Ribbon cartridge auto-centering system and method

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to a system for installing ribbon material in a printer.SOLUTION: The system includes a spindle provided in the form of a spindle arm and a key associated with the spindle arm. The system also includes a ribbon cartridge having a keyway positioned to align with the key of the spindle arm and a ribbon roll including a supply of ribbon material. The engagement of the key with the keyway positions the ribbon cartridge in the correct orientation on 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 ribbon material that must be installed before the printer can function. 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. The ribbon material is wound around a core to form a roll, which is then installed on a ribbon supply spindle before the printer can be used.

[0003] One common challenge associated with thermal transfer printers is the difficulty of correctly loading ribbon rolls of different widths. For example, many thermal printers require the ribbon roll to be centered on the spindle for the printer to function properly. Therefore, when loading ribbon rolls of different sizes, the user may need to estimate the correct position of the roll along the spindle, an inherently subjective method prone to error. Some thermal transfer printers are designed with mechanisms to assist users in correctly loading ribbon rolls of different sizes. For example, some printers use markings or guides on the spindle to allow the user to more accurately approximate the desired (e.g., center) position. However, these methods are still vulnerable to user error and may not prevent incorrect loading, which can result in damage to the printer's printhead or other components, loss of print, and / or potentially poor print image quality.

[0004] Furthermore, for a printer to function properly, the ribbon roll must be properly oriented when it is attached to the spindle. If a user attaches a ribbon roll with the incorrect orientation, the ink-coated side of the ribbon will not face the printable media, resulting in blank printouts. Operating a printer with an incorrectly oriented ribbon roll can lead to additional problems, including wasted ribbon material, breaks or tears in the ribbon material, potential damage to the printhead, jams due to wrinkles or bunching in the ribbon material, and / or other undesirable results. Some devices utilize sensors mounted along the ribbon path to detect whether the ribbon roll is properly oriented. However, such sensors increase the cost of both manufacturing and purchasing the device and introduce unnecessary potential points of failure. Other devices utilize mechanical cover plates intended to intuitively guide users to correctly attach the ribbon roll, but these devices do not eliminate the possibility of an incorrectly attached roll causing significant damage to the printer. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In view of the above problems, a need exists for a thermal transfer printer that ensures that ribbon rolls of different sizes are loaded in the proper position (e.g., centered) and orientation relative to the spindle to reduce or eliminate the risk of undesirable consequences associated with incorrect loading of the ribbon roll (e.g., potential damage to the printhead or printer, degradation of printed image quality, etc.). [Means for solving the problem]

[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 system for loading ribbon material into a printer is disclosed. The system includes a spindle provided in the form of a spindle arm and a key associated with the spindle arm. The system also includes a ribbon cartridge having a keyway aligned with the key on the spindle arm, and a ribbon roll including a supply of ribbon material. Engagement of the key and the keyway positions the ribbon cartridge in the correct orientation on the spindle arm.

[0008] In another aspect, a ribbon cartridge for mounting on a printer spindle is disclosed. The ribbon cartridge includes a supply of ribbon material and a ribbon holder for holding the supply of ribbon material. The ribbon holder includes a support member having a flange, a first opening extending through the flange, and a first failsafe member disposed around the first opening. The ribbon holder also includes an end cap releasably coupleable to the support member, the end cap including a second opening extending therethrough and a second failsafe member disposed around the second opening. The first failsafe member and the second failsafe member are configured to engage at least a portion of the spindle when the ribbon cartridge is mounted in an incorrect orientation. Engagement of the spindle with one or both of the first and second failsafe members prevents movement of the ribbon cartridge along the spindle.

[0009] In a further aspect, a method for mounting a ribbon cartridge on a printer spindle is disclosed. The method includes providing a ribbon cartridge. The ribbon cartridge includes a support element disposed at a first end of the ribbon cartridge. The support element includes a keyway having a first opening and an end wall. The ribbon cartridge also includes an end cap having a second opening located at a second end of the ribbon cartridge opposite the first end. The method also includes aligning the ribbon cartridge with the spindle so that the first end of the ribbon cartridge is disposed adjacent to the spindle, and loading the ribbon cartridge onto the spindle so that the spindle extends through the first opening before extending through the second opening. The method further includes moving the ribbon cartridge along the spindle until the end wall of the keyway is engaged by a key disposed on the spindle. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1A-1C are front, top, and left isometric views of an exemplary printer; [Figure 2] 2A and 2B are front, top, and right side isometric views of the printer of FIG. 1 in an open configuration. [Figure 3A] 2 is a schematic diagram of several components of the printer of FIG. 1 in a first correct orientation. [Figure 3B] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of several components of the printer of FIG. 1 in a second incorrect orientation. [Figure 4] FIG. 3C is a left side elevational view of a first exemplary ribbon cartridge and spindle for use with the printer of FIGS. 1-3B constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a left side elevational view of a second exemplary ribbon cartridge and the spindle of FIG. 4 for use with the printer of FIGS. 1-3B constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 5A and 5B are front, top, and left isometric views of the spindle of FIG. 4. [Figure 7]5A-5C are front, top, and left isometric views of the shaft of the spindle of FIG. 4. [Figure 8] 5A and 5B are front, top, and left isometric views of the hub of the spindle of FIG. 4. [Figure 9] 9A-9C are front, top, and left side isometric views of the first portion of the hub of FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 9 is a bottom isometric view of a first portion of the hub of FIG. 8 with a sensor element disposed thereon. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a top isometric view of the sensor element of FIG. [Figure 12] 9A-9C are front, bottom, and left isometric views of the second portion of the hub of FIG. 8 with two leaf springs positioned therein. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a top isometric view of the leaf spring of FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of the hub of FIG. 8. [Figure 15] FIG. 5 is a left side elevational view of the spindle of FIG. 4. [Figure 16] 5A-5C are front, top, and left isometric views of the first exemplary ribbon cartridge of FIG. 4. [Figure 17] 5A and 5B are front and left side isometric views of the ribbon roll of the first exemplary ribbon cartridge of FIG. 4. [Figure 18] 5A-5C are front, top, and left isometric views of the ribbon holder of the first exemplary ribbon cartridge of FIG. 4. [Figure 19] 19A-19C are rear, top, and left isometric views of the support member of the ribbon holder of FIG. 18. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a bottom view of the support member of FIG. 19. [Figure 21] 21 is a left side cross-sectional elevation view of the support member of FIG. 19 taken along line 21-21 of FIG. 20. [Figure 22] FIG. 20 is a rear elevational view of the support member of FIG. 19. [Figure 23] 19A and 19B are front and right side isometric views of the end cap of the ribbon holder of FIG. 18. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a front elevational view of the end cap of FIG. 23. [Figure 25]5A and 5B are front and top isometric views of the first exemplary ribbon cartridge of FIG. 4. [Figure 26] 6A-6C are front, top, and left isometric views of the second exemplary ribbon cartridge of FIG. 5. [Figure 27] 6A and 6B are front and left side isometric views of the ribbon roll of the second exemplary ribbon cartridge of FIG. 5. [Figure 28] 6A-6C are front, top, and left isometric views of the ribbon holder of the second exemplary ribbon cartridge of FIG. 5. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a rear elevational view of the support member of the ribbon holder of FIG. 28. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a top view of the support member of FIG. 29. [Figure 31] 31 is a left side cross-sectional elevation view of the support member of FIG. 29 taken along line 31-31 of FIG. 30. [Figure 32] FIG. 29 is a front elevational view of the end cap of the ribbon holder of FIG. 28. [Figure 33] 6A and 6B are front and top isometric views of the second exemplary ribbon cartridge of FIG. 5. [Figure 34] 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a process for mounting the second exemplary ribbon cartridge of FIG. 5 onto the spindle of FIG. 4. [Figure 35] 6A and 6B are front, top, and left isometric views of the second exemplary ribbon cartridge of FIG. 5 mounted on the spindle of FIG. 4. [Figure 36] 36 is a left side cross-sectional elevation view of the second exemplary ribbon cartridge of FIG. 5 installed on the spindle of FIG. 4 taken along line 36-36 of FIG. 35. [Figure 37] 29A is a front elevational view of the support member of FIG. 29 installed on the spindle of FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 38] 33 is a front elevational view of the spindle of FIG. 4 showing the end cap of FIG. 32 attached to the spindle in a first correct orientation. [Figure 39] 33 is a rear elevational view of the spindle of FIG. 4 showing the end cap of FIG. 32 attached to the spindle in a second, incorrect orientation. [Figure 40]5 is a schematic diagram of a process for mounting the first exemplary ribbon cartridge of FIG. 4 onto the spindle of FIG. 4. [Figure 41] 5A and 5B are front, top, and left isometric views of the first exemplary ribbon cartridge of FIG. 4 mounted on the spindle of FIG. 4. [Figure 42] 42 is a left side cross-sectional elevation view of the ribbon cartridge of FIG. 4 installed on the spindle of FIG. 4 taken along line 42-42 of FIG. 41. [Figure 43] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for attaching a ribbon cartridge to a spindle. 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 ribbon cartridge and spindle designed to be used together. The spindle can be configured to quickly position ribbon rolls of different widths in a standardized position within a printer device (e.g., a thermal transfer printer). Additionally, the ribbon cartridge and spindle are configured to ensure that the ribbon cartridge is installed in the correct orientation, which ensures accurate ink-side orientation of the ribbon roll, allowing the imaging device to function properly and avoiding poor print image quality and potential damage to the internal components of the printing device.

[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 can 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 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 positioned 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 to 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 is designed to hold and dispense ribbon material 134 from a roll in a similar manner as 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 may each be oriented toward the front end 122 of the mounting wall 120.

[0021] The printable medium 128 and ribbon material 134 can converge proximate a print head 136 and a platen roller 138. The print head 136 and the platen roller 138 can each be connected to the chassis 116 and positioned proximate the front end 122 of the mounting wall 120. For example, the print head 136 and the platen roller 138 can be positioned on the mounting wall 120 such that the print head 136 and the platen roller 138 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 136 and the platen roller 138. The print head 136 may be configured to heat the ribbon material 134 passing beneath it, causing ink from the ribbon material to melt and adhere to adjacent portions of the printable medium 128. At the same time, the platen roller 138 may be configured to provide a smooth support for the printable medium 128 and the ribbon material 134 as they pass beneath the print head 136 and contact each other. For example, the platen roller 138 may apply pressure against the printable medium 128 and the ribbon material 134, causing each to tightly engage the print head 136 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 136, the printable medium 128 may exit the printer 100 through the exit slot 114, where it may be directed to a waste ribbon spindle 132 and collected thereon. In some cases, rather than exiting the printer 100 through the exit slot 114, the printable medium 128 may be directed back toward the rear end 124 of the mounting wall 120, where it may be collected by a rewinder 140. 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 directly supplying the finished product to a user through the exit slot 114.

[0024] 3A and 3B, the ribbon material 134 may include an ink-coated active side 142 and a bare (e.g., ink-free) blank side 144. Prior to use of the printer 100, the ribbon material 134 is attached to the ribbon supply spindle 130 with the active side 142 facing downward (e.g., adjacent to the platen roller 138) as the ribbon material 134 is fed between the printhead 136 and the platen roller 138. After a printing operation has been performed, the used ribbon material 134 is collected on (e.g., wound around) the waste ribbon spindle 132.

[0025] 3A , the active side 142 is positioned on the side of the ribbon material 134 that faces the platen roller 138. The print head 136 therefore heats the blank side 144 so that ink from the active side 142 melts and is transferred to the printable medium 128 (not shown) located between the ribbon material 134 and the platen roller 138. In some cases, the ribbon supply spindle 130 can rotate in a clockwise direction 146 when the ribbon material 134 is attached in the first orientation.

[0026] In the second, incorrect orientation, as shown in FIG. 3B , the blank side 144 is positioned on the side of the ribbon material 134 facing the platen roller 138. Thus, the printhead 136 may directly heat the active side 142 to prevent ink from being transferred to the printable medium 128 (see FIG. 2 ), resulting in blank printouts, wasted ribbon material, and / or other undesirable results. Additionally, directly heating the active side 142 may, in some cases, transfer ink to and damage the printhead 136. In some cases, the ribbon supply spindle 130 may rotate in a counterclockwise direction 148 when the ribbon material 134 is attached in the second orientation, which may also cause damage to the spindle.

[0027] 4 and 5, spindle 200 can provide ease and convenience to a user by facilitating the installation of ribbon cartridges having different widths (e.g., ribbon cartridges 400, 500) in the correct orientation and / or automatically positioning each ribbon cartridge in a desired or standardized position for use with an appropriate printing device. For example, ribbon supply spindle 130 of FIGS. 1-3B can be provided in the form of spindle 200, and ribbon cartridges 400, 500 can be installed for use with printer 100.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 4 , the ribbon cartridge 400 can include a roll of ribbon material 134 defined by a first width W1. In some cases, the first width W1 can have a value between about 107 millimeters (mm) and about 111 millimeters (or between 107 mm and 111 mm). For example, the first width W1 can have a value of at least about 107 mm (or at least 107 mm), or at least about 108 mm (or at least 108 mm), or at least about 109 mm (or at least 109 mm), or at least about 110 mm (or at least 110 mm), or at least about 111 mm (or at least 111 mm). In some cases, the first width W1 can have a value of 109.2 mm (or about 109.2 mm).

[0029] As shown in FIG. 5 , the ribbon cartridge 500 can include a roll of ribbon material 134 defined by a second width W2. The second width W2 can be smaller or larger than the first width W1. In some cases, the second width W2 can be between about 38 mm and about 42 mm (or between 38 mm and 42 mm). For example, the second width W2 can be at least about 38 mm (or at least 38 mm), or at least about 39 mm (or at least 39 mm), or at least about 40 mm (or at least 40 mm), or at least about 41 mm (or at least 41 mm), or at least about 42 mm (or at least 42 mm). In some cases, the second width W2 can be 39.9 mm (or about 39.9 mm).

[0030] In some cases, the widths W1, W2 of the ribbon cartridges 400, 500, respectively, may correspond to standard sizes for manufacturing ribbon material for thermal transfer printers, as known to those skilled in the art. As described in more detail below, the ribbon cartridge 400, the ribbon cartridge 500, and / or other ribbon cartridges having widths other than W1, W2 may each be automatically positioned in a desired (e.g., centered) position relative to the spindle arm 226 when mounted on the spindle 200. Additionally, the spindle 200 and the ribbon cartridges 400, 500 may be configured to properly orient the ribbon cartridges 400, 500 when installed on the spindle 200 (e.g., the first proper orientation shown in FIG. 3A ).

[0031] 6-15, the spindle 200 includes a shaft 202 and a hub 204 that surrounds at least a portion of the shaft 202. As best shown in FIG. 7, the shaft 202 may be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical shaft body 206 defined by a mounting end 208 and a recessed end 210 opposite the mounting end 208. In some cases, the shaft 202 may include a notched portion 212 disposed proximate the mounting end 208. The mounting end 208 may be provided in any suitable form designed to facilitate mounting of the spindle 200 in a printing device (e.g., the mounting end 208 may be coupled to or extend through an opening in the mounting wall 120 of the printer 100). The shaft 202 may include one or more shaft fastening holes 214 disposed along the shaft body 206 to facilitate coupling the hub 204 to the shaft 202 when the spindle 200 is assembled, for example. A transmission member bay 216 provided in the form of a stepped linear recess may be located adjacent to the embedded end 210 to accommodate a transmission member 218 (see FIG. 10) that may be positioned between the shaft 202 and the hub 204.

[0032] Turning now to FIG. 8 , the hub 204 may be provided in the form of a substantially tubular hub body 220 defined by a hub first end 222 and a hub second end 224 opposite the hub first end 222. A spindle arm 226 extending between the hub first end 222 and the hub second end 224 may be configured to receive and hold a ribbon cartridge (e.g., ribbon cartridges 400, 500). The spindle arm 226 may be connected to and extend outwardly from a substantially circular spindle flange 228 disposed at the hub first end 222. In some cases, the spindle arm 226 may be integrally formed with the spindle flange 228. In other cases, the spindle arm 226 may be coupled to and extend outwardly from the spindle flange 228. The spindle arm 226 may be substantially hollow. For example, the spindle arm 226 can be configured to receive the recessed end 210 of the shaft 202 such that a portion of the shaft 202 can be retained therein.

[0033] In some cases, the hub body 220 of the hub 204 may be provided as a single, undivided component. In other cases, the hub body 220 may be provided in the form of a first or upper hub portion 230 that is connectable to a second or lower hub portion 232. In these cases, the upper and lower hub portions 230, 232 may each include respective portions of a spindle arm 226 and a spindle flange 228.

[0034] 9 , the hub 204 may include a spindle-mating surface 234 disposed on the upper hub portion 230 and extending between the spindle flange 228 and the hub second end 224. In some cases, the spindle-mating surface 234 may be provided in the form of a substantially flat, linear surface having a key 236 disposed therealong and extending away from the spindle-mating surface 234 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the spindle-mating surface 234. In some cases, the key 236 may be provided with an angled U-shaped structure. However, in other cases, the key 236 may be provided with any suitable shape or structure designed to engage with and facilitate standardized positioning of a ribbon cartridge (e.g., ribbon cartridges 400, 500).

[0035] Spindle mating surface 234 may include a contact window 238 provided in the form of a substantially linear opening extending entirely through upper hub portion 230. In some cases, contact window 238 may be positioned to align with at least a portion of transmission member bay 216 of shaft 202. For example, contact window 238 may allow a portion of transmission member 218 disposed between shaft 202 and hub 204 to extend beyond spindle mating surface 234 through contact window 238 when spindle 200 is assembled (see FIG. 6 ).

[0036] Additionally, spindle-mating surface 234 may include markings 240 indicating the distance from a desired (e.g., center) position along spindle arm 226. In some cases, as shown in FIG. 9 , markings 240 may be labeled with numbers starting at zero at the desired position along spindle arm 226 and increasing symmetrically (e.g., 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50) between (i) the desired position (e.g., center point along spindle arm 226) and hub first end 222, and (ii) the desired position (e.g., center point along spindle arm 226) and hub second end 224. In some cases, markings 240 may allow a user to verify that a ribbon cartridge (e.g., ribbon cartridge 400, 500) is centered along spindle arm 226 after it has been automatically positioned (e.g., centered) on spindle 200. In other cases, any number of numerals or other markings 240 may be provided along the spindle arm 226 in any suitable location, or the markings 240 may be omitted.

[0037] Turning to FIG. 10 , the upper hub portion 230 can be configured to receive the transmission member 218. For example, the transmission member 218 can be coupled to an upper hub portion inner surface 242 disposed opposite the spindle-mating surface 234 via one or more fasteners 244. In some cases, one or more of the fasteners 244 can be provided in the form of pins, screws, or any other suitable fastener known in the art. In other cases, one or more of the fasteners 244 can be provided in the form of protrusions (not shown) on the upper hub portion inner surface 242 such that the protrusions engage with transmission member holes 252 on the transmission member 218 (see FIG. 11 ) with a snap or friction fit. The transmission member 218 can be configured to facilitate communication between a ribbon cartridge (e.g., ribbon cartridges 400, 500) and a processor, controller, or other electronic component of a printing device (e.g., printer 100) when the ribbon cartridge is installed.

[0038] 11 , the transmission member 218 may be provided in the form of a substantially linear transmission member body 246 defined by a transmission member first end 248 and a transmission member second end 250 opposite the transmission member first end 248. One or more transmission member apertures 252 may be disposed along and extend entirely therethrough (e.g., for receiving a fastener 244).

[0039] The transmission member 218 may include one or more output contacts 254 and one or more input contacts 256. In some cases, the output contacts 254 may be disposed proximate the transmission member first end 248 and extend through one or more transmission member holes 252. The input contacts 256 may be disposed on the transmission member body 246 proximate the transmission member second end 250 and extend upward therefrom. In some cases, the input contacts 256 may be disposed on input contact tabs 257 provided in the form of linear protrusions extending outward from the transmission member body 246. For example, the input contact tabs 257 may be designed to be received by the contact windows 238 of the spindle 200 (see FIG. 8 ). In other cases, the output contacts 254 and the input contacts 256 may be provided in any suitable form and disposed on the transmission member 218 in any suitable arrangement.

[0040] In some cases, the output contacts 254 and the input contacts 256 can be in communication with one another. The output contacts 254 can facilitate electrical connection or communication with a processor, controller, or other electronic component of a printing device (e.g., printer 100), while the input contacts 256 can facilitate electrical connection or communication with a ribbon cartridge (e.g., ribbon cartridges 400, 500) or portion thereof. Thus, the transmission member 218 can function as a conduit through which information can be electronically transmitted from the ribbon cartridge to the electronic components of the printing device. For example, when a ribbon cartridge (e.g., ribbon cartridges 400, 500) is installed in the printer 100, the processor or controller of the printer 100 can be configured to detect or receive information about the ribbon cartridge via the transmission member 218, as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 36 and 42. In some cases, the transmission member 218 can be coupled to the upper hub portion 230 such that when the spindle 200 is assembled (see FIG. 6), the input contacts 256 extend beyond the spindle mating face 234 through the contact window 238.

[0041] 12 , lower hub portion 232 may include a lower hub portion lower surface 258 located opposite spindle mating surface 234 and extending between spindle flange 228 and hub second end 224. Lower hub portion lower surface 258 may include one or more mounting zones 260 where one or more leaf springs 262 may be coupled to lower hub portion 232. For example, in some cases, lower hub portion 232 may include two mounting zones 260, where each mounting zone 260 may receive one leaf spring 262 coupled to lower hub portion lower surface 258 by one or more fasteners 244.

[0042] As best shown in FIG. 13 , the leaf spring 262 can be provided in the form of a substantially linear leaf spring body 264 defined by a leaf spring first end 266 and a leaf spring second end 268 opposite the leaf spring first end 266. The leaf spring 262 can include wings 270 disposed on opposite sides of the leaf spring body 264 and extending between the leaf spring first end 266 and the second end 268. In some cases, the leaf spring body 264 can include four wings 270, with two wings 270 disposed on each side of the leaf spring body 264. The wings 270 can project outwardly from the leaf spring body 264 at a downward angle relative to the leaf spring body 264. One or more leaf spring openings 272 can be disposed along the leaf spring body 264 and extend entirely therethrough, for example, to receive a fastener 244. Thus, when the leaf spring 262 is coupled to the lower hub portion 232 of the hub 204, the leaf spring body 264 may be substantially flush with the mounting zone 260 and the wings 270 may extend outward at a downward angle therefrom (see FIG. 12). As explained in more detail below, the wings 270 of the leaf spring 262 may engage the core of the ribbon cartridge 400, 500 when mounted on the spindle 200 to, among other things, prevent the ribbon cartridge from moving out of position when the printer 100 is in use.

[0043] 14 , the end face 274 of the spindle arm 226 may be located at the hub second end 224. The spindle arm 226 may be substantially translationally symmetric along the length of the spindle arm 226. In other words, the shape of the end face 274 may represent the shape of a cross section of the spindle arm 226 taken at any point between the spindle flange 228 and the hub second end 224.

[0044] In some cases, the spindle arm 226 can have a substantially T-shaped configuration, as reflected by the shape of the end surface 274 shown in FIG. 14 . For example, the spindle-mating surface 234 of the upper hub portion 230 can be located at the top of the T, and the lower hub portion lower surface 258 can be located at the bottom of a base portion 276 of the T (e.g., opposite the spindle-mating surface 234). The base portion 276 can include a first spindle sidewall 278 and a second spindle sidewall 280 opposite the first spindle sidewall 278. The first spindle sidewall 278 and the second spindle sidewall 280 can each be oriented in a plane substantially perpendicular to the spindle-mating surface 234 and can be substantially parallel to each other.

[0045] In some cases, the spindle arm 226 may include a first poka-yoke or fail-safe feature 282 and a second poka-yoke or fail-safe feature 284. The first fail-safe feature 282 may be disposed on and protrude outwardly from the first spindle sidewall 278, and the second fail-safe feature 284 may be disposed on and protrude outwardly from the second spindle sidewall 280. The first and second fail-safe features 282, 284 may be oriented asymmetrically with respect to one another. For example, in some cases, the positioning of the first and second fail-safe features 282, 284 along the first and second spindle sidewalls 278, 280, respectively, may be offset with respect to one another (e.g., the first fail-safe feature 282 may not be disposed directly opposite the second fail-safe feature 284).

[0046] In some cases, the first and second failsafe features 282, 284 may be provided in the form of a substantially linear handrail or protrusion extending along the spindle arm 226 between the spindle flange 228 and the hub second end 224. In other cases, the spindle arm 226 may be given any suitable shape or structure. For example, the spindle arm 226 may include other asymmetric structural features in addition to or in place of the first and second failsafe features 282, 284, provided that the spindle arm 226 is designed to receive a ribbon cartridge (e.g., ribbon cartridges 400, 500) in the correct orientation (see FIG. 3A ), as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 33-39 . For example, the spindle arm 226 can include any number of failsafe features in addition to or instead of the first and second failsafe features 282, 284, and the first and second failsafe features can be provided in any suitable form (e.g., keyed features, D-cuts, or any other features known in the art for facilitating correct installation and / or limiting incorrect installation of a ribbon cartridge). The first and second failsafe features 282, 284 (and / or other failsafe features not specifically described herein) can each be provided with a different shape, size, and / or other characteristics. In some cases, the first and second failsafe features 282, 284 can be located at the hub second end 224 and may not extend along the length of the spindle arm 226.

[0047] Still referring to FIG. 14 , in some cases, the spindle flange 228 can be provided with a substantially circular profile. In some cases, the upper hub portion 230 includes a spindle flange upper edge 286, which can be substantially flat and oriented in a plane substantially parallel to the spindle-mating surface 234. In some cases, the lower hub portion 232 can include semicircular notches 288 located on opposite sides of the spindle flange upper edge 286. In some cases, one or more rounded spindle flange recesses 290 can be disposed on the spindle flange outer periphery 292. The spindle flange recesses 290 can be provided to facilitate removal of a ribbon cartridge (e.g., ribbon cartridges 400, 500) from the spindle 200 (e.g., by assisting a user in gripping the ribbon cartridge so that the user can pull or remove the ribbon cartridge from the spindle 200). In other cases, spindle flange 228 can be provided with any suitable shape or configuration. For example, spindle flange 228 can be designed to facilitate engagement with one or more components of a desired ribbon cartridge (e.g., ribbon cartridges 400, 500) or with one or more internal components of a desired printing device (e.g., printer 100).

[0048] 15 , in some cases, key 236 can be positioned a standardized distance D from a central axis A of spindle arm 226. Axis A can be substantially perpendicular to lower hub portion underside 258 and can extend through a central location along spindle arm 226. In some cases, axis A can correspond to a central location within a desired printing device (e.g., printer 100). Distance D can have a value of approximately 14 mm to approximately 21 mm (or between 14 mm and 21 mm). In some cases, the distance D may be at least about 14 mm (or at least 14 mm), or at least about 15 mm (or at least 15 mm), or at least about 16 mm (or at least 16 mm), or at least about 17 mm (or at least 17 mm), or at least about 18 mm (or at least 18 mm), or at least about 19 mm (or at least 19 mm), or at least about 20 mm (or at least 20 mm), or at least about 21 mm (or at least 21 mm). In some cases, the distance D may be about 17 mm to about 18 mm (or 17 mm to 18 mm). In some cases, the distance D may be 17.7 mm (or about 17.7 mm).

[0049] 16-25, a ribbon cartridge 400 may include a ribbon roll 402 held by or attached to a ribbon holder 404. As best shown in FIG. 17, the ribbon roll 402 may include a cylindrical core 406 and a supply of ribbon material 134 wound around the core 406. The core 406 may be provided in the form of a cylindrical element of cardboard, plastic, or other suitable material, defining a core opening 408 extending therethrough. The ribbon material 134 may be provided in the form of a thin strip coated on one side with ink. For example, the ink may be made of wax, resin, combinations thereof, or other compounds or substances known in the art. As previously mentioned, the supply of ribbon material 134 of the ribbon cartridge 400 may be defined by a first width W1 (see FIG. 4).

[0050] 18 , the ribbon holder 404 may include a support member 410 configured to receive the ribbon roll 402 and an end cap 412 coupleable to the support member 410. The support member 410 may be provided in the form of a substantially circular cartridge flange 414 and one or more arms 416 coupled to and extending outwardly from the cartridge flange 414. For example, the arm first end 418 may be integrally formed with the cartridge flange 414 or may be coupled to the cartridge flange 414 via a cartridge flange inner surface 420, with the arms 416 extending outwardly therefrom. The arms 416 may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the cartridge flange inner surface 420. Each arm 416 may include an arm second end 422 located opposite the arm first end 418 and configured to engage the end cap 412 (e.g., to facilitate coupling between the support member 410 and the end cap 412).

[0051] In some cases, the support member 410 may have three arms 416, including one central arm 416a and two side arms 416b. The central arm 416a may be configured to engage with the key 236 of the hub 204 when the ribbon cartridge 400 is attached to the spindle 200. The side arms 416b may be configured to further support the ribbon roll 402 and / or provide stability and structural rigidity to the ribbon holder 404.

[0052] 19 , the cartridge flange 414 can be provided in the form of a cartridge flange body 424 defined by a cartridge flange periphery 426 and a cartridge flange inner surface 428. The cartridge flange inner surface 428 can define a support member opening 430 extending entirely through the cartridge flange body 424. In some cases, the cartridge flange inner surface 428 can be substantially T-shaped. In some cases, the cartridge flange periphery 426 can be substantially circular. In other cases, the cartridge flange top 431 can include a substantially flat cartridge flange top edge 433. The cartridge flange top edge 433 can be designed to align with the spindle flange upper edge 286 when the ribbon cartridge 400 is properly installed. For example, the cartridge flange top edge 433 may have the same shape (e.g., substantially flat) as the spindle flange upper edge 286 to visually assist a user in positioning the ribbon cartridge 400 on the spindle 200 in the correct orientation (e.g., by aligning the cartridge flange top edge 433 with the spindle flange upper edge 286 when attaching the ribbon cartridge 400 to the spindle 200). In other cases, the spindle flange 424 may be given any suitable shape or configuration.

[0053] In some cases, the cartridge flange bottom 435 may include a semicircular cartridge flange notch 437 disposed opposite the cartridge flange top edge 433. The arm first end 418 may be coupled to or disposed adjacent to the cartridge flange inner surface 428 and extend linearly away therefrom. Thus, the support member opening 430 and the arm 416 may together define a substantially tubular space configured to receive the spindle arm 226 when the ribbon cartridge 400 is attached to the spindle 200.

[0054] Turning to FIG. 20 , in some cases, the central arm 416a can include a smart cell bay 432 provided in the form of a substantially linear opening extending therethrough. The smart cell bay 432 can be configured to hold or support a smart cell 434. In some cases, the smart cell 434 can be provided in the form of a storage or memory device containing pre-programmed information about the ribbon cartridge 400. For example, the smart cell 434 can store information regarding ribbon width, ribbon type, ribbon color, roll length, and / or other information about the ribbon cartridge 400 and / or its contents. Additionally, the smart cell 434 can include a pre-programmed electronic authentication signal indicating that the ribbon cartridge 400 is intended for use with the spindle 200 or with a particular printing device (e.g., printer 100). The smart cell 434 can contact an input contact 256 (see FIG. 6 ) when the ribbon cartridge 400 is attached to the spindle 200 so that the printing device (e.g., printer 100) can read or receive the information stored in the smart cell 434.

[0055] The keyway 436 disposed on the support member 410 can be configured to align with and engage the key 236 on the hub 204 when the ribbon cartridge 400 is attached to the spindle 200. For example, the keyway 436 can be provided in the form of a substantially linear channel disposed on a cartridge-mating surface 438. In some cases, the cartridge-mating surface 438 is provided on the underside of the central arm 416a and is positioned to be flush with and / or adjacent to the spindle-mating surface 234 when the ribbon cartridge 400 is attached. The keyway 436 can have dimensions that are complementary to or substantially similar to the dimensions of the key 236. For example, the keyway 436 can be configured to securely receive the key 236 such that rotational movement of the support member 410 relative to the spindle 200 is eliminated or reduced.

[0056] 21 , the keyway 436 may extend from a keyway proximal end 440 located on the cartridge flange inner surface 428 and terminate at a keyway termination 442 located along the central arm 416a between the cartridge flange 414 and the smart cell bay 432. Thus, the keyway 436 of the ribbon cartridge 400 may be defined by a first length L1 measured linearly between the keyway proximal end 440 and the keyway termination 442. A substantially vertical keyway end wall 444 positioned to impinge on or otherwise engage the key 236 may be located at the keyway termination 442.

[0057] As best shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 , each arm 416 can include a connector 446 disposed at the arm second end 422. The connector 446 can be configured to be received by the end cap 412 and facilitate coupling between the support member 410 and the end cap 412. In some cases, the connector 446 can be provided in the form of a substantially linear stepped protrusion disposed at the arm second end 422a of the central arm 416a and the arm second end 422b of each side arm 416b. In some cases, each connector 446a, 446b can be provided in substantially the same form. In other cases, the connector 446a of the central arm 416a can be provided in a different size, shape, or configuration than the connector 446b of the side arm 416b. In still other cases, each connector 446a, 446b may be provided in any suitable form, so long as the connector 446 is configured to facilitate coupling between the support member 410 and the end cap 412, as described in detail below with reference to FIG. 24.

[0058] 22 , the support member 410 may include a first poka-yoke or failsafe member 448 and a second poka-yoke or failsafe member 450 disposed about and projecting inwardly (e.g., into) the support member opening 430 of the cartridge flange 414. In some cases, the first and second failsafe members 448, 450 may be provided in the form of linear or curved protrusions disposed on the cartridge flange inner surface 428. In other cases, the first and second failsafe members 448, 450 may be provided in any suitable form, provided that engagement of the first and second failsafe members 448, 450 with the first and second failsafe features 282, 284, respectively, of the spindle arm 226 facilitates correct installation of the ribbon cartridge 400. As shown, the support member opening 430 may be substantially T-shaped (e.g., mirroring the shape of the spindle arm 226). Accordingly, the first and second failsafe members 448, 450 may be provided in the form of asymmetrical protrusions located along the cartridge flange inner surface 428 and positioned opposite one another.

[0059] In some cases, the positioning of the first and second failsafe members 448, 450 on the cartridge flange inner surface 428 may correspond to or complement the positioning of the first and second failsafe features 282, 284 of the spindle arm 226. For example, the first and second failsafe members 448, 450 may be configured such that when the support member 410 is attached to the spindle arm 226 (e.g., as part of the ribbon cartridge 400) in the correct orientation, the first failsafe member 448 is adjacent to but freely moves past the first failsafe feature 282, and the second failsafe member 450 is adjacent to but freely moves past the second failsafe feature 284 (see FIG. 3A ). On the other hand, if an attempt is made to attach the ribbon cartridge 400 to the spindle arm 226 in the wrong orientation (see FIG. 3B), the first failsafe member 448 may collide with the second failsafe feature 284 and / or the second failsafe member 450 may collide with the first failsafe feature 282, thereby preventing attachment.

[0060] 23 and 24 , the end cap 412 can be provided in the form of an end cap body 452 defined by an end cap periphery 454. In some cases, the end cap periphery 454 can be substantially circular. In other cases, the end cap 412 can be given any suitable shape or configuration (e.g., to accommodate rolls of ribbon material 134 having different sizes or widths). In some cases, the end cap 412 can include a substantially circular or irregularly shaped end cap inner surface 456 that defines a central end cap opening 458 extending entirely through the end cap body 452. For example, the end cap opening 458 can be configured to receive a portion of the spindle 200 when the ribbon cartridge 400 is installed.

[0061] As best shown in FIG. 23 , the substantially ring-shaped support structure 460 and central collar 462 can be disposed on and project outwardly from an outer surface 464 of the end cap 412. The support structure 460 can include a substantially ring-shaped outer wall 466 and one or more substantially linear panels 468. Each panel 468 can be integrally formed with or coupled to the outer wall 466 and can extend between two points along the outer wall 466. In some cases, the support structure 460 can have three panels 468, including one central panel 468 a and two side panels 468 b (e.g., configured to correspond to the central arm 416 a and the two side arms 416 b, respectively). The support structure 460 can provide stability and / or structural rigidity to, for example, the end cap 412, the ribbon holder 404 generally, and / or other components of the ribbon cartridge 400.

[0062] 24 , the central collar 462 may be provided with a substantially circular profile. However, the central collar 462 may include a substantially straight collar upper edge 470 disposed proximate the central panel 468a and oriented substantially parallel to the central panel 468a. Additionally, the central collar 462 may include a third poka-yoke or fail-safe member 472 and a fourth poka-yoke or fail-safe member 474, each disposed along the end cap inner surface 456 adjacent one of the side panels 468b. Accordingly, the central collar 462 and the end cap opening 458 defined by the central collar 462 may be provided with a shape and structure that complements and / or mirrors the shape and structure of the spindle arm 226 described above with reference to FIG. 14 .

[0063] The third and fourth failsafe members 472, 474 of the end cap 412 can function in a manner similar to the first and second failsafe members 448, 450 of the support member 410, as described above with reference to FIGURE 22. For example, the third and fourth failsafe members 472, 474 can be configured such that when the end cap 412 is attached to the spindle arm 226 in the correct orientation (e.g., as part of the ribbon cartridge 400), the third failsafe member 472 is adjacent to but can move freely past the first failsafe feature 282, and the fourth failsafe member 474 is adjacent to but can move freely past the second failsafe feature 284. On the other hand, if an attempt is made to attach the ribbon cartridge 400 to the spindle arm 226 in the wrong orientation, the third failsafe member 472 may collide with the second failsafe feature 284 and the fourth failsafe member 474 may collide with the first failsafe feature 282, thereby preventing attachment.

[0064] In some cases, the third and fourth failsafe members 472, 474 may be provided in the form of straight or curved protrusions disposed on the end cap inner surface 456. In other cases, the third and fourth failsafe members 472, 474 may be provided in any suitable form, provided that engagement of the third and fourth failsafe members 472, 474 with the first and second failsafe features 282, 284 of the spindle arm 226 facilitates proper installation of the ribbon cartridge 400.

[0065] 24 , the end cap 412 may include one or more connection tabs 476 configured to receive and / or engage the connectors 446 of the arms 416, thereby enabling coupling between the end cap 412 and the support member 410. In some cases, the end cap 412 may include a central connection tab 476a and two side connection tabs 476b. For example, the central connection tab 476a may be integrally formed with or connected to the central panel 468a and extend inwardly therefrom (e.g., toward the collar upper edge 470). A connector opening 478a disposed between the central connection tab 476a and the collar upper edge 470 may be configured to allow the connectors 446 of the central arms 416a to pass therethrough and releasably engage the central connection tab 476a. One side connection tab 476b can be integrally formed with or connected to and extend inwardly from the side panel 468b adjacent the third failsafe member 472. A connector opening 478b disposed between the side connection tab 476b and the third failsafe member 472 can be configured to allow one connector 446 of the side arm 416b to pass therethrough and releasably engage the side connection tab 476b. The other side connection tab 476b can be integrally formed with or connected to and extend inwardly from the side panel 468b adjacent the fourth failsafe member 474. The connector opening 478b disposed between the side connection tab 476b and the fourth failsafe member 474 can be configured to allow the connector 446 of the other side arm 416b to pass therethrough and releasably engage the side connection tab 476b.

[0066] 25 , the end cap 412 can be releasably coupled to the support member 410 via engagement of the connector 446 and the connection tab 476, and the ribbon roll 402 can be retained between the end cap 412 and the cartridge flange 414 of the support member 410. When the ribbon cartridge 400 is assembled, the arms 416 can extend through the core 406 of the ribbon roll 402. In some cases, the support member 410 can be configured to engage (e.g., stabilize) the core 406 via friction or outward pressure applied by the arms 416. The core opening 408, the support member opening 430, and the end cap opening 458 of the ribbon roll 402 can align to provide a passageway extending through the ribbon cartridge 400 configured to receive the spindle arm 226. Additionally, the third and fourth failsafe members 472, 474 of the end cap 412 can be aligned with the first and second failsafe members 448, 450, respectively, of the support member 410. In this manner, the ribbon cartridge 400 can be biased for installation in the correct orientation (e.g., the ribbon cartridge can be restrained from being installed in an incorrect orientation), as described below with reference to Figures 34-39.

[0067] 26-33, another embodiment of ribbon cartridge 500 is depicted, which may be provided in substantially the same form as ribbon cartridge 400. However, as discussed above with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, ribbon cartridge 500 may hold a supply of ribbon material 134 having a different width (e.g., second width W2) compared to ribbon cartridge 400. In describing ribbon cartridge 500, like names and like reference numerals are used to refer to like parts with respect to ribbon cartridge 400. In particular, components of ribbon cartridge 500 and components of ribbon cartridge 400 labeled with like or identical names and reference numerals, with a difference of exactly 100, may be substantially similar in both form and function.

[0068] 26 and 27, the ribbon cartridge 500 may include a ribbon roll 502 held by or mounted on a ribbon holder 504. As best shown in FIG. 27, the ribbon roll 502 may include a cylindrical core 506 and a supply of ribbon material 134 wound around the core 506. The core 506 may define a substantially cylindrical core opening 508 extending entirely therethrough. As discussed above with respect to FIG. 5, the supply of ribbon material 134 of the ribbon cartridge 500 may be defined by a second width W2.

[0069] 28 , the ribbon holder 504 can include a support member 510 configured to receive the ribbon roll 502 and an end cap 512 that can be releasably coupled to an end of the support member 510. The support member 510 can be provided in the form of a substantially circular cartridge flange 514 and one or more arms 516 connected to and extending outwardly from the cartridge flange 514. For example, an arm first end 518 of each arm 516 can be integrally formed with or coupled to an inner cartridge flange surface 520. The arms 516 can extend linearly away from the cartridge flange 514 such that the arms 516 are oriented in a plane substantially perpendicular to the inner cartridge flange surface 520. An arm second end 522 of each arm 516 can engage the end cap 512, thereby coupling the support member 510 and the end cap 512. In some cases, the arms 516 can include one central arm 516 a and two side arms 516 b. The central arm 516a can be configured to engage the key 236 of the hub 204 when the ribbon cartridge 500 is attached to the spindle 200. The side arms 516b can be configured to further support the ribbon roll 502 and / or provide stability and structural rigidity to the ribbon holder 404.

[0070] As best shown in FIG. 29 , the cartridge flange 514 can be provided in the form of a cartridge flange body 524 defined by a cartridge flange periphery 526 and a cartridge flange inner surface 528. The cartridge flange inner surface 528 can define a support member opening 530 extending entirely through the cartridge flange body 524. In some cases, the cartridge flange inner surface 528 can be substantially T-shaped. In some cases, the cartridge flange periphery 526 can be substantially circular. In other cases, the cartridge flange top 531 of the cartridge flange body 524 can include a cartridge flange top edge 533 that can be substantially flat. The cartridge flange top edge 533 can be designed to align with the spindle flange upper edge 286 when the ribbon cartridge 500 is properly installed. In some cases, the cartridge flange top edge 533 may have the same shape (e.g., substantially flat) as the spindle flange upper edge 286 to visually assist a user in placing the ribbon cartridge 500 on the spindle 200 in the correct orientation (e.g., by aligning the cartridge flange top edge 533 with the spindle flange upper edge 286 when installing the ribbon cartridge 500 on the spindle 200). In some cases, the cartridge flange bottom 535 of the cartridge flange body 524 may include a semicircular cartridge flange notch 537 positioned opposite the cartridge flange top edge 533.

[0071] The support member 510 may include a first poka-yoke or fail-safe member 548 and a second poka-yoke or fail-safe member 550 disposed about and projecting inwardly (e.g., into the support member opening 530) from the cartridge flange inner surface 528. In some cases, the first and second fail-safe members 548, 550 may be provided in the form of linear protrusions disposed on the cartridge flange inner surface 528. In other cases, the first and second fail-safe members 548, 550 may be provided in any suitable form, provided that engagement of the first and second fail-safe members 548, 550 with the first and second fail-safe features 282, 284, respectively, of the spindle arm 226 facilitates correct installation of the ribbon cartridge 500.

[0072] In some cases, the positioning of the first and second failsafe members 548, 550 on the cartridge flange inner surface 528 may correspond to or complement the positioning of the first and second failsafe features 282, 284, respectively, of the spindle arm 226. For example, the first and second failsafe members 548, 550 may be configured such that when the support member 510 is installed on the spindle arm 226 (e.g., as part of the ribbon cartridge 500) in the correct orientation, the first failsafe member 548 is adjacent to but can move freely past the first failsafe feature 282, and the second failsafe member 550 is adjacent to but can move freely past the second failsafe feature 284 (see FIG. 3A ). On the other hand, if an attempt is made to attach the ribbon cartridge 500 to the spindle arm 226 in the wrong orientation (see FIG. 3B), the first failsafe member 548 may collide with the second failsafe feature 284 and / or the second failsafe member 550 may collide with the first failsafe feature 282, thereby preventing attachment.

[0073] 30 , the support member 510 can include a smart cell 534. In some cases, the central arm 516a can include a smart cell bay 532 provided in the form of a substantially linear opening extending entirely through the central arm 516a and configured to receive and hold the smart cell 534. In some cases, the smart cell 534 can be provided in the form of a storage or memory device containing pre-programmed information regarding the ribbon cartridge 500. For example, the smart cell 534 can store information regarding ribbon width, ribbon type, ribbon color, roll length, and / or other information regarding the ribbon cartridge 500 and / or its contents. Additionally, the smart cell 534 can include a pre-programmed electronic authentication signal indicating that the ribbon cartridge 500 is intended for use with the spindle 200 or with a particular printing device (e.g., printer 100). The smart cell 534 can contact the input contacts 256 of the transmission member 218 (see FIG. 6) when the ribbon cartridge 500 is mounted on the spindle 200 so that the printing device (e.g., the printer 100) can read or receive the information stored in the smart cell 534.

[0074] Turning to the cross-sectional view of FIG. 31 , a keyway 536 configured to align and engage with the key 236 when the ribbon cartridge 500 is installed can be located on a cartridge-mating surface 538 of the center arm 516a. The keyway 536 can be dimensioned to complement or be substantially similar to the key 236. The keyway 536 can extend from a keyway proximal end 540 located on the cartridge flange inner surface 528 and terminate at a keyway terminal end 542 located along the center arm 516a between the cartridge flange 514 and the smart cell bay 532. Thus, the keyway 536 can be defined by a second length L2 measured linearly between the keyway proximal end 540 and the keyway terminal end 542. The shape of the keyway 536 can reflect or substantially resemble the shape of the keyway 436. However, in some cases, the second length L2 can be less than the first length L1. A substantially vertical keyway end wall 544 positioned to strike or otherwise engage the key 236 may be disposed at the keyway terminal end 542 .

[0075] As best shown in FIG. 30 , each arm 516 can include a connector 546 at the arm second end 522. The connector 546 can be configured to be received by the end cap 512 and facilitate coupling between the support member 510 and the end cap 512. In some cases, the connector 546 can be provided in the form of a substantially linear stepped protrusion disposed at the arm second end 522 a of the central arm 516 a and the arm second end 522 b of the side arm 516 b. In some cases, each connector 546 a, 546 b can be provided in substantially the same form. In other cases, the connector 546 a of the central arm 516 a can be provided with a different size, shape, or configuration than the connector 546 b of the side arm 516 b. In still other cases, each connector 546 a, 546 b can be provided in any suitable form, so long as the connector 546 is configured to facilitate coupling between the support member 510 and the end cap 512, as described in detail below with reference to FIG. 32 .

[0076] 32 and 33 , the end cap 512 can be provided in the form of an end cap body 552 defined by an end cap periphery 554. In some cases, the end cap periphery 554 can be substantially circular. In other cases, the end cap 512 can be given any suitable shape or configuration (e.g., to accommodate rolls of ribbon material 134 having different sizes or widths). In some cases, the end cap 512 can include a substantially circular or irregularly shaped end cap inner surface 556 defining a central end cap opening 558 extending entirely through the end cap body 552 (e.g., for receiving the spindle 200 when the ribbon cartridge 500 is installed). A substantially ring-shaped support structure 560 and a central collar 562 can be disposed on and project outwardly from an outer surface 564 of the end cap 512. The support structure 560 can include a substantially ring-shaped outer wall 566 and one or more substantially linear panels 568. In some cases, the support structure 560 may include one center panel 568a and two side panels 568b.

[0077] The central collar 562 may include a substantially straight collar upper edge 570 proximate the central panel 568a. Additionally, the central collar 562 may include a third poka-yoke or failsafe member 572 and a fourth poka-yoke or failsafe member 574, each disposed along the end cap inner surface 556 adjacent one of the side panels 568b. In some cases, the third and fourth failsafe members 572, 574 may be provided in the form of linear or curved protrusions disposed on the end cap inner surface 556. In other cases, the third and fourth failsafe members 572, 574 may be provided in any suitable form, provided that engagement of the third and fourth failsafe members 572, 574 with the first and second failsafe features 282, 284 of the spindle arm 226 facilitates proper installation of the ribbon cartridge 500.

[0078] The central collar 562 and the end cap opening 558 extending therethrough may be provided with a shape and structure that complements and / or mirrors the shape and structure of the spindle arm 226, as described above with reference to FIGURE 14. Similar to the first and second failsafe members 548, 550 of the support member 510, the third and fourth failsafe members 572, 574 of the end cap 512 may be configured to prevent or inhibit the ribbon cartridge 500 from being attached to the spindle 200 in an incorrect orientation.

[0079] As best shown in FIG. 32 , the end cap 512 can include one or more connection tabs 576 configured to receive or engage a connector 546 located on the arm second end 522 of each arm 516, thereby facilitating coupling between the support member 510 and the end cap 512. In some cases, the end cap 512 can include a central connection tab 576a connected to the center panel 568a and a side connection tab 576b connected to each side panel 568b. For example, the central connection tab 576a can be integrally formed with or connected to the center panel 568a and extend inwardly therefrom (e.g., toward the collar upper edge 570). A connector opening 578a disposed between the central connection tab 576a and the collar upper edge 570 can be configured to allow the connector 546a of the central arm 516a to pass therethrough and releasably engage the central connection tab 576a.

[0080] One side connection tab 576b can be integrally formed with or connected to and extend inwardly from the side panel 568b adjacent the third failsafe member 572. A connector opening 578b located between the side connection tab 576b and the third failsafe member 572 can be configured to allow one connector 546b of the side arm 516b to pass therethrough and releasably engage with the side connection tab 576b (see FIG. 33). The other, second side connection tab 576b can be integrally formed with or connected to and extend inwardly from the side panel 568b adjacent the fourth failsafe member 574. The connector opening 578b located between the side connection tab 576b and the fourth failsafe member 574 can be configured to allow the connector 546b of the other side arm 516b to pass therethrough and releasably engage with the side connection tab 576b (see FIG. 33). Thus, the support member 510 and end cap 512 may be releasably coupled in a manner similar to the support member 410 and end cap 412 of the ribbon cartridge 400 described above with reference to FIG.

[0081] As best shown in FIG. 33 , when the ribbon cartridge 500 is assembled, the ribbon roll 502 can be held between an end cap 512 and a cartridge flange 514 of the support member 510. An arm 516 can extend through the core 506 of the ribbon roll 402. The core opening 508, the support member opening 530, and the end cap opening 558 of the ribbon roll 502 can be aligned and configured to receive the spindle arm 226. Additionally, the third and fourth failsafe members 572, 574 of the end cap 512 can be aligned with the first and second failsafe members 548, 550, respectively, of the support member 510. In this manner, the ribbon cartridge 500 can be adapted to favor installation in the correct orientation (see FIG. 3A ) and to resist installation in the incorrect orientation (see FIG. 3B ).

[0082] 34 , a user can attach the ribbon cartridge 500 to the spindle 200 by first positioning the ribbon cartridge 500 on the hub second end 224. The ribbon cartridge 500 can be aligned with the spindle 200 so that the spindle arm 226 extends through the support member opening 530, the core opening 508 (not shown), and the end cap opening 558. To attach the ribbon cartridge 500 in the correct orientation (see FIG. 3A ), the ribbon cartridge 500 is positioned such that the cartridge flange 514 of the support member 510 is adjacent the hub second end 224 prior to attachment. Thus, as the ribbon cartridge 500 is moved onto the spindle arm 226 in the direction of arrow 590, the spindle arm 226 can first extend through the support member opening 530, then through the core opening 508, and finally through the end cap opening 558.

[0083] The user can continue to move the ribbon cartridge 500 along the spindle arm 226 (e.g., in the direction of arrow 590) until the key 236 of the spindle 200 engages the keyway 536 on the cartridge-mating surface 538 of the center arm 516a (see FIG. 36 ), creating a hard stop. For example, the key 236 can strike a keyway end wall 544 of the keyway 536, preventing the ribbon cartridge 500 from moving in the direction of arrow 590. The key 236 and keyway 536 can be designed and configured such that engagement therebetween positions the ribbon cartridge 500 at a desired (e.g., centered) location along the spindle 200 or spindle arm 226. As shown in FIGS. 35 and 36 , in some cases, the ribbon cartridge 500 can be self-centered relative to the spindle arm 226. In other cases, the key 236 and keyway 536 can be configured to position the ribbon cartridge 500 in any suitable position relative to the spindle 200, a component of the spindle 200, or a desired printing device (e.g., the printer 100).

[0084] As the ribbon cartridge 500 moves along the spindle arm 226 to a desired position, the leaf spring 262 of the spindle 200 can engage the core 506 of the ribbon roll 502. For example, in some cases, the leaf spring 262 can reduce or eliminate the possibility of the ribbon cartridge 500 or ribbon roll 502 tracking along the spindle arm 226 and / or becoming out of alignment (e.g., rotating relative to the spindle 200) during a printing operation.

[0085] As best shown in FIG. 36 , smart cell 534 can be positioned on central arm 516 a such that smart cell 534 is adjacent to transmission member 218 when ribbon cartridge 500 reaches a desired position (e.g., when key 236 engages keyway 536). For example, smart cell 534 can be adjacent input contact tab 257, and smart cell 534 can contact or otherwise communicate with input contact 256 when ribbon cartridge 500 reaches a desired position. Output contact 254 (see FIG. 10 ) can communicate with a processor or controller of the printing device, for example, via wires (not shown). In this manner, output contact 254 and input contact 256 of transmission member 218 can facilitate communication between the printing device (e.g., printer 100) and smart cell 534 such that the printing device can read or receive information stored in smart cell 534. For example, the printing device can verify that the ribbon cartridge 500 is intended for use with the spindle 200 and / or the printing device by receiving an authentication signal from the smart cell 534. Additionally, the printing device can receive information regarding characteristics of the ribbon cartridge 500, such as ribbon width, type, color, etc.

[0086] In some cases, a processor, controller, or other electronic component of a printing device (e.g., printer 100) can be configured to take corrective action in the absence of an authentication signal indicating that ribbon cartridge 500 is intended for use with spindle 200 and / or the printing device. For example, if the processor or controller receives the appropriate authentication signal, the printing device can proceed with the printing operation. On the other hand, the processor or controller can be configured to take corrective action (e.g., by disallowing the printing operation or generating an error message to the user) in the absence of the appropriate authentication signal.

[0087] 37 , when the ribbon cartridge 500 is correctly oriented, the first and second failsafe members 548, 550 of the support member 510 do not interfere with installation (e.g., by impinging on the first and second failsafe features 282, 284 of the spindle arm 226). For example, the first failsafe member 548 can be positioned adjacent the first failsafe feature 282, and the second failsafe member 550 can be positioned adjacent the second failsafe feature 284. Thus, the support member 510 can be movable along the spindle arm 226, and the first and second failsafe members 548, 550 can inhibit or prevent the support member 510 (and thus the ribbon cartridge 500) from moving out of alignment with the spindle 200 (e.g., rotating relative to the spindle arm 226).

[0088] 38 , when the ribbon cartridge 500 is correctly oriented, the third and fourth failsafe members 572, 574 of the end cap 512 do not interfere with installation (e.g., by impinging on the first and second failsafe features 282, 284 of the spindle arm 226). For example, the third failsafe member 572 can be positioned adjacent the first failsafe feature 282, and the fourth failsafe member 574 can be positioned adjacent the second failsafe feature 284. Thus, the end cap 512 may be movable along the spindle arm 226, and the third and fourth failsafe members 572, 574 can inhibit or prevent the end cap 512 (and thus the ribbon cartridge 500) from moving out of alignment with the spindle 200 (e.g., by rotating relative to the spindle arm 226).

[0089] 39, the third and fourth failsafe members 572, 574 of the end cap 512 can prevent installation of the ribbon cartridge 500 if the ribbon cartridge 500 is not oriented correctly. For example, installation can be prevented if a user reorients the ribbon cartridge 500 prior to installation so that the end cap 512 is adjacent to the hub second end 224 (e.g., opposite to the orientation of the ribbon cartridge 500 depicted in FIG. 34). In this case, the third failsafe member 572 can overlap or impinge on the second failsafe feature 284, and the fourth failsafe member 574 can overlap or impinge on the first failsafe feature 282, thereby preventing or inhibiting movement of the end cap 512 (and thus the ribbon cartridge 500) along the spindle arm 226. Thus, a user can be restricted from installing the ribbon cartridge 500 in an incorrect orientation (see FIG. 3B). In this manner, the spindle 200 and ribbon cartridge 500 can prevent undesirable consequences associated with incorrect orientation of the ribbon material 134 (e.g., blank prints, poor print image quality, potential damage to the print head, etc.).

[0090] The foregoing description of the proper installation of the ribbon cartridge 500 with reference to Figures 34-39 is equally applicable to other ribbon cartridges intended for use with the ribbon cartridge 400 and / or spindle 200. For example, as shown in Figure 40, a user can install the ribbon cartridge 400 on the spindle 200 by first positioning the ribbon cartridge 400 on the hub second end 224. To ensure proper orientation (see Figure 3A), the ribbon cartridge 400 is oriented so that the cartridge flange 414 of the support member 410 is located adjacent to the spindle arm 226. Thus, as the ribbon cartridge 400 is moved onto the spindle 200 in the direction of arrow 590, the spindle arm 226 can extend through the first support member opening 430, then through the core opening 408 (not shown) of the ribbon roll 402, and finally through the end cap opening 458.

[0091] The user can continue to move the ribbon cartridge 400 along the spindle arm 226 until the key 236 on the spindle 200 engages the keyway 436 on the cartridge-mating surface 438 of the center arm 416a (see FIG. 42 ), creating a hard stop. For example, the key 236 can strike the keyway end wall 444 such that the ribbon cartridge 400 cannot move in the direction of arrow 590. The key 236 and keyway 436 can be designed and configured such that engagement therebetween automatically positions the ribbon cartridge 400 in a desired position (e.g., a centered position). In some cases, the ribbon cartridge 400 can be automatically centered relative to the spindle arm 226. In other cases, the key 236 and keyway 436 can be configured to automatically position the ribbon cartridge 400 in any appropriate position relative to the spindle 200, a component of the spindle 200, or a desired printer device (e.g., the printer 100).

[0092] In general, spindle 200 can be configured to independently and automatically position ribbon cartridge 400, ribbon cartridge 500, and / or other ribbon cartridges not specifically described herein along spindle arm 226. For example, the difference between length L1 of keyway 436 and length L2 of keyway 536 (see FIGS. 36 and 42) can facilitate placing ribbon cartridges 400, 500 in a standard position relative to spindle 200, regardless of the width of ribbon material 134. In this manner, spindle 200 can be configured to support rolls of ribbon material 134 having different widths in the proper position and / or orientation without the user having to make adjustments, engage in subjective judgments, or take additional steps.

[0093] As the ribbon cartridge 400 moves along the spindle arm 226, the leaf spring 262 of the spindle 200 can engage the core 406 of the ribbon roll 402. For example, in some cases, the leaf spring 262 can reduce or eliminate the possibility of the ribbon cartridge 400 or ribbon roll 402 moving out of track or alignment along the spindle arm 226 during operation of the printing device (e.g., printer 100).

[0094] As best shown in FIG. 42 , the smart cell 434 can be positioned on the central arm 416 a such that the smart cell 434 is adjacent to the transfer member 218 when the ribbon cartridge 400 reaches a desired position (e.g., when the key 236 engages the keyway 436). For example, the smart cell 434 can be adjacent to the input contact tab 257, and the smart cell 434 can contact or otherwise communicate with the input contact 256 when the ribbon cartridge 400 reaches a desired position. The output contact 254 (see FIG. 10 ) can communicate with a processor or controller of the printing device, for example, via wires (not shown). In this manner, the output contact 254 and the input contact 256 of the transfer member 218 can facilitate communication between the printing device (e.g., the printer 100) and the smart cell 434 such that the printing device can read or receive information stored in the smart cell 434. For example, the printing device can verify that the ribbon cartridge 400 is intended for use with the spindle 200 and / or the printing device by receiving an authentication signal from the smart cell 434. Additionally, the printing device can receive information regarding characteristics of the ribbon cartridge 400, such as ribbon width, type, color, and the like.

[0095] In some cases, a processor, controller, or other electronic component of a printing device (e.g., printer 100) can be configured to take corrective action in the absence of an authentication signal indicating that ribbon cartridge 500 is intended for use with spindle 200 and / or the printing device. For example, if the processor or controller receives the appropriate authentication signal, the printing device can proceed with the printing operation. The processor or controller can be configured to take corrective action (e.g., by disabling the printing operation or generating an error message to the user) in the absence of the appropriate authentication signal.

[0096] The first and second failsafe members 448, 450 and the third and fourth failsafe members 472, 474, similar to the first and second failsafe members 548, 550 and the third and fourth failsafe members 572, 574 described above with reference to Figures 37-39, can prevent incorrect installation of the ribbon cartridge 400. Thus, a user may be restricted from installing the ribbon cartridge 400 in an incorrect orientation (see Figure 3B), which may lead to blank prints, poor print image quality, potential damage to the printhead, and / or other undesirable results.

[0097] FIG. 43 illustrates a method 600 for mounting a ribbon cartridge onto a spindle (eg, spindle 200) of a printer (eg, printer 100).

[0098] In step 602, a ribbon cartridge (e.g., ribbon cartridge 400, 500) is provided. The ribbon cartridge can have a first width (e.g., W1) and can be provided at a first time. Alternatively, the ribbon cartridge can have a second width (e.g., W2) different from the first width and can be provided at a second time different from the first time (e.g., before or after the first time). The ribbon cartridge can include a support member (e.g., support member 410, 510) extending between a first end of the ribbon cartridge (e.g., arm first end 418, 518) and a second end of the ribbon cartridge (e.g., arm second end 422, 522) opposite the first end. The support member can include a keyway (e.g., keyway 436, 536) having a first opening (e.g., support member opening 430, 530) and an end wall (e.g., keyway end wall 444, 544). The ribbon cartridge can include an end cap (e.g., end cap 412, 512) disposed at a second end of the ribbon cartridge. The end cap can include a second opening (e.g., end cap opening 458, 558).

[0099] In step 604, the ribbon cartridge is aligned with the spindle so that a first end of the ribbon cartridge is positioned adjacent to the spindle.

[0100] In step 606, the ribbon cartridge is loaded onto the spindle such that the spindle passes through the first opening before passing through the second opening.

[0101] In step 608, the ribbon cartridge is moved along the spindle until the end wall of the keyway is engaged by a key (eg, key 236) located on the spindle, and then the method ends.

[0102] 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]

[0103] 100 printers 120 Mounting wall 200 spindles 202 Shaft 204 Hub 208 Mounting end 210 Embedded end 222 Hub first end 224 Hub second end 400, 500 ribbon cartridge

Claims

1. 1. A system for loading ribbon material into a printer, comprising: a spindle provided in the form of a spindle arm and a key associated with said spindle arm; a ribbon roll including a ribbon cartridge and a supply of ribbon material having a keyway positioned to align with the key of the spindle arm; Equipped with engagement of the key with the keyway to position the ribbon cartridge in the correct orientation on the spindle arm; system.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein engagement of said key with said keyway centers said ribbon cartridge relative to said spindle arm.

3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the ribbon material is provided with one of a first width or a second width, the first width being less than the second width.

4. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein engagement of said key with said keyway centers said ribbon cartridge relative to said printer.

5. the supply of ribbon material is wound around the core of the ribbon roll, and the spindle further comprises one or more leaf springs that prevent the ribbon roll from moving out of alignment with respect to the spindle arm during operation of the printer. The system of claim 1 .

6. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the ribbon cartridge has a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the keyway is located at the first end, and the first end must be mounted onto the spindle before the second end so that the keyway engages with the key to position the ribbon cartridge in the correct orientation.

7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the ribbon cartridge further comprises a support member and an end cap releasably coupleable to the support member.

8. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the spindle further comprises a transmission member, the ribbon cartridge further comprises a smart cell capable of transmitting an electrical signal to the printer via the transmission member, and the printer detects whether the ribbon cartridge is intended for use with the spindle based on the electrical signal transmitted by the smart cell.

9. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the spindle further comprises one or more failsafe features and the ribbon cartridge further comprises one or more failsafe members configured to engage the failsafe features to prevent installation of the ribbon cartridge in an incorrect orientation relative to the spindle.

10. 1. A ribbon cartridge for attachment to a spindle of a printer, comprising: a supply of ribbon material; a ribbon holder for holding a supply of ribbon material; Equipped with The ribbon holder includes: a support member having a flange, a first opening extending through the flange, and a first failsafe member disposed about the first opening; an end cap releasably coupleable to the support member, the end cap including a second opening extending therethrough and a second failsafe member disposed about the second opening; Including, the first failsafe member and the second failsafe member are configured to engage at least a portion of the spindle when the ribbon cartridge is installed in an incorrect orientation; engagement of the spindle with the first failsafe member or the second failsafe member prevents movement of the ribbon cartridge along the spindle; Ribbon cartridge.

11. The ribbon cartridge of claim 10 , wherein the spindle comprises a spindle arm, the spindle arm having a first failsafe feature disposed thereon.

12. the first failsafe member of the support member protrudes inward relative to the first opening; the second failsafe member of the end cap projects inwardly relative to the second opening; the first failsafe member is positioned to align with the second failsafe member when the ribbon cartridge is assembled; The ribbon cartridge of claim 11.

13. the first failsafe member is positioned to impact the first failsafe feature when the ribbon cartridge is mounted on the spindle in an incorrect orientation; a collision between the first failsafe member and the first failsafe feature prevents the ribbon cartridge from being mounted on the spindle; The ribbon cartridge of claim 12.

14. the second failsafe member is positioned to impact the first failsafe feature when the ribbon cartridge is mounted on the spindle in the incorrect orientation; a collision between the second failsafe member and the first failsafe feature prevents the ribbon cartridge from being mounted onto the spindle; The ribbon cartridge of claim 12.

15. 11. The ribbon cartridge of claim 10, wherein the first failsafe member of the support member and the second failsafe member of the end cap allow installation of the ribbon cartridge in a first orientation and prevent installation of the ribbon cartridge in a second orientation.

16. 16. The ribbon cartridge of claim 15, wherein the first orientation enables the ribbon material to be fed through the printer with the correct ink-side orientation.

17. The ribbon cartridge of claim 10, wherein a leaf spring disposed on the spindle engages the ribbon cartridge to prevent the ribbon cartridge from moving out of alignment relative to the spindle during operation of the printer.

18. 1. A method for mounting a ribbon cartridge onto a spindle of a printer, comprising: providing a ribbon cartridge; The ribbon cartridge a support element disposed at a first end of the ribbon cartridge, the support element including a first opening and a keyway having an end wall; an end cap disposed at a second end of the ribbon cartridge opposite the first end, the end cap having a second opening; providing a aligning the ribbon cartridge with the spindle such that the first end of the ribbon cartridge is positioned adjacent the spindle; mounting the ribbon cartridge on the spindle such that the spindle passes through the first opening before passing through the second opening; moving the ribbon cartridge along the spindle until the end wall of the keyway is engaged by a key disposed on the spindle; Including, method.

19. providing the ribbon cartridge, providing a ribbon cartridge having a first width at a first time; providing a ribbon cartridge having a second width at a second time; Further comprising: the first width is different from the second width; the first time is different from the second time; 20. The method of claim 18.

20. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein engagement of the end wall of the keyway with the key centers the ribbon cartridge relative to the spindle.

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