Printer ribbon orientation system and method

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to a system for preventing incorrect installation of ribbon material in a printer.SOLUTION: The system includes a spindle rotatable in a first direction or a second direction. The spindle may support a supply of ribbon material for rotation with the spindle. The system also includes a trigger associated with the spindle. The trigger rotates with the spindle in a first direction or a second direction. The system further includes an actuator adjacent to the spindle and configured to detect whether the spindle is rotating in the first direction or the second direction via the trigger.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

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 are used in long-term applications or that are 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, incorrect installation of the ribbon material can interfere with printer operation and, in some cases, cause damage to the printhead or other internal components of the printer. For example, ribbon rolls are typically installed on a spindle within a printer, which supports the ribbon roll so that the ribbon material rotates around it as it unwinds from the roll and is consumed during a printing operation. In this context, the ribbon roll can be installed in a first orientation (e.g., positioned to rotate in a first direction around the spindle) or a second orientation (e.g., positioned to rotate in a second direction around the spindle). Only one side of the ribbon material is coated with ink, and the other side is blank. Therefore, installing the ribbon roll in the correct orientation is extremely important.

[0003] During printing, the ribbon material and substrate are guided to a converging position directly beneath the printhead, with the ink-coated side of the ribbon material facing the substrate and the blank side of the ribbon material facing the printhead. The printhead then heats the blank side of the ribbon material, melting at least a portion of the ink on the ink-coated side and transferring the melted ink to the substrate. If the ribbon roll is installed with the incorrect orientation, the printhead applies heat directly to the ink-coated side of the ribbon material, with the blank side of the ribbon material facing the substrate. Therefore, the ink is not transferred to the substrate, and the printer will produce blank prints. Furthermore, the melted ink from the ink-coated side of the ribbon material can be unintentionally transferred to the functional surface of the printhead, potentially damaging the printhead or other components of the printer.

[0004] While several mechanisms have been devised to prevent such undesirable results, existing solutions present additional problems. For example, some devices utilize a series of sensors mounted along the ribbon path to detect whether the ink-coated side of the ribbon material is properly oriented. However, these sensors introduce multiple potential points of failure and increase the manufacturing and purchasing costs of the printer. Other devices utilize mechanical covers or plates as intuitive guides for the user to install the ribbon roll. However, such mechanical features still leave room for user error, resulting in incorrect installation of the ribbon material.

[0005] Therefore, a need exists for a mechanism that can ensure that ribbon material is properly placed (e.g., a ribbon orientation mechanism to prevent incorrect placement) in a manner that is cost-effective and eliminates or reduces the possibility of user error. Summary of the Invention

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

[0007] In one aspect, a ribbon orientation system for a printer is disclosed. The ribbon orientation system includes a spindle rotatable in a first direction or a second direction. The spindle can support a supply of ribbon material for rotation therewith. The ribbon orientation system also includes a flag associated with the spindle. The flag rotates with the spindle in the first direction or the second direction. The ribbon orientation system further includes a sensor disposed adjacent to the spindle and configured to detect, via the flag, whether the spindle is rotating in the first direction or the second direction.

[0008] In another aspect, a ribbon orientation system for a printer is disclosed. The ribbon orientation system includes a ribbon supply spindle and a supply of ribbon material that can be installed on the ribbon supply spindle in a first orientation or a second orientation. The ribbon material includes an ink-coated side and a blank side. The ribbon orientation system further includes a sensor disposed proximate the ribbon supply spindle and configured to detect whether the supply of ribbon material is installed in the first orientation or the second orientation.

[0009] In a further aspect, a method for determining whether a supply of ribbon material is properly installed on a spindle of a printer is disclosed. The method includes providing a ribbon orientation mechanism. The ribbon orientation mechanism includes a sensor capable of being in a blocking position or a non-blocking position and a flag disposed on the spindle. The flag is rotatable in a first direction or a second direction. The flag places the sensor in the blocking position when the flag is rotated in the first direction and places the sensor in the non-blocking position when the flag is rotated in the second direction. The method also includes receiving a supply of ribbon material on the spindle, rotating the spindle, and determining whether the sensor is in the non-blocking position or the blocking position. In response to determining that the sensor is in the non-blocking position, an error message is displayed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a front, top, and left side isometric view of an exemplary printer in a closed configuration. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of the printer of FIG. 1 in an open configuration. [Figure 3A] 3 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of several components of the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2, including a first properly oriented ribbon roll. FIG. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of several components of the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2, including a second misoriented ribbon roll. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a top and right side isometric view of a spindle for use with the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the mounting wall of the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a rear isometric close-up view of a portion of the mounting wall of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a bearing for use with the mounting wall of FIG. 5. [Figure 8] FIG. 6 is a rear, top, and left side isometric close-up view of a portion of the mounting wall of FIG. 5 with the spindle of FIG. 4 mounted thereon. [Figure 9] 9 is a left side elevational cross-sectional view of the spindle of FIG. 4 installed on the mounting wall of FIG. 5, taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8. [Figure 10] 6 is a rear isometric close-up view of a portion of the mounting wall of FIG. 5 with the spindle of FIG. 4 installed and an exemplary ribbon orientation system for use with the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2 constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a rear, top, and left side isometric view of the actuator of the ribbon orientation system of FIG. 10. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a left side elevational view of the actuator of FIG. 11. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a front elevational view of a trigger of the ribbon orientation system of FIG. 10. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a front and right side isometric view of the trigger of FIG. 13. [Figure 15]FIG. 11 is a front elevation view of a connecting ring of the ribbon orientation system of FIG. 10. [Figure 16] 16 is a front elevational view of the trigger of FIG. 13 with the connecting ring of FIG. 15 disposed thereon. [Figure 17] 11A-11C are front, bottom, and right side isometric views of a gear unit of the ribbon orientation system of FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a front elevational view of the gear unit of FIG. 17. [Figure 19] FIG. 18 is a rear, top, and right-side isometric view of the gear unit of FIG. 17 with slip rings in place. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a rear and right side isometric view of the slip ring of FIG. 19. [Figure 21] 19 is a right side elevation view of the spindle of FIG. 4, a portion of the mounting wall of FIG. 5, the ribbon orientation system of FIG. 10, the gear unit of FIG. 17, and the slip ring of FIG. 19 configured for operation. [Figure 22] 22 is a right side cross-sectional elevation view of the spindle of FIG. 4, a portion of the mounting wall of FIG. 5, the ribbon orientation system of FIG. 10, the gear unit of FIG. 17, and the slip ring of FIG. 19 configured for operation, taken along line 22-22 of FIG. 21. [Figure 23] 17 is a rear, top, and left isometric view of the spindle of FIG. 4, a portion of the mounting wall of FIG. 5, the ribbon orientation system of FIG. 10, the gear unit of FIG. 17, and the slip ring of FIG. 19 configured for operation. [Figure 24] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of several components of the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2, including a spindle having a third correctly oriented ribbon roll and another exemplary ribbon orientation system for connection and use with the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2, configured in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 25] 25 is a front elevation view of the ribbon orienting system of FIG. 24 in a first configuration corresponding to a third correct orientation of the ribbon roll. [Figure 26] 25 is a schematic diagram of several components of the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2, including a fourth misoriented ribbon roll and the spindle and ribbon orientation system of FIG. 24. FIG. [Figure 27]FIG. 25 is a front elevation view of the ribbon orienting system of FIG. 24 in a second configuration corresponding to a fourth misorientation of the ribbon roll. [Figure 28] 3 is a front elevational view of an additional exemplary ribbon orienting system for use with the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2, constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, in a first configuration; FIG. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a front elevation view of the ribbon orienting system of FIG. 28 in a second configuration. [Figure 30] 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method for determining whether a supply of ribbon material is properly installed on a spindle of a printer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

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

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

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

[0014] The present disclosure is directed to a system designed to detect when a supply or roll of ribbon material has been incorrectly installed. The system can be configured to take corrective action in response to detecting the incorrect installation (e.g., by generating an error message to a user or by temporarily disabling or halting operation of the printer). In some cases, the system can utilize an actuator and a trigger, where the trigger is positioned to engage the actuator depending on the rotational position of the trigger. For example, the trigger can be positioned to rotate with a spindle that holds the supply of ribbon material. The trigger can engage the actuator when the spindle rotates in a first direction, but not when the spindle rotates in a second direction. Thus, the actuator can communicate with a processor or controller of the printer to allow printing operations to occur only when an acceptable operating condition is detected.

[0015] 1 and 2, an exemplary thermal transfer printer 100 is provided in the form of a housing 102 that defines 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 such that the housing cover 106 can be removably opened and / or attached to provide access to the internal components of the printer 100 and to allow for 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 provided in the form of a linear opening between the base portion 104 and the housing cover 106 disposed 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, to be removed by a user.

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

[0018] The base portion 104 may include a chassis 116 configured to support one or more internal components of the printer 100. The chassis 116 may be provided in the form of a floor 118 and a mounting wall 120 oriented in a plane substantially perpendicular to the floor 118. The mounting wall 120 may be integrally formed with or coupled to the floor 118 and extend upwardly therefrom. 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 a supply of printable media 128 (e.g., adhesive labels or any other suitable media) from a roll as the printer 100 operates. The media holder 126 can be configured to support different sizes of printable media 128 (e.g., labels having different widths).

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

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

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

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

[0024] 3A and 3B, the ribbon roll 136 can be installed in a first correct orientation (e.g., FIG. 3A), or the ribbon roll 136 can be installed in a second incorrect orientation (e.g., FIG. 3B). In some cases, the ribbon roll 136 can be positioned to rotate in a first direction (e.g., the direction of arrow A1 in FIG. 3A) about the ribbon supply spindle 130 when installed in the first orientation, and to rotate in a second direction (e.g., the direction of arrow A2 in FIG. 3B) when installed in the second orientation.

[0025] In some cases, the printer 100 can include one or more rollers 144 and / or one or more diverters 146 arranged to deflect or guide the ribbon material 134 along a desired ribbon path, which begins at the ribbon supply spindle 130, moves between the print head 138 and the platen roller 140, and terminates at the waste ribbon spindle 132. In some cases, the printer 100 can include four rollers 144 and one diverter 146, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B. In other cases, the printer 100 can include any number of rollers 144 and / or diverters 146, and the rollers 144 and diverters 146 can be arranged to guide the ribbon material 134 along any suitable path.

[0026] The ribbon material 134 can have an ink-coated side 148 and a blank side 150 opposite the ink-coated side. As shown in FIG. 3A , the ribbon roll 136 can be properly installed in a first orientation such that the ribbon roll 136 rotates in the direction indicated by arrow A1 so that the ink-coated side 148 faces downward (e.g., faces the platen roller 140) when the ribbon material 134 is fed between the platen roller 140 and the print head 138. Thus, the print head 138 can heat the blank side 150 of the ribbon material 134, thereby melting at least a portion of the ink from the ink-coated side 148 and transferring the melted ink to an adjacent portion (not shown) of the printable medium 128 disposed between the platen roller 140 and the ink-coated side 148 of the ribbon material 134.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 3B , the ribbon roll 136 may be incorrectly installed in the second orientation, such that as the ribbon material 134 is fed between the platen roller 140 and the print head 138, the ribbon roll 136 rotates in the direction of arrow A2 so that the ink-coated side 148 of the ribbon material 134 faces upward (e.g., adjacent to the print head 138). Therefore, if a printing operation is performed while the ribbon roll 136 is installed in the second orientation, the print head 138 may directly heat the ink-coated side 148. As a result, melted ink from the ink-coated side 148 may unintentionally transfer to and damage the functional surface of the print head 138. Furthermore, incorrect installation may result in blank printing because the blank side 150 of the ribbon material 134 may be positioned adjacent to the printable medium 128 (not shown) when the ribbon material 134 and the printable medium 128 come into contact.

[0028] The ribbon orientation system 240 can be designed to detect whether the ribbon roll 136 is mounted in the first orientation or the second orientation and take corrective action as necessary to avoid waste material and / or damage to the printer 100. For example, the ribbon orientation system 240 can be mounted on or integrated with the ribbon supply spindle 130 and / or the mounting wall 120, as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS.

[0029] 4, the ribbon supply spindle 130 may be provided in the form of a substantially tubular spindle body 152 defined by a mounting end 154 and a receiving end 156 opposite the mounting end 154. The mounting end 154 may be configured to facilitate installation of the ribbon supply spindle 130 into a desired printer device (e.g., by facilitating attachment to the mounting end wall 120 of the printer 100). The receiving end 156 may be configured to receive the ribbon roll 136 once the ribbon material 134 is installed.

[0030] The ribbon supply spindle 130 may include a substantially cylindrical shaft 158 ​​and a substantially annular hub 160 that surrounds at least a portion of the shaft 158. A shaft notched portion 162 of the shaft 158 ​​may be located adjacent the mounting end 154 of the ribbon supply spindle 130. A substantially cylindrical shaft intermediate portion 164 may be located adjacent to the shaft notched portion 162, and a substantially cylindrical shaft main body portion 166 may be located opposite the shaft intermediate portion 164 such that a portion of the shaft main body portion 166 is embedded within the hub 160. The shaft 158 ​​may include one or more annular grooves 168 designed to receive a washer or other similar component. For example, in some cases, the groove 168 may be located at the junction between the shaft notched portion 162 and the shaft intermediate portion 164. In some cases, the one or more grooves 168 may be located along the shaft main body portion 166. In other cases, any number of grooves 168 may be arranged in any suitable configuration along shaft 158.

[0031] The hub 160 may include a substantially circular spindle flange 170 and a substantially tubular spindle arm 172 connected to the spindle flange 170 and extending outwardly therefrom before terminating at the receiving end 156 of the ribbon supply spindle 130. The spindle arm 172 may be configured to hold the ribbon roll 136 while the printer 100 is operating. In some cases, the spindle arm 172 may include one or more leaf springs 174 configured to engage a core (not shown) of the ribbon roll 136 when the ribbon roll 136 is installed. For example, the leaf springs 174 may limit or prevent the ribbon roll 136 from rotating relative to the spindle arm 172 such that the ribbon roll 136 rotates unitarily with the ribbon supply spindle 130.

[0032] 5 , in some cases, the mounting wall 120 may be provided in the form of a substantially linear mounting wall body 180 defined by a mounting wall outer surface 182 and a mounting wall inner surface 184 opposite the mounting wall outer surface 182. The mounting wall 120 may include a media region 186 (e.g., for supporting the media holder 126), a ribbon supply region 188 (e.g., for supporting the ribbon supply spindle 130), and a ribbon take-up region 190 (e.g., for supporting the waste ribbon spindle 132). In some cases, one or more indicator symbols 192 may be provided on the mounting wall outer surface 182 as a visual guide designed to assist a user in installing consumables (e.g., printable media 128, ribbon material 134, and / or other consumables) in the printer 100.

[0033] The ribbon feed region 188 may include a spindle collar 194 provided in the form of an annular member extending entirely through the mounting wall body 180 and oriented substantially perpendicular to the mounting wall outer surface 182 and / or the mounting wall inner surface 184. In some cases, the spindle collar 194 may be integrally formed with the mounting wall 120. In other cases, the spindle collar 194 may be coupled to the mounting wall 120 at the ribbon feed region 188. The spindle collar 194 may include a spindle collar first end 196 that extends beyond the mounting wall outer surface 182.

[0034] 6 , the spindle collar 194 may include a spindle collar second end 198 opposite the spindle collar first end 196 and extending beyond the mounting wall inner surface 184. The spindle collar 194 may define a substantially circular spindle opening 200 extending generally between the spindle collar first end 196 and the spindle collar second end 198. In some cases, the spindle opening 200 may be configured to receive a portion (e.g., shaft 158) of the ribbon supply spindle 130. The mounting wall 120 may also include one or more actuator mounting members 202 and one or more hard stops 204 connected to and extending outwardly from the mounting wall inner surface 184 proximate the spindle collar 194.

[0035] In some cases, the mounting wall 120 can include a first actuator mounting member 202a including an actuator mounting hole 206 configured to receive a fastener (e.g., via threaded engagement) and a second actuator mounting member 202b including an actuator mounting pin 208 configured to be received by an associated aperture (e.g., with a press fit). In some cases, the actuator mounting body 210 can extend between the first and second actuator mounting members 202a, 202b, although the first and second actuator mounting members 202a, 202b can also be provided in the form of independent protrusions connected to the mounting wall inner surface 184. In other cases, the mounting wall 120 can include any number of actuator mounting members 202, and the actuator mounting members 202 can be provided in any suitable form and arranged on the ribbon-feed area 188 in any suitable configuration.

[0036] In some cases, the mounting wall 120 may include a hard stop 204 provided in the form of a T-shaped protrusion connected to and extending outwardly from the mounting wall inner surface 184. The hard stop 204 may extend beyond the mounting wall inner surface 184 a greater distance than the spindle collar second end 198. The hard stop 204 may extend beyond the mounting wall inner surface 184 a greater distance than the actuator mounting member 202. In some cases, the hard stop 204 may include a first impact surface 212 and a second impact surface 214 opposing the first impact surface 212, and the hard stop 204 may be disposed about the spindle collar 194 in a substantially opposing position relative to the actuator mounting member 202. In other cases, the mounting wall 120 may include any number of hard stops 204, and the hard stops 204 may be provided in any suitable form and arranged on the ribbon-feed region 188 in any suitable configuration.

[0037] 7 , one or more bearings 216 can facilitate mounting of the ribbon supply spindle 130 on the mounting wall 120. For example, the one or more bearings 216 can support a portion of the ribbon supply spindle 130 (e.g., the shaft 158) for rotation within the spindle collar 194. In some cases, each bearing 216 can be provided in the form of an annular bearing body 218 defined by a bearing first end 220, a bearing second end 222 opposite the bearing first end 220, and a substantially cylindrical bearing mating surface 224 extending at least partially between the bearing first end 220 and the bearing second end 222. The bearing body 218 can define a circular bearing opening 226 extending generally therethrough (e.g., configured to receive the shaft 158) and can include a circular bearing lip 228 coupled to and extending outwardly therefrom the first end of the bearing body 218.

[0038] 8, the ribbon supply spindle 130 can be mounted on the mounting wall 120 in the ribbon supply region 188 such that the spindle flange 170 is adjacent or proximate the mounting wall outer surface 182 and the shaft main body portion 166 of the shaft 158 ​​is disposed within the spindle collar 194 (see FIG. 9). Thus, the spindle arm 172 can extend beyond the mounting wall outer surface 182, and the shaft 158 ​​can extend through the spindle collar 194 such that the mounting end 154 extends beyond the spindle collar second end 198. For example, the shaft notched portion 162 and the shaft intermediate portion 164 can extend beyond the spindle collar second end 198 when the ribbon supply spindle 130 is mounted on the mounting wall 120.

[0039] 9, the shaft 158 ​​of the ribbon-supply spindle 130 may be supported for rotation within the spindle collar 194 by a first bearing 216a adjacent the spindle collar first end 196 and a second bearing 216b adjacent the spindle collar second end 198. The shaft 158 ​​may extend through bearing openings 226 in the first and second bearings 216a, 216b, and bearing mating surfaces 224 of the first and second bearings 216a, 216b may be received within the spindle collar 194 (e.g., the bearing mating surfaces 224 may be adjacent to or flush with the inner surface of the spindle collar 194). The bearing lip 228 of the first bearing 216 a can be disposed adjacent to and / or engage with the spindle collar first end 196, and the bearing lip 228 of the second bearing 216 b can be disposed adjacent to and / or engage with the spindle collar second end 198. In some cases, a retaining ring 230 can be installed in the groove 168 of the shaft 158 ​​disposed adjacent to the first bearing 216 a and the second bearing 216 b. Thus, the bearings 216 and the retaining ring 230 can facilitate coupling between the ribbon supply spindle 130 and the mounting wall 120 and generally prevent the shaft 158 ​​or other components of the ribbon supply spindle 130 from unintentionally tracking or moving relative to the spindle collar 194 and / or the mounting wall 120 during use.

[0040] 9 , the hub 160 can be coupled to the shaft 158 ​​via one or more fasteners 232 when the ribbon supply spindle 130 is assembled. For example, the fasteners 232 can extend through one or more holes (not shown) disposed along the spindle arm 172 and be securely received (e.g., via threaded engagement) by associated holes (not shown) disposed along the shaft 158. Each of the fasteners 232 can be provided in the form of a nail, screw, pin, or any other mechanism known in the art for joining two components via threaded engagement, press fit, friction fit, or any other method. In some cases, one or more fasteners 232 can be provided in a different form compared to one or more other fasteners 232.

[0041] 10, a ribbon orientation system 240 (see FIG. 3A) designed to detect whether the ribbon roll 136 has been installed in the correct orientation can include an actuator 242 connected to the mounting wall 120 and a trigger 244 connected to the shaft 158 ​​and positioned to engage or be detected by the actuator 242. The actuator 242 can be provided in the form of a sensor, a mechanical switch, and / or other mechanism known in the art capable of transmitting a variable electrical signal (e.g., a binary signal). In some cases, the ribbon orientation system 240 can include one actuator 242 connected to the mounting wall inner surface 184 via first and second actuator mounting members 202a, 202b, and the trigger 244 can be located on the shaft intermediate portion 164 (see FIG. 8). In other cases, the ribbon orientation system 240 can include two or more actuators 242, and the one or more actuators 242 and trigger 244 can be connected to the mounting wall inner surface 184 and / or the shaft 158 ​​in any suitable manner.

[0042] 16 and 23, the ribbon orientation system 240 may include a connecting ring 246 connected to the trigger 244 and designed to facilitate engagement between the trigger 244 and the shaft 158 ​​such that torque or rotational motion is transferred from the shaft 158 ​​to the trigger 244. In some cases, the trigger 244 may be configured to engage the hard stop 204 via first and second impact surfaces 212, 214 as the trigger 244 rotates about a rotation axis A extending along the length of the shaft 158.

[0043] 11 , in some cases, the actuator 242 may be provided in the form of an optical sensor (e.g., a photointerrupter). For example, the actuator 242 may be provided in the form of a substantially rectangular actuator body 250 including a rectangular base member 252 defined by an actuator first end 254, an actuator second end 256 opposite the actuator first end 254, an actuator first side 258 extending between the actuator first end 254 and the actuator second end 256, and an actuator second side 260 extending between the actuator first end 254 and the actuator second end 256 and opposite the actuator first side 258. In other cases, the actuator body 250 may be given a rounded shape or any other suitable shape.

[0044] The actuator 242 may include one or more wings 262 designed to facilitate mounting of the actuator 242 to the mounting wall 120. For example, the actuator 242 may include a first wing 262a and a second wing 262b positioned to align with the first actuator mounting member 202a and the second actuator mounting member 202b and facilitate coupling of the actuator 242 to the mounting wall inner surface 184. The first and second wings 262a, 262b may be integrally formed with or coupled to the base member 252. The first wing 262a may be connected to and extend outwardly from the base member 252 proximate the junction between the actuator first end 254 and the actuator first side 258. The second wing 262b may be connected to and extend outwardly from the base member 252 proximate the junction between the actuator first end 254 and the actuator second side 260.

[0045] In some cases, the first wing 262a can include a first actuator connection hole 264a extending therethrough, and the second wing 262b can include a second actuator connection hole 264b extending therethrough. The first actuator connection hole 264a can be provided in the form of a substantially circular, oval, or elliptical opening arranged to align with the actuator mounting hole 206 of the first actuator mounting member 202a (see FIG. 6). For example, the fastener 232 can extend through the first actuator connection hole 264a and be received (e.g., via threaded engagement) within the actuator mounting hole 206, thereby coupling the first wing 262a to the first actuator mounting member 202a (see FIG. 21). The second actuator connection hole 264b can be provided in the form of a substantially circular opening that reflects or complements the shape of the actuator mounting pin 208 of the second actuator mounting member 202b. The second actuator connection hole 264b is positioned to align with and receive (e.g., by press fit) the actuator mounting pin 208, thereby coupling the second wing 262b to the second actuator mounting member 202b (see Figure 23).

[0046] In other cases, the first and second mounting members 202a, 202b and the first and second wings 262a, 262b may be provided with any suitable complementary features or structures such that engagement between the actuator mounting member 202 and the wings 262 facilitates coupling of the actuator 242 to the mounting wall 120.

[0047] 12 , the actuator 242 may include a first leg 266 and a second leg 268 connected to and extending downwardly from a bottom side 270 of the base member 252. The first leg 266 may be provided in the form of a substantially rectangular protrusion located proximate the actuator first end 254, and the second leg 268 may be provided in the form of a substantially rectangular protrusion located proximate the actuator second end 256. The first and second legs 266, 268 may be substantially parallel to one another such that an opening or passageway 272 is located between the first leg 266 and the second leg 268.

[0048] In some cases, the actuator 242 may include a port 274 provided in the form of a substantially linear protrusion connected to and extending upwardly from a top surface 276 of the base member 252. For example, the port 274 may be a mating portion of the actuator 242 configured to receive a connector (not shown) to facilitate a wired connection between the actuator 242 and a processor, controller, or other electronic component of a printing device (e.g., the printer 100). In other cases, the port 274 may be omitted, and the actuator 242 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with the printing device (e.g., via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, radio frequency communication, infrared communication, WLAN, and / or other wireless communication protocols known in the art). Thus, the actuator 242 may generate and transmit signals that can be received, interpreted, and / or acted upon by other components of the printing device (e.g., the printer 100).

[0049] In some cases, one of the first and second legs 266, 268 can include an emitter (not shown) configured to emit a light beam or other detectable signal across the passageway 272, and the other of the first and second legs 266, 268 can include a receiver (not shown) positioned opposite the emitter and positioned to receive the light beam or other detectable signal. Thus, the actuator 242 can be configured to occupy or detect either a first state (e.g., an unblocked state) or a second state (e.g., a blocked state) at any given moment. For example, if the light beam from the emitter can traverse the passageway 272 to reach the receiver, the actuator 242 can detect the unblocked state and generate a first signal associated with the unblocked state. If the light beam from the emitter is blocked from traversing the passageway 272 to reach the receiver, the actuator 242 can detect the blocked state and generate a second signal associated with the blocked state.

[0050] The ribbon orientation system 240 can be configured such that one of the first and second signals generated by the actuator 242 corresponds to an acceptable operating condition (e.g., the ribbon roll 136 is installed in the correct orientation of FIG. 3A ) and the other of the first and second signals corresponds to an unacceptable operating condition (e.g., the ribbon roll 136 is installed in the incorrect orientation of FIG. 3B ). Thus, the printing device (e.g., the printer 100) can be configured to interpret the signals generated by the actuator 242 and allow a printing operation to commence only if the actuator 242 detects an acceptable operating condition.

[0051] 13, the trigger 244 may be provided in the form of a substantially annular trigger core 280 defined by a trigger core outer periphery 282 and a trigger core inner periphery 284. The trigger core inner periphery 284 may define a substantially circular trigger core opening 286 extending generally through the trigger core 280. The trigger core opening 286 may be configured to receive a portion of the ribbon supply spindle 130 (e.g., the shaft intermediate portion 164 shown in FIG. 8).

[0052] The trigger 244 can include an interrupter 288 connected to and extending outwardly from the trigger core periphery 282. In some cases, the interrupter 288 can be provided in the form of a partial annulus (i.e., a segment of an annular structure) defined on one side by a portion of the trigger core periphery 282 and on the other side by an interrupter periphery 290. The interrupter 288 extends (e.g., can be bracketed) between a first interrupter end wall 292 and a second interrupter end wall 294 opposite the first interrupter end wall 292. The first and second interrupter end walls 292, 294 can be substantially perpendicular to the trigger core periphery 282. In other cases, the interrupter 288 may have any suitable shape and / or configuration, provided that at least a portion of the interrupter 288 is configured to engage or be detected by the actuator 242 when the trigger 244 rotates about axis A (see FIG. 10).

[0053] 13, the interrupter 288 can surround a portion of the trigger core circumference 282 spanning approximately 180 degrees or slightly less than 180 degrees. However, in other cases, the interrupter 288 can surround a smaller or larger portion of the trigger core circumference 282, as desired. For example, in cases where two or more hard stops 204 are disposed on the mounting wall inner surface 184, the interrupter 288 can span a smaller portion of the trigger core circumference 282, as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 24-27.

[0054] As best shown in FIG. 14 , the trigger 244 may include an anchor 296 disposed about the trigger core inner circumference 284. The anchor 296 may be connected to and extend outwardly from a mounting surface 298 of the trigger 244. The anchor 296 may include a hooked end 300 configured to engage an adjacent groove 168 on the shaft 158 ​​(see FIG. 4 ) to help properly orient the trigger 244 when the ribbon orientation system 240 is installed. For example, the hooked end 300 of the anchor 296 may be retained within the groove 168 to prevent or limit unintended tracking or movement of the trigger 244 along the shaft 158.

[0055] Additionally, the trigger 244 may include a first support member 302 disposed on the trigger core 280 and a second support member 304 disposed on the trigger core 280 and positioned opposite the first support member 302 relative to the trigger core opening 286. The first and second support members 302, 304 may each be connected to and extend outwardly from the mounting surface 298 of the trigger core 280. The first and second support members 302, 304 may be configured to facilitate coupling or engagement between the trigger 244 and the connecting ring 246.

[0056] For example, in some cases, the first support member 302 may be provided in the form of a substantially linear, hooked protrusion that defines a support surface 306. The second support member 304 may be provided in the form of a substantially linear or trapezoidal protrusion defined by a first support wall 308 and a second support wall 310 located opposite the first support wall 308. A branch 312 may be connected to and extend outwardly from each of the first support wall 308 and the second support wall 310. In other cases, the first support member 302 and the second support member 304 may be provided in any suitable form and may be given any suitable shape or configuration, provided that the first and second support members 302, 304 are configured to receive, support, or engage the connecting ring 246.

[0057] 15 , a connecting ring 246 designed to transfer torque and / or rotational motion from the shaft 158 ​​to the trigger 244 can be located adjacent to the mounting surface 298 of the trigger core 280 via first and second support members 302, 304. The connecting ring 246 can be provided in the form of a spring clip, a pivoting spring clip, or any other suitable mechanism known in the art. In some cases, the connecting ring 246 can be provided in the form of a single piece of wire or other formable, rigid material that can be formed or bent into a desired shape. In some cases, the connecting ring 246 can include a rectangular apex region 320 including a substantially straight upper edge 322. A substantially circular connecting ring intermediate portion 324 can be provided in the form of two arcuate segments 326 connected to and extending downwardly therefrom. A substantially straight connecting ring appendage 328 can be connected to each of the arcuate segments 326 and extend downwardly and / or outwardly therefrom.

[0058] 16 , the arcuate segment 326 can be positioned proximate at least a portion of the trigger core opening 286 when the connecting ring 246 is installed on the trigger 244, and the shape of the arcuate segment 326 can mirror the shape of the adjacent portion of the trigger core opening 286. In some cases, the arcuate segment 326 can be configured to contact the shaft 158 ​​when the ribbon orienting system 240 is installed on the ribbon feed spindle 130. For example, the arcuate segment 326 can be given substantially the same shape as the trigger core opening 286, or the arcuate segment 326 can be biased to a position that is inside the boundary of the trigger core opening 286. Thus, the connecting ring intermediate portion 324 can expand such that the arcuate segment 326 contacts and applies an opposing inward force to the shaft 158 ​​when the trigger core opening 286 receives the shaft 158. In this manner, the connecting ring 246 can engage the shaft 158 ​​by creating friction as the trigger 244 rotates about axis A (see FIG. 10).

[0059] The connecting ring 246 can be mounted to the trigger 244 such that the apex region 320 is received by the first support member 302 and positioned proximate the support surface 306 (see FIG. 14 ). The connecting ring appendage 328 can be positioned adjacent the first and second support walls 308, 310 of the second support member 304. Thus, the bifurcated portions 312 of the first support member 302 and the second support member 304 can prevent or limit unintentional tracking or movement of the connecting ring 246 along the shaft 158 ​​(e.g., away from the trigger 244) during use. The connecting ring 246 can also engage the trigger 244 by, for example, impacting the first support member 302 and / or the second support member 304 (see FIG. 10 ), such that the connecting ring 246 can transfer torque and / or rotational motion from the shaft 158 ​​to the trigger 244.

[0060] 17 , a gear unit 330 designed to facilitate engagement and / or communication between the ribbon supply spindle 130 and a printing device (e.g., printer 100) may be provided in the form of a substantially annular gear unit body 332 defined by a gear unit first end 334 and a gear unit second end 336 opposite the gear unit first end 334. The gear unit 330 may include a shaft connection region 338 at the gear unit first end 334, a slip ring housing 340 at the gear unit second end 336, and a gear member 342 disposed between the shaft connection region 338 and the slip ring housing 340. The gear member 342 may include a plurality of teeth 344 surrounding the gear member 342 and is configured to be engaged by an associated gear component (not shown) of the printing device (e.g., printer 100) designed to generate rotation of the ribbon supply spindle 130 during a printing operation, for example.

[0061] As best shown in FIG. 18 , the shaft connection region 338 can be provided with a structure that mirrors or complements the structure of the shaft notched portion 162 (see, e.g., FIG. 8 ). For example, the shaft connection region 338 can be provided with a partial cylindrical shape and can include a substantially semicircular lower edge 346 and a substantially flat upper edge 348. The shaft connection region 338 can thus define a gear unit shaft opening 350 extending entirely therethrough and configured to receive the shaft notched portion 162. In some cases, the shaft connection region 338 can include a first gear unit bore 352 (see FIG. 17 ) positioned to align with an associated opening (not shown) in the shaft notched portion 162 such that the fastener 232 can extend through the first gear unit bore 352 and be received by the associated opening in the shaft notched portion 162, thereby coupling the gear unit 330 to the shaft 158 ​​(see FIGS. 21 and 22 ). Thus, shaft connection region 338 can be configured to prevent or inhibit rotation of gear unit 330 relative to shaft 158 ​​during use (e.g., due to engagement of upper edge 348 with the adjacent surface of shaft notched portion 162). In other cases, shaft connection region 338 and gear unit shaft opening 350 can be given any suitable shape or configuration, provided that shaft connection region 338 is designed to securely receive mounting end 154 of ribbon supply spindle 130 (see FIG. 4).

[0062] 19, slip ring housing 340 may be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical receptacle extending between gear member 342 and gear unit second end 336. In some cases, slip ring housing 340 may be configured to hold slip ring 356. For example, fasteners 232 may extend through holes (not shown) in slip ring housing 340 and be received by associated holes (not shown) in slip ring 356, allowing slip ring 356 to be coupled to gear unit 330 (see FIGS. 21-23).

[0063] As shown in FIG. 20 , the slip ring 356 can be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical slip ring body 358 defined by a slip ring first end 360 and a slip ring second end 362 opposite the slip ring first end 360. The slip ring body 358 can include internal components (not shown), such as conductive rings, brushes, contacts, bearings, and insulating material, disposed within an internal housing defined by the slip ring body 358. One or more wires 364 can extend through the slip ring body 358. For example, each of the wires 364 can include an output end 366 extending beyond the slip ring first end 360 and an input end 368 extending beyond the slip ring second end 362. Thus, the slip ring 356 can be configured to facilitate electrical connection and / or communication between rotating and stationary components of a printing device. For example, in the context of printer 100, slip ring 356 may facilitate an electrical connection and / or communication between one or more components configured to rotate with ribbon supply spindle 130 about axis A (see FIG. 10 ) and one or more stationary components (e.g., a processor or controller) of printer 100. In other cases, slip ring 356 may facilitate an electrical connection and / or communication between any two components (e.g., two stationary components or two rotating components) of printer 100.

[0064] Turning to FIG. 21 , ribbon orientation system 240 can be mounted on a portion of shaft 158 ​​that extends beyond spindle collar second end 198 and is not encased within hub 160 or spindle collar 194. FIG. 21 shows ribbon orientation system 240, gear unit 330, and slip ring 356 mounted on ribbon supply spindle 130. FIG. 21 shows spindle collar 194, first actuator mounting member 202a, second actuator mounting member 202b, and hard stop 204, while the remainder of mounting wall 120 is omitted for clarity. As shown, trigger 244 can be configured such that a portion of trigger 244 is positioned to engage hard stop 204 and at least a portion of trigger 244 is positioned to be engaged with or detected by actuator 242 (e.g., a portion of trigger 244 can be positioned between first and second legs 266, 268 of actuator 242 depending on the rotational position of trigger 244).

[0065] The gear unit 330 may be coupled to the shaft 158 ​​and positioned opposite the spindle collar 194 relative to the actuator 242 and the trigger 244. The gear member 342 may be available for engagement with an associated gear component of a printing device (e.g., the printer 100), such that the printing device can drive rotation of the ribbon-supply spindle 130 by engaging the gear unit 330 via the gear member 342. The slip ring 356 may be retained within the slip ring housing 340 (e.g., the slip ring 356 may be disposed within the slip ring housing 340 and coupled thereto by the fasteners 232). Thus, the slip ring 356 may be configured to facilitate transmission of electrical signals between components of the ribbon-supply spindle 130 or the ribbon orientation system 240 (e.g., the actuator 242) and an external device (e.g., a processor or controller of the printer 100). In some cases, the slip ring 356 may also connect to an external power source (not shown) so that power can be supplied to the ribbon supply spindle 130 or one or more components of the ribbon orientation system 240.

[0066] 22 , in some cases, the shaft main body portion 166 can be retained within the spindle collar 194 by first and second bearings 216 a, 216 b and the retaining ring 230. The trigger 244 can be disposed on the shaft intermediate portion 164. The gear unit 330 can be coupled to the shaft notched portion 162. In other cases, the ribbon supply spindle 130 can be mounted to the mounting wall 120 in any suitable manner, and the ribbon orientation system 240, the gear unit 330, and the slip ring 356 can be connected to the shaft 158 ​​in any suitable manner.

[0067] 23, in some cases, the hard stop 204 may be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical protrusion that serves the same purpose as the T-shaped hard stop 204 depicted in FIG. 10. For example, the T-shaped hard stop 204 shown in FIG. 10 includes a first impact surface 212 and a second impact surface 214 that are positioned to be engaged by a first interrupter end wall 292 and a second interrupter end wall 294, respectively, of the interrupter 288, depending on the rotational position of the trigger 244 about axis A. In some cases, the first interrupter end wall 292 can engage with the first collision surface 212 when the ribbon supply spindle 130 rotates in a first direction (e.g., the direction of arrow A1 shown in FIG. 3A), and the second interrupter end wall 294 can engage with the second collision surface 214 when the ribbon supply spindle 130 rotates in a second direction (e.g., the direction of arrow A2 shown in FIG. 3B).

[0068] 23 may include a first impact surface 212 disposed on a first side of the hard stop 204 and a second impact surface 214 disposed in an opposing position relative to the first impact surface 212. Thus, the first interrupter end wall 292 may engage the first impact surface 212 when the ribbon supply spindle 130 rotates in a first direction (e.g., the direction of arrow A1 shown in FIG. 3A), and the second interrupter end wall 294 may engage the second impact surface 214 when the ribbon supply spindle 130 rotates in a second direction (e.g., the direction of arrow A2 shown in FIG. 3B). The trigger 244 can be configured such that when the ribbon supply spindle 130 rotates in a first direction and the first interrupter end wall 292 engages the first impact surface 212 of the hard stop 204, a portion of the trigger 244 (e.g., the interrupter 288) is disposed within the passageway 272 of the actuator 242. The first direction can correspond to the direction of rotation of the ribbon supply spindle 130 when the ribbon roll 136 is installed in the correct orientation (see FIG. 3A). On the other hand, when the ribbon supply spindle 130 rotates in a second direction and the second interrupter end wall 294 engages the second impact surface 214 of the hard stop 204, no portion of the trigger 244 can be disposed within the passageway 272 of the actuator 242. The second direction can correspond to the direction of rotation of the ribbon supply spindle 130 when the ribbon roll is installed in the incorrect orientation (see FIG. 3B).

[0069] Thus, in some cases, the ribbon orientation system 240 can be configured such that the actuator 242 occupies or detects a blocked state when the ribbon roll 136 is installed in the correct orientation. The actuator 242 can occupy or detect an unblocked state when the ribbon roll 136 is installed in the wrong orientation. In these cases, a processor or controller of the printing device (e.g., printer 100) can be configured to indicate that the actuator 242 occupies or detects a blocked state and to proceed with the printing operation when the printing device determines that the ribbon supply spindle 130 is in an acceptable operating state. However, the processor or controller can be configured to take corrective action (e.g., by preventing the printing operation or by displaying an error message) when the printing device indicates that the actuator 242 occupies or detects an unblocked state and determines that the ribbon supply spindle 130 is in an unacceptable operating state. In other cases, the reverse configuration is also possible, where a blocked state of the actuator 242 corresponds to an unacceptable operating state and an unblocked state of the actuator 242 corresponds to an acceptable operating state.

[0070] As described above with reference to FIG. 16 , the connecting ring 246 can transmit torque and / or rotational motion from the ribbon supply spindle 130 to the trigger 244 by, for example, generating friction through contact between the arcuate segment 326 and the shaft 158. For example, the shaft 158 ​​can extend through the trigger core opening 286 such that the shaft 158 ​​is permitted to rotate relative to the trigger 244. However, in the absence of an opposing force, the friction generated by the connecting ring 246 can cause the connecting ring 246 to rotate with the shaft 158 ​​as the ribbon supply spindle 130 rotates (e.g., as ribbon material unwinds from the ribbon supply spindle 130, as shown in FIG. 3A ). Thus, the connecting ring 246 can transmit at least a portion of the rotational motion of the shaft 158 ​​to the trigger 244 via the engagement of the apex region 320 with the first support member 302 and the engagement of the connecting ring appendage 328 with the second support member 304 (see FIG. 16 ).

[0071] In this manner, rotation of the ribbon supply spindle 130 in a first direction indicated by arrow A1 (see FIG. 3A ) can cause the trigger 244 to rotate with the ribbon supply spindle 130 until the first interrupter end wall 292 contacts or engages the hard stop 204 (e.g., via the first impact surface 212). In this manner, the hard stop 204 can terminate rotation of the trigger 244 in response to rotation of the ribbon supply spindle 130 by countering the force applied by the friction created by the connecting ring 246. An overrun of the trigger 244 can allow the shaft 158 ​​to continue to rotate freely relative to the trigger 244 while the first interrupter end wall 292 engages the hard stop 204. In some cases, the connecting ring 246 can be designed to create an amount of friction that is easily overcome by engagement between the interrupter 288 and the hard stop 204. Thus, to the extent that the connecting ring 246 continues to contact the shaft 158 ​​and generate friction while the trigger 244 is overrunning, this friction may not be strong enough to cause damage or otherwise disrupt printing operations (e.g., by generating sufficient heat to damage the shaft 158, the trigger 244, or other components of the ribbon supply spindle 130 or ribbon orientation system 240).

[0072] With further reference to FIG. 23 , the ribbon orientation system 240 is depicted in a position where the trigger 244 overruns when the ribbon supply spindle 130 rotates in a first direction, as indicated by arrow A1 in FIG. 3A . The trigger 244 can be configured such that when the interrupter 288 engages the hard stop 204 via the first interrupter end wall 292, the second interrupter end wall 294 extends through the passageway 272. Thus, a portion of the interrupter 288 can be disposed between the first and second legs 266, 268 of the actuator 242, and the actuator 242 can occupy or detect a blocking position while the trigger 244 slips or overruns. Thus, the actuator 242 can generate a first signal indicating that the ribbon roll 136 is properly installed in the first orientation. Thus, the printing device (e.g., the printer 100) can proceed with the printing operation in response to detecting or receiving the first signal from the actuator 242.

[0073] In contrast, if the ribbon supply spindle 130 rotates in the second direction, as indicated by arrow A2 (see FIG. 3B ), due to the ribbon roll 136 being incorrectly installed in the second orientation, friction created by the connecting ring 246 allows the trigger 244 to rotate with the ribbon supply spindle 130 until the second interrupter end wall 294 contacts or engages the hard stop 204 (e.g., via the second impact surface 214). The trigger 244 can be configured so that the first interrupter end wall 292 does not extend through the passageway 272 when the interrupter 288 engages the hard stop 204 via the second interrupter end wall 294. Thus, no portion of the interrupter 288 can be disposed between the first leg 266 and the second leg 268 of the actuator 242, and the actuator 242 can assume or detect a non-blocking position while the trigger 244 slips or overruns. Accordingly, the actuator 242 can generate a second signal indicating that the ribbon roll 136 is incorrectly positioned in the second orientation. Accordingly, the printing device (e.g., the printer 100) can, in response to detecting or receiving the second signal from the actuator 242, disallow printing operations, such as presenting an error message to a user (e.g., via the user interface 110 shown in FIG. 1 ), and / or take one or more other corrective actions.

[0074] 24-27, another example of a ribbon orientation system 440 for use with a printing device (e.g., printer 100) is depicted in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Ribbon orientation system 440 may be identical to ribbon orientation system 240, except that (i) mounting wall 120 may include first hard stop 204a and second hard stop 204b instead of a single hard stop 204 (compare FIGS. 6 and 25), and (ii) ribbon orientation system 440 may include trigger 244 having interrupter 288 that is smaller than interrupter 288 of ribbon orientation system 240 or that spans a smaller portion of trigger core circumference 282 (see FIG. 13). With these exceptions, the same names and reference numerals are used to refer to components of ribbon orientation system 440 that are similar in form and function to corresponding components of ribbon orientation system 240.

[0075] Turning first to FIG. 24 , the ribbon roll 136 may be properly installed on the ribbon supply spindle 130 in a third orientation (the third orientation shown in FIG. 24 may correspond to the first orientation shown in FIG. 3A ). Once the ribbon roll 136 is properly installed in the third orientation, the ribbon supply spindle 130 may rotate in a third direction, as indicated by arrow A3, as a printing operation is performed. The ribbon material 134 may be guided along a ribbon path from the ribbon supply spindle 130 to a waste ribbon spindle 132, where it may be spooled and collected after use, by one or more rollers 144 and / or one or more diverters 146 (not shown). The ribbon material 134 may be guided between a print head 138 and a platen roller 140, where it may contact and transfer ink to a printable medium 128 (not shown), as described above with reference to FIG. 2 .

[0076] 24 , a printing device (e.g., printer 100) may include a driver 442, a pinion gear 444 connected to the driver 442, and a gear train 446 in communication with the pinion gear 444 and including one or more gears 448. The gear train 446 may facilitate transmission between the pinion gear 444 and a gear unit 330 connected to the ribbon supply spindle 130 and / or the waste ribbon spindle gear member 133 (see FIG. 2 ). In some cases, the driver 442 may be provided in the form of a motor or other electrical device configured to generate rotational motion of the pinion gear 444. The pinion gear 444 may engage one or more gears 448 of the gear train 446 to transmit the rotational motion generated by the driver 442. The gears 448 may be serially connected such that the rotational motion of the pinion gear 444 may be transmitted to the gear unit 330 and / or the waste ribbon spindle gear member 133 via the gear train 446 .

[0077] Thus, in some cases, rotation of the gear unit 330 and the waste ribbon spindle gear member 133 can occur simultaneously as unused ribbon material 134 is unwound from the ribbon supply spindle 130 and used ribbon material 134 is wound around the waste ribbon spindle 132 during a printing operation. In other cases, the printing device (e.g., the printer 100) can generate rotation of the gear unit 330 and / or the waste ribbon spindle gear member 133 via any other suitable method known in the art. In this situation, the gear unit 330 can serve as the ribbon supply spindle gear member 131, as described above with reference to FIG. 2 . In some cases, the printing device can generate rotational movement of the gear unit 330 alone or the waste ribbon spindle gear member 133 alone.

[0078] 25, rotation of the ribbon supply spindle 130 in the direction of arrow A3 can responsively rotate the trigger 244 due to engagement (e.g., friction) between the connecting ring 246 and the shaft 158 ​​of the ribbon supply spindle 130, as described in detail above with reference to FIGS. 16 and 23. Thus, when the ribbon roll 136 is properly installed in the third orientation, the trigger 244 can rotate in the direction of arrow A3 until the second interrupter end wall 294 strikes or engages the second hard stop 204b. The second hard stop 204b can prevent the trigger 244 from further rotating in the third direction of arrow A3 (e.g., the second hard stop 204b can counteract the force applied to the trigger 244 by the friction generated by the connecting ring 246). For example, if the shaft 158 ​​continues to rotate freely within the trigger core opening 286, the trigger 244 can overrun and remain in a fixed position.

[0079] 25 , the trigger 244 of the ribbon orientation system 440 can be configured such that when the interrupter 288 engages the second hard stop 204b via the second interrupter end wall 294, the first interrupter end wall 292 extends through the passageway 272 of the actuator 242. Thus, a portion of the interrupter 288 can be disposed between the first and second legs 266, 268 of the actuator 242, and the actuator 242 can assume or detect a blocking position while the trigger 244 slips or overruns. In response, the actuator 242 can generate a first signal indicating that an acceptable operating condition has been detected, and the printing device (e.g., printer 100) can proceed with the printing operation.

[0080] 26, the ribbon roll 136 can be misplaced on the ribbon supply spindle 130 in a fourth orientation (the fourth orientation shown in FIG. 26 can correspond to the second orientation shown in FIG. 3B). A driver 442, pinion gear 444, and gear train 446 can drive the rotation of the ribbon supply spindle 130 and / or the waste ribbon spindle 132, and the ribbon material 134 can be guided along a ribbon path between the ribbon supply spindle 130 and the waste ribbon spindle 132, as described above with reference to FIG. 24. When the ribbon roll 136 is misplaced in the fourth orientation, the ribbon supply spindle 130 can rotate in the direction indicated by arrow A4 (e.g., opposite to the direction of arrow A3).

[0081] 27 , rotation of the ribbon supply spindle 130 in the direction of arrow A4 can responsively rotate the trigger 244 due to engagement (e.g., friction) between the connecting ring 246 and the shaft 158 ​​of the ribbon supply spindle 130, as described in detail above with reference to FIGS. 16 and 23 . Thus, if the ribbon roll 136 is incorrectly installed in the fourth orientation, the trigger 244 can rotate in the direction of arrow A4 until the first interrupter end wall 292 strikes or engages the first hard stop 204 a. The first hard stop 204 a can prevent the flag 410 from further rotating in the direction of arrow A4 (e.g., the first hard stop 204 a can counteract the force applied to the trigger 244 by the friction generated by the connecting ring 246). For example, if the shaft 158 ​​continues to rotate freely within the trigger core opening 286, the trigger 244 can overrun and remain in a fixed position.

[0082] 27 , the trigger 244 of the ribbon orientation system 440 can be configured such that when the interrupter 288 engages the first hard stop 204a via the first interrupter end wall 292, the second interrupter end wall 294 extends through the passageway 272 of the actuator 242. Thus, a portion of the interrupter 288 can be disposed between the first and second legs 266, 268 of the actuator 242, and the actuator 242 can assume or detect a non-blocking position while the trigger 244 slips or overruns the ribbon supply spindle 130. In response, the actuator can generate a second signal indicating an unacceptable operating condition has been detected, and corrective action can be taken rather than allowing the printing operation to proceed. For example, the printing device (e.g., printer 100) may disallow the printing operation and / or take one or more other corrective actions, such as presenting an error message to the user (e.g., via user interface 110 shown in FIG. 1).

[0083] 28 and 29, a further example of ribbon orientation system 540 is depicted in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Ribbon orientation system 540 may function similarly to ribbon orientation system 240 and ribbon orientation system 440 described above. However, for ribbon orientation system 540, actuator 242 may be provided in the form of a mechanical switch rather than a sensor as in ribbon orientation systems 240, 440, and trigger 244 may be shaped and / or configured differently compared to trigger 244 of ribbon orientation systems 240, 440.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 28 , the actuator 242 of the ribbon orientation system 540 can be provided in the form of a switch body 542 and a switch lever 544 connected to and extending outwardly from the switch body 542. The switch body 542 can include one or more switch holes 546 provided, for example, in the form of substantially circular openings extending entirely through the switch body 542 to facilitate coupling between the actuator 242 and one or more actuator mounting members 202 on the mounting wall inner surface 184 (see FIG. 6 ). Thus, the switch body 542 can have a fixed position, and the switch lever 544 can protrude outward such that the switch lever 544 is available for engagement with the trigger 244. For example, the switch lever 544 can be movable between a first position (see FIG. 28 ) and a second position (see FIG. 29 ).

[0085] The trigger 244 of the ribbon orientation system 540 may be provided in the form of a cammed disk defined by a trigger periphery 548 and a trigger inner periphery 550. The trigger inner periphery 550 may define a substantially circular trigger opening (not shown) designed to receive a portion of the ribbon supply spindle 130 (e.g., shaft 158) when the ribbon orientation system 540 is installed. In some cases, the trigger periphery 548 may include a substantially flat idle edge 552 and a substantially semicircular active edge 554. The idle edge 552 may be configured to pass by the switch lever 544 (e.g., the idle edge 552 may not engage the switch lever 544) as the trigger 244 rotates about axis A (see FIG. 23 ). In some cases, the active edge 554 may be configured to engage the switch lever 544 depending on the rotational position of the trigger 244. In other cases, the idle edge 552 and the active edge 554 may each be configured to avoid engagement with the actuator 242 as the trigger 244 rotates. The connecting ring 246 can facilitate engagement between the shaft 158 ​​and the trigger 244 (e.g., by creating friction as the trigger 244 rotates), as described in detail above with reference to Figures 16 and 23.

[0086] In some cases, the trigger 244 may include an impact member 556 connected to and extending outwardly therefrom. For example, the impact member 556 may be provided in the form of a rectangular protrusion that includes a portion that extends beyond the trigger perimeter 548. In other cases, the impact member 556 may be provided in any suitable form and may be integrally formed with or coupled to the trigger 244. The ribbon orientation system 540 may include one or more hard stops 204 positioned to engage the impact member 556. For example, in some cases, the ribbon orientation system 540 may include a single hard stop 204 that includes a first impact surface 212 and a second impact surface 214, such that the impact member 556 can contact either the first impact surface 212 or the second impact surface 214 depending on the rotational position of the trigger 244. Although the hard stops 204 are depicted in FIG. 28 as substantially cylindrical protrusions, the hard stops 204 may be provided in any suitable form (e.g., the ribbon orientation system 540 may include one or more T-shaped hard stops 204, as shown in FIG. 6).

[0087] The trigger 244 of the ribbon orientation system 540 can be configured to engage the hard stop 204 via the impact member 556 in substantially the same manner as the trigger 244 of the ribbon orientation system 240 is configured to engage the hard stop 204 via the first and second interrupter end walls 292, 294, as described above with reference to FIG. 23 . For example, in some cases, the switch lever 544 can occupy a first position as a default position, as shown in FIG. 28 . When the ribbon supply spindle 130 rotates in a first direction (e.g., as indicated by the second arrow A2 in FIG. 3B ), the connecting ring 246 can rotate the trigger 244 with the rotation shaft 158 ​​until the impact member 556 engages the hard stop 204 via the second impact surface 214. The idle edge 552 of the trigger periphery 548 can abut the switch lever 544 when the impact member 556 engages the second impact surface 214. Thus, the trigger 244 may not engage the switch lever 544, allowing the switch lever 544 to occupy the first position shown in FIG.

[0088] 29 , in some cases, rotation of the ribbon supply spindle 130 in a second direction can cause the trigger 244 to move the switch lever 544 from the first position to the second position. For example, when the ribbon supply spindle 130 rotates in the second direction (e.g., as shown by the first arrow A1 in FIG. 3A ), the connecting ring 246 can cause the trigger to rotate with the shaft 158 ​​until the impact member 556 engages the hard stop 204 via the first impact surface 212. The active edge 554 of the trigger periphery 548 can abut the switch lever 544 when the impact member 556 engages the first impact surface 212. Thus, the trigger 244 can engage the switch lever 544 when the impact member 556 rotates toward the first impact surface 212, such that the switch lever 544 moves from the first position to the second position. In some cases, sustained contact between the active edge 554 and the switch lever 544 can maintain the switch lever 544 in the second position while a printing operation is being performed. Alternatively, in some cases, the impingement member 556 can engage the switch lever 544 when the ribbon supply spindle 130 and the trigger 244 rotate in the second direction. In such cases, the impingement member 556 can move the switch lever 544 from the first position to the second position.

[0089] In some cases, the actuator 242 can be configured to generate a first signal when the switch lever 544 is in a first position and a second signal when the switch lever 544 is in a second position. The actuator 242 can be configured to communicate the first and second signals to a processor or controller of a printing device (e.g., printer 100) so that the printing device can detect or determine the orientation of the ribbon roll 136 (see FIGS. 3A and 3B). For example, one or more switch wires 558 can provide communication between the actuator 242 and the processor or controller of the printing device, or the actuator 242 can be configured to wirelessly communicate with the printing device (e.g., via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other wireless communication protocols known in the art). In this manner, the ribbon orientation system 540 can enable the printing device to detect an acceptable operating condition (e.g., the ribbon roll 136 is correctly installed, as shown in FIG. 3A) or an unacceptable operating condition (e.g., the ribbon roll 136 is incorrectly installed, as shown in FIG. 3B).

[0090] In some cases, the first signal can correspond to an acceptable operating condition, and the second signal can correspond to an unacceptable operating condition. Thus, a printing device (e.g., printer 100) can permit initiation of a printing operation in response to receiving or detecting the first signal, and can disallow the printing operation and / or take corrective action in response to receiving or detecting the second signal. In other cases, the reverse configuration is possible, where the first signal corresponds to an unacceptable operating condition, and the second signal corresponds to an acceptable operating condition.

[0091] Turning to FIG. 30, a method 600 is depicted for determining whether a supply of ribbon material (e.g., ribbon roll 136) is properly installed on a spindle (e.g., ribbon supply spindle 130) of a printer (e.g., printer 100).

[0092] In step 602, a ribbon orientation system (e.g., ribbon orientation system 240, 440, or 540) is provided. The ribbon orientation system includes an actuator (e.g., actuator 242) disposed adjacent to the spindle and a trigger (e.g., trigger 244) disposed on the spindle. In some cases, the trigger can be positioned to rotate with the spindle and engage the actuator depending on the rotational position of the trigger. The spindle rotates in a first direction or a second direction, and the trigger can engage the actuator when the spindle rotates in the first direction (see, e.g., FIGS. 3A, 24, 25, 29) and disengage the actuator when the spindle rotates in the second direction (see, e.g., FIGS. 3B, 26, 27, 28). The ribbon orientation system can generate a first signal when the trigger engages the actuator and a second signal when the trigger does not engage the actuator.

[0093] In step 604, a supply of ribbon material is received on the spindle, for example, in response to a user placing the supply of ribbon material on the spindle.

[0094] In step 606, the spindle is rotated. The spindle rotates in a first direction or a second direction. The trigger rotates in the same direction as the spindle.

[0095] In step 608, it is determined whether the actuator has engaged the trigger. In some cases, the actuator may be provided in the form of an optical sensor, and the trigger may engage the actuator when a portion of the trigger is detected by the actuator (see, for example, FIGS. 23 and 25). In some cases, the actuator may be provided in the form of a mechanical switch, and the trigger may engage the actuator when a portion of the trigger impacts a portion of the actuator (see, for example, FIG. 29). In other cases, the actuator and trigger may be provided in any other suitable form.

[0096] If a determination is made in step 610 that the actuator is not engaged by the trigger, the printer may display an error message (e.g., on the user interface 110) or take other corrective action, such as stopping operation of the printer.

[0097] If a determination is made in step 612 that the actuator has been engaged by the trigger, the printer is permitted to operate.

[0098] 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]

[0099] 120 Mounting wall 136 Ribbon Roll 158 Shaft 164 Middle part of shaft 184 Mounting wall inner surface 202a First actuator mounting member 202b Second actuator mounting member 204 Hard Stop 212 First Collision Surface 214 Second Collision Surface 240 Ribbon Orientation System 242 Actuator 244 Trigger 246 Connection Ring

Claims

1. 1. A ribbon orientation system for a printer, comprising: a spindle rotatable in a first direction and a second direction, the spindle capable of supporting a supply of ribbon material for rotation therewith; a trigger associated with the spindle and configured to rotate with the spindle in the first direction and the second direction; an actuator disposed adjacent to the spindle and configured to detect whether the spindle is rotating in the first direction or the second direction via the trigger; A ribbon orientation system comprising:

2. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the system is configured to take corrective action in the form of transmitting an error message in response to the actuator detecting that the spindle is rotating in the second direction.

3. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a connecting ring connected to the trigger and configured to transfer at least a portion of the rotational motion of the spindle to the trigger via friction created by contact between at least a portion of the connecting ring and at least a portion of the spindle.

4. an interrupter coupled to the trigger and extending outwardly therefrom, the interrupter having a first end and a second end; a hard stop configured to engage the first end of the interrupter when the spindle rotates in the first direction and to engage the second end of the interrupter when the spindle rotates in the second direction; Further provided with engagement of the hard stop with the first end or the second end of the interrupter terminates rotational movement of the trigger; The system of claim 1 .

5. the actuator further comprising a passageway; the actuator is capable of detecting (i) a blocked state when an object or a portion of an object is placed in the passageway, and (ii) a non-blocked state when the passageway is clear; The system of claim 4.

6. the interrupter extends through the passageway and causes the actuator to detect the blocked condition when the spindle rotates in the first direction and a first end of the interrupter is engaged by the hard stop; the actuator detects the unblocked condition when the interrupter does not extend through the passageway, the spindle rotates in the second direction, and a second end of the interrupter is engaged by the hard stop. The system of claim 5.

7. the ribbon material being defined by an ink-coated side and a blank side, the ink-coated side facing away from a printhead of the printer when the spindle rotates in the first direction; The system of claim 1 .

8. a mounting wall of the printer designed to receive a portion of the spindle; a hard stop connected to the mounting wall; an actuator mounting member mounted to the mounting wall and designed to support the actuator in a fixed position relative to the spindle; Further provided with the trigger is configured to engage the hard stop and be detected by the actuator when the spindle rotates in the first direction. The system of claim 1 .

9. The system of claim 1 , wherein the actuator is provided in the form of an optical sensor.

10. 1. A ribbon orientation system for a printer, comprising: a ribbon supply spindle; a supply of ribbon material that can be placed on the ribbon supply spindle in a first orientation or a second orientation, the ribbon material including an ink coated side and a blank side; an actuator disposed proximate the ribbon supply spindle, the actuator configured to detect whether the supply of ribbon material is installed in the first orientation or the second orientation; A system comprising:

11. a printhead for heating the ribbon material; a platen roller positioned adjacent to the print head; a waste ribbon spindle, the ribbon material being guided from the ribbon supply spindle to the waste ribbon spindle along a ribbon path passing between the printhead and the platen roller; Further provided with the ink-coated side faces the platen roller when the supply of ribbon material is installed in the first orientation, and the ink-coated side faces the print head when the supply of ribbon material is installed in the second orientation. The system of claim 10.

12. The system of claim 10 , wherein the actuator detects a blocked or unblocked state.

13. The system of claim 12 further comprising a trigger disposed along the spindle to enable rotational movement.

14. a hard stop configured to engage the trigger to terminate its rotational movement; the hard stop engages a first portion of the trigger when the supply of ribbon material is installed in the first orientation; the hard stop engages a second portion of the trigger when the supply of ribbon material is installed in the second orientation; The system of claim 13.

15. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the actuator is positioned to detect the trigger, and wherein the actuator detects a blocked condition when the hard stop engages a first portion of the trigger.

16. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein in response to the actuator detecting the blocked condition, the system allows operation of the printer.

17. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the actuator detects an unblocked condition when the actuator does not detect the trigger and the hard stop engages a second portion of the trigger.

18. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein in response to the actuator detecting the unblocked condition, the system takes corrective action in the form of ceasing operation of the printer.

19. 1. A method for determining whether a supply of ribbon material is properly installed on a spindle of a printer, comprising: Providing a ribbon orienting mechanism, the ribbon orienting mechanism an actuator capable of being in a blocking position or a non-blocking position; a trigger disposed on the spindle and rotatable in a first direction or a second direction, the trigger causing the actuator to be in a blocking position when the trigger rotates in the first direction and causing the actuator to be in a non-blocking position when the trigger rotates in the second direction; and providing a receiving a supply of said ribbon material on said spindle; rotating the spindle; determining whether the actuator is in a non-blocking position or in the blocking position; displaying an error message in response to determining that the actuator is in the non-blocking position; A method comprising:

20. 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising the step of allowing operation of the printer in response to determining that the actuator is in the blocking position.

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