ribbon material in a printer is disclosed. The retractable core assembly includes a shaft, a slider at least partially surrounding the shaft and configured to move along the shaft, a wiper connected to the slider, and an outer core at least partially surrounding the slider. The outer core forms a spindle arm configured to recover used ribbon material. The outer core is in an expanded state during operation of the printer and in a retracted state when removing used ribbon material from the spindle arm.

[0009] In a further aspect, a method for removing used ribbon material from a printer is disclosed. The method includes providing a storable core assembly in an expanded state. The storable core assembly includes a slider disposed on a shaft movably connected to the printer, the slider disposed at a first position along the shaft, and a wiper connected to the slider. The storable core also includes a spindle arm partially surrounding the slider to retrieve the used ribbon material, a locking mechanism operably engaging the slider, and a button movably connected to the locking mechanism. The method also includes receiving the used ribbon material on the spindle arm and depressing the button to disengage the locking mechanism to release the slider from the first position. The method further includes moving the slider along the shaft to a second position. Movement of the slider from the first position to the second position transitions the storable core assembly to a storable state, and the wiper pushes the used ribbon material along a portion of the spindle arm, thereby partially removing the used ribbon material from the spindle arm. The method also includes pushing the used ribbon material along the remainder of the spindle arm until the used ribbon material is removed from the retractable core assembly, and returning the slider to the first position so that the retractable core assembly returns to the expanded state. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1]1A-1C are front, top, and left side isometric views of an exemplary printer in a closed configuration. [Figure 2] 2A and 2B are front, top, and right side isometric views of the printer of FIG. 1 in an open configuration. [Figure 3] 3A and 3B are front, top, and left isometric views of several components of the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2, including an exemplary stowable assembly for use with the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2, constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. [Figure 4] 4A-4C are front, top, and left isometric views of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] 5 is a left side cross-sectional elevation view of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3 taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a left side elevational view of the shaft of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 7] 7 is an enlarged view of a portion of the shaft of FIG. 6 with a first pin member connected to the distal end. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a top and left side isometric view of the slider of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the slider of FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of the slider of FIG. 8. [Figure 11] 4 is a top, front, and right side isometric view of the wiper of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 12] 12A and 12B are top, front, and left isometric views of the shaft of FIG. 6, the slider of FIG. 8, and the wiper of FIG. 11, along with other components representing part of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 13] 4 is a top, front, and left side isometric view of the inner core of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a left side elevation view of the sidewall portion of the inner core of FIG. 13. [Figure 15] 14A-14C are top, back, and left side isometric views of the inner core of FIG. 13. [Figure 16] 14A and 14B are top, front, and left side isometric views of a portion of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 12 with the inner core of FIG. 13 mounted thereon. [Figure 17] 4A and 4B are top, front, and left isometric views of the outer core of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a rear elevation view of the outer core of FIG. 17. [Figure 19] 18A and 18B are bottom and left side isometric views of the first portion of the outer core of FIG. 17. [Figure 20] 18A and 18B are top and front isometric views of the second portion of the outer core of FIG. 17. [Figure 21] FIG. 18 is a front elevation view of the outer core of FIG. 17. [Figure 22] 4A and 4B are top and front isometric views of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 23] FIG. 4 is a left side elevational view of the cap of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a rear elevational view of the cap of FIG. 23. [Figure 25] FIG. 24 is a top and front isometric view of the cap of FIG. 23. [Figure 26] 4A and 4B are top, rear, and left isometric views of the button of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 27] 27 is a left side cross-sectional elevation view of the button of FIG. 26 taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 26. [Figure 28] 4A-4C are top, rear, and left side isometric views of the locking plate of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 29] 29A-29C are top, front, and left isometric views of a locking mechanism of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3 including the locking plate of FIG. 28. [Figure 30] 29 is a top and left isometric view of the cap of FIG. 23 connected to the slider of FIG. 8 with the locking mechanism of FIG. 29 disposed within the cap. [Figure 31] 18 is a top view of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3 with the outer core of FIG. 17 removed. [Figure 32] 32 is a front and left isometric cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism of FIG. 29 disposed within the cap of FIG. 23 and covered by the button of FIG. 26, taken along line 32-32 of FIG. 31. [Figure 33A]29 disposed between the cap of FIG. 23 and the button of FIG. 26 in a first orientation during an unlocking operation. [Figure 33B] 29 disposed between the cap of FIG. 23 and the button of FIG. 26 in a second orientation during an unlocking operation. [Figure 33C] 29 disposed between the cap of FIG. 23 and the button of FIG. 26 in a third orientation during an unlocking operation. [Figure 34A] 29 disposed between the cap of FIG. 23 and the button of FIG. 26 in a first orientation during locking operation. [Figure 34B] 29 disposed between the cap of FIG. 23 and the button of FIG. 26 in a second orientation during locking operation. [Figure 34C] 29 disposed between the cap of FIG. 23 and the button of FIG. 26 in a third orientation during locking operation. [Figure 34D] 29 disposed between the cap of FIG. 23 and the button of FIG. 26 in a fourth orientation in a locking operation. [Figure 35] FIG. 4 is a front and left side isometric view of the retractable assembly of FIG. 3 in a first configuration with a spool of used ribbon material disposed thereon. [Figure 36] 36 is a left side cross-sectional elevation view along inline 36-36 of FIG. 35 of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3 in a first configuration with the spool of FIG. 35 positioned thereon. [Figure 37] 37 is a left side cross-sectional elevation view of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3 in a second configuration with the spool of FIG. 35 partially removed therefrom, taken along line 37-37 of FIG. 38. [Figure 38] 36A-36C are top, front, and left isometric views of the retractable core assembly of FIG. 3 in a second configuration with the spool of FIG. 35 partially removed therefrom. [Figure 39] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for removing a spool of used ribbon material from a printer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Before any embodiment is described in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings, but rather only by the claims that follow this disclosure. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for purposes of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to include the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled" and variations thereof are used broadly and include both direct and indirect mounting, connecting, supporting, and coupling. Furthermore, "connected" and "coupled" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

[0012] The following description is presented to enable those skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the present disclosure. Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The following detailed description should be read with reference to the figures, in which like elements in different figures have like reference numerals. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and are within the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] Additionally, while the following discussion may describe features associated with particular devices or embodiments, it is understood that additional devices and / or features can be used with the described systems and methods, and that the discussed devices and features are used to provide examples of possible embodiments without limitation.

[0014] The present disclosure is directed to a system designed to assist a user in removing a spool or roll of used ribbon material from a printer. The used ribbon material can be collected in a roll wound around a spindle arm. In some cases, the outer core of the spindle arm can transition from an expanded state to a retracted state when the roll of ribbon material is removed, thereby reducing tension on the tightly wound inner layer. Further, in some cases, the system can include a slider designed to move a wiper at least partially along the length of the spindle arm. The wiper can at least partially remove the spool or roll of used ribbon material from the spindle arm, allowing a user to easily complete the removal. In some cases, the system can incorporate a locking mechanism with a button that a user can operate with one hand to initiate removal of the used ribbon material.

[0015] 1 and 2, an exemplary thermal transfer printer 100 is provided in the form of a housing 102 defining a base portion 104 and a housing cover 106. The base portion 104 and the housing cover 106 may be hinged or otherwise coupled to one another to allow access to the internal components of the printer 100 and to allow the housing cover 106 to be removably opened and / or attached to allow installation or maintenance of the internal components. For example, the housing cover 106 may be coupled to the base portion 104 via a hinge 108.

[0016] A user interface 110 may be located on a front surface 112 of the printer 100. The user interface 110 may allow a user to operate, service, or otherwise interface with the printer 100. For example, the user interface 110 may allow a user to change certain settings or preferences for one or more print jobs. Additionally, the printer 100 may include an exit slot 114 in the form of a linear opening between the base portion 104 and the housing cover 106, which are located on the front surface 112. The exit slot 114 may provide an aperture through which print media produced by the printer 100 may exit the printer 100, for example, for removal by a user.

[0017] 2, the housing cover 106 of the printer 100 is designed to be moved to an open configuration. In some cases, the housing cover 106 may be rotatable about a connection axis with the base portion 104 formed by a hinge 108. Thus, a user may place the printer 100 in the open configuration by lifting the housing cover 106 away from the base portion 104 and rotating the housing cover 106 about the hinge, thereby exposing one or more internal components of the printer 100.

[0018] The base portion 104 may include a chassis 116 configured to support one or more internal components of the printer 100. The chassis 116 may be provided in the form of a floor 118 and a mounting wall 120 oriented in a plane substantially perpendicular to the floor 118. The mounting wall 120 may be integrally formed with or coupled to the floor 118 and extend upwardly from the floor. The mounting wall 120 may be defined by a front end 122 (the front end 122 corresponds to the front face 112 of the printer 100) and a rear end 124 opposite the front end 122. In some cases, the chassis 116 may be formed from cast aluminum. In other cases, the chassis 116 may be formed from any other suitable material.

[0019] The internal components of the printer 100 can be directly connected to a mounting wall 120 of the chassis 116. For example, a media holder 126 can be connected to the mounting wall 120 and disposed adjacent a rear end 124 of the chassis 116. The media holder 126 is designed to hold and dispense printable media 128 (e.g., adhesive labels or any other suitable media) from a roll when the printer 100 is operating. The media holder 126 can be configured to support printable media 128 of different sizes (e.g., labeling having different widths).

[0020] The chassis 116 may also support a ribbon supply spindle 130 and a waste ribbon spindle 132 connected to the mounting wall 120. The ribbon supply spindle 130 may be positioned on the mounting wall 120 adjacent the media holder 126, and the waste ribbon spindle 132 may be positioned between the ribbon supply spindle 130 and the front end 122 of the mounting wall 120. The ribbon supply spindle 130 may include a gear member 131, and the waste ribbon spindle 132 may include a gear member 133. The gear member 131 and the gear member 133 may be configured to be engaged by a driven component (not shown) of the printer 100 such that the driven component can cause rotation of the ribbon supply spindle 130 and the waste ribbon spindle 132, respectively.

[0021] The ribbon supply spindle 130 is designed to hold and dispense a supply of ribbon material 134 from a ribbon roll 136 (e.g., in a manner similar to the media holder 126) when the printer 100 is operating. During the printing process, the printable media 128 from the media holder 126 and the ribbon material 134 from the ribbon supply spindle 130 can each be oriented toward the leading end 122 of the mounting wall 120. The printable media 128 and the ribbon material 134 can converge proximate to a print head 138 and a platen roller 140. The print head 138 and the platen roller 140 can each be connected to the chassis 116 and positioned proximate to the leading end 122 of the mounting wall 120. For example, the print head 138 and the platen roller 140 can be positioned on the mounting wall 120 such that the print head 138 and the platen roller 140 are positioned adjacent to the exit slot 114 when the housing cover 106 is positioned in the closed configuration.

[0022] During printing, the printable medium 128 and the ribbon material 134 may pass between the print head 138 and the platen roller 140. The print head 138 may be configured to heat the ribbon material 134 as it passes beneath the print head 138, causing ink from the ribbon material 134 to melt and adhere to adjacent portions of the printable medium 128. At the same time, the platen roller 140 may be positioned to provide a smooth support surface for the printable medium 128 and the ribbon material 134 as they pass beneath the print head 138 and contact each other. For example, the platen roller 140 may apply pressure to the printable medium 128 and the ribbon material 134, causing each to tightly engage the print head 138 and effectively transfer ink from the ribbon material 134 to the printable medium 128.

[0023] Once ink from the ribbon material 134 has been applied to the printable medium 128 by the printhead 138, the printable medium 128 may exit the printer 100 through the exit slot 114, and the used ribbon material 134 may be directed to and collected on the waste ribbon spindle 132. In some cases, rather than exiting the printer 100 through the exit slot 114, the printable medium 128 may be returned toward the rear end 124 of the mounting wall 120, where it may be collected by a take-up device 142. In this manner, the printer 100 may produce a roll of print media (e.g., a roll of printed labels) as an end product that is later collected by a user, rather than supplying the finished product directly to a user through the exit slot 114.

[0024] Turning to FIG. 3 , in some cases, the waste ribbon spindle 132 may be provided in the form of a retractable core assembly 200 designed to assist a user in removing used ribbon material 134 therefrom (e.g., installing a new ribbon roll 136 when the ribbon roll 136 is depleted). The printer 100 may include one or more rollers 144 and / or one or more diverters 146 arranged to deflect or guide the ribbon material 134 along a desired ribbon path. In some cases, the printer 100 may include four rollers 144 and one diverter 146, as shown in FIG. 3 . In other cases, the printer 100 may include any number of rollers 144 and / or diverters 146, and the rollers 144 and diverters 146 may be arranged to guide the ribbon material 134 along any suitable path. During operation (e.g., of the printer 100), unused ribbon material 134 can be unwound from a ribbon roll 136 mounted on the ribbon supply spindle 130, the ribbon material 134 can be guided along a desired ribbon path passing between the print head 138 and the platen roller 140 so that the ribbon material 134 can be acted upon by the print head 138, and used ribbon material 134 can be collected on the storable core assembly 200.

[0025] Turning to FIG. 4 , the retractable core assembly 200 can include a retractable outer core 202 provided in the form of a substantially tubular outer core body 204 defined by an outer core first end 206 and an outer core second end 208 opposite the outer core first end 206. The outer core 202 can include a first or upper portion 210 and a second or lower portion 212. The outer core 202 can be transitionable between a first or expanded state (e.g., as depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5 ) and a second or stowed state (see FIGS. 37 and 38 ). In some cases, the upper and lower portions 210, 212 can be held a distance from each other when the outer core 202 is in the expanded state, and the upper and lower portions 210, 212 can contact each other when the outer core 202 is in the stowed state. In other cases, the distance separating the upper and lower portions 210, 212 can decrease when the outer core 202 transitions from the expanded state to the retracted state. Transitioning the outer core 202 from the expanded state to the retracted state can assist the user in removing the used ribbon material 134 from the retractable core assembly 200 (e.g., by reducing the tension on the used ribbon material 134).

[0026] The upper and lower portions 210, 212 of the outer core 202 may be substantially symmetrical with respect to one another and each may include a portion of an end wall 214 and a spindle arm 216 of the outer core 202. In some cases, the end wall 214 may be disposed at the first end 206 of the outer core, and the spindle arm 216 may be connected to the end wall 214 and extend between the end wall 214 and the second end 208 of the outer core. The spindle arm 216 may be positioned to collect used ribbon material 134 during printing operations. Each of the upper and lower portions 210, 212 may include an outer core channel 218 in the form of a substantially linear opening extending entirely through the outer core body 204. The outer core channel 218 may be configured to facilitate a wiping action performed by a wiper 220 disposed adjacent each of the upper and lower portions 210, 212, as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 37 and 38 .

[0027] As best shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5, the central shaft 222 can be oriented along a central longitudinal axis A of the retractable core assembly 200. At least a portion of the shaft 222 can be disposed within the outer core 202. A cap 224 can be disposed adjacent the second end 208 of the outer core. The cap 224 can house or retain the locking mechanism 226 configured to be operably engaged by a button 228 adjacent the locking mechanism 226. For example, the button 228 can be movable to release or disengage the locking mechanism 226, as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 33A-33C.

[0028] The wiper 220 can be coupled to a slider 230 disposed within the outer core 202. In some cases, the wiper 220 is coupled to the slider 230 via a fastener 232. The fastener 232 can be a screw or any other suitable coupling mechanism known in the art. The slider 230 can partially surround the shaft 222 or can be slidably connected to the shaft 222 such that the slider 230 is movable along the shaft 222. For example, the slider 230 can be capable of bidirectional linear movement along the shaft 222 in a direction parallel to the axis A. In some cases, the cap 224 can be coupled to the slider 230, and movement of the slider 230 can be initiated at least in part by disengaging (e.g., releasing) the locking mechanism 226 via a button 228.

[0029] The slider 230 may include one or more first and second ramp surfaces 234, 235 arranged to engage one or more first and second ramp members 236, 237 connected, respectively, to the upper and lower portions 210, 212 of the outer core 202. The first and second ramp surfaces 234, 235 of the slider 230 and the first and second ramp members 236, 237 of the outer core 202 may facilitate transition of the outer core 202 between the expanded state and the stowed state, as described in more detail below with reference to Figures 36-38.

[0030] The retractable core assembly 200 may include an inner core 238 disposed within the outer core 202 and at least partially surrounding the shaft 222. In some cases, the inner core 238 may be configured to support or guide other internal components of the retractable core assembly 200, or to provide structural rigidity and / or stability to the retractable core assembly 200 as a whole.

[0031] 6 , the shaft 222 may be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical shaft body 240 extending between a shaft first end 242 and a shaft second end 244. In some cases, the shaft body 240 may include an attachment region 246 proximate the shaft first end 242, a stud 248 proximate the shaft second end 244, and a main body portion 250 disposed between the attachment region 246 and the stud 248. The shaft 222 may include one or more shaft grooves 252 disposed along the shaft body 240 and one or more shaft connection holes 254 disposed along the shaft body 240 and extending partially or completely therethrough. In some cases, the shaft grooves 252 and / or the shaft connection holes 254 may facilitate attachment between the shaft 222 and other components of the retractable core assembly 200.

[0032] The mounting region 246 can be designed to facilitate installation of the retractable core assembly 200 in a printing device (e.g., to facilitate mounting of the retractable core assembly 200 to the mounting wall 120 of the printer 100). The stud 248 can be designed to extend at least partially into the cap 224 when the outer core 202 is in an expanded state (e.g., see FIG. 5 ) to facilitate engagement of the shaft 222 with the locking mechanism 226. For example, the stud 248 can include a stud pin hole 256 in the form of a substantially circular opening extending generally through the stud 248 in a direction perpendicular to the axis A. As best shown in FIG. 7 , the stud pin hole 256 can receive and retain a first pin member 258 configured to releasably engage the locking mechanism 226, as described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 32 . In some cases, the first pin member 258 can be secured within the stud pin hole 256 via a screw, set screw, or any other suitable fastener (not shown).

[0033] 8-10 , the slider 230 may be provided in the form of a substantially annular hub region 260, a first or upper arm 262 connected to and extending outwardly from the hub region 260, and a second or lower arm 264 connected to and extending outwardly from the hub region 260. In some cases, the upper and lower arms 262, 264 of the slider 230 may be substantially symmetrical, e.g., the shape and structure of the upper arm 262 may mirror the shape and structure of the lower arm 264. A proximal end 266 of each of the upper and lower arms 262, 264 may be integrally formed with or coupled to the hub region 260. Each of the upper and lower arms 262, 264 may include a stepped end region 268 at its distal end 270 (e.g., opposite the proximal end 266).

[0034] As described above, the slider 230 may include one or more first ramp surfaces 234 and one or more second ramp surfaces 235 designed to engage with one or more first ramp members 236 and one or more second ramp members 237, respectively, of the outer core 202. In some cases, the upper and lower arms 262, 264 may each include a first ramp surface 234 located proximate the hub region 260 and two second ramp surfaces 235 located in the end region 268. The second ramp surfaces 235 of each of the upper and lower arms 262, 264 may be substantially parallel and coplanar with one another and separated by a linear wiper slot 272 extending therebetween. Each of the second ramp surfaces 235 may extend away from the distal end 270 at an angle and terminate at a second ramp surface apex 273 of the second ramp surface 235. Similarly, the first ramp face 234 may terminate in a first ramp face apex 275 located proximate the hub region 260 .

[0035] Each of the upper and lower arms 262, 264 may include a trough 274 provided in the form of a substantially smooth or flat surface extending between the end region 268 and the first ramp surface 234. The slider 230 may include a substantially annular insert 276 located on an opposite side of the upper and lower arms 262, 264 relative to the hub region 260. The insert 276 may be integrally formed with or coupled to the hub region 260 and extend outward therefrom (e.g., in a direction parallel to the extension of the upper and lower arms 262, 264). In some cases, the slider 230 may include one or more slider connection holes 278 configured to facilitate connection between the slider 230 and other components of the retractable core assembly 200. The slider connection holes 278 may be located on the upper arm 262, the lower arm 264, the hub region 260, and / or the insert 276.

[0036] As best shown in FIG. 9 , in some cases, the hub region 260 can have a conical or pyramidal shape, and the insert 276 can have a substantially cylindrical shape. In other cases, the hub region 260 and the insert 276 can have any suitable shape or configuration. As best shown in FIG. 10 , the slider opening 280 configured to receive the shaft 222 can extend entirely through each of the hub region 260 and the insert 276. In some cases, the slider opening 280 can be substantially circular. In other cases, the slider opening 280 can have any suitable shape, provided that the slider opening 280 is configured to receive a portion of the shaft 222.

[0037] 11 , each wiper 220 may be provided in the form of a substantially straight or elbow-shaped wiper body 282 including a connecting tab 284, a base member 286, and a wiping member 288. The connecting tab 284 may be connected to a first end 290 of the base member and oriented substantially flush with the base member 286. The wiping member 288 may be connected to a second end 292 of the base member and oriented at an angle relative to the base member 286. For example, the wiping member 288 may be substantially perpendicular to the base member 286. The wiping member 288 may terminate at an apex 294 opposite the base member second end 292. The connecting tab 284 may include a wiper connecting hole 296 in the form of a substantially circular opening extending entirely therethrough and configured to facilitate coupling between the wiper 220 and the slider 230.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 12, the slider 230 can be positioned along the shaft 222 when the retractable core assembly 200 is assembled. In some cases, two wipers 220 can be attached to the slider 230. In some cases, a first wiper 220a can be coupled to the upper arm 262, and a second wiper 220b can be coupled to the lower arm 264 via fasteners 232 extending through wiper connection holes 296 and slider connection holes 278 located in the stepped end regions 268 of each of the upper and lower arms 262, 264 (see FIG. 8). The base member 286 of the wiper 220 can be received by and positioned within the wiper slot 272 (see FIGS. 8 and 9) between the second ramp surfaces 235.

[0039] The slider opening 280 can receive the shaft 222 such that the upper and lower arms 262, 264 partially surround the main body portion 250 of the shaft 222 and the stud 248 (including the first pin member 258) extends through the insert 276 of the slider 230. In some cases, the stud 248 and the first pin member 258 extend beyond the insert 276 of the slider 230 such that the stud 248 and the first pin member 258 are positioned within the cap 224 proximate the locking mechanism 226 (see FIG. 5) when the retractable core assembly 200 is assembled. The configuration depicted in FIG. 12 can reflect the position of the slider 230 relative to the shaft 222 when the outer core 202 is in an expanded state (see, for example, FIGS. 4 and 5).

[0040] When the slider 230 and wiper 220 are installed along the shaft 222, the base member 286 of each wiper 220a, 220b can be substantially parallel to the axis A, and each wiping member 288 can extend away from the shaft 222 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis A. In some cases, the wiping members 288 can extend beyond the upper and lower portions 210, 212 of the outer core 202 via the outer core channel 218 (see FIG. 5 ) and thus can be positioned to aid in the removal of used ribbon material 134 from the retractable core assembly 200.

[0041] The spring 298 can be disposed along the shaft 222 and configured to exert an outward force on the slider 230 (e.g., the spring 298 can bias the slider 230 toward movement toward the shaft second end 244). For example, the spring 298 can be compressed when the outer core 202 is in an expanded state. In some cases, a spring first end 300 of the spring 298 can be supported or immobilized by the inner core 238 and / or other adjacent components of the retractable core assembly 200 (see FIG. 5 ). A spring second end 302 opposite the spring first end 300 can contact the slider 230 (e.g., via the distal end 270 of each of the upper and lower arms 262, 264). Thus, the spring 298 can exert an outward force on the slider 230 (e.g., via the elastic potential energy of the spring 298).

[0042] 30 , the first pin member 258 may engage the locking mechanism 226 to prevent the slider 230 from moving along the shaft 222 in response to a force applied by the spring 298. However, when the locking mechanism 226 disengages the first pin member 258 (e.g., due to a user pressing the button 228), the spring 298 may generate or contribute to the generation of movement of the slider 230 toward the shaft second end 244.

[0043] 13-16 , the inner core 238 may be provided in the form of a substantially tubular inner core body 304 defined by an inner core first end 306 and an inner core second end 308 opposite the inner core first end 306. The inner core 238 may include two rounded sidewalls 310 extending between the inner core first end 306 and the inner core second end 308. The sidewalls 310 may be configured to partially surround the shaft 222 and at least a portion of the slider 230. For example, a substantially circular gap 311 disposed between the two sidewalls 310 at the inner core second end 308 may be configured to receive the hub region 260 of the slider 230. In some cases, two linear inner core channels 312 may extend between the inner core first end 306 and the inner core second end 308 and separate the two sidewalls 310. In some cases, the inner core channels 312 can be positioned substantially parallel to one another. In some cases, the inner core channels 312 can be configured to allow the wiper 220 to move freely relative to the inner core 238 during operation of the retractable core assembly 200. Additionally, each sidewall 310 can be connected to and extend outwardly from a backplate 314 disposed at the inner core first end 306.

[0044] In some cases, the inner core 238 may be provided in the form of two halves 316 that can be independently coupled to the shaft 222. As best shown in FIG. 14 , each half 316 may have one or more notches 318 and one or more inner core connection holes 320 located on the inner core inner surface 321. For example, each half 316 may include a first notch 318 a and a first inner core connection hole 320 a proximate the inner core first end 306 (e.g., adjacent the backplate 314), and a second notch 318 b and a second inner core connection hole 320 b proximate the inner core second end 308. In other cases, each half 316 may include any number of notches 318 and inner core connection holes 320 arranged in any suitable arrangement. In some cases, one or more of the shaft connection holes 254 can be configured to securely receive (e.g., with a press fit or friction fit) the notch 318. Additionally, one or more of the shaft connection holes 254 can align with the inner core connection holes 320 and be configured to receive a fastener (e.g., via a threaded interior surface) to couple the half 316 to the shaft 222.

[0045] As best shown in FIG. 15 , the backplate 314 can define a substantially circular backplate opening 322 extending generally therethrough. The backplate opening 322 can be configured to receive or be received by a portion of the shaft 222. In some cases, the backplate opening 322 can be aligned with and received by a shaft groove 252 adjacent the main body portion 250 of the shaft 222 (see FIG. 6 ). In other cases, the inner core 238 can be attached to the shaft 222 in any suitable manner. While the slider 230 can be movable relative to the shaft 222, the inner core 238 can be configured to remain stationary relative to the shaft 222 during operation of the retractable core assembly 200.

[0046] Each of the side walls 310 of the inner core 238 may include one or more guide members 324 and / or one or more bumpers 328 configured to facilitate connection between the inner core 238 and the outer core 202. The guide members 324 may be designed to receive or secure a portion of the outer core 202. For example, as best shown in FIG. 15 , the guide members 324 may be provided in the form of two parallel linear ridges 326 arranged to hold a portion of the outer core 202 therebetween. Thus, the guide members 324 may be designed to limit or prevent movement of the outer core 202 relative to the inner core 238 (e.g., in a direction parallel to axis A).

[0047] Bumper 328 can be designed to engage a portion of outer core 202. For example, bumper 328 can be provided in the form of two opposing hook members 330 (e.g., one of hook members 330 can be positioned to engage a portion of upper portion 210 of outer core 202, and the other hook member 330 can be positioned to engage a portion of lower portion 212). Thus, bumper 328 can be configured to prevent upper and lower portions 210, 212 of outer core 202 (see FIG. 17 ) from disassembling (e.g., moving away from each other in a direction perpendicular to axis A) beyond that required for outer core 202 to transition between the expanded and stowed states.

[0048] In some cases, each sidewall 310 of the inner core 238 may include (i) one guide member 324 and one bumper 328 proximate the inner core first end 306, and (ii) one guide member 324 and one bumper 328 proximate the inner core second end 308. In other cases, the inner core 238 may include any number of guide members 324 and / or bumpers 328 arranged in any suitable configuration. In still other cases, the guide members 324 and bumpers 328 may be omitted, and the outer core 202 may be connected to and oriented relative to the inner core 238 in any suitable manner.

[0049] As best shown in FIG. 16 , the inner core 238 may be mounted (e.g., by fasteners 232) on the shaft 222. The wiper 220 may be positioned between the sidewalls 310 such that the wiper 220 moves freely through the inner core channel 312 as the slider 230 moves along the shaft 222. Furthermore, the first and second ramp faces 234, 235 of the slider 230 may be positioned within the inner core channel 312 such that the first ramp face 234 is available for engagement with the first ramp member 236 of the outer core 202 and the second ramp face 235 is available for engagement with the second ramp member 237 of the outer core 202 (see FIG. 36 ). The hub region 260 may be positioned within the gap 311 of the inner core second end 308. The insert 276 can extend beyond the inner core second end 308 so that the cap 224 can be coupled to it, and the stud 248 of the shaft 222 can extend beyond the insert 276 so that the first pin member 258 is available to engage with the locking mechanism 226.

[0050] Turning to FIG. 17 , the upper and lower portions 210, 212 of the outer core 202 may together form an end wall 214 and a spindle arm 216 of the outer core 202. The outer core channel 218 formed in each of the upper and lower portions 210, 212 may be provided in the form of a substantially linear channel or cutout extending entirely through a portion of the outer core body 204. The positions of the two outer core channels 218 along the spindle arm 216 may be diametrically opposed to one another (e.g., 180° apart) so as to be aligned with the wiper 220 attached to the slider 230 (see FIG. 16 ). Each outer core channel 218 may include an upstanding portion 332 disposed on the end wall 214 and a wiper path 334 extending at least partially along the spindle arm 216 to the outer core second end 208. The wiper path 334 may terminate at its terminal end 336 disposed on the spindle arm 216.

[0051] In some cases, a retaining member 338 can be attached to each of the upper portion 210 and the lower portion 212. The retaining member 338 can extend along at least a portion of the spindle arm 216 and can be positioned so as to be substantially flush with the spindle arm 216. As best shown in FIG. 18 , the retaining member 338 can be coupled to a rear surface 340 of the end wall 214 via fasteners 232. The retaining member 338 can extend through the end wall 214 via an aperture 342 positioned proximate the upright portion 332 of the outer core channel 218. In some cases, the retaining member 338 can assist a user in loading the ribbon material 134 into a printing device (e.g., the printer 100). For example, a new ribbon roll 136 can be attached to the ribbon supply spindle 130 (see FIG. 3 ), and at least a portion of the ribbon material 134 from the ribbon roll 136 can be guided along a desired ribbon path and interposed between the guide and outer core 202 and the retaining member 338. The retaining member 338 can apply pressure (e.g., a clamping force) such that the portion of the ribbon material 134 is held in place against the outer core 202. In this manner, the ribbon material 134 can be secured along the ribbon path and positioned for collection onto the retractable core assembly 200 while the printing device is in use.

[0052] 19-21 , the upper and lower portions 210, 212 of the outer core 202 may each include one or more first ramp members 236 and one or more second ramp members 237 connected to the spindle arm 216 and extending inwardly therefrom. The first ramp members 236 may be positioned to engage with the first ramp surface 234 of the slider 230. As best shown in FIG. 19 , in some cases, the upper and lower portions 210, 212 may each include the first ramp member 236 (e.g., positioned to engage the first ramp surface 234) and two second ramp members 237 (e.g., positioned to engage the second ramp surfaces 235). The first ramp members 236 may be positioned proximate the outer core second end 208. The second ramp member 237 of the upper portion 210 and the second ramp member 237 of the lower portion 212 may be substantially parallel and coplanar with one another and may be disposed in opposing positions adjacent to the associated wiper paths 334. The first ramp member 236 may include a first sloped surface 344 designed to mate or complement the first ramp surface 234, and the second ramp members 237 may each include a second sloped surface 345 designed to mate or complement the second ramp surface 235.

[0053] As best shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 , the spindle arm 216 can be defined by a spindle arm first side 346 and a spindle arm second side 348 opposite the spindle arm first side 346. The upper and lower portions 210, 212 of the outer core 202 can each include a plurality of support walls 350 disposed along and extending inwardly from the spindle arm first side 346 and the spindle arm second side 348 (e.g., the support wall 350 connected to the spindle arm first side 346 can extend toward the spindle arm second side 348, or vice versa). The support walls 350 can be provided in the form of connected substantially linear panels including a substantially vertical inner edge 352 disposed within the spindle arm 216 (e.g., the inner edge 352 can be designed to contact and / or support the side wall 310 of the inner core 238).

[0054] In some cases, the upper portion 210 and the lower portion 212 may each include one or more guide walls 354 and one or more notch walls 356 configured to facilitate connection between the outer core 202 and the inner core 238. In some cases, the guide walls 354 may be provided in substantially the same form as the support walls 350, except that the guide walls 354 may extend further into the spindle arm 216 than the support walls 350. For example, the guide wall 354 connected to the spindle arm second side 348 may include an inner edge 352 positioned closer to the spindle arm first side 346 than the inner edge 352 of the support wall 350. The guide walls 354 may be positioned to be received between the ridges 326 of the guide members 324 of the inner core 238. Thus, engagement between the guide walls 354 and adjacent ridges 326 may prevent the outer core 202 from substantially moving or tracking relative to the inner core 238.

[0055] Notch wall 356 may be provided in substantially the same configuration as support wall 350, except that notch wall 356 may include a notch edge 358 instead of support wall 350's substantially vertical inner edge 352. Notch wall 356 may facilitate connection between outer core 202 and inner core 238 via engagement of notch edge 358 with hook members 330 of bumper 328. For example, one hook member 330 on one of bumpers 328 may engage with notch wall 356 connected to upper portion 210, and the other hook member 330 on bumper 328 may engage with notch wall 356 connected to lower portion 212. Thus, the upper and lower portions 210, 212 can be designed to move toward or away from each other as the outer core 202 transitions between the expanded and stowed states, and the bumper 328 can prevent the upper and lower portions 210, 212 from moving too far away from each other, such that the outer core 202 would disintegrate or otherwise interfere with the operation of the stowable core assembly 200.

[0056] In some cases, the upper portion 210 and the lower portion 212 of the outer core 202 can each have a pair including one guide wall 354 and one notch wall 356 connected to (i) the spindle arm first side 346 proximate the outer core first end 206, (ii) the spindle arm first side 346 proximate the outer core second end 208, (iii) the spindle arm second side 348 proximate the outer core first end 206, and (iv) the spindle arm second side 348 proximate the outer core second end 208. In other cases, the outer core 202 can include any number of guide walls 354 and notch walls 356 arranged in any suitable arrangement, provided that the guide walls 354 and notch walls 356 are arranged to align with the guide members 324 and bumpers 328, respectively, to facilitate connection between the outer core 202 and the inner core 238. In still other cases, the outer core 202 may include any additional or alternative components designed to align with and facilitate connection to complementary components of the inner core 238.

[0057] As best shown in FIG. 21 , the upper and lower portions 210, 212 can provide complementary structures designed to facilitate the transition of the outer core 202 between the expanded state and the retractable state. FIG. 21 depicts the outer core 202 in an expanded state. In some cases, the upper and lower portions 210, 212 can each include a sheet member 360 and a peg member 362. The sheet member 360 can include a receiving surface 364 and a substantially linear finger 366 extending outwardly therefrom (e.g., toward the adjacent peg member 362). The peg member 362 can include an end surface 368 configured to abut or be received by the receiving surface 364 of the adjacent sheet member 360. For example, the receiving surface 364 and the end surface 368 can each be provided in the form of a substantially flattened surface and can be oriented parallel to one another. The configuration of the seat member 360 and peg member 362 as depicted in FIG. 21 may be consistent along the length of the spindle arm 216 (e.g., the seat member 360 and peg member 362 may extend along the length of the spindle arm 216 between the end wall 214 and the outer core second end 208).

[0058] When the outer core 202 is in the stored state, the seat member 360 can receive an adjacent peg member 362 such that the receiving surface 364 abuts or is adjacent the end surface 368 and the peg member 362 is located adjacent (e.g., within) the finger 366 of the seat member 360 (see FIG. 38 ). For example, the seat member 360 of the upper portion 210 can be positioned to receive the peg member 362 of the lower portion 212, and the seat member 360 of the lower portion 212 can be positioned to receive the peg member 362 of the upper portion 210. In some cases, the upper portion 210 can include the seat member 360 on the spindle arm first side 346 and the peg member 362 on the spindle arm second side 348. In these cases, the lower portion 212 may include a peg member 362 on the spindle arm first side 346 and a seat member 360 on the spindle arm second side 348. In other cases, the seat members 360 and peg members 362 of the upper and lower portions 210, 212 may be provided in the opposite configuration.

[0059] 21 , the outer core 202 may include one or more removal slots 370 positioned about the spindle arm 216 and extending linearly between the end wall 214 and the outer core second end 208. In some cases, the upper portion 210 and the lower portion 212 may each include a first removal slot 370 a adjacent the seat member 360 and a second removal slot 370 b adjacent the peg member 362 and positioned substantially opposite the first removal slot 370 a. In other cases, the outer core 202 may include any number of removal slots 370 arranged in any suitable arrangement on the upper portion 210 and / or the lower portion 212. The removal slots 370 may assist a user in removing the used ribbon material 134 from the spindle arm 216, as described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 38 . For example, the release groove 370 may be provided in the form of a curved depression configured to support and / or guide a user's finger or thumb along the spindle arm 216 .

[0060] As shown in FIG. 22 , the outer core 202 can be attached to the subassembly shown in FIG. 16 such that the outer core 202 at least partially surrounds the inner core. A first wiper 220 a can be positioned within the outer core channel 218 of the upper portion 210 of the outer core 202 such that the first wiper 220 a moves along the spindle arm 216 toward the outer core second end 208 during operation of the retractable core assembly 200. A second wiper 220 b (not shown) can similarly be positioned within the outer core channel 218 of the lower portion 212 of the outer core 202 such that the second wiper 220 b can also move along the spindle arm 216 toward the outer core second end 208 during operation of the retractable core assembly 200. The wiping member 288 of the wiper 220 can be positioned within the upright portion 332 of the outer core channel 218 when the outer core 202 is in the expanded state. When the outer core 202 transitions from the extended state to the retracted state, the wiping member 288 of the wiper 220 can extend beyond the spindle arm 216 and is free to move along a portion of the wiper path 334.

[0061] When retractable core assembly 200 is in the expanded state, at least a portion of shaft 222 can extend beyond outer core first end 206 and at least a portion of cap 224 can extend beyond outer core second end 208. For example, button 228 can be positioned outside of spindle arm 216 (e.g., beyond outer core second end 208) such that button 228 is available to a user when outer core 202 is in the expanded state (as shown in FIG. 22 ).

[0062] 23-25, the cap 224 may be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical cap body 384 defined by a cap first end 386 and a cap second end 388 opposite the cap first end 386. The cap 224 may include a connection region 390 located proximate the cap first end 386 that is designed to receive the insert 276 of the slider 230 and facilitate coupling between the cap 224 and the slider 230. The cap 224 may further include a housing 392 located between the connection region 390 and the cap second end 388. The housing 392 may include an upper periphery 394 that defines an opening to a cavity 396 disposed within the housing 392 (see FIG. 25). The cavity 396 may be configured to support and retain the locking mechanism 226, and the upper periphery 394 may be designed to receive the button 228 or to facilitate connection between the cap 224 and the button 228. For example, one or more recesses 398 may be disposed along the upper periphery 394 and configured to receive a portion of the button 228 (see FIG. 31).

[0063] As best shown in FIG. 24 , the connection region 390 and the housing 392 can be separated by a partition wall 400. The partition wall 400 can be provided in the form of a substantially flat panel or wall having a cutout 402 in the form of an opening between the connection region 390 and the housing 392. The cutout 402 can be configured to allow the stud 248 (and first pin member 258) to extend therethrough such that the stud 248 is disposed within the cavity 396. The connection region 390 can be defined by an inner diameter 404 that reflects or complements the structure of the insert 276 of the slider 230. Thus, the connection region 390 can receive the insert 276 and facilitate coupling between the cap 224 and the slider 230. For example, one or more cap connection holes 406 (see FIG. 25) located on the connection region 390 can be aligned with one or more slider connection holes 278 (see FIG. 16) located on the insert 276 so that the fastener 232 can extend therethrough (see FIGS. 30 and 31).

[0064] 25 , in some cases, the connection region 390 can include two cap connection holes 406, and the insert 276 can include two slider connection holes 278 configured to align with the cap connection holes 406. One or more spring platforms 408 can be disposed within a cavity 396 defined by an upper periphery 394 of the housing 392. For example, the spring platforms 408 can be disposed in opposing positions adjacent the upper periphery 394. The housing 392 can also include a ledge 410 positioned to be engaged by at least a portion of the button 228, thereby facilitating connection between the cap 224 and the button 228.

[0065] 26 and 27, the button 228 may be provided in the form of a substantially linear (or irregular) button body 412 defined by a button first end 414 and a button second end 416 opposite the button first end 414. The button 228 may include a roof 418 extending between the button first end 414 and the button second end 416. When the button 228 is mounted on the cap 224 and configured to engage the locking mechanism 226, the roof 418 of the button 228 may be adjacent to or substantially flush with the upper periphery 394 of the housing 392 (see FIG. 32).

[0066] In some cases, the button 228 may include two button sidewalls 420 integrally formed with or coupled to the roof 418 and extending downwardly therefrom. The button sidewalls 420 may be positioned to extend downwardly into the cavity 396 of the cap 224 when the button 228 is attached to the cap 224 (see FIG. 32 ). For example, a first button sidewall 420a and a second button sidewall 420b may be connected to opposite sides of the roof 418 and extend downwardly therefrom. The first and second button sidewalls 420a, 420b may be substantially similar in shape and structure and may be substantially parallel to one another. Thus, the first and second button sidewalls 420a, 420b may form a housing 422 located between the first and second button sidewalls 420a, 420b and extending between the button first end 414 and the button second end 416.

[0067] In some cases, one or more protrusions 424 can be positioned around an outer edge 426 of the roof 418. For example, the protrusions 424 can be positioned to align with and be received by recesses 398 positioned around the upper periphery 394 of the housing 392 of the cap 224 (see FIG. 25 ). The protrusions 424 can be given any suitable shape, size, or configuration, provided that the protrusions 424 are configured to be received by or otherwise engage with the recesses 398 of the cap 224.

[0068] The first button sidewall 420a and the second button sidewall 420b can each include a button pin hole 428 provided in the form of a substantially circular opening extending generally therethrough. The button 228 can include one or more spring posts 430 positioned to align with a spring platform 408 disposed within the cavity 396 of the cap 224 (see FIG. 25). Accordingly, one or more button springs 432 can be received by the spring posts 430 and extend downwardly therefrom. In some cases, a button spring first end 434 can be received by the spring posts 430 and can impinge or engage the roof 418, and a button spring second end 436 opposite the button spring first end 434 can impinge or bear against the spring platform 408 within the cavity 396 of the cap 224 (see FIG. 30). In this manner, button spring 432 can exert an upward or return force on button 228 (eg, when button 228 is depressed to engage locking mechanism 226).

[0069] As best shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 27 , the button 228 can include an impactor 438 connected to and extending downwardly from the roof 418. The impactor 438 can be disposed within a housing 422 formed by the first and second button sidewalls 420 a, 420 b. The impactor 438 can be provided in the form of a substantially linear impactor body 440 having an upper impactor end 442 connected to the roof 418 and a lower impactor end 444 extending downwardly into the housing 422. In some cases, the impactor 438 can include a curved impact surface 446 at the lower impactor end 444. In other cases, the impactor 438, including the impact surface 446 at the lower impactor end 444, can be given any suitable shape (e.g., the impact surface 446 can be substantially flat). For example, the button 228 can engage the locking mechanism 226 via the impact surface 446 of the impactor 438, or the impact surface 446 can help orient one or more components of the button 228 and the locking mechanism 226 relative to one another.

[0070] The button 228 may include a latch 448 connected to and extending downwardly from the roof 418. For example, a latch upper end 450 may be integrally formed with or coupled to the roof 418 at the button second end 416, and the latch 448 may include a latch hook member 452 at a latch lower end 454 opposite the latch upper end 450. In some cases, the latch hook member 452 may be positioned to engage a ledge 410 (see FIG. 25 ) on the cap 224 to prevent the button 228 from being unintentionally ejected or separated from the cap 224.

[0071] 28-30 , an exemplary locking mechanism 226 is depicted. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the locking mechanism 226 can be provided in any suitable form, provided that the locking mechanism 226 is designed to prevent or inhibit movement of the slider 230 along the shaft 222 until the locking mechanism 226 is disengaged or released (e.g., by depressing the button 228). Accordingly, the locking mechanism 226 can be provided in any suitable form known in the art and can include additional and / or alternative components compared to the exemplary locking mechanism 226 described herein. In some cases, the locking mechanism 226 can be designed to be operable with one hand.

[0072] 28 , in some cases, the locking mechanism 226 may include a locking plate 456 provided in the form of a linear locking plate body 458 defined by a locking plate first end 460 and a locking plate second end 462 opposite the locking plate first end 460. The locking plate 456 may include a substantially rectangular base plate 464 defined by a base plate first side 466 and a base plate second side 468 opposite the base plate first side 466. Two vertical panels 470 may be integrally formed with or coupled to the base plate 464 at the base plate first side 466 and the base plate second side 468 and extend upwardly therefrom. For example, a first vertical panel 470a may be connected to and extend upwardly therefrom, and a second vertical panel 470b may be connected to and extend upwardly therefrom. The first and second vertical panels 470 a, 470 b can each include a pointed barb member 472 adjacent the locking plate first end 460 and a pin tab 474 adjacent the locking plate second end 462 .

[0073] Each pin tab 474 may include a locking plate pin hole 475 provided in the form of a substantially circular opening extending entirely therethrough (e.g., locking plate pin hole 475 may be provided in substantially the same form as button pin hole 428 shown in FIGS. 26 and 27). First and second vertical panels 470a, 470b may each include a valley 476 disposed between barb member 472 and pin tab 474. Valley 476 may be provided in the form of a substantially flat surface that is recessed or concave relative to barb member 472 and pin tab 474. For example, valley 476 may be sandwiched between first boundary wall 478 (e.g., a substantially vertical edge of barb member 472 disposed adjacent valley 476) and second boundary wall 480 (e.g., a substantially vertical edge of pin tab 474 disposed adjacent valley 476). The first and second boundary walls 478, 480 can be oriented substantially perpendicular or at an angle to the valley 476. The barb members 472 can each include a point 482 located on the first boundary wall 478 and an angled surface 484 extending between the point 482 and the locking plate first end 460.

[0074] In some cases, one or both of the vertical panels 470 may include a support member 486. For example, in some cases, the first vertical panel 470a may include the support member 486 provided in the form of a substantially linear protrusion connected to and extending outwardly from a pin tab 474 proximate the locking plate second end 462. In some cases, the support member 486 may include a lip 488 disposed at and extending upwardly from a support member distal end 490. In other cases, the support member 486 may be provided in any suitable form, or the support member 486 may be omitted.

[0075] 29 , the locking mechanism 226 can include a second pin member 492 extending between the pin tabs 474. As shown, a portion of the second pin member 492 can be received by each of the locking plate pin holes 475. In some cases, the second pin member 492 can traverse the entire distance between the pin tabs 474 such that a first end 494 of the second pin member extends beyond the pin tab 474 of the first vertical panel 470 a and a second end 496 of the second pin member opposite the first end 494 extends beyond the pin tab 474 of the second vertical panel 470 b. In this manner, a downward force applied to the second pin member 492 can be transmitted to the locking plate 456 via the engagement between the second pin member 492 and the pin tabs 474.

[0076] In some cases, the locking mechanism 226 can include a torsion spring 498. For example, the torsion spring 498 can be disposed between the pin tabs 474 (e.g., the torsion spring 498 can surround a portion of the second pin member 492). The torsion spring 498 can include a torsion spring hook end 499 connected to or positioned to engage the support member 486 of the locking plate 456. In some cases, the torsion spring 498 can facilitate the locking operation of the locking mechanism 226, as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 34A-34D .

[0077] 30 , the cap 224 can be coupled to the slider 230 via one or more fasteners 232. For example, the fasteners 232 can extend through one or more cap connection holes 406 disposed in a connection region 390 of the cap 224 that are configured to align with one or more slider connection holes 278 disposed in the insert 276 of the slider 230 (see FIG. 16 ). Thus, the cap 224 and slider 230 can be configured to move as a unit. In some cases, the locking mechanism 226 can be disposed within a housing 422 of the button 228 and connected to the button 228. For example, a second pin member 492 can extend through the button pin hole 428 such that the button 228 is connected to the locking plate 456, thereby forming a subassembly. The subassembly, including the locking mechanism 226 and the button 228, can be lowered or inserted into a cavity 396 defined by the housing 392 of the cap 224.

[0078] 30, button 228 has been removed to show locking mechanism 226 disposed within cap 224. Locking mechanism 226 can be disposed within cavity 396 of cap 224 such that locking plate 456 releasably engages first pin member 258 connected to shaft 222. For example, barb member 472 of locking plate 456 can engage first pin member 258 when locking mechanism 226 is engaged, as shown in FIG. 30 (see FIG. 32).

[0079] When the outer core 202 of the retractable core assembly 200 is in the expanded state, a portion of the first pin member 258 can contact or be supported by each valley 476 (see FIG. 29 ) of the locking plate 456. In some cases, the barb members 472 of the first and second vertical panels 470 a, 470 b can abut or otherwise engage the first pin member 258 (e.g., via a first boundary wall 478). Engagement of the first pin member 258 with the barb members 472 of the locking plate 456 can prevent the cap 224 and slider 230 from moving along the shaft 222. The button springs 432 can be positioned on the spring platform 408 within the cavity 396 of the cap 224 such that the button spring first end 434 of each button spring 432 can receive one of the spring posts 430 of the button 228 (see FIG. 26 ).

[0080] 31 and 32, button 228 can be located on cap 224 such that button 228 facilitates operation of locking mechanism 226 (e.g., button 228 can be operable to release locking mechanism 226). As best shown in FIG. 31, roof 418 of button 228 can be configured to fit within or be received by upper periphery 394 of cap 224. For example, protrusion 424 (see FIG. 26) of button 228 can align with and be received by recess 398 (see FIG. 25) of cap 224.

[0081] As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 32 , the first and second button sidewalls 420 a, 420 b can extend downwardly into a cavity 396 defined by the housing 392 of the cap 224. The first and second vertical panels 470 a, 470 b of the locking plate 456 can be disposed within a housing 422 (see FIG. 26 ) defined by the first and second button sidewalls 420 a, 420 b. In some cases, the first and second vertical panels 470 a, 470 b can abut or be positioned adjacent to the first and second button sidewalls 420 a, 420 b, respectively. The locking plate pin hole 475 (see FIG. 28 ) can align with the button pin hole 428 (see FIGS. 26 and 27 ) when the locking mechanism 226 and button 228 are installed or positioned within the cap 224.

[0082] Accordingly, the second pin member first end 494 can extend through the locking plate pin hole 475 and the adjacent button pin hole 428 of the first vertical panel 470a. Similarly, the second pin member second end 496 can extend through the locking plate pin hole 475 and the adjacent button pin hole 428 of the second vertical panel 470b (see FIG. 29 ). In this manner, the second pin member 492 can facilitate a connection or coupling between the button 228 and the locking plate 456 of the locking mechanism 226. For example, a downward force applied to the button 228 (e.g., when a user presses the roof 418) can be transmitted to the locking plate 456 via the second pin member 492. In some cases, the second pin member 492 may define an axis of rotation for the locking plate 456, or the locking plate 456 can be configured to rotate about the second pin member 492 when the locking mechanism 226 is actuated.

[0083] A button spring 432 extending between a spring platform 408 (see FIG. 25) of the cap 224 and a spring post 430 of the button 228 can bias the button 228 toward a default position (shown in FIG. 32). In the default position, the upward pressure exerted by the button spring 432 can position the roof 418 of the button 228 adjacent to or substantially flush with the upper periphery 394 of the housing 392 of the cap 224. A latch hook member 452 of a latch 448 at the button second end 416 (see FIG. 27) can engage a ledge 410 in the cavity 396 (see FIG. 25) of the cap 224, thereby limiting the extent to which the button spring 432 can lift the button 228 relative to the cap 224. In some cases, the latch 448 of the button 228 and the ledge 410 of the cap 224 can be designed to prevent the button spring 432 from pushing the roof 418 of the button 228 above the upper periphery 394 of the cap 224. In some cases, the latch 448 of the button 228 and the ledge 410 of the cap 224 can be designed so that the roof 418 of the button 228 is substantially flush with the cap 224.

[0084] 33A-33C, in some cases, the unlocking operation of locking mechanism 226 can include one or more unlocked orientations or positions. For example, in a first unlocked orientation shown in FIG. 33A, locking mechanism 226 can be in a default or locked position. When locking mechanism 226 is in the default or locked position, locking plate 456 of locking mechanism 226 engages first pin member 258, and roof 418 of button 228 substantially aligns with upper periphery 394 of cap 224 (see FIG. 25). For example, a portion of the first pin member 258 may be positioned within the valley 476 of the first vertical panel 470a (e.g., engages the first boundary wall 478 of the first vertical panel 470a), and a portion of the first pin member 258 may be disposed within the valley 476 of the second vertical panel 470b (e.g., engages the first boundary wall 478 of the second vertical panel 470b).

[0085] 33B , locking mechanism 226 can be moved to the disengaged position by a user depressing button 228 to disengage locking mechanism 226. For example, a user can apply a downward force to roof 418 of button 228, which can be transmitted to locking plate 456 via engagement of second pin member 492 with button 228 and locking plate 456. Thus, the downward force applied to button 228 can move locking plate 456 downward (e.g., further into cavity 396) such that first pin member 258 passes point 482 of barb member 472 and no longer engages locking plate 456. Locking mechanism 226 can be disengaged once point 482 of barb member 472 passes first pin member 258, and cap 224 and slider 230 can become movable relative to shaft 222.

[0086] In the third, unlocked orientation shown in FIG. 33C , the locking mechanism 226 may be in a slidable or movable position. When the locking mechanism 226 is in the slidable or movable position, a user can depress the button 228 to disengage the locking mechanism 226 and then grasp the cap 224 and pull it away from the shaft 222 to move the slider 230 along the shaft 222. In some cases, referring to FIG. 12 , pressure created by the compression spring 298 contacting the distal ends 270 of the upper and lower arms 262, 264 of the slider 230 can help generate movement of the slider 230 away from the shaft first end 242 once it is no longer opposed by the engagement between the first pin member 258 and the locking plate 456. For example, the force provided by the spring 298 can reduce the amount of force required for a user to pull the cap 224 and move the slider 230 along the shaft 222. The roof 418 of the button 228 can return to substantial alignment with the upper periphery 394 of the cap 224 during the third, unlocked orientation. For example, a user can release the button 228 (e.g., allow the button spring 432 to pull the button 228 up relative to the cap 224) when the cap 224 is retracted such that the locking plate first end 460 is clear of the first pin member 258.

[0087] 34A-34D, the locking operation of locking mechanism 226 can include one or more locking orientations or positions. In some cases, at the start of a first locking orientation, locking mechanism 226 can be in a slidable or movable position such that cap 224, locking mechanism 226, and button 228 are in substantially the same configuration as in the third unlocking orientation described above with respect to FIG. 33C. In the first locking orientation shown in FIG. 34A, a user can grasp cap 224 and push cap 224 toward shaft 222 until locking mechanism 226 re-engages or contacts first pin member 258.

[0088] In the second locking orientation, shown in FIG. 34B , the locking mechanism 226 can be in a first re-engagement position. In the first re-engagement position, the locking plate 456 can contact the first pin member 258. For example, the angled surfaces 484 of the barb members 472 on the first vertical panel 470 a and the second vertical panel 470 b (see FIG. 28 ) can contact the first pin member 258 as the cap 224 moves toward the shaft 222. The user can continue to move the cap 224 toward the shaft 222 such that the locking plate 456 rotates about the second pin member 492. For example, the engagement of the first pin member 258 with the angled surface 484 of the barb member 472 can apply a downward force to the locking plate 456 at the locking plate first end 460.

[0089] 34C , the locking mechanism 226 can be in a second, re-engaged position. In the second, re-engaged position, a downward force applied by the first pin member 258 to the angled surface 484 of the barb member 472 can rotate the locking plate first end 460 downward relative to the first pin member 258. For example, the locking plate 456 can rotate relative to the second pin member 492 until the point 482 of the barb member 472 moves below the first pin member 258.

[0090] In the fourth, locked orientation shown in FIG. 34D , the locking mechanism 226 can return to the default or locked position (see also FIG. 33A ). To return the locking mechanism 226 to the default or locked position, the user can continue to move the cap 224 toward the shaft 222 until the locking mechanism 226 re-engages. For example, the user can continue to move the cap 224 until the first pin member 258 no longer contacts or engages the angled surface 484 or point 482 of the barb member 472. The torsion spring 498 can be configured to apply a return force to the locking plate 456 to return the locking plate 456 to the position depicted in the first, unlocked orientation shown in FIG. 33A . For example, the torsion spring 498 can bias the locking plate 456 toward an orientation in which the base plate 464 of the locking plate 456 is substantially parallel to the shaft 222. Thus, the return force applied by the torsion spring 498 may cause the locking plate 456 to rotate back into engagement with the first pin member 258 (e.g., so that the first pin member 258 contacts or engages the valley portion 476 and / or barb member 472 of the locking plate 456). Once the locking operation is complete, the locking mechanism 226 may inhibit movement of the slider 230 along the shaft 222 until an unlocking operation is performed and the locking plate 456 is again disengaged from the first pin member 258.

[0091] 35-38 , the wiper 220 can be configured to partially remove a spool 500 of used ribbon material 134 from the retractable core assembly 200. Referring first to FIG. 35 , during operation of a printing device (e.g., the printer 100), the outer core 202 can be in an expanded state. Used ribbon material 134 can accumulate on the spindle arm 216 of the outer core 202 while the printing device is operating (e.g., while the ribbon material 134 is unwound from the ribbon supply spindle 130 and guided into the retractable core assembly 200 along a desired ribbon path, as shown in FIG. 3 ). In this manner, the used ribbon material 134 can produce a spool 500 of wound used ribbon material 134 having a spool first end 502 adjacent the end wall 214 and a spool second end 504 opposite the spool first end 502 (e.g., proximate the outer core second end 208).

[0092] 36 , the outer core 202 can be maintained in an expanded state via engagement between the first ramp surface 234 and the second ramp surface 235 of the slider 230 and the first ramp member 236 and the second ramp member 237 of the outer core 202. In some cases, the spool 500 can apply tension or inward pressure to the outer core 202 as the used ribbon material 134 is wound onto the spindle arm 216. However, the tension or pressure applied by the spool 500 can be countered by engagement between the first ramp surface 234 and the first ramp member 236 and / or the second ramp surface 235 and the second ramp member 237.

[0093] The slider 230 can occupy a first position when the outer core 202 is in the expanded state. In the first position, the slider 230 can be disposed between the upper and lower portions 210, 212 of the outer core 202 (e.g., held in place by the locking mechanism 226) such that the first and second ramp surfaces 234, 235 align and engage with the first and second ramp members 236, 237. For example, the first ramp surface 234 of the upper arm 262 can align and engage with the first ramp member 236 of the upper portion 210, the second ramp surface 235 of the upper arm 262 can align and engage with the second ramp member 237 of the upper portion 210, the first ramp surface 234 of the lower arm 264 can align and engage with the first ramp member 236 of the lower portion 212, and the second ramp surface 235 of the lower arm 264 can align and engage with the second ramp member 237 of the lower portion 212. In some cases, the first ramp member 236 can contact or engage with the first ramp surface apex 275 of the associated first ramp surface 234, and the second ramp member 237 can contact or engage with the second ramp surface apex 273 of the associated second ramp surface 235 (see, for example, FIG. 9 ).

[0094] In the first position, the insert 276 of the slider 230 can be positioned within the outer core 202 adjacent the outer core second end 208, and the distal ends 270 of the upper and lower arms 262, 264 can be positioned within the outer core 202 proximate the end wall 214. The first and second wipers 220 a, 220 b can be coupled to the upper and lower arms 262, 264 of the slider 230, and the wiping members 288 of the first and second wipers 220 a, 220 b can be oriented at an angle to the shaft 222 or can be substantially perpendicular. In some cases, the wiping members 288 can be positioned within the end wall 214 (e.g., received within the upright portion 332 of the outer core channel 218) when the slider 230 is in the first position (see FIG. 22 ).

[0095] Thus, the spindle arm 216 can be defined by a first diameter D1 when the slider 230 is in the first position and the outer core 202 is in the expanded state. In some cases, the first diameter D1 can be between about 45 millimeters (mm) and about 55 millimeters (or 45 mm to 55 mm). For example, the first diameter D1 can be at least about 45 mm (or at least 45 mm), or at least about 46 mm (or at least 46 mm), or at least about 47 mm (or at least 47 mm), or at least about 48 mm (or at least 48 mm), or at least about 49 mm (or at least 49 mm), or at least about 50 mm (or at least 50 mm), or at least about 51 mm (or at least 51 mm), or at least about 52 mm (or at least 52 mm), or at least about 53 mm (or at least 53 mm), or at least about 54 mm (or at least 54 mm), or at least about 55 mm (or at least 55 mm). In some cases, the first diameter D1 can be about 50 mm (or 50 mm).

[0096] A spring 298 surrounding the shaft 222 can store potential energy (e.g., elastic potential energy) when the slider 230 is in the first position and the outer core 202 is in the expanded state. For example, the spring 298 can be compressed between the backplate 314 of the inner core 238 and the distal ends 270 of the upper and lower arms 262, 264. In other cases, the spring 298 can be compressed between the distal ends 270 of the upper and lower arms 262, 264 and another component of the retractable core assembly 200 positioned near or adjacent to the backplate 314. As seen in FIG. 36, engagement of the first pin member 258 connected to the shaft 222 with the barb member 472 of the locking plate 456 (see also FIG. 30) can prevent the potential energy of the spring 298 from being released, for example, by movement of the distal ends 270 of the upper and lower arms 262 and 264 toward the outer core second end 208.

[0097] 37 and 38, the retractable core assembly 200 can perform a wiping operation to at least partially remove the spool 500 of used ribbon material 134 from the spindle arm 216. The wiping operation can include (i) performing the unlocking operation of the locking mechanism 226 described above with reference to FIGS. 33A-33C, (ii) moving the slider 230 from a first position to a second position, and (iii) transitioning the outer core 202 from the extended state to the retracted state.

[0098] For example, a user may initiate a wiping action by engaging (e.g., depressing) button 228 to release locking mechanism 226, as described in detail above with reference to Figures 33A-33C. A user may terminate the engagement between first pin member 258 of shaft 222 and barb member 472 of locking plate 456 by depressing or otherwise engaging roof 418 of button 228. Once first pin member 258 passes point 482 of barb member 472, slider 230 may be movable along shaft 222 toward outer core second end 208 (see Figures 33A-33C).

[0099] Once the locking mechanism 226 is released, a user can grasp the cap 224 and pull it in the direction of the first arrow 506. Furthermore, at least a portion of the potential energy stored in the spring 298 can be converted to kinetic energy and transferred to the slider 230 via the distal ends 270 of the upper and lower arms 262, 264. Thus, in some cases, the spring 298 can move the slider 230 in the direction of the first arrow 506. Thus, a force applied by the spring, a force applied by the user, or a combination thereof can move the slider 230 from the first position (see FIG. 36 ) to the second position, as depicted in FIG. 37 . In some cases, a user can disengage the locking mechanism 226 and move the slider 230 between the first and second positions using only one hand.

[0100] With the slider 230 in the second position, at least the terminal ends of the insert 276 and the hub region 260 can extend beyond the outer core second end 208. The wiper 220 can be configured to move in the direction of the second arrow 508 through a wiper path 334 in the inner core channel 312 (see FIG. 13 ) and the outer core channel 218 (see FIG. 17 ) as the slider 230 moves from the first position to the second position. In some cases, the wiper 220 can move along the spindle arm 216 away from the end wall 214 until the wiping member 288 reaches the terminal end 336 (see FIG. 22 ) of the wiper path 334. In this manner, the wiper 220 can engage the spool first end 502 and at least partially expel or remove the used ribbon material 134 from the spindle arm 216. For example, as shown, when the wiping member 288 reaches the terminal end 336 , the spool second end 504 can extend beyond the outer core second end 208 .

[0101] Movement of the slider 230 from the first position to the second position can transition the outer core 202 from the expanded state to the stowed state. For example, movement of the slider 230 in the direction of the first arrow 506 can move the first and second ramp surfaces 234, 235 of the slider 230 out of alignment with the first and second ramp members 236, 237 of the outer core 202, respectively. In turn, the upper and lower portions 210, 212 of the outer core 202 can transition to the stowed state. For example, the upper and lower portions 210, 212 can move toward each other in response to tension in the spool 500 exerting an inward force on the outer core 202, an inward pressure exerted by another component of the retractable core assembly 200, gravity, other inward pressure or force, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the seat member 360 can receive or contact a peg member 362 (see FIG. 21) when the outer core 202 is in the retracted state.

[0102] The spindle arm 216 can be defined by a second diameter D2 when the slider 230 is in the second position and the outer core 202 is in the retracted state. The second diameter D2 can be less than the first diameter D1. In some cases, the second diameter D2 can be between about 47 mm and about 57 mm (or between 47 mm and 57 mm). For example, the second diameter D2 can be at least about 47 mm (or at least 47 mm), or at least about 48 mm (or at least 48 mm), or at least about 49 mm (or at least 49 mm), or at least about 50 mm (or at least 50 mm), or at least about 51 mm (or at least 51 mm), or at least about 52 mm (or at least 52 mm), or at least about 53 mm (or at least 53 mm), or at least about 54 mm (or at least 54 mm), or at least about 55 mm (or at least 55 mm), or at least about 56 mm (or at least 56 mm), or at least about 57 mm (or at least 57 mm). In some cases, the second diameter D2 can be about 42.5 mm (or 42.5 mm).

[0103] In some cases, reducing the diameter of the spindle arm 216 from the first diameter D1 to the second diameter D2 can release or reduce the tension on the spool 500 so that the used ribbon material 134 can be more easily removed from the spindle arm 216.

[0104] 38 , the user can complete the removal of the spool 500 from the spindle arm 216 by pushing or pulling the spool first end 502 in the direction of the third arrow 510 until the spool first end 502 passes the outer core second end 208. In some cases, the removal groove 370 can assist the user in completing the removal of the spool 500. For example, the user can position one or more fingers and / or thumbs in one or more of the removal grooves 370 and push or pull along the removal groove 370 until the spool 500 is removed from the spindle arm 216. The removal groove 370 may help ensure that the innermost layer of the used ribbon material 134 is removed with the remainder of the spool 500 (e.g., by allowing the user to better position their fingers and / or thumbs under the innermost layer of the ribbon material 134).

[0105] When the spool 500 of used ribbon material 134 is removed from the spindle arm, the retractable core assembly 200 can be returned to its initial configuration (e.g., for use with a newly installed ribbon roll 136). For example, a user can grasp the cap 224 and push or move the slider 230 toward the end wall 214 to return the slider 230 to the first position and execute the locking operation of the locking mechanism 226 described above with reference to Figures 34A-34D. The spring 298 can be compressed as the distal ends 270 of the upper and lower arms 262, 264 of the slider 230 move closer to the end wall 214 (see Figure 36). The first and second ramp surfaces 234, 235 of the slider 230 can move back into alignment with the first and second ramp members 236, 237, respectively, of the outer core 202 as the slider 230 returns to the first position (see FIG. 36).

[0106] Thus, movement of the slider 230 from the second position to the first position can transition the outer core 202 from a stowed state to an extended state (e.g., due to engagement between the first and second ramp surfaces 234, 235 and the first and second ramp members 236, 237, respectively). When the slider 230 returns to the first position, the wiping member 288 of the wiper 220 can again be positioned within the upright portion 332 of the outer core channel 218 (see FIG. 22). For example, return of the slider 230 to the first position can move the wiping member 288 from the terminal end 336 of the wiper path 334 to a position within the end wall 214. As the slider 230 approaches the first position, the locking operation of the locking mechanism described above with reference to Figures 34A-34D can be performed to maintain the slider 230 in the first position and the outer core 202 in the expanded state (e.g., while another spool 500 of used ribbon material 134 accumulates on the spindle arm 216).

[0107] In some cases, the spool 500 can be completely removed from the spindle arm 216 before the slider 230 is returned to the first position. In other cases, the slider 230 can be returned to the first position before the spool 500 is completely removed from the spindle arm 216.

[0108] FIG. 39 illustrates a method 600 for removing or ejecting used ribbon material (eg, 134) from a spindle (eg, waste ribbon spindle 132) in a printer (eg, printer 100) in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0109] In step 602, a retractable core assembly (e.g., retractable core assembly 200) is provided in an expanded state (see, e.g., FIGS. 4 and 5). The retractable core assembly includes a slider (e.g., slider 230) disposed on a shaft (e.g., central shaft 222) movably connected to the printer. The slider is disposed at a first position along the shaft (see, e.g., FIG. 36). The retractable core assembly may also include a wiper (e.g., first or second wiper 220a, 220b) connected to the slider and a spindle arm (e.g., spindle arm 216) partially surrounding the slider to collect used ribbon material. The spindle arm may have a first end (e.g., outer core first end 206) and a second end (e.g., outer core second end 208), and the wiper may be disposed proximate the first end of the spindle arm. The retractable core assembly may further include a locking mechanism (e.g., locking mechanism 226) that operably engages the slider and a button (e.g., button 228) movably connected to the locking mechanism. In some cases, the retractable core assembly may also include an outer core (e.g., outer core 202) that includes ramp members (e.g., first ramp member 236 and / or second ramp member 237), and the slider may include ramp surfaces (e.g., first ramp surface 234 and / or second ramp surface 235), and engagement of the ramp surfaces with the ramp members may maintain the retractable core assembly in the expanded state.

[0110] In step 604, ribbon material (e.g., ribbon material 134) is used during operation of the printing device (e.g., printer 100), and used ribbon material (e.g., used ribbon material 134) is received by the spindle arm. The used ribbon material can form a spool (e.g., spool 500) of used ribbon material disposed between a first end and a second end of the spindle arm.

[0111] In step 606, the locking mechanism is disengaged by depressing a button. Depressing the button releases the slider from the first position so that the slider can move along the shaft toward the second end of the spindle arm. The central shaft can be configured to remain stationary during movement of the slider.

[0112] In step 608, the slider moves from a first position to a second position (see, e.g., FIG. 37). Movement of the slider from the first position to the second position transitions the retractable core assembly to a retracted state (see, e.g., FIGS. 37 and 38) and causes the wiper to push the used ribbon material along a portion of the spindle arm, thereby partially removing the used ribbon material from the spindle arm. More specifically, in some cases, the wiper attached to the slider moves from a first end of the spindle arm toward a second end of the spindle arm, thereby pushing the used ribbon material from the first end toward the second end of the spindle arm. The ramp surface can disengage the ramp member such that the outer core transitions from the expanded state to the retracted state.

[0113] In step 610, the spent ribbon material is pushed along the remainder of the spindle arm until the spent ribbon material is removed from the retractable core assembly.

[0114] In step 612, the slider is returned to the first position and the retractable core assembly is returned to the expanded state. In some cases, the ramp surface of the slider can re-engage the ramp member of the outer core, returning the outer core to the expanded state. Once the slider is returned to the first position, the locking mechanism can be re-engaged.

[0115] A new supply of ribbon material is attached to the printing device in step 614. The printing device then performs further operations and a new spool of used ribbon material is accumulated on the spindle arm.

[0116] While the above disclosure has been described above with reference to particular embodiments and examples, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the above disclosure is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications, and departures from the embodiments, examples, and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims appended hereto. The entire disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated by reference as if each such patent or publication were individually incorporated by reference herein. Various features and advantages of the above disclosure are set forth in the following claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 200 Retractable Core Assembly 202 Retractable outer core 204 outer core body 206 outer core first end 208 outer core second end

Claims

1. 1. A spindle for facilitating removal of used ribbon material in a printer, comprising: a shaft movably mounted to the printer; a spindle arm disposed on the shaft for collecting the used ribbon material, the spindle arm having a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a slider disposed between the shaft and the spindle arm, the slider configured to move bidirectionally along the shaft between a first position and a second position; a first wiper connected to the slider; a button connected to the slider and operatively engaging the shaft; Equipped with engaging the button to allow movement of the slider along the shaft from the first position to the second position, causing the first wiper to move the used ribbon material to the end of the spindle arm; Spindle.

2. a locking mechanism operably connected to the button to allow it to be in an engaged or disengaged state; the locking mechanism maintains the slider in the first position while the locking mechanism is in the engaged state; When the button is pressed, the locking mechanism transitions from the engaged state to the disengaged state, thereby releasing the slider from the first position. The spindle of claim 1 .

3. The spindle of claim 2 , wherein when the locking mechanism is in the engaged state, the locking mechanism engages a pin member connected to the shaft.

4. The spindle of claim 1 , further comprising a spring disposed along the shaft and contacting the slider, the spring biasing the slider toward the second position.

5. a first groove disposed on the first side of the spindle arm; a second groove disposed on the second side of the spindle arm; Further provided with one or more of the first groove or the second groove allows a user's finger to contact an underside of the used ribbon material collected on the spindle arm when the slider is in the second position to assist in removing the used ribbon material from the spindle arm. The spindle of claim 1 .

6. A user can engage the button and move the slider between the first position and the second position using one hand. The spindle of claim 1 .

7. an outer core surrounding the shaft and at least a portion of the slider, the outer core including a first channel oriented along a portion of the spindle arm; an inner core disposed between the slider and the outer core, the inner core including a second channel configured to align with the first channel; Further provided with the first channel and the second channel allow the first wiper to move along a portion of the spindle arm toward a distal end of the spindle arm; The spindle of claim 1 .

8. The spindle of claim 7 , wherein the inner core includes a guide member configured to engage a guide wall of the outer core and restrict movement of the outer core relative to the inner core.

9. 2. The spindle of claim 1, wherein the slider includes a first arm and a second arm substantially parallel to the first arm, the first wiper connected to the first arm, and the second wiper attached to the second arm.

10. 1. A retractable core assembly for collecting used ribbon material in a printer, comprising: A shaft, a slider at least partially surrounding the shaft and configured to move along the shaft; a wiper connected to the slider; an outer core at least partially surrounding the slider, the outer core forming a spindle arm configured to retrieve the used ribbon material; Equipped with the outer core is in an expanded state during operation of the printer; the outer core is in a retracted state when removing the used ribbon material from the spindle arm; Retractable assembly.

11. the slider includes a first ramp surface and a second ramp surface; the outer core includes a first ramp member and a second ramp member positioned to align with the first ramp surface and the second ramp surface of the slider, respectively; engagement of the first and second ramp surfaces with the first and second ramp members, respectively, maintains the outer core in the expanded state; The spindle of claim 10.

12. the slider is movable between a first position and a second position; When the slider moves from the first position to the second position, the outer core transitions from the expanded state to the stowed state. The spindle of claim 11.

13. when the outer core is in the expanded state, first and second ramp surfaces of the slider engage the first and second ramp members of the outer core, respectively; When the outer core is in the retracted state, the first and second ramp surfaces of the slider do not engage with the first and second ramp members of the outer core, respectively.

13. The spindle of claim 12.

14. The spindle of claim 10 , wherein the outer core includes an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion and the lower portion being held at a distance from each other when the outer core is in the expanded state.

15. The spindle of claim 14 , wherein the upper portion contacts the lower portion when the outer core is in the retracted state.

16. The spindle of claim 10 , wherein transitioning the outer core from the expanded state to the retracted position reduces tension on the spent ribbon material collected on the spindle arm.

17. a cap coupled to the slider; a locking mechanism retained within the cap, the locking mechanism restricting movement of the slider relative to the outer core; The spindle of claim 10 further comprising:

18. 18. The spindle of claim 17, wherein the locking mechanism holds the slider in a first position, and when the locking mechanism is disengaged, the slider is movable from the first position to a second position.

19. a button disposed within the cap for operative engagement with the locking mechanism; 18. The spindle of claim 17, wherein depressing the button disengages the locking mechanism and enables the slider to perform a wiping action, causing the wiper to partially remove the used ribbon material from the spindle arm.

20. 1. A method for removing used ribbon material from a printer, comprising: To provide an expanded retractable core assembly, the retractable core assembly comprising: a slider disposed on a shaft movably connected to the printer, the slider disposed at a first position along the shaft; a wiper connected to the slider; a spindle arm partially surrounding the slider for collecting the used ribbon material; a locking mechanism operably engaging the slider; a button operably connected to the locking mechanism; providing, receiving the used ribbon material on the spindle arm; depressing the button to release the locking mechanism and release the slider from the first position; moving the slider along the shaft to a second position, wherein movement of the slider from the first position to the second position transitions the retractable core assembly to a retracted state and causes the wiper to push the used ribbon material along a portion of the spindle arm, thereby partially removing the used ribbon material from the spindle arm; pushing the spent ribbon material along the remainder of the spindle arm until the spent ribbon material is removed from the retractable core assembly; returning the slider to the first position so that the retractable core assembly returns to the expanded state; A method comprising:

Images