Printhead aperture system and method

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to a printhead assembly for use in a printer.SOLUTION: The printhead assembly includes a printhead connected to a printer holder. The printhead is movable between a lowered position and a raised position. The printhead assembly also includes a lever subassembly. The lever subassembly includes a lever shaft, a locking mechanism configured to maintain the printhead assembly in the closed position when the locking mechanism is engaged, and a lever cam connected to the lever shaft and disposed adjacent a portion of the printhead holder. The lever cam engages the print head holder to move the print head from the lowered position to the raised position. The printhead is moved to the raised position prior to disengaging the locking mechanism when moving the printhead assembly from the closed position to the open position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

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 for long-term applications or that are exposed to harsh conditions such as heat, UV light, moisture, and chemicals. Thermal transfer printers can also process 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. The printhead is typically held within a printhead assembly that includes a casing or other cover (e.g., to protect the printhead from dust accumulation), but users must be able to open the printhead assembly to access the printhead and associated components for maintenance, loading consumables, replacing the printhead, and other purposes.

[0002] The ribbon and substrate are fed between the printhead and platen roller at a nip point. At the nip point, the printhead heats the ribbon and presses it against the platen roller so that ink melted by the printhead is transferred from the ribbon to the substrate. The force applied by the printhead at the nip point (i.e., "nip force") is critical to the printing process, as such force firmly presses the ink-coated side of the ribbon material against the substrate as the ink is transferred. However, the nip force can interfere with the opening and / or closing of the printhead assembly.

[0003] For example, some devices use a locking mechanism having a pivoting hook that engages a locking pin to open and close the printhead assembly. To open the printhead assembly, a user may need to press down on the printhead assembly so that the hook disengages the locking pin. To close the printhead assembly, a user may need to press down on the printhead assembly again so that the hook re-engages the locking pin. The nip force can provide significant resistance when pressing down on the printhead assembly, such that a significant amount of downward force is required to disengage or re-engage the locking mechanism. This can be difficult for consumers and can cause the printhead and associated components to wear out more quickly over time.

[0004] Other devices use locking mechanisms with a pivoting plunger connected to a lever to open and / or close the printhead assembly. However, these designs typically limit the extent to which the printhead assembly can be opened. For example, the opening providing access to the printhead or other internal components of the printhead assembly may be smaller than desired, causing inconvenience to users performing maintenance, replacing consumable parts, or otherwise needing access to the internal components of the printhead assembly. The opening can be made larger by increasing the overall size of the printhead assembly, which may impact the overall size and / or cost of the printer.

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned problems, a need exists for a printhead assembly for use with a printer that facilitates opening and closing the assembly without the application of significant force, and that provides sufficient access to the printhead and associated components when the assembly is open. 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 printhead assembly for use in a printer is disclosed. The assembly includes a printhead connected to a printhead holder. The printhead is movable between a lowered position and a raised position. The printhead assembly also includes a lever subassembly. The lever subassembly includes a lever shaft, a locking mechanism that maintains the printhead assembly in a closed position when the locking mechanism is engaged, and a lever cam connected to the lever shaft and positioned adjacent to a portion of the printhead holder. The lever cam engages the printhead holder to move the printhead from the lowered position to the raised position. The printhead is moved to the raised position before disengaging the locking mechanism to move the printhead assembly from the closed position to the open position.

[0008] In another aspect, a printhead assembly for use in a printer is disclosed. The printhead assembly includes a housing formed by a casing and a side plate coupled to the casing. The printhead assembly also includes a printhead connected to a printhead holder held within the housing and a lever subassembly. The lever subassembly includes a lever shaft partially disposed within the housing, a first locking member and a second locking member disposed on the lever shaft, and a lever cam disposed on the lever shaft. A first end of the lever shaft extends beyond the side plate, and a second end of the lever shaft extends beyond a side wall of the casing. The first locking member releasably engages the first locking pin, and the second locking member releasably engages the second locking pin. A lever is connected to the second end of the lever shaft and operably engages the lever subassembly. The printhead assembly is movable between a closed position and an open position. When the printer is in use, the printhead occupies a lowered position, and when the printhead assembly is transitioned between the closed and open positions, the printhead occupies a raised position.

[0009] In a further aspect, a method for opening and closing a printhead assembly in a printer is disclosed. The method includes providing a printhead assembly. The printhead assembly includes a printhead connected to a printhead holder, a lever subassembly including a lever shaft carrying a locking member that releasably engages with the locking pin, and a lever cam disposed on the lever shaft and arranged to engage with the printhead holder. The method also includes transitioning the lever subassembly from a default configuration to a lift configuration such that the lever cam engages the printhead holder and the printhead moves from the lowered position to the raised position while the locking member maintains engagement with the locking pin. The method further includes disengaging the locking member from the locking pin, moving the printhead assembly from the closed position to the open position, returning the printhead assembly to the closed position and re-engaging the locking member with the locking pin while the printhead is in the lifted position, and returning the lever subassembly to the default configuration such that the lever cam no longer engages the printhead holder and the printhead returns to the lowered position. [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 3] 3 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of several components of the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2, including an exemplary stowable assembly for use with the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2, constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the printhead of the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of an exemplary printhead assembly constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure in a closed position. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the printhead assembly of FIG. 5 in an open position. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the casing of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of the casing of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is a bottom and left side isometric view of the casing of FIG. 7. [Figure 10] FIG. 6 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of a printhead module of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the docking plate of the printhead module of FIG. [Figure 12] 12A-12C are front, bottom, and left side isometric views of the docking plate of FIG. 11. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a front and top isometric view of the printhead holder of the printhead module of FIG. 10. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a front and left isometric view of the printhead holder of FIG. 13. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the connecting plate of the printhead module of FIG. [Figure 16] 16 is a front, top, and left isometric view of a subassembly of the printhead module of FIG. 10, including the printhead of FIG. 4, the docking plate of FIG. 11, the printhead holder of FIG. 13, and the connecting plate and spring of FIG. 15. [Figure 17] 11 is a front and top isometric view of the push plate of the printhead module of FIG. 10. FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a front, bottom, and left side isometric view of the push plate of FIG. [Figure 19] 18 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of the subassembly of FIG. 16 with the push plate and connecting shaft of FIG. 17. [Figure 20] FIG. 11 is a front elevation view of the camshaft of the printhead module of FIG. [Figure 21]FIG. 21 is a top and right side isometric view of the camshaft of FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. 21 shows the camshaft of FIG. 20 with a cam adjustment gear, lift cam, and force cam disposed thereon. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of the force cam of FIG. [Figure 24] FIG. 23 is a right side elevational view of the force cam of FIG. [Figure 25] FIG. 23 is a front, bottom, and left side isometric view of the lift cam of FIG. [Figure 26] FIG. 23 is a left side elevational view of the lift cam of FIG. 22. [Figure 27] FIG. 23 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the cam adjustment gear of FIG. [Figure 28] FIG. 23 is a left side elevational view of the cam adjustment gear of FIG. [Figure 29] FIG. 11 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of the printhead module of FIG. [Figure 30] FIG. 6 is a left side elevational view of the side plate of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 31] FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of the support shaft of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a front elevational view of the support shaft of FIG. 31 with an orientation member and bushing disposed thereon. [Figure 33] 32 is a front, bottom, and left side isometric view of the side plate of FIG. 30 and the support shaft of FIG. 31 coupled to the casing of FIG. 7. [Figure 34] FIG. 6 is a front and left side isometric view of the lever subassembly of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 35] FIG. 35 is a front elevational view of the lever shaft of the lever subassembly of FIG. [Figure 36] FIG. 36 is a front and right side isometric view of the lever shaft of FIG. [Figure 37] FIG. 35 is a right side elevational view of the lever of the lever subassembly of FIG. 34. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a front and left side isometric view of the lever of FIG. [Figure 39]FIG. 39 is a bottom, front, and left side isometric view of the lever of FIG. [Figure 40] FIG. 38 is a top, front, and left isometric view of the lever shaft of FIG. 35 with the lever of FIG. 37 connected thereto. [Figure 41] FIG. 37 is a front and right side isometric view of the lever shaft of FIG. 35 with the lever of FIG. 36 connected thereto. [Figure 42A] FIG. 35 is a right side elevational view of the first locking member of the lever subassembly of FIG. 34. [Figure 42B] FIG. 35 is a right side elevational view of the second locking member of the lever subassembly of FIG. 34. [Figure 43] FIG. 35 is a front and right side isometric view of the first lifting member of the lever subassembly of FIG. 34. [Figure 44] FIG. 44 is a right side elevational view of the first lift member of FIG. 43. [Figure 45] FIG. 44 is a front and left side isometric view of the first lift member of FIG. 43. [Figure 46] FIG. 35 is a top, front, and left side isometric view of the second lift member of the lever subassembly of FIG. [Figure 47] FIG. 47 is a left side elevational view of the second lift member of FIG. 46. [Figure 48] FIG. 35 is a front elevational view of a portion of the lever subassembly of FIG. 34. [Figure 49] FIG. 35 is a front elevational view of the lever subassembly of FIG. 34 positioned to engage the printhead holder of FIG. 13. [Figure 50A] 35 is a front and right side isometric view of the printhead module of FIG. 10 in combination with a platen roller and in combination with the lever subassembly of FIG. 34 in a first configuration. [Figure 50B] 35 is a front and right side isometric view of the printhead module of FIG. 10 in combination with the platen roller and lever subassembly of FIG. 34 in a second configuration. [Figure 51] FIG. 35 is a front and right side isometric view of a portion of the lever subassembly of FIG. [Figure 52] FIG. 6 is a top, front, and right side isometric view of the lever shaft attachment of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 53] FIG. 6 is a front and left side isometric view of the stopper of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 54] FIG. 54 is a rear and right side isometric view of the stopper of FIG. 53. [Figure 55] FIG. 54 is a right side elevational view of a first pin for use with the stopper of FIG. 53. [Figure 56] FIG. 54 is a right side elevational view of a second pin for use with the stopper of FIG. 53. [Figure 57] FIG. 6 is a left side elevation view of the printhead assembly of FIG. 5. [Figure 58] FIG. 6 is a top, front, and left side isometric view of the sensor of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 59] FIG. 59 is a left side elevation view of the sensor of FIG. 58. [Figure 60] FIG. 6 is a top, rear, and right side isometric view of a portion of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 61] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for opening and closing a printhead assembly according to the principles of the present disclosure. 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 for opening and closing a printhead module or assembly in a printer. The system can include a lever shaft having a locking member disposed thereon that releasably engages a locking pin to maintain the printhead assembly in a closed position. A lever can be operably engaged with the lever shaft such that moving (e.g., rotating) the lever causes the locking member to disengage the locking pin. In some cases, the lever subassembly can include a lever cam disposed on the lever shaft. The lever cam can be configured to lift the printhead out of engagement with the platen roller before the locking member disengages the locking pin. In this manner, the system can reduce the force required to open and close the printhead assembly.

[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 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 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 disposed 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) as the printer 100 operates. 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.

[0021] The ribbon supply spindle 130 can 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 leading end 122 of the mounting wall 120. The printable media 128 and the ribbon material 134 can converge proximate 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 the leading end 122 of the mounting wall 120. For example, the print head 138 and the platen roller 140 can be positioned on the mounting wall 120 such that the print head 138 and the platen roller 140 are positioned adjacent to the exit slot 114 when the housing cover 106 is positioned in the closed configuration.

[0022] During printing, the printable medium 128 and the ribbon material 134 may pass between the print head 138 and the platen roller 140. The print head 138 may be configured to heat the ribbon material 134 as it passes beneath the print head 138, causing ink from the ribbon material 134 to melt and adhere to adjacent portions of the printable medium 128. At the same time, the platen roller 140 may be positioned to provide a smooth support surface for the printable medium 128 and the ribbon material 134 as they pass beneath the print head 138 and contact each other. For example, the platen roller 140 may apply pressure to the printable medium 128 and the ribbon material 134, 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, and the used ribbon material 134 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 returned toward the rear end 124 of the mounting wall 120, where it may be collected by a rewinder 142. In this manner, the printer 100 may produce a roll of print media (e.g., a roll of printed labels) as an end product that is later collected or otherwise removed by a user, rather than directly supplying the finished product to a user through the exit slot 114.

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

[0025] The ribbon path can guide the ribbon material 134 through a nip point 148 where the print head 138 contacts or is positioned adjacent to the platen roller 140. In some cases, the ribbon material 134 (and the printable medium 128 shown in FIG. 2 ) can be subjected to a nip force (e.g., a clamping force applied by the print head 138) at the nip point 148. Some types of printable medium 128 may require a higher or lower nip force to achieve optimal print quality. Thus, in some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the nip force applied at the nip point 148 depending on the type of printing operation being performed or the type of printable medium 128 being used.

[0026] As best shown in FIG. 4 , the printhead 138 may be provided in the form of a substantially linear printhead body 150 defined by a substantially planar printhead mounting surface 152 and a substantially planar heating surface 154 (not shown) disposed opposite and oriented parallel to the printhead mounting surface 152. The printhead 138 may include one or more heating modules 156 designed to supply heat (e.g., by transmitting electrical current) to one or more heating elements (not shown) disposed on the heating surface 154 and arranged to act on the ribbon material 134. One or more printhead connection holes 158 may be disposed along and extend generally through the printhead body 150. For example, the printhead connection holes 158 may be positioned to receive fasteners (e.g., screws, pins, or any other suitable fasteners) therein to facilitate connection between the printhead 138 and one or more associated components (e.g., of the printhead assembly 200 shown in FIG. 5 ).

[0027] Turning to FIG. 5 , assembly 200 can include a printhead module 202 at least partially held within a casing 204. For example, casing 204 can provide protection, support, and / or retention for various components of printhead module 202 disposed therein (e.g., by preventing dust or other particles from accumulating on printhead 138 or associated components). Printhead assembly 200 can occupy a closed position shown in FIG. 5 , in which printhead 138 engages (e.g., applies a nip force to) platen roller 140. A lever subassembly 206, including a lever 208 disposed adjacent casing 204, can be operably engaged with printhead module 202 and / or casing 204 such that lever subassembly 206 can be operably engaged to transition printhead assembly 200 from the closed position to the open position (see FIG. 6 ). For example, a user can engage lever 208 to open printhead assembly 200 and access one or more of its components (e.g., printhead 138). As shown in FIG. 6 , printhead module 202 (including printhead 138) and casing 204 can be rotated upward and away from platen roller 140 when printhead assembly 200 is in the open position, such that printhead 138 is held at a distance from platen roller 140. In some cases, it may be desirable or necessary to open printhead assembly 200 to perform maintenance or cleaning, to repair or replace heating elements or other components of printhead 138, to clear a jam (e.g., if ribbon material 134 becomes caught or tangled in printhead assembly 200), or under other circumstances.

[0028] Turning to FIG. 7 , the casing 204 may be provided in the form of a substantially linear roof 214 extending between a casing first side 216 and a casing second side 218 opposite the casing first side 216. In some cases, the roof 214 may be defined by a sloped portion 220, a substantially vertical portion 222, and an upper panel 224 located between the sloped portion 220 and the vertical portion 222. In other cases, the casing 204 may be given any suitable shape and configuration. A substantially linear overhang 226 may be disposed on the casing first side 216 and may connect to at least a portion of the sloped portion 220, the upper panel 224, and / or the vertical portion 222. The overhang 226 may be substantially parallel to the roof 214. In some cases, at least a portion of the overhang 226 may be elevated relative to the roof 214 (see FIG. 8 ). In other cases, the overhang 226 may be substantially flush with the roof 214 .

[0029] A substantially linear casing lip 228 can be connected to and extend downwardly from the overhang 226. One or more casing mounting members 230 designed to support or engage one or more components of the printhead module 202 or other components of the support assembly 200 can be disposed on the casing lip 228. In some cases, six casing mounting members 230 can be connected to and extend outwardly from the casing lip 228. In other cases, the casing 204 can include any number of casing mounting members 230, and the casing mounting members 230 can be disposed on the casing lip 228 in any suitable configuration. The casing mounting members 230 can be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical or annular protrusion extending outwardly from the casing lip 228. For example, the casing mounting members 230 can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the casing lip 228. In some cases, each casing mounting member 230 can be provided in substantially the same configuration. In other cases, each casing mounting member 230 can be given any suitable shape or configuration, provided that each casing mounting member 230 is configured to support or engage a desired component of the printhead assembly 200.

[0030] The overhang 226 may include a guide member 232 disposed at an overhang distal end 234. The guide member 232 may be configured to engage or receive an internal component of a printing device (e.g., printer 100). In some cases, the guide member 232 may include a substantially linear cutout 236 designed to receive the internal component of the printing device and ensure proper orientation or positioning of the casing 204 and / or the entire printhead assembly 200 relative to the printing device.

[0031] As best shown in FIG. 8 , the casing 204 can include a casing sidewall 238 connected to and extending downwardly from the roof 214. The casing sidewall 238 can be disposed on the casing second side 218 and can be oriented in a plane substantially parallel to the casing lip 228. The casing lever shaft hole 240 can be provided in the form of a substantially circular opening disposed on and extending entirely therethrough. Additionally, in some cases, one or more casing protrusions 242 and one or more recessed surfaces 244 can be disposed on the casing sidewall 238. In some cases, the casing lever shaft hole 240, the casing protrusion 242, and the recessed surface 244 can be configured to facilitate connection or engagement between the printhead module 202 and the lever 208.

[0032] In some cases, a diverter surface 246 may be disposed on or adjacent to the vertical portion 222 of the roof 214, with one or more diverter holes 248 disposed thereon and extending at least partially therethrough. In some cases, the diverter 146 may be coupled to the casing 204 via the diverter surface 246 (see FIG. 5). In other cases, the diverter 146 shown in FIG. 5 may be omitted. As shown in FIG. 8, the casing 204 may include an aft corner 250 disposed at the junction between the casing sidewall 238 and the sloped portion 220 of the roof 214.

[0033] 9 , the casing sidewall 238 can be configured to receive and / or support one or more components of the printhead module 202. For example, in some cases, the casing 204 can include a support shaft seat 252, a connecting shaft seat 254, and a camshaft seat 256 disposed on a casing sidewall inner surface 258. In other cases, the casing 204 can include additional or alternative features designed to support various components of the printhead module 202 disposed at least partially within the casing 204. In some cases, the support shaft seat 252, the connecting shaft seat 254, and the camshaft seat 256 can each be provided in the form of a substantially annular protrusion connected to the casing sidewall 238 and extending inwardly therefrom (e.g., toward the casing first side 216). In other cases, the support shaft seat 252, the connecting shaft seat 254, and the camshaft seat 256 can be provided in any suitable form.

[0034] 10 , in some cases, the printhead module 202 can be designed to adjust the nip force applied by the printhead 138 at the nip point 148 (see FIG. 3 ) and / or to facilitate lifting the printhead 138 off the platen roller 140 (e.g., to avoid applying a constant nip force to the ribbon material 134 and / or the printable medium 128 during periods of non-use). The printhead 138 can be coupled to or held by a docking plate 280. The docking plate 280 can also be connected to a printhead holder 282 that is designed to be engaged by one or more other components of the printhead module 202 and to facilitate movement of the printhead 138. For example, the printhead holder 282 can be configured to apply a downward force to the printhead 138 (e.g., pressing the printhead 138 toward the platen roller 140) or to position the printhead 138 in a raised position (e.g., moving the printhead 138 out of contact with the platen roller 140).

[0035] The printhead module 202 can include one or more springs 284 disposed between the printhead holder 282 and a push plate 286 disposed above the printhead holder 282. The springs 284 can be compressed between the printhead holder 282 and the push plate 286 such that the springs 284 store elastic potential energy and exert an outward force or pressure on the printhead holder 282 and the push plate 286. The outward force exerted on the printhead holder 282 can be transmitted to the printhead 138 through the docking plate 280 such that the springs 284 cause the printhead 138 to exert a nipping force on the platen roller 140. Thus, by changing the degree to which the springs 284 are compressed (e.g., by changing the distance that the push plate 286 is held from the printhead holder 282), the nipping force exerted by the printhead 138 can be changed. In some cases, the printhead module 202 may include two springs 284: a first spring 284a and a second spring 284b. In other cases, the printhead module 202 may include any suitable number of springs 284.

[0036] A force cam 288 disposed along the camshaft 290 can be configured to adjustably engage the push plate 286. In some cases, the printhead module 202 can be configured such that rotation of the force cam 288 changes the position of the push plate 286 relative to the printhead holder 282. Rotation of the force cam 288 thus causes compression or decompression of the spring 284, thereby adjusting the nip force applied by the printhead 138. The force cam 288 can be configured to rotate integrally with the camshaft 290. In some cases, a cam adjustment gear 292 can be connected to the camshaft 290 and positioned for engagement by one or more components of the printhead module 202 or a printing device (e.g., the printer 100). For example, a gear subassembly (not shown) in communication with the printhead module 202 can be configured to change the rotational position of the camshaft 290 via engagement with the cam adjustment gear 292.

[0037] Additionally, one or more lift cams 294 configured to move the print head 138 from a lowered position (depicted in FIG. 10 ) to a raised position (e.g., removing the print head 138 from contact with the platen roller 140) can be disposed along the camshaft 290. The lift cams 294 can be configured to rotate unitarily with the camshaft 290 and can be positioned to engage adjacent flange members 296 of the print head holder 282. For example, in some cases, two lift cams 294, i.e., a first lift cam 294 a and a second lift cam 294 b, can be positioned proximate opposite ends of the camshaft 290. The print head holder 282 can include two flange members 296 with at least a portion thereof positioned adjacent to (e.g., above) the lift cams 294. In some cases, the printhead assembly 200 can be configured to lift the printhead 138 away from the platen roller 140 so that no nip force is applied (e.g., during periods of non-use) by rotating the camshaft 290 such that the lift cam 294 rotates and engages the flange member 296.

[0038] 11 , the docking plate 280 may be provided in the form of a substantially linear docking plate body 300 defined by a docking plate first end 302 and a docking plate second end 304 opposite the docking plate first end 302. The docking plate body 300 may include a first or lower docking plate surface 306 and a second or upper docking plate surface 308, each extending between the docking plate first end 302 and the docking plate second end 304. In some cases, the lower docking plate surface 306 and the upper docking plate surface 308 may be provided in the form of substantially flat surfaces oriented parallel to one another. The print head 138 may be connected to or mounted to the docking plate 280 such that the print head mounting surface 152 is disposed adjacent to or flush with the lower docking plate surface 306.

[0039] One or more dock pin members 310 may be disposed on and extend upwardly from the upper docking plate surface 308. In some cases, the docking plate 280 may include a first dock pin member 310a and two second dock pin members 310b. The first dock pin member 310a may be substantially conical or frusto-conical and may be substantially centered relative to the docking plate first end 302 and the docking plate second end 304 (or substantially centered relative to the second dock pin member 310b). The second dock pin member 310b may be substantially cylindrical and may be disposed proximate the docking plate first end 302 and the docking plate second end 304, respectively. In other cases, the docking plate 280 can include any number of dock pin members 310, and the dock pin members 310 can be arranged in any suitable configuration and have any suitable structure. The dock pin members 310 are designed to facilitate coupling between the docking plate 280 and the printhead holder 282, the push plate 286, and / or other components of the printhead module 202.

[0040] One or more printhead docking holes 312 configured to facilitate coupling of the printheads 138 to the docking plate 280 and / or printhead holder 282 can be disposed on and extend entirely therethrough. For example, the one or more printhead docking holes 312 can be disposed on the docking plate 280 to align with one or more of the printhead connection holes 158 of the printheads 138 (see FIG. 4 ). In some cases, the printhead docking holes 312 can be provided in the form of rounded or oval openings extending entirely between the upper docking plate surface 308 and the lower docking plate surface 306. In some cases, the docking plate 280 can include two printhead docking holes 312, such that one of the printhead docking holes 312 is disposed proximate the docking plate first end 302 and the other printhead docking hole 312 is disposed proximate the docking plate second end 304. In other cases, the docking plate 280 can include any number of printhead docking holes 312 arranged in any suitable configuration, provided that the printhead docking holes 312 are configured to facilitate connection between the printheads 138 and the docking plate 280.

[0041] As best shown in FIG. 12 , the docking plate 280 may include two docking plate sidewalls 314 connected to and extending downwardly from the docking plate body 300 at a docking plate first end 302 and a docking plate second end 304. The docking plate sidewalls 314 may be integrally formed with or coupled to the docking plate body 300. Each of the docking plate sidewalls 314 may be provided in the form of an irregularly shaped panel oriented substantially perpendicular to the docking plate body 300 and may include a branch member 316 and a rear leg 318 disposed adjacent the branch member 316. The branch member 316 may include two branches 320 defining a space 322 therebetween. In some cases, the branch member 316 may be configured to orient the docking plate 280 within a printing device (e.g., the printer 100) by receiving a component of the printing device within the space 322.

[0042] The docking plate sidewalls 314 may include one or more roller holes 324 designed to support one or more rollers 144 extending between the docking plate sidewalls 314 (see FIG. 5 ). The roller holes 324 may be provided in the form of substantially circular openings extending entirely through the docking plate sidewalls 314. In some cases, the docking plate sidewalls 314 may each include one roller hole 324 located on the branch member 316 and another roller hole 324 located on the rear leg 318. In other cases, the docking plate sidewalls 314 may include any number of roller holes 324 or other openings arranged in any suitable configuration. In some cases, the docking plate 280 may include a vertical flap 326 located on each of the docking plate first end 302 and the docking plate second end 304. For example, the vertical flap 326 can be coupled to and extend outward and / or upward from the branch member 316 of the docking plate sidewall 314. The vertical flap 326 can be substantially parallel to the docking plate sidewall 314 (e.g., perpendicular to the docking plate body 300). In some cases, the vertical flap 326 can help facilitate connection between the docking plate 280 and the printhead holder 282, or vice versa, and / or positioning of the printhead holder 282, or a portion of the printhead holder 282, on the docking plate 280.

[0043] 13 , the printhead holder 282 may be provided in the form of a substantially linear printhead holder body 330 defined by a printhead holder first side 332 and a printhead holder second side 334 opposite the printhead holder first side 332. The printhead holder 282 may include a base plate 336 extending between the printhead holder first side 332 and the printhead holder second side 334. The base plate 336 may be defined by a printhead holder leading edge 338 and a printhead holder trailing edge 340 opposite the printhead holder leading edge 338. A printhead holder sidewall 342 may be connected to the base plate 336 at the printhead holder first side 332 and the printhead holder second side 334 and extend upwardly therefrom. In some cases, the printhead holder sidewall 342 may be provided in a slightly different form (see FIG. 14 ). For example, the first printhead holder sidewall 342a can be connected to the base plate 336 at the printhead holder first side 332, and the second printhead holder sidewall 342b can be connected to the base plate 336 at the printhead holder second side 334.

[0044] The printhead holder 282 may include one or more spring base members 344 disposed on the base plate 336 proximate the printhead holder leading edge 338. The spring base members 344 may be provided in the form of a substantially annular protrusion disposed on and extending upwardly from the base plate 336. In some cases, the printhead holder 282 may include two spring base members 344 disposed proximate the printhead holder first side 332 and the printhead holder second side 334. One or more printhead holder connection holes 346 may be provided in the form of substantially circular openings extending entirely through the base plate 336 and positioned to facilitate coupling between the printhead holder 282 and the docking plate 280. In some cases, the printhead holder 282 may include a first printhead holder connection hole 346a positioned to receive the first dock pin member 310a and two second printhead holder connection holes 346b positioned to receive the second dock pin member 310b. In some cases, a printhead holder peg 347 may be positioned proximate to the first printhead holder connection hole 346a.

[0045] Additionally, the printhead holder 282 may include one or more printhead holder fastening holes 348 configured to facilitate coupling between the printhead 138, the docking plate 280, and / or the printhead holder 282. For example, the printhead holder 282 may include two printhead holder fastening holes 348 provided in the form of rounded or arcuate openings extending generally through the base plate 336. The printhead holder fastening holes 348 may be configured to align with one or more of the printhead docking holes 312 of the docking plate 280 and the printhead connection holes 158 of the printhead 138. Thus, fasteners (see FIG. 16 ) may extend through the printhead holder fastening holes 348 and the printhead docking holes 312 and be received by one or more of the printhead connection holes 158 (e.g., via engagement between a threaded outer surface of the fastener and a threaded inner surface of the printhead connection holes 158).

[0046] The printhead holder 282 may include one or more printhead holder sockets 350 provided in the form of a substantially circular opening extending generally through the base plate 336. In some cases, a vent 352 may be provided in the form of a substantially rectangular opening extending generally through the base plate 336. The printhead holder 282 may include a tray member 354 disposed within the vent 352. For example, the tray member 354 may be coupled to the base plate 336 along an edge of the vent 352 proximate the printhead holder trailing edge 340 and extend downwardly therefrom. In some cases, the vent 352 may reduce the overall weight or cost of manufacturing the printhead assembly 200, and the tray member 354 may be configured to guide or support the printable medium 128 and / or ribbon material 134 passing beneath the printhead 138 while the printhead assembly 200 is in use.

[0047] As best shown in FIG. 14 , each of the printhead holder sidewalls 342 a, 342 b can include a first connecting shaft opening 356 and a lever shaft opening 358. The first connecting shaft opening 356 and the lever shaft opening 358 of the first printhead holder sidewall 342 a can be positioned to align with the first connecting shaft opening 356 and the lever shaft opening 358, respectively, of the second printhead holder sidewall 342 b. In some cases, one of the printhead holder sidewalls 342 (e.g., the first printhead holder sidewall 342 a) can further include a first orientation member 360 having a curved orientation surface 362 configured to be received by or engage with another portion of the printhead assembly 200 (see FIG. 36 ). The first orientation member 360 can be positioned proximate to and extend outward from the printhead holder rear edge 340. Additionally, one of the print head holder side walls 342 (e.g., the first print head holder side wall 342a) may include a substantially rectangular cutout 364 disposed between the first connecting shaft opening 356 and the lever shaft opening 358.

[0048] Both printhead holder sidewalls 342 a, 342 b can include a lever impact surface 366 connected to a sidewall upper edge 368. In some cases, the lever impact surface 366 can be provided in the form of a substantially linear protrusion connected to and extending outward from the sidewall upper edge 368 (e.g., the lever impact surface 366 of the first printhead holder sidewall 342 a can extend away from the second printhead holder sidewall 342 b, or vice versa). The lever impact surface 366 can be located above or adjacent to the lever shaft opening 358.

[0049] The printhead holder 282 may include two flange members 296 disposed adjacent to and flush with each of the printhead holder side walls 342 a, 342 b. Each flange member 296 may include a flange wall 370 and a flange impact surface 372. The flange wall 370 may include a camshaft opening 374 provided in the form of a substantially circular, oval, or rounded opening extending entirely through the flange wall 370. The camshaft opening 374 may be of any size or shape suitable for the passage of the camshaft 290. In some cases, the camshaft opening 374 may be sized to accommodate substantially vertical (e.g., up and down) movement of the camshaft 290 when the force cam 288 and / or one or more lift cams 294 rotate about the axis A of the camshaft 290 (see FIG. 10 ). The flange impact surface 372 can be positioned above or adjacent to the camshaft opening 374 such that the flange impact surface 372 is positioned to engage one of the lift cams 294 when the lift cam 294 rotates about axis A (see FIG. 10 ). In some cases, the flange impact surface 372 can be connected to the flange wall 370 at a flange upper edge 376 and extend inward therefrom (e.g., the flange impact surface 372 of the flange member 296 adjacent the first printhead holder sidewall 342 a can extend toward the second printhead holder sidewall 342 b, or vice versa). The flange wall 370 can be substantially parallel or coplanar with the associated printhead holder sidewall 342, and the flange impact surface 372 can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the flange wall 370.

[0050] 15 , the connecting plate 380 may be provided in the form of a substantially planar connecting plate body 382 defined by a connecting plate first end 384 and a connecting plate second end 386 opposite the connecting plate first end 384. A substantially linear channel 388 including a rounded receiving area 390 may extend between the connecting plate first end 384 and the connecting plate second end 386. The connecting plate 380 may include a first lip member 392 disposed at the connecting plate second end 386 and a second lip member 394 disposed proximate the connecting plate first end 384 and extending partially toward the connecting plate second end 386. The first and second lip members 392, 394 may be integrally formed with the connecting plate body 382 or may be coupled to the connecting plate body 382 and extend upwardly therefrom. For example, the first and second lip members 392, 394 can each be substantially perpendicular to the connecting plate body 382. Further, the first and second lip members 392, 394 can be substantially perpendicular to each other. The first and second lip members 392, 394 can facilitate coupling between the connecting plate 380 and the printhead holder 282 and / or provide additional structural support to the printhead holder 282. In some cases, the first lip member 392 can also prevent or reduce movement of the connecting plate 380 relative to the printhead holder 282 when coupled.

[0051] The one or more connecting plate holes 396 may be provided in the form of openings extending entirely through the connecting plate body 382. For example, the connecting plate 380 may include a first connecting plate hole 396a and a second connecting plate hole 396b provided in the form of substantially circular openings disposed proximate the channel 388. The connecting plate 380 may also include a third connecting plate hole 396c provided in the form of an irregular or key-shaped opening disposed between the channel 388 and the second lip member 394. In some cases, the connecting plate 380 may include a post 398 connected to the second lip member 394 proximate the connecting plate first end 384 and extending upwardly and / or outwardly therefrom.

[0052] 16 , the printhead 138, docking plate 280, printhead holder 282, and connection plate 380 can be coupled together to form a subassembly of the printhead module 202. In some cases, the printhead 138, docking plate 280, printhead holder 282, and docking plate 280 can be configured to move as a single unit when the printhead assembly 200 is in use. For example, the printhead 138 can be positioned adjacent to the docking plate 280 so that the printhead mounting surface 152 (see FIG. 4 ) abuts against the lower docking plate surface 306 (see FIG. 12 ) and the two printhead connection holes 158 are aligned with the printhead docking holes 312 in the docking plate 280. The printhead holder 282 can be positioned on the docking plate 280 so that the dock pin members 310 are received by the printhead holder connection holes 346 (see FIG. 13 ). For example, the first printhead holder connection hole 346a can receive the first dock pin member 310a, and the second printhead holder connection hole 346b can receive the second dock pin member 310b. Thus, the fasteners 400 can extend through the printhead holder fastening holes 348 and the printhead docking holes 312 in the docking plate 280 and be received by the adjacent printhead connection holes 158. In this manner, the fasteners 400 and the dock pin members 310 can facilitate coupling between the printhead 138, the docking plate 280, and the printhead holder 282.

[0053] The connecting plate 380 can be positioned on or adjacent to the printhead holder 282 so that the first dock pin members 310a extend through the receiving areas 390. The first connecting plate holes 396a (see FIG. 15) can align with and receive (e.g., press-fit) the printhead holder pegs 347. The second connecting plate holes 396b can align with one of the printhead holder sockets 350 (see FIG. 13) so that the fasteners 400 can extend through the second connecting plate holes 396b and be received by the printhead holder sockets 350. The third connecting plate holes 396c can align with the other of the printhead holder sockets 350 so that the fasteners 400 can extend through the third connecting plate holes 396c and be received by the printhead holder sockets 350. Thus, fasteners 400 can couple connecting plate 380 to printhead holder 282 or limit movement of connecting plate 380 relative to printhead holder 282. Fasteners 400 can be provided in the form of screws, pins, or any other suitable fastener configured to facilitate coupling between two components via a press fit, interference fit, threaded engagement, or any other method known in the art.

[0054] The springs 284 can be positioned (e.g., in a decompressed state) on the printhead holder 282 so that they can be compressed by the push plate 286 when the printhead module 202 is fully assembled. For example, the first spring 284a and the second spring 284b can each have a first spring end 402 and a second spring end 404 opposite the first spring end 402. The first spring end 402 can be supported or received by the spring base member 344 of the printhead holder 282, while the second spring end 404 remains available for engagement with the push plate 286 (see FIG. 19 ).

[0055] 17 , the push plate 286 may be provided in the form of a substantially linear push plate body 410 defined by a push plate first side 412 and a push plate second side 414 opposite the push plate first side 412. The push plate body 410 may include an upper shelf 416 and a lower shelf 418. The upper shelf 416 may be vertically offset from the lower shelf 418 (e.g., positioned higher than the lower shelf 418), and each of the upper shelf 416 and the lower shelf 418 may extend between the push plate first side 412 and the push plate second side 414. A sloped panel 420 may extend between and connect the upper shelf 416 and the lower shelf 418. For example, the upper shelf 416 and the lower shelf 418 may be substantially parallel, and the angled panel 420 may be oriented at an angle relative to both the upper shelf 416 and the lower shelf 418. The push plate 286 may include two push plate sidewalls 422 connected to and extending downwardly from the upper shelf 416. For example, a first push plate sidewall 422a may be connected to the upper shelf 416 at the push plate first side 412, and a second push plate sidewall 422b may be connected to the upper shelf 416 at the push plate second side 414. The push plate sidewalls 422 may be integrally formed with or connected to the upper shelf 416.

[0056] As best shown in FIG. 18 , one or more upper spring support members 424 can be connected to and extend downwardly from a bottom surface 426 of the lower shelf 418. For example, the push plate 286 can include two upper spring support members 424 positioned to align with the spring base members 344 of the printhead holder 282 and receive the second spring ends 404 of the springs 284 a, 284 b (see FIG. 16 ). Each of the push plate side walls 422 a, 422 b can include a second connecting shaft opening 428 provided in the form of a substantially circular opening extending generally through the push plate side walls 422 a, 422 b. For example, the second connecting shaft openings 428 in the push plate side walls 422 a, 422 b can be positioned to align with the first connecting shaft openings 356 in the printhead holder side walls 342 a, 342 b, respectively.

[0057] 19 , the push plate 286 can be positioned adjacent to (e.g., above) the printhead holder 282 so that the second connecting shaft opening 428 of the push plate 286 is aligned with the first connecting shaft opening 356 of the printhead holder 282. The connecting shaft 430 can therefore extend through the first printhead holder sidewall 342 a, the first push plate sidewall 422 a, the second push plate sidewall 422 b, and the second printhead holder sidewall 342 b via the first and second connecting shaft openings 356, 428. The connecting shaft 430 can be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical connecting shaft body 432 defined by a connecting shaft first end 434 and a connecting shaft second end 436 opposite the connecting shaft first end 434. In some cases, the link shaft first end 434 can be positioned proximate (e.g., outer side of) the first printhead holder sidewall 342 a and the first push plate sidewall 422 a, and the link shaft second end can be positioned proximate (e.g., outer side of) the second printhead holder sidewall 342 b and the second push plate sidewall 422 b. In some cases, the connecting shaft 430 can include a notched segment 438 having a substantially circular groove 440 at the connecting shaft first end 434.

[0058] In some cases, the connecting shaft 430 can facilitate maintaining coupling and / or alignment between the printhead holder 282 and the push plate 286. The push plate 286 can be positioned such that the second spring end 404 of the spring 284 (see FIG. 16 ) is received by an upper spring support member 424 disposed on and extending downward from the lower shelf 418. The spring 284 can thus be interposed between the push plate 286 and the printhead holder 282, and pressure applied by the push plate 286 can compress the spring 284. In some cases, the push plate 286 can be held in position relative to the printhead holder 282 such that the elastic potential energy stored in the compressed spring 284 exerts an upward force on the push plate 286 and a downward force on the printhead holder 282. In this manner, the spring 284 can cause the printhead 138 to apply a nipping force to the platen roller 140.

[0059] 20 , the camshaft 290 may be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical or linear camshaft body 450 defined by a camshaft first end 452 and a camshaft second end 454 opposite the camshaft first end 452. A gear region 456 adjacent the camshaft first end 452 may be configured to receive and support the cam adjustment gear 292 for rotation with the camshaft 290. Two lift cam regions 458 may be configured to receive and support the lift cams 294 for rotation with the camshaft 290. For example, a first lift cam region 458a positioned to receive the first lift cam 294a may be positioned adjacent to the gear region 456, and a second lift cam region 458b positioned to receive the second lift cam 294b may be positioned proximate the camshaft second end 454. In some cases, the first and second lift cam regions 458a, 458b can be positioned to align with the flange impact surface 372 of the printhead holder 282 (see FIG. 10) when the printhead module 202 is fully assembled.

[0060] A force cam region 460, disposed between the lift cam regions 458, can be configured to receive and support the force cam 288 for rotation with the camshaft 290. The camshaft 290 can include one or more washer grooves 462 disposed on or adjacent the gear region 456, the lift cam region 458, and / or the force cam region 460. For example, the washer grooves 462 can be configured to receive washers or other mechanical components designed to prevent unintended tracking or movement of the cam adjustment gear 292, the lift cam 294, and / or the force cam 288 relative to the camshaft 290.

[0061] The camshaft 290 can include one or more insert regions 464 configured to facilitate rotation of the camshaft 290 when the printhead module 202 is fully assembled. For example, the first insert region 464a can be located proximate the camshaft first end 452 (e.g., between the gear region 456 and the lift cam region 458 proximal to the gear region 456), and the second insert region 464b can be located at the camshaft second end 454. In some cases, each of the insert regions 464a, 464b can be configured to receive and support a bearing (see FIG. 22 ) that facilitates rotation of the camshaft 290 when the printhead module 202 is fully assembled.

[0062] As best shown in FIG. 21 , at least a portion of the camshaft body 450 may be provided in the form of a partial cylinder. For example, in some cases, the gear region 456, the first lift cam region 458a, the second lift cam region 458b, and the force cam region 460 may each include a semicircular edge 466, two substantially flat edges 468 connected to opposite ends of the semicircular edge 466, and a chamfered edge 470 disposed at the junction between the flat edges 468. In other cases, the gear region 456, the lift cam regions 458a, 458b, and the force cam region 460 may be provided in any suitable form, provided that they are configured to constrain rotation of the cam adjustment gear 292, the lift cam 294, and the force cam 288, respectively, relative to the camshaft 290. The insert regions 464a, 464b may be provided in the form of substantially cylindrical segments disposed along the camshaft body 450, as described above with reference to FIG. 20 .

[0063] Turning to FIG. 22 , the camshaft 290 is depicted with the cam adjustment gear 292 disposed on the gear region 456, the first and second lift cams 294a, 294b disposed on the first and second lift cam regions 458a, 458b, respectively, and the force cam 288 disposed on the force cam region 460. In some cases, washers 472 can be installed on the washer grooves 462 (see FIG. 20 ) adjacent the cam adjustment gear 292, the lift cam 294, and / or the force cam 288 to inhibit or eliminate unintended tracking or movement along the camshaft 290. One or more camshaft bearings 474 can be positioned along the camshaft 290 (e.g., to facilitate rotation of the camshaft 290 when the printhead module 202 is fully assembled). For example, a first camshaft bearing 474a can be positioned on the first insertion region 464a, and a second camshaft bearing 474b can be positioned on the second insertion region 464b.

[0064] 23, the force cam 288 can be configured to adjustably engage the push plate 286 (see FIG. 29). For example, the force cam 288 can be provided in the form of a substantially linear force cam body 480 defined by a force cam first side 482 and a force cam second side 484 opposite the force cam first side 482. A substantially annular collar 486 can be connected to and extend outwardly from each of the force cam first side 482 and the force cam second side 484. The collar 486 can be positioned in alignment with the force cam body 480 such that a force cam opening 488 extends entirely through the force cam body 480 and both collars 486. In some cases, a force cam connection hole 490 can be disposed on the force cam body 480 and extend completely therethrough. For example, force cam connection hole 490 can be provided in the form of a substantially circular opening extending generally between force cam outer surface 492 and force cam opening 488. In some cases, force cam connection hole 490 can include a threaded inner surface and can be substantially perpendicular to force cam opening 488. Thus, screw member 476 can extend through force cam connection hole 490 (e.g., engage the threaded inner surface of force cam connection hole 490) to help secure force cam 288 to camshaft 290 (see FIG. 22 ). In other cases, force cam connection hole 490 can be any suitable size and shape to receive a screw, pin, or other fastener known in the art.

[0065] As best shown in FIG. 24 , the force cam inner surface 494 can define the force cam opening 488 such that the shape of the force cam opening 488 reflects or complements the shape of the camshaft 290 at the force cam region 460 (see FIG. 21 ). For example, in some cases, the force cam inner end surface 494 can include a force cam semicircular edge 496, two force cam flat edges 498 connected to opposite ends of the force cam semicircular edges 496, and a force cam chamfered edge 500 disposed at the junction between the force cam flat edges 498. Thus, the force cam flat edges 498 and the force cam chamfered edges 500 can engage the flat edges 468 and the chamfered edges 470, respectively, of the camshaft 290 when the force cam 288 is installed (e.g., when the force cam opening 488 receives the force cam region 460 of the camshaft 290). In this manner, force cam 288 can be prevented or limited from rotating relative to camshaft 290 when printhead assembly 200 is in use. In other words, force cam 288 can be configured to rotate integrally with camshaft 290 when printhead assembly 200 is in use.

[0066] In some cases, the force cam outer surface 492 may be substantially rectangular and may include four force cam quadrants 502a, 502b, 502c, and 502d provided in the form of substantially flat segments of the force cam outer surface 492. Curved corners 504 provided in the form of rounded segments of the force cam outer surface 492 may be disposed between each adjacent pair of force cam quadrants 502a-502d (e.g., 502a and 502b; 502b and 502c; 502c and 502d; and / or 502d and 502a). The force cam quadrants 502a-502d may correspond to different settings or conditions of the printhead 138 or printhead assembly 200.

[0067] For example, force cam quadrants 502a-502d may be spaced a variety of distances from force cam opening 488. In some cases, first force cam quadrant 502a may be spaced a first distance D1 from the closest point along force cam inner surface 494, second force cam quadrant 502b may be spaced a second distance D2 from the closest point along force cam inner surface 494, third force cam quadrant 502c may be spaced a third distance D3 from the closest point along force cam inner surface 494, and fourth force cam quadrant 502d may be spaced a fourth distance D4 from the closest point along force cam inner surface 494. In some cases, first distance D1 may be greater than second distance D2, third distance D3, and fourth distance D4. Second distance D2 may be greater than third distance D3 and fourth distance D4. The third distance D3 may be greater than the fourth distance D4, the third distance D3 and the fourth distance D4 may be substantially equal, or the fourth distance D4 may be greater than the third distance D3.

[0068] In some cases, the first, second, and third force cam quadrants 502a, 502b, 502c can be active quadrants of the force cam 288. For example, the first, second, and third force cam quadrants 502a, 502b, 502c can be positioned to vary the nip force applied by the printhead 138 by varying the force applied to the push plate 286 while the printhead 138 is in a lowered position relative to the platen roller 140 (see FIG. 10 ). In some cases, the fourth force cam quadrant 502d can be an idle quadrant of the force cam 288 positioned to impact the push plate 286 when the printhead 138 is in an elevated position relative to the platen roller 140. For example, the fourth force cam quadrant 502d can be positioned to contact the push plate 286 when the lift cam 294 is rotated to engage the flange member 296, thereby lifting the print head 138 from engagement with the platen roller 140 (see FIG. 10).

[0069] 25 , the first lift cam 294a and the second lift cam 294b may each be provided in the form of a substantially rectangular or rounded lift cam body 510 defined by a lift cam first side 512 and a lift cam second side 514 opposite the lift cam first side 512. The lift cam 294 may include a lift cam outer surface 516 extending around the periphery of the lift cam body 510. The lift cam outer surface 516 may include a substantially flat lift cam impact surface 518, a rounded lift cam apex 520, a first lift cam sidewall 522a extending between the lift cam impact surface 518 and the lift cam apex 520, and a second lift cam sidewall 522b opposite the first lift cam sidewall 522a and extending between the lift cam impact surface 518 and the lift cam apex 520. The lift cam inner surface 524 may define a lift cam opening 526 that extends entirely through the lift cam body 510 .

[0070] In some cases, the lift cam connection hole 528 can be disposed on the lift cam body 510 and extend entirely therethrough. For example, the lift cam connection hole 528 can be provided in the form of a substantially circular opening extending entirely between the lift cam impact surface 518 and the lift cam inner surface 524. In some cases, the lift cam connection hole 528 can include a threaded inner surface and be substantially perpendicular to the lift cam opening 526. Thus, the screw member 476 can extend through the lift cam connection hole 528 (e.g., engage the threaded inner surface of the lift cam connection hole 528) and help secure the lift cam 294 to the camshaft 290 (see FIG. 22 ). In other cases, the lift cam connection hole 528 can be any suitable size or shape for receiving a fastener, such as a pin or other coupling mechanism, known in the art.

[0071] As best shown in FIG. 26 , the lift cam inner surface 524 can define a lift cam opening 526 such that the shape of the lift cam opening 526 reflects or complements the shape of the camshaft 290 at the lift cam region 458 (see FIG. 21 ). For example, in some cases, the lift cam inner end surface 524 can include a lift cam semicircular edge 530, two lift cam flat edges 532 connected to opposite ends of the lift cam semicircular edges 530, and a lift cam chamfered edge 534 disposed at the junction between the lift cam flat edges 532. Thus, the lift cam flat edges 532 and the lift cam chamfered edges 534 can engage the flat edges 468 and the chamfered edges 470, respectively, of the camshaft 290 when the lift cam 294 is installed (e.g., when the lift cam opening 526 receives the associated lift cam region 458 of the camshaft 290). In this manner, the lift cam 294 can be prevented or limited from rotating relative to the camshaft 290 when the printhead assembly 200 is in use. In other words, the lift cam 294 can be configured to rotate integrally with the camshaft 290 when the printhead assembly 200 is in use.

[0072] The lift cam impact surface 518, the lift cam apex 520, and the lift cam sidewall 522 can be spaced from the lift cam opening 526 by various distances. For example, the lift cam impact surface 518 can be spaced a fifth distance D5 from the closest point along the lift cam inner surface 524, the lift cam apex 520 can be spaced a sixth distance D6 from the closest point along the lift cam inner surface 524, the first lift cam sidewall 522a can be spaced a seventh distance D7 from the closest point along the lift cam inner surface 524, and the second lift cam sidewall 522b can be spaced an eighth distance D8 from the closest point along the lift cam inner surface 524. In some cases, the fifth distance D5 can be greater than the sixth distance D6, the seventh distance D7, and the eighth distance D8. The sixth distance D6, the seventh distance D7, and the eighth distance D8 can be substantially equal or can vary relative to one another.

[0073] In some cases, the lift cam peak 520 and the lift cam sidewall 522 can be idle portions of the lift cam outer surface 516. For example, the lift cam peak 520 and the lift cam sidewall 522 can be positioned adjacent to but not engage with the associated flange member 296 when an active quadrant (e.g., first, second, and third force cam quadrants 502a, 502b, 502c) of the force cam 288 engages the push plate 286 (see FIG. 10). The lift cam impact surface 518 can be an active portion of the lift cam outer surface 516. For example, the lift cam impact surface 518 can engage with the associated flange member 296 (thereby lifting the print head 138 away from the platen roller 140) when an idle quadrant (e.g., fourth force cam quadrant 502d) of the force cam 288 engages the push plate 286 (see FIG. 10).

[0074] Thus, the lift cam 294 can be kept out of engagement with the flange member 296 while printing is in progress, such that the printhead 138 is maintained in a lowered position while the active force cam quadrants 502a-502c engage the push plate 286. During periods of non-use, the lift cam 294 can be rotated into engagement with the flange member 296 to place the printhead 138 in a raised state while the idle force cam quadrant 502d engages the push plate 286.

[0075] 27 , the cam adjustment gear 292 can be provided in the form of a substantially annular adjustment gear hub 540 defined by a hub first end 542 and a hub second end 544 opposite the hub first end 542, and an adjustment gear member 546 connected to the adjustment gear hub 540 at the hub first end 542. An adjustment gear inner surface 548 can define an adjustment gear opening 550 extending generally through the adjustment gear member 546 and the adjustment gear hub 540. The adjustment gear member 546 can include an adjustment gear member outer surface 552 having a plurality of adjustment gear teeth 554 surrounding and equally spaced radially from one another. For example, the adjustment gear member 546 can be positioned to be engaged by one or more gears (not shown) of the printhead assembly 200 or a printing device (e.g., the printer 100).

[0076] The adjustment gear hub 540 can include a substantially smooth hub outer surface 556 extending between a hub first end 542 and a hub second end 544. The cam adjustment gear 292 can include one or more sensor flags 558 disposed on the hub outer surface 556 and extending outward therefrom. For example, the sensor flags 558 can be provided in the form of a substantially rectangular or rectangular protrusion connected to the hub outer surface 556 and extending radially away from the adjustment gear hub 540. In some cases, one or more sensor flags 558 can be disposed on the hub first end 542, and one or more sensor flags 558 can be disposed on the hub second end 544. For example, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 27 , the cam adjustment gear 292 can include two sensor flags 558 disposed on the hub first end 542 and two sensor flags 558 disposed on the hub second end 544. In other cases, the cam adjustment gear 292 can include any number of sensor flags 558, and the sensor flags 558 can be provided in any suitable form and arranged in any suitable configuration. In some cases, the sensor flags 558 can be configured to indicate the rotational position of the camshaft 290.

[0077] As best shown in FIG. 28 , the adjustment gear inner surface 548 can define the adjustment gear opening 550 such that the shape of the adjustment gear opening 550 reflects or complements the shape of the camshaft 290 at the gear region 456 (see FIG. 21 ). For example, in some cases, the adjustment gear inner end surface 548 can include an adjustment gear semicircular edge 560, two adjustment gear flat edges 562 connected to opposite ends of the adjustment gear semicircular edge 560, and an adjustment gear chamfered edge 564 disposed at the junction between the adjustment gear flat edges 562. Thus, the adjustment gear flat edge 562 and the adjustment gear chamfered edge 564 can engage with the flat edge 468 and the chamfered edge 470, respectively, of the camshaft 290 when the cam adjustment gear 292 is installed (e.g., when the adjustment gear opening 550 receives the gear region 456 of the camshaft 290). In this manner, cam adjustment gear 292 can be prevented or limited from rotating relative to camshaft 290 when printhead assembly 200 is in use. In other words, cam adjustment gear 292 can be configured to rotate integrally with camshaft 290 when printhead assembly 200 is in use.

[0078] Turning to FIG. 29 , the printhead module 202 is depicted with the printhead assembly 200 in the closed position and the camshaft 290 in a first rotational position. The camshaft 290 can extend through the camshaft opening 374 in the printhead holder 282 such that the force cam 288 is positioned to engage the push plate 286. In some cases, the first force cam quadrant 502 a can engage the push plate 286 when the camshaft 290 is in the first rotational position. The lift cam 294 may not engage the flange impact surface 372 when the camshaft 290 is in the first rotational position (e.g., one of the lift cam sidewalls 522 a, 522 b may be positioned adjacent to, but not impact against, the adjacent flange impact surface 372). The camshaft 290 can be moved from the first rotational position to other rotational positions while the printhead assembly 200 is in use. For example, a first rotational position of the camshaft 290 can correspond to a first set (e.g., a first nip force setting) of the printhead assembly 200. In some cases, a second rotational position of the camshaft 290 can correspond to a second setting of the printhead assembly 200, and when the camshaft 290 is in the second rotational position, another of the force cam quadrants 502 (e.g., the second force cam quadrant 502b) can engage the push plate 286. The camshaft 290 can be configured to move to further rotational positions (e.g., a third rotational position, a fourth rotational position, etc.) corresponding to further settings of the printhead assembly 200.

[0079] 30 , a side plate 570 can be configured to be coupled to the casing lip 228 of the casing 204 and oriented parallel to the casing sidewall 238 (see, for example, FIG. 7 ) such that the side plate 570 is positioned to support or retain various components of the printhead assembly 200. The side plate 570 can be provided in the form of a substantially planar side plate body 572 defined by a side plate first end 574 and a side plate second end 576 opposite the side plate first end 574. In some cases, the side plate 570 can be designed to mirror the shape of the casing 204 and / or the casing sidewall 238. For example, the side plate 570 may have a side plate inclined edge 578 adjacent the side plate first end 574 (e.g., positioned to align with the inclined portion 220 of the casing 204), a side plate vertical edge 580 adjacent the side plate second end 576 (e.g., positioned to align with the vertical portion 222 of the casing 204), and a side plate upper edge 582 (e.g., positioned to align with the upper panel 224 of the casing 204).

[0080] The side plate 570 may include a plurality of side plate holes 584 provided in the form of substantially circular or rounded openings extending entirely through the side plate body 572. The side plate holes 584 may be arranged to receive or support various components of the printhead assembly 200. For example, in some cases, the side plate holes 584 may include one or more side plate mounting holes 584a, a side plate support shaft hole 584b, a side plate connecting shaft hole 584c, a side plate lever shaft hole 584d, a side plate camshaft hole 584e, a side plate stopper hole 584f, one or more side plate sensor holes 584g, and one or more side plate pin holes 584h. In other cases, the side plate 570 may include any number of side plate holes 584 configured in any suitable arrangement.

[0081] In the embodiment of FIG. 30 , side plate mounting hole 584 a can be positioned to align with casing mounting member 230 positioned on casing lip 228 (see FIG. 9 ); side plate support shaft hole 584 b can be positioned to align with support shaft seat 252 (see FIG. 9 ) and receive a first portion of support shaft 590; side plate link shaft hole 584 c can be positioned to align with first link shaft opening 356 of print head holder 282 (see FIG. 14 ) and second link shaft opening 428 of push plate 286 (see FIG. 18 ) and receive a portion of link shaft 430; side plate lever shaft hole 584 d can be positioned to align with casing lever shaft hole 240 (see FIG. 9 ); and side plate camshaft hole 584 e can be positioned to align with camshaft seat 256 (see FIG. 9 ) and receive a portion of camshaft 290.

[0082] 31 , in some cases, the support shaft 590 can support or orient one or more components of the printhead assembly 200 and facilitate connection between the printhead module 202 and the casing 204. The support shaft 590 can be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical support shaft body 592 defined by a support shaft first end 594 and a support shaft second end 596 opposite the support shaft first end 594. The support shaft 590 can include a main body portion 598 proximate the support shaft second end 596 and a protrusion 600 disposed between the main body portion 598 and the support shaft first end 594. A stud member 602 can be connected to and extend outwardly from the main body portion 598 proximate the support shaft second end 596. A support shaft connection hole 604 provided in the form of a substantially circular opening extending at least partially through the support shaft body 592 can be located on the protruding portion 600 adjacent to the main body portion 598.

[0083] 32 , a second orienting member 606 provided in the form of a substantially annular orienting member body 608 can be disposed on and coupled to the protruding portion 600 proximate the main body portion 598 of the support shaft 590. For example, the second orienting member 606 can include an opening (not shown) configured to align with the support shaft connection hole 604. Thus, the fastener 400 can extend through the opening in the second orienting member and be received by the support shaft connection hole 604 (e.g., via threaded engagement between the fastener 400 and the inner surface of the support shaft connection hole 604), thereby coupling the second orienting member 606 to the support shaft 590.

[0084] In some cases, the second orientation member 606 may include two orientation ridges 610 connected to and extending upwardly from the orientation member body 608. The orientation ridges 610 may be provided in the form of substantially flat protrusions oriented parallel to one another such that an orientation slot 612 is defined therebetween. For example, the orientation slot 612 of the second orientation member 606 may be positioned to receive the orientation surface 362 disposed on the first orientation member 360 of the printhead holder 282 (see FIG. 14 ). Thus, in some cases, the second orientation member 606 may be configured to maintain the proper position and orientation (e.g., relative to the casing 204) of the printhead 138, the docking plate 280, the printhead holder 282, and / or the push plate 286 when the printhead assembly 200 is in use.

[0085] One or more bushings 614 may be disposed along the support shaft 590. In some cases, a first bushing 614a may be disposed on the protruding portion 600 adjacent the second orientation member 606, and a second bushing 614b may be disposed on the stud member 602. The first bushing 614a may include a bushing lip 616 provided in the form of an annular protrusion extending outwardly from the first bushing 614a and disposed proximate to the second orientation member 606. The first bushing 614a may be positioned to align with or be received by the side plate support assembly shaft hole 584b (see FIG. 30 ) to facilitate rotation of the support shaft 590 relative to the side plate 570 while the printhead assembly 200 is in use (e.g., when the printhead assembly 200 transitions between the closed and open positions). The second bushing 614b is positioned to align with or be received within the support shaft seat 252 of the casing 204 (see FIG. 9 ) and can facilitate rotation of the support shaft 590 relative to the casing 204 while the printhead assembly 200 is in use (e.g., when the printhead assembly 200 transitions between the closed and open positions). For example, when the printhead assembly 200 moves from the closed position (see FIG. 5 ) to the open position (see FIG. 6 ), the casing 204 and printhead module 202 can pivot or rotate about an axis extending along the length of the support shaft 590 to move the printhead 138 away from the platen roller 140.

[0086] 33 , the side plate 570 can be coupled to the casing 204 to form a housing 618 in which one or more components of the printhead module 202 can be disposed or retained. For example, fasteners 400 can extend through one or more of the side plate mounting holes 584 a and be received by an adjacent casing mounting member 230, and / or one or more of the side plate mounting holes 584 a can receive an adjacent casing mounting member 230 (e.g., with a press fit). In some cases, the housing 618 can be defined by the side plate 570, the roof 214 of the casing 204, and the casing sidewall 238. As shown, the side plate camshaft hole 584 e can align with the camshaft seat 256 to securely position the camshaft 290 within the housing 618. The side plate linkage shaft hole 584 c can align with the linkage shaft seat 254 to securely position the linkage shaft 430 within the housing 618. For example, connecting shaft second end 436 can be received by connecting shaft seat 254, and notched segment 438 at connecting shaft first end 434 can extend beyond side plate 570 through side plate connecting shaft hole 584c. Side plate lever shaft hole 584d can be aligned with casing lever shaft hole 240.

[0087] The support shaft 590 can extend through the side plate support shaft bore 584b such that the stud member 602 at the support shaft second end 596 is received by the support shaft seat 252 and the main body portion 598 is positioned within or adjacent to the housing 618 such that the protruding portion 600 extends beyond the side plate 570. The second orienting member 606 can be positioned within the housing 618 adjacent the side plate first end 574 (e.g., at a rear corner of the housing 618) such that the orienting ridge 610 (see FIG. 32) extends toward the roof 214 and can receive the first orienting member 360 (see FIG. 14) in the orienting slot 612.

[0088] The first bushing 614a surrounds a portion of the support shaft 590 received by the side plate support shaft hole 584b and can facilitate rotation of the support shaft 590 therein. In some cases, the bushing lip 616 can engage the side plate 570 and prevent the first bushing 614a from tracking along the support shaft 590 (e.g., sliding out of the side plate support shaft hole 584b). The second bushing 614b surrounds a portion of the support shaft 590 received by the support shaft seat 252 (e.g., the stud member 602) and can facilitate rotation of the support shaft 590 therein.

[0089] 34 , the lever subassembly 206 can be at least partially disposed within the housing 618 and can be operable by engaging the lever 208 (e.g., to open the printhead assembly 200 and provide access to one or more internal components thereof for cleaning, maintenance, or other purposes). The lever subassembly 206 can include a lever shaft 630 received at one end by the lever 208. The lever shaft 630 can be coupled to the lever 208 such that the lever shaft 630 is configured to rotate in response to rotation of the lever 208. In some cases, the lever subassembly 206 can include one or more locking members 632 and one or more lifting members 634 disposed on the lever shaft 630. For example, in some cases, a first locking member 632 a and a second locking member 632 b can be disposed proximate opposite ends of the lever shaft 630. The first and second lift members 634a and 634b can be disposed proximate to the first and second locking members 632a and 632b, respectively. The lever 208, the lever shaft 630, the first and second locking members 632a and 632b, the first and second lift members 634a and 634b can rotate about an axis B.

[0090] The first locking member 632a can engage with the first locking pin 636a, and the second locking member 632b can engage with the second locking pin 636b, respectively, when the lever subassembly 206 is in the default configuration (i.e., as depicted in FIG. 34 ). For example, in some cases, each of the first and second locking pins 636a, 636b can be coupled to or integrally formed with an internal component of the printing device (e.g., printer 100) such that the locking pin 636a occupies a fixed position therein. In other cases, each of the first and second locking pins 636a, 636b can be integrally formed with or coupled to a stationary component of the printhead assembly 200. In some cases, releasable engagement between the first and second locking members 632a, 632b and the first and second locking pins 636a, 636b, respectively, can maintain the lever subassembly 206 in the default configuration. For example, a user can rotate lever 208 in the direction of first arrow 637 to enable first and second locking members 632a, 632b to disengage from first and second locking pins 636a, 636b, respectively.

[0091] As best shown in FIG. 35 , the lever shaft 630 can be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical lever shaft body 638 defined by a lever shaft first end 640 and a lever shaft second end 642 opposite the lever shaft first end 640. The lever shaft 630 can be partially cylindrical and include one or more lever shaft notched regions 644 designed to facilitate connection between the lever shaft and the casing 204, the lever 208, and / or other components of the printhead assembly 200. For example, a first lever shaft notched region 644 a can be located at the lever shaft first end 640, and a second lever shaft notched region 644 b can be located at the lever shaft second end 642. A lever shaft central region 646 can extend between the first lever shaft notched region 644 a and the second lever shaft notched region 644 b.

[0092] The lever shaft 630 can include one or more lever cam regions 648 positioned to support the lift member 634 for rotation with the lever shaft 630. For example, a first lever cam region 648a can be positioned on the lever shaft central region 646 adjacent to the first lever shaft notched region 644a, and a second lever cam region 648b can be positioned on the lever shaft central region 646 adjacent to the second lever shaft notched region 644b. In some cases, the first lever cam region 648a can be positioned to receive the first lift member 634a, and the second lever cam region 648b can be positioned to receive the second lift member 634b.

[0093] In some cases, the lever shaft 630 may include one or more washer grooves 462 (e.g., disposed on the first lever shaft notched region 644a and / or the second lever shaft notched region 644b). Additionally, the lever shaft 630 may include one or more lever shaft openings 652. For example, the first lever shaft opening 652a may be provided in the form of a substantially circular hole disposed on and extending entirely through the first lever shaft notched region 644a, and the second lever shaft opening 652b may be provided in the form of a substantially circular hole disposed on and extending entirely through the second lever shaft notched region 644b.

[0094] As best shown in FIG. 36 , the first cam region 648a can be configured to receive the first lift member 634a, and the second lever cam region 648b can be configured to receive the second lift member 634b. The first and second cam regions 648a, 648b can support the lift members 634a, 634b, respectively, for rotation with the lever shaft 630 about axis B. For example, the first and second lever cam regions 648a, 648b can each include a lever shaft semicircular edge 654, two substantially lever shaft flat edges 656 connected to opposite ends of the lever shaft semicircular edge 654, and a lever shaft chamfered edge 658 disposed at the junction between the lever shaft flat edges 656. In other cases, the first and second lever cam regions 648a, 648b can each be provided in any suitable form, provided that they are configured to constrain rotation of the associated lift member 634 relative to the lever shaft 630. In some cases, the lever shaft connection hole 660 can be disposed at the lever shaft second end 642 and extend at least partially into the second lever shaft notched region 644b.

[0095] 37 , the lever 208 may be provided in the form of a substantially curved lever body 670 defined by a lever base 672, a lever peak 674 opposite the lever base 672, a lever first side 676 extending between the lever base 672 and the lever peak 674, and a lever second side 678 extending between the lever base 672 and the lever peak 674 and opposite the lever first side 676. The lever 208 may include a lever connection hole 680 provided in the form of a substantially circular opening extending generally through the lever body 670.

[0096] In some cases, the lever 208 may include a grip surface 682 disposed on a lever outer surface 684 and extending between the lever base 672 and the lever peak 674. For example, a first lever outer surface portion 686 proximate the lever first surface 676 may be elevated or raised relative to a second lever outer surface portion 688 proximate the lever second side 678. The first lever outer surface portion 686 and the second lever outer surface portion 688 may be offset and parallel to one another, and the grip surface 682 may extend between the first lever outer surface portion 686 and the second lever outer surface portion 688. In some cases, the grip surface 682 may be perpendicular to the first lever outer surface portion 686 and / or the second lever outer surface portion 688. The grip surface 682 may increase the ease with which a user grasps or engages the lever 208 to operate the lever subassembly 206.

[0097] As best shown in FIG. 38 , a lever inner surface 690 opposite the lever outer surface 684 can be configured to receive or engage one or more components of the lever subassembly 206. For example, a substantially annular lever collar 692 designed to receive a portion of the lever shaft 630 (e.g., the lever shaft second end 642) can be disposed on the lever inner surface 690 and extend outwardly therefrom. The lever collar inner periphery 694 can define a lever shaft seat 696 within the lever collar 692 such that the shape of the lever shaft seat 696 reflects or complements the shape of the portion of the lever shaft 630. For example, the lever shaft seat 696 can be configured to receive the second lever shaft notched region 644b. The lever connection hole 680 can be positioned within the lever collar 692 such that the lever connection hole 680 aligns with the lever shaft connection hole 660 (see FIG. 36 ) when the lever collar 692 receives the lever shaft 630.

[0098] In some cases, a lever sidewall 698 can be coupled to and extend outwardly from the periphery of the lever inner surface 690. For example, the lever sidewall 698 can be provided in the form of a curved panel disposed at the lever peak 674 and extending toward the lever base 672 along at least a portion of the lever first side 676 and at least a portion of the lever second side 678. In some cases, a locking member support wall 700 disposed adjacent the lever sidewall 698 can surround at least a portion of the lever collar 692. For example, the locking member support wall 700 can be configured to support or retain a portion of the second locking member 632b (see FIG. 34 ).

[0099] In some cases, the lever 208 may include a lever support structure 702 connected to and extending outwardly from the lever inner surface 690. For example, the lever support structure 702 may include a support ring 704 (e.g., surrounding the lever collar 692) and one or more support walls 706 connected to the support ring 704. In some cases, the one or more support walls 706 may extend between the support ring 704 and the lever collar 692. The lever support structure may define two substantially linear lever pin channels 708 disposed proximate the lever first side 676 and the lever second side 678, respectively. For example, the lever pin channels 708 may be located opposite each other with respect to the lever collar 692. The lever collar 692 may include semicircular lever collar recesses 710 disposed proximate each of the lever pin channels 708. In some cases, the lever pin channel 708 and the lever collar recess 710 may be aligned to form a substantially linear channel or passageway extending between opposing points along the locking member support wall 700 .

[0100] The lever 208 may include a lever striker 712 positioned to contact an associated locking member 632 (e.g., second locking member 632b) when the lever subassembly 206 is engaged or actuated by a user. In some cases, the lever striker 712 may be disposed on and extend outwardly from the lever inner surface 690 adjacent the lever second side 678. For example, the lever striker 712 may be disposed between the lever sidewall 698 and the locking member support wall 700. A lever striker surface 714 disposed on the lever striker 712 may be positioned to contact the associated locking member 632.

[0101] Turning to FIG. 39 , an example elevation profile of the lever inner surface 690 is shown. In some cases, the lever collar 692 and the lever support structure 702 can extend outward a first distance from the lever inner surface 690. The locking member support wall 700 extends outward a second distance from the lever inner surface 690. The lever impact member 712 can extend outward a third distance from the lever inner surface 690. In some cases, the third distance can be greater than the second distance, and the second distance can be greater than the first distance. In other cases, the second distance and the third distance can be substantially equal to each other and each can be greater than the first distance.

[0102] Returning to FIG. 40 , the lever shaft second end 642 can be received by the lever collar 692 (e.g., at least a portion of the second lever shaft notched region 644b can be disposed within a lever shaft seat 696 defined by the lever collar 692). In some cases, a lever pin 716 can be connected to the lever shaft 630 when the lever subassembly 206 is assembled. The lever pin 716 can be configured to engage both the lever shaft 630 and the lever 208. For example, the lever pin 716 can be disposed within or extend through a second lever shaft opening 652b disposed on the second lever shaft notched region 644b (see FIG. 36 ). Furthermore, the lever pin 716 can be received within the lever pin channel 708 and the lever collar recess 710 such that the lever pin 716 is configured to transmit torque or rotational motion of the lever 208 to the lever shaft 630. Thus, the lever pin 716 can rotate the lever shaft 630 in response to rotation of the lever 208 (e.g., when a user engages the lever 208 and rotates the lever 208 about an axis of rotation extending along the lever shaft 630).

[0103] Turning to FIG. 41 , the lever shaft connection hole 660 (see FIG. 36 ) can be positioned to align with the lever connection hole 680 (see FIG. 38 ) when the lever shaft second end 642 is received by the lever collar 692. The fastener 400 can therefore extend through the lever connection hole 680 and be received by the lever shaft connection hole 660 (e.g., via threaded engagement between an outer surface of the fastener 400 and an inner surface of the lever shaft connection hole 660), thereby coupling the lever 208 to the lever shaft 630. The fastener 400 can hold the lever shaft second end 642 in place within the lever collar 692. The lever pin 716 can therefore be retained within the lever pin channel 708 and lever collar recess 710 (see FIG. 40 ) such that engagement between the lever pin 716 and the lever 208 is maintained.

[0104] The first locking member 632a (see FIG. 42A) and the second locking member 632b (see FIG. 42B) can each be provided in the form of a substantially hook-shaped locking member body 720 defined by a locking member upper edge 722 and a locking member lower end 724 opposite the locking member upper edge 722. In some cases, the first locking member 632a and the second locking member 632b can be provided in substantially the same form. For example, each locking member 632 can include a substantially annular arcuate member 726 adjacent the locking member upper end 722 and a hook member 728 connected to the arcuate member 726 and extending downwardly therefrom.

[0105] Arcuate member 726 can be defined by an arcuate member outer periphery 730 and an arcuate member inner periphery 732. Arcuate member inner periphery 732 can define a substantially circular locking member mounting hole 734 extending entirely through locking member body 720. For example, locking member mounting hole 734 can be configured to receive a portion of lever shaft 630. In some cases, locking member tab 736 can be disposed proximate the junction between arcuate member outer periphery 730 and hook member 728. For example, locking member tab 736 can be provided in the form of a protruding surface oriented substantially perpendicular to arcuate member outer periphery 730. Locking member tab 736 can facilitate engagement of locking member 632 (e.g., first locking member 632a or second locking member 632b) with one or more other components of lever subassembly 206, as described below with reference to FIG. 51 .

[0106] The locking members 632 may each include a locking pin seat 738 disposed on the hook member 728 proximate the locking member lower end 724. The locking pin seat 738 may be provided in the form of a recessed edge 740 of the hook member 728 configured to engage an adjacent locking pin 636 (e.g., first locking pin 636a or second locking pin 636b) when the lever subassembly 206 is in the default configuration (see FIG. 34 ). In some cases, the locking members 632 may each include a locking member aperture 742 provided in the form of a substantially circular opening extending entirely through the locking member body 720. For example, the locking member aperture 742 may be disposed between the arcuate member 726 and the hook member 728.

[0107] 43 , the first lift member 634a may be provided in the form of a rounded lift member body 750 defined by a cam surface 752 and a lift member rear surface 754 opposing the cam surface 752. A first lever cam 756a may be connected to the cam surface 752 and extend outwardly therefrom. The first lever cam 756a may be defined by an outer lever cam surface 758 and an inner lever cam surface 760. The inner lever cam surface 760 may define a lift member mounting hole 762 that extends entirely through the first lever cam 756a and the lift member body 750.

[0108] As best shown in FIG. 44 , the lever cam inner surface 760 can define the lift member mounting hole 762 such that the shape of the lift member mounting hole 762 reflects or complements the shape of the lever shaft 630 at the first lever cam region 648a (see FIG. 35 ). For example, in some cases, the lever cam inner surface 760 can include a lever cam semicircular edge 764, two lever cam flat edges 766 connected to opposite ends of the lever cam semicircular edges 764, and a lever cam chamfered edge 768 disposed at the junction between the lever cam flat edges 766. Thus, the lever cam flat edge 766 and the lever cam chamfered edge 768 can engage with the lever shaft flat edge 656 and the lever shaft chamfered edge 658, respectively (see FIG. 36 ) when the first lift member 634a is installed (e.g., when the lift member mounting hole 762 receives the first lever cam region 648a of the lever shaft 630). In this manner, first lift member 634a can be prevented or limited from rotating relative to lever shaft 630 when printhead assembly 200 is in use. In other words, first lift member 634a can be configured to rotate integrally with lever shaft 630 when printhead assembly 200 is in use.

[0109] The lever cam outer surface 758 can be provided with an irregular shape designed to selectively engage an associated lever impact surface 366 of the print head holder 282 (see FIG. 14 ) depending on the rotational position of the lever shaft 630. In some cases, the lever cam outer surface 758 can include a lever cam idle segment 770 and two lever cam active segments 772 connected to opposite ends of the lever cam idle segment 770. The lever cam idle segment 770 can be adjacent to the lever impact surface 366 when the lever subassembly 206 is in a default configuration (e.g., the lever cam idle segment can be configured not to engage the lever impact surface 366). Meanwhile, the lever cam active segment 772 can be positioned to rotate into engagement (e.g., physical contact) with the lever impact surface 366 as the lever shaft 630 rotates. For example, first lever cam 756 can be configured such that lever cam active segment 772 is positioned farther from lift member mounting hole 762 (and from lever shaft 630) than lever cam idle segment 770. In other cases, lever cam outer surface 758 can be given any suitable shape or configuration.

[0110] 45, in some cases, the first lift member 634a may include one or more brackets 774 connected to and extending outwardly from the lift member rear surface 754. For example, each bracket 774 may include a bracket base member 776 connected to a periphery 778 of the lift member body 750 and a bracket retaining member 780 connected to the bracket base member 776 and extending inwardly (e.g., away from the periphery 778) therefrom. In some cases, the bracket 774 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the arcuate member 726 of the first locking member 632a when the lever subassembly 206 is assembled (see FIG. 34).

[0111] 46 , similar to the first lift member 634a, the second lift member 634b can be provided in the form of a rounded lift member body 750 defined by a cam surface 752 and a lift member rear surface 754 opposing the cam surface 752. A second lever cam 756b can be connected to the cam surface 752 and extend outwardly therefrom. The second lever cam 756b can be provided in substantially the same form as the first lever cam 756a. For example, the second lever cam 756b can be defined by an outer lever cam surface 758 and an inner lever cam surface 760. The inner lever cam surface 760 can define a lift member mounting hole 762 that extends generally through the second lever cam 756b and the lift member body 750.

[0112] As best shown in FIG. 47 , the lever cam inner surface 760 can define the lift member mounting hole 762 such that the shape of the lift member mounting hole 762 reflects or complements the shape of the lever shaft 630 at the second lever cam region 648b (see FIG. 35 ). For example, in some cases, the lever cam inner surface 760 can include a lever cam semicircular edge 764, two lever cam flat edges 766 connected to opposite ends of the lever cam semicircular edge 764, and a lever cam chamfered edge 768 disposed at the junction between the lever cam flat edges 766. Thus, the lever cam flat edge portion 766 and the lever cam chamfered edge 768 can engage with the lever shaft flat edge portion 656 and the lever shaft chamfered edge 658 (see FIG. 36 ), respectively, when the second lift member 634b is installed (e.g., when the lift member mounting hole 762 receives the second lever cam region 648b of the lever shaft 630). In this manner, second lift member 634b can be prevented or limited from rotating relative to lever shaft 630 when printhead assembly 200 is in use. In other words, first lift member 634a can be configured to rotate integrally with lever shaft 630 when printhead assembly 200 is in use.

[0113] Turning to FIG. 48, the lever subassembly 206 is depicted with the lever 208 removed. The first lifting member 634a can be positioned on the first lever camming region 648a, and the second lifting member 634b can be positioned on the second lever camming region 648b (see FIG. 35). The first locking member 632a can be positioned on the first lever shaft notched region 644a adjacent to the first lifting member 634a. For example, the first locking member 632a can abut the first lever camming region 648a (see FIG. 35) such that the arcuate member 726 of the first locking member 632a is positioned within (e.g., at least partially surrounded by) the bracket 774 of the first lifting member 634a (see also FIG. 34). The second locking member 632b can be positioned between the second lifting member 634b and the lever shaft second end 642. For example, the second locking member 632b can be disposed on the second lever shaft notched region 644b adjacent to the lever pin 716. The hook member 728 of the first lifting member 634a can engage with the first locking pin 636a, and the hook member 728 of the second lifting member 634b can engage with the second locking pin 636b. In some cases, the second locking member 632b can include a second locking member pin 782 disposed within or coupled to the locking member opening 742 (see FIG. 42B ) and extending inwardly therefrom (e.g., toward the lever shaft first end 640). The lever shaft central region 646 can extend between the first lever cam 756a and the second lever cam 756b.

[0114] The lever subassembly 206 may include one or more lever shaft bearings 784 and one or more washers 472 disposed along the lever shaft 630. The lever shaft bearings 784 may be positioned to facilitate rotation of the lever shaft 630 relative to one or more other components of the printhead assembly 200 when the printhead assembly 200 is in use. In some cases, a first lever shaft bearing 784a disposed proximate the lever shaft first end 640 may facilitate rotation of a portion of the lever shaft 630 disposed within the side plate lever shaft hole 584d (see FIG. 30 ) when the printhead assembly 200 is in use. A second lever shaft bearing 784b disposed proximate the lever shaft second end 642 may facilitate rotation of a portion of the lever shaft 630 disposed within the casing lever shaft hole 240 (see FIG. 9 ) when the printhead assembly 200 is in use. In other cases, any number of lever shaft bearings 784 can be positioned in any suitable arrangement along the lever shaft 630. The washer 472 can be received by the washer groove 462 of the lever shaft 630 and can be positioned to prevent tracking or unintentional movement of the locking member 632, the lift member 634, and / or the lever shaft bearing 784 along the lever shaft 630 while the printhead assembly 200 is in use.

[0115] 49 , the lever shaft 630 can extend through lever shaft openings 358 located on the first printhead holder sidewall 342 a and the second printhead holder sidewall 342 b (see FIG. 14 ) when the printhead assembly 200 is assembled. In some cases, the first printhead holder sidewall 342 a can be positioned along the lever shaft central region 646 adjacent to the first lever cam 756 a, and the second printhead holder sidewall 342 b can be positioned along the lever shaft central region 646 adjacent to the second lever cam 756 b. Thus, the first and second lever cams 756 a, 756 b can each be positioned to lift or elevate the printhead holder 282 by engaging the adjacent lever impact surface 366.

[0116] For each of the first and second lever cams 756a, 756b, the lever cam idle segment 770 can be adjacent to the lever impact surface 366 so that the lever cam 756 does not engage the printhead holder 282 when the lever subassembly 206 is in the default configuration, as shown in FIG. 49 . However, the lever cam active segment 772 can be positioned to engage the lever impact surface 366 when the lever subassembly 206 is actuated. For example, a user can actuate the lever subassembly 206 (e.g., release the printhead assembly 200) by pushing the lever 208 in the direction of the second arrow 786. The lever shaft 630 and the lift member 634 disposed thereon can rotate in response to movement of the lever 208 due to engagement between the lever pin 716, the lever shaft 630, and the lever 208, as described above with reference to FIG. 40 . Thus, the lever subassembly 206 can convert to the lift configuration as the first lever cam 756a and the second lever cam 756b rotate into engagement with the print head holder 282. For example, one of the lever cam active segments 772 can impact and / or apply an upward force to the adjacent lever impact surface 366 when the lever subassembly 206 is in the lift configuration (see FIG. 50B).

[0117] 50A depicts the printhead module 202 including the lever subassembly 206 in a default configuration. As shown, the lever cam idle segment 770 is adjacent the lever impact surface 366 so that the lever subassembly 206 does not engage the printhead holder 282. Thus, when the lever subassembly 206 is in the default configuration, the printhead 138 can occupy a lowered position and engage the platen roller 140 (e.g., by applying a nipping force thereto).

[0118] FIG. 50B depicts the printhead module 202 including the lever subassembly 206 in an elevated configuration (e.g., after a user pushes or rotates the lever 208 in the direction of the second arrow 786 shown in FIG. 49 ). As shown, the lever cam idle segment 770 has rotated away from the lever impact surface 366 such that the lever cam active segment 772 impacts and engages the lever impact surface 366, thereby exerting an upward force on the printhead holder 282. As discussed above with reference to FIG. 16 , the printhead 138, docking plate 280, printhead holder 282, and / or other components of the printhead assembly 200 can be coupled together and configured to move as a unit. Thus, engagement of the first and second lever cams 756 a, 756 b with the lever impact surface 366 can lift or raise the printhead holder 282 and / or other components of the printhead module 202 connected thereto. In this manner, the printhead 138 can transition from a lowered position to a raised position when the lever subassembly 206 transitions from the default configuration to the lift configuration.

[0119] 51 , the locking member 632 can remain stationary (e.g., remain engaged with the engagement pin 636) while the lever subassembly 206 moves from the default configuration to the lift configuration, as described above with reference to FIGS. 49-50B. In some cases, the locking member mounting hole 734 of the first locking member 632a and the locking member mounting hole 734 of the second locking member 632b can be configured to allow the lever shaft 630 to rotate relative to the locking member 632. Thus, the locking member 632, like the lifting member 634, may not immediately rotate in response to rotation of the lever shaft 630. Instead, the locking member 632 can remain in place until impacted or engaged by another component of the lever subassembly 206 (e.g., via the locking member tab 736).

[0120] When the print head 138 is in the lowered position, as described above with reference to FIG. 10 , the nipping force (e.g., generated by the spring 284) that presses the print head 138 against the platen roller 140 can be at least partially transmitted to the lever subassembly 206. In some cases, the nipping force can increase the strength of engagement between the first and second locking members 632 a, 632 b and the first and second locking pins 636 a, 636 b, respectively. For example, the nipping force can hold or press the hook member 728 against the locking pin 636 with substantial force. Thus, substantial resistance may need to be overcome to move the locking member 632 out of engagement with the locking pin 636 while the print head 138 is in the lowered position.

[0121] The force required to operate the lever subassembly 206 (e.g., to release the printhead assembly 200) can be significantly reduced by allowing the locking member 632 to remain stationary (e.g., engage with the locking pin 636) while the lifting member 634 rotates into engagement with the printhead holder 282, moving the printhead 138 to a raised position, thereby reducing or eliminating the resistance provided by the nip force.

[0122] For example, the lever subassembly 206 can be configured such that the engagement between the locking member 632 and the locking pin 636 is not interrupted when the lever subassembly 206 moves from the default configuration to the lift configuration. Once the lever subassembly 206 is moved to the lift configuration, a user can continue to actuate the lever subassembly 206 (e.g., by rotating the lever 208 in the direction of the second arrow 786) to disengage the locking member 632 from the locking pin 636 without having to oppose a nip force or overcome the resistance created by the engagement between the print head 138 and the platen roller 140.

[0123] In some cases, a portion of the first lift member 634a can be configured to engage the first locking member 632a when the print head 138 is moved to the raised position. For example, in some cases, the first lift member 634a can include three brackets 774, including a first bracket 774a, a second bracket 774b, and a third bracket 774c, each bracket positioned to surround at least a portion of the arcuate member 726 of the first locking member 632a. The first bracket 774a can be positioned proximate to and arranged to engage the locking member tab 736 of the first locking member 632a. In other cases, the first lift member 634a can have any number of brackets 774, or the first lift member 634a can include additional or alternative components, provided that a portion of the first lift member 634a is positioned to engage the first locking member 632a when the print head 138 is in the raised position.

[0124] The first lift member 634a can be configured to rotate unitarily with the lever shaft 630 as the lever 208 rotates in the direction of the second arrow 786, while the first locking member 632a can initially remain stationary relative to the lever shaft 630. Thus, the first bracket 774a can be configured to approach the locking member tab 736 while the lever cam 756 rotates to engage the printhead holder 282 and lift the printhead 138 (e.g., while the lever subassembly 206 moves from the default configuration to the lift configuration). Once the printhead 138 is in the lifted position, the first bracket 774a can then engage (e.g., impact) the locking member tab 736 of the first locking member 632a, causing the hook member 728 to disengage the first locking pin 636a as the lever 208 continues to rotate in the direction of the second arrow 786.

[0125] In some cases, the lever impingement member 712 on the lever inner surface 690 can be configured to engage the second locking member 632b in a similar manner when the print head 138 is moved to the raised position. For example, the lever impingement member 712 can be positioned on the lever inner surface 690 such that the lever impingement surface 714 is positioned adjacent to and engaged with the locking member tab 736 of the second locking member 632b. The second locking member 632b initially remains stationary while the lever 208 and lever shaft 630 rotate in the direction of the second arrow 786. Thus, the lever impingement surface 714 can approach the locking member tab 736 of the second locking member 632b while the lever cam 756 rotates into engagement with the print head holder 282, raising the print head 138. When the print head 138 is in the raised position, the lever impact surface 714 then engages the locking member tab 736, causing the hook member 728 of the second locking member 632b to disengage from the second locking pin 636b as the lever 208 continues to rotate in the direction of the second arrow 786.

[0126] Similarly, when closing the printhead assembly 200, the printhead 138 can remain in the raised position until the locking member 632 is lowered to re-engage the locking pin 636. For example, the first bracket 774a of the first lift member 634a can remain in contact with the locking member tab 736 of the first locking member 632a, and the lever impact surface 714 can remain in contact with the locking member tab 736 of the second locking member 632b while the printhead assembly 200 is moved from the open position to the closed position. When the printhead assembly 200 returns to the closed position, the hook member 728 can re-engage the locking pin 636 (e.g., the user can rotate the lever 208 in a direction opposite to the direction of the second arrow 786). The lever subassembly 206 can remain in the lift configuration (see FIG. 50B ) until the locking member 632 is lowered so that the recessed edge 740 of each of the hook members 728 can receive the associated locking pin 636. Thus, the lever subassembly 206 can be configured so that it does not have to counteract a nipping force when closing the printhead assembly 200 (e.g., by applying a downward force to the casing 204). The lever subassembly 206 returns to the default configuration after the locking member 632 re-engages the locking pin 636, thereby allowing the printhead 138 to be lowered into engagement with the platen roller 140 and re-establishing a nipping force.

[0127] In this manner, the lever subassembly 206 can reduce or eliminate the resistance a user experiences when opening or closing the printhead assembly 200 due to the nip force exerted by the printhead 138. For example, the lever subassembly 206 can hold the printhead 138 in a raised position via the engagement between the lift member 634 and the printhead holder 282 when (i) the hook member 728 rotates out of engagement with the locking pin 636 (e.g., when the user rotates the lever 208 in the direction of the second arrow 786 to open the printhead assembly 200), and (ii) the hook member 728 rotates back into engagement with the locking pin 636 (e.g., when the user presses down on the casing 204 to close the printhead assembly 200 and the lever 208 rotates in the direction opposite to the direction of the second arrow 786).

[0128] Turning to FIG. 52 , a lever shaft appendage 790 designed to be mounted on the first lever shaft notched region 644a (see FIG. 35 ) can be provided in the form of a substantially curvilinear appendage body 792 defined by an appendage first end 794 and an appendage second end 796 opposite the appendage first end 794. An appendage impact member 798, provided in the form of a substantially linear protrusion, can be located at the appendage first end 794. An appendage mounting hole 800, provided in the form of a partial cylindrical opening, can be located proximate the appendage second end 796 and extend entirely through the appendage body 792. The appendage mounting hole 800 can be shaped to mirror or complement the shape of the first lever shaft notched region 644a such that the lever shaft appendage 790 is configured to rotate with the lever shaft 630 when mounted thereon. The appendage fastening hole 802, positioned to facilitate coupling between the lever shaft appendage 790 and the lever shaft 630, may be provided in the form of a substantially circular opening extending entirely between the appendage mounting hole 800 and the appendage second end 796.

[0129] In some cases, the lever shaft appendage 790 may include an appendage arm 804 disposed on and extending outwardly from the appendage body 792 between the appendage first end 794 and the appendage second end 796. In other cases, the appendage arm 804 may be omitted.

[0130] 53 , a stopper 810 can be coupled to the side plate 570 (e.g., via the side plate stopper hole 584f shown in FIG. 30 ) and positioned for engagement by the lever shaft biasing portion 790. The stopper 810 can be provided in the form of a substantially curvilinear stopper body 812 defined by a stopper front surface 814 and a stopper rear surface 816 opposite the stopper front surface 814. The stopper front surface 814 and the stopper rear surface 816 can each extend between a stopper first end 818 and a stopper second end 820 opposite the stopper first end 818. In some cases, the stopper 810 can include a first stopper hole 822 and a second stopper hole 824 disposed proximate the stopper first end 818. The first and second stopper holes 822, 824 can each be provided in the form of a substantially circular opening extending entirely through the stopper body 812. In some cases, the stopper 810 may include a stopper sensor flag 826 provided in the form of a substantially flat panel connected to a peripheral edge 828 of the stopper body 812 (e.g., adjacent the stopper first end 818) and extending outward therefrom.

[0131] As best shown in FIG. 54 , the stopper 810 can include a stopper support wall 830 connected to and extending outwardly from the stopper rear surface 816. The stopper support wall 830 can be configured to abut or be positioned adjacent to the sidewall plate 570 (see FIG. 30 ) when the printhead assembly 200 is assembled. In some cases, the stopper support wall 830 can provide stability and / or structural rigidity to the stopper 810 and / or other components of the printhead assembly 200. The stopper support wall 830 can be provided in the form of an inwardly curved surface of the stopper support wall 830 positioned proximate the stopper second end 820 and can include a stopper receiving area 832 positioned to receive or engage the appendage impact member 798 of the lever shaft appendage 790 (see FIG. 52 ).

[0132] Turning to FIG. 55 , the stopper mounting pin 840 can facilitate mounting of the stopper 810 to the side plate 570 (see FIG. 30 ) when the printhead assembly 200 is installed. The stopper mounting pin 840 can be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical mounting pin body 842 defined by a mounting pin first end 844 and a mounting pin second end 846 opposite the mounting pin first end 844. A mounting pin receiver 848 can be disposed proximate the mounting pin first end 844, a mounting pin insert 850 can be disposed at the mounting pin second end 846, and a substantially annular mounting pin collar 852 can be disposed between the mounting pin receiver 848 and the mounting pin insert 850. In some cases, the stopper mounting pin 840 can include a washer groove 462 proximate the mounting pin first end 844.

[0133] In some cases, the stopper mounting pin 840 can extend through the second stopper bore 824 such that the mounting pin receiver 848 is disposed within the second stopper bore 824 (see FIG. 53). The mounting pin first end 844 can extend beyond the stopper front face 814 (e.g., so that the washer groove 462 can receive a washer 472 positioned to prevent the stopper mounting pin 840 from tracking within the second stopper bore 824). The mounting pin collar 852 can be positioned adjacent the stopper rear face 816 such that the mounting pin second end 846 can be received (e.g., with a press fit) by the side plate stopper bore 584f, thereby coupling the stopper 810 to the side plate 570 (see FIG. 30).

[0134] 56 , the stopper spring pin 860 can be designed to be installed in the stopper 810 through the first stopper hole 822 when the printhead assembly 200 is assembled. The stopper spring pin 860 can be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical spring pin body 862 defined by a spring pin first end 864 and a spring pin second end 866 opposite the spring pin first end 854. A spring post 868 including a substantially annular spring groove 870 can be positioned proximate the spring pin first end 864, a spring pin receiver 872 can be positioned proximate the spring pin second end 866, and a substantially annular spring pin collar 874 can be positioned between the spring post 868 and the spring pin receiver 872.

[0135] In some cases, the stopper spring pin 860 can extend through the first stopper hole 822 such that the spring pin receiver 872 is disposed within the first stopper hole 822 (see FIG. 53 ). The spring pin second end 866 can extend beyond the stopper rear face 816 (e.g., so that the washer groove 462 can receive a washer 472 positioned to prevent the stopper spring pin 860 from tracking within the first stopper hole 822). The spring pin collar 874 can be positioned adjacent the stopper front face 814 such that the spring post 868 extends beyond the stopper front face 814 and the spring groove 870 is available to receive and / or engage another component of the printhead assembly 200 (e.g., a stopper spring 880 as shown in FIG. 57 ).

[0136] Returning to FIG. 57 , the lever shaft 630 can extend through the side plate lever shaft hole 584d of the side plate 570 (see FIG. 30 ) and the housing lever shaft hole 240 of the housing 204 (see FIG. 8 ) such that the lever subassembly 206 is disposed substantially within the housing 618 (see FIG. 33 ). The lever shaft 630 can extend beyond the side plate 570 such that the first lever shaft notched area 644a can be received by the appendage mounting hole 800 (see FIG. 52 ). The lever shaft appendage 790 can be coupled to the lever shaft 630 by a fastener 400 disposed adjacent the side plate 570 and extending through the appendage fastening hole 802 and can be received by the first lever shaft opening 652a (see FIG. 35 ). Thus, the lever shaft appendage 790 can be configured to rotate in the direction of the third arrow 882 when the lever 208 moves or rotates in the direction of the second arrow 786.

[0137] In some cases, the stopper 810 can be coupled to the side plate 570 by a stopper mounting pin 840 and can be positioned to apply a return force to the lever shaft 630 via a lever shaft biasing member 790 when the lever 208 moves or rotates in the direction of the second arrow 786. For example, the stopper 810 can be positioned proximate to the lever shaft appendage 790 such that an appendage impingement member 798 (see FIG. 52 ) is received by or otherwise engaged with the stopper receiving area 832 (see FIG. 54 ). Thus, when the lever shaft appendage 790 rotates in the direction of the third arrow 882, the appendage impingement member 798 can apply a downward force to the stopper receiving area 832, which can cause the stopper 810 to rotate (e.g., in the direction of the fourth arrow 884) about the axis of rotation defined by the stopper mounting pin 840.

[0138] The spring base pin 886 can be coupled to and extend outwardly from the side plate 570 (e.g., via one of the side plate pin holes 584h shown in FIG. 30 ). The spring base pin 886 can be positioned proximate to the stopper 810 such that the stopper spring 888 extends between the spring base pin 886 and the stopper spring pin 860. For example, one end of the stopper spring 888 can be received by an annular spring groove (not shown) of the spring base pin 886 and the spring groove 870 (see FIG. 56 ). The stopper spring 888 can be in an extended state such that the tension in the stopper spring 888 applies a downward force to the stopper spring pin 860. In some cases, the stopper spring 888 can apply a preload tension to the lever shaft 630 (e.g., via engagement between the stopper 810, the lever shaft appendage 790, and the lever shaft 630) such that the likelihood of unintentional rotation of the lever 208 in the direction of the second arrow 786 is reduced or eliminated. Additionally, the distance between the stopper spring pin 860 and the spring base pin 886 can increase as the stopper 810 rotates in the direction of the fourth arrow 884, causing the stopper spring 888 to extend and apply a return force (e.g., a downward force) to the stopper 810.

[0139] In some cases, one or more sensors 900 may be coupled to the side plate 570 and positioned to generate one or more signals indicative of one or more settings, positions, or configurations of the printhead assembly 200. As shown in FIGS. 58 and 59 , each of the sensors 900 may be provided in the form of a substantially rectangular sensor body 902 including a rectangular sensor base member 904 defined by a sensor first end 906, a sensor second end 908 opposite the sensor first end 906, a sensor first side 910 extending between the sensor first end 906 and the sensor second end 908, and a sensor second side 912 extending between the sensor first end 906 and the sensor second end 908 and opposite the sensor first side 910. In other cases, the sensor body 902 and / or the sensor base member 904 may be given a rounded shape or any other suitable shape.

[0140] Each of the sensors 900 may include a first wing 914a and a second wing 914b configured to facilitate attachment between the sensor 900 and the side plate 570. The first and second wings 914a, 914b may be integrally formed with or coupled to the sensor base member 904. The first wing 914a may be connected to and extend outwardly from the sensor base member 904 proximate the junction between the sensor first end 906 and the sensor first side 910. The second wing 914b may be connected to and extend outwardly from the sensor base member 904 proximate the junction between the sensor first end 906 and the sensor second side 912. The first and second wings 914a, 914b may each include a sensor connection hole 916 that aligns with the side plate sensor hole 584g and is configured to facilitate coupling of the sensor 900 to the side plate 570 (e.g., via a press fit, snap fit, threaded engagement, or other mechanism known in the art).

[0141] 59 , each of the sensors 900 may include a first sensor leg 918 and a second sensor leg 920 connected to and extending downwardly from a bottom side 922 of the sensor base member 904. The first sensor leg 918 may be provided in the form of a substantially rectangular protrusion disposed proximate the sensor first end 906, and the second sensor leg 920 may be provided in the form of a substantially rectangular protrusion disposed proximate the sensor second end 908. The first and second sensor legs 918, 920 may be oriented parallel to one another such that an opening or passageway 924 is disposed between the first sensor leg 918 and the second sensor leg 920. Additionally, in some cases, each of the sensors 900 may include a port 926 provided in the form of a substantially linear protrusion connected to and extending upwardly from a top surface 928 of the sensor base member 904. For example, port 926 may be a mating portion of sensor 900 configured to receive a connector (not shown) so that each of sensors 900 can communicate with a processor, controller, or other electronic component of a printing device (e.g., printer 100).

[0142] In some cases, each of the sensors 900 may be provided in the form of an optical sensor (e.g., a photointerrupter). For example, one of the first and second sensor legs 918, 920 may include an emitter (not shown) configured to emit a light beam across the passage 924. The other of the first and second sensor legs 918, 920 may include a receiver (not shown) disposed opposite the emitter and configured to receive the light beam. Thus, each of the sensors 900 may occupy or detect either a blocked state or an unblocked state at any given moment. If the light beam from the emitter is able to traverse the passage 924 and reach the receiver, the sensor 900 may generate a signal indicating that the sensor 900 is in an unblocked state. If the light beam from the emitter is prevented from traversing the passage 924 and reaching the receiver, the sensor 900 may generate a signal indicating that the sensor 900 is in a blocked state.

[0143] One or more sensors 900 may be coupled to side plate 570 (see FIG. 57 ) and positioned to detect one or more settings, positions, or conditions of printhead assembly 200. Each of sensors 900 may be in communication with a processor, controller, or other electronic component (not shown) of a printing device (e.g., printer 100). Thus, sensors 900 may facilitate digital operation or control of printhead assembly 200. In some cases, printhead assembly 200 includes three sensors 900. In other cases, printhead assembly 200 may include any number of sensors 900 arranged in any suitable arrangement.

[0144] As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 57 , the printhead assembly 200 can include a first sensor 900a and a second sensor 900b positioned to detect a sensor flag 558 on the cam adjustment gear 292 as the camshaft 290 rotates. In some cases, the first and second sensors 900a, 900b together can form a system capable of generating unique signals indicative of multiple rotational positions of the camshaft 290. For example, the sensor flag 558 can be positioned such that one or both, or neither, of the first and second sensors 900a, 900b occupies or detects a blocked condition, depending on the rotational position of the camshaft 290. As the camshaft 290 rotates, the orientation of the sensor flag 558 relative to the first and second sensors 900a, 900b can change, which can change the signal or signals generated by the first and second sensors 900a, 900b.

[0145] The third sensor 900c can be positioned proximate the stopper 810 and positioned to detect the stopper sensor flag 826. For example, at least a portion of the stopper sensor flag 826 can be positioned within the passage 924 (see FIG. 59 ) such that the third sensor 900c occupies or detects a blocked state when the lever subassembly 206 is in the default configuration (e.g., when the printhead assembly 200 is closed). The stopper sensor flag 826 can move away from the passage 924 when the lever subassembly 206 transitions to the lift configuration, as described above with reference to FIGS. 50A and 50B . For example, rotation of the lever shaft 630 and lever shaft appendage 790 in the direction of the third arrow 882 (e.g., by a user pushing or rotating the lever 208 in the direction of the second arrow 786) can rotate the stopper sensor flag 826 out of the passage 924 in the direction of the fourth arrow 884. In this manner, the third sensor 900c can detect a transition from a blocked state to an unblocked state when the lever subassembly 206 is actuated to open the printhead assembly 200. In this manner, the third sensor 900c can be configured to communicate a signal indicative of a state or configuration (e.g., open vs. closed) of the lever subassembly 206 and / or the printhead assembly 200 to a processor or controller of the printing device (e.g., printer 100).

[0146] 60 , in some cases, the second locking member 632b can be positioned to engage the casing protrusion 242 and / or the recessed surface 244 of the casing 204. For example, the second locking member pin 782 can be connected to the second locking member 632b via the locking member opening 742 (see FIG. 42B ) and extend outwardly therefrom (e.g., toward the casing 204). A portion of the second locking member pin 782 can be received by the recessed surface 244. The recessed surface 244 can be defined by a recessed surface sidewall 930. The recessed surface sidewall 930 can be substantially perpendicular to the recessed surface 244 and can surround a portion of the second locking member pin 782 received therein.

[0147] The recessed surface 244 can be defined by a recessed surface first end 932 and a recessed surface second end 934 opposite the recessed surface first end 932. In some cases, the second locking member pin 782 can be positioned at the recessed surface second end 934 while the lever subassembly 206 is in the default configuration and the second locking member 632b is engaged with the second locking pin 636b. The second locking member 632b can rotate in the direction of the fifth arrow 936 when the lever impact surface 714 engages the locking member tab 736 of the second locking member 632b, as described above with reference to FIG. 51 . Thus, the second locking member pin 782 can move from the recessed surface second end 934 to the recessed surface first end 932 when the second locking member 632b disengages the second locking pin 636b. The second locking member pin 782 can be configured to assist in converting the printhead assembly 200 from the closed position to the open position by engaging the concave sidewall 930 at the concave first end 932. For example, a user can continue to apply a force (e.g., upward or in the direction of the fifth arrow 936) to the lever subassembly 206 while the second locking member pin 782 engages the concave first end 932 such that the casing 204 and / or other components of the printhead assembly 200 are moved to the open position.

[0148] In some cases, a torsion spring 938 can be disposed on the lever shaft 630 between the second locking member 632b and the casing side wall 238. The torsion spring 938 can be configured to provide a resistance or return force when the lever shaft 630 rotates to disengage the locking member 632 from the locking pin 636. For example, the torsion spring 938 can engage the casing protrusion 242, as shown in FIG.

[0149] FIG. 61 illustrates a method 1000 of opening and closing a printhead assembly (e.g., to perform maintenance, replace one or more components of the printhead assembly, or load consumables) in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0150] In step 1002, a printhead assembly (e.g., printhead assembly 200) is provided. In some cases, the printhead assembly includes a printhead (e.g., printhead 138) connected to a printhead holder (e.g., printhead holder 282), a lever subassembly (e.g., lever subassembly 206) including a lever shaft (e.g., lever shaft 630) holding one or more locking members (e.g., lever shaft 630) that releasably engage one or more locking pins (e.g., first locking pin 636a and second locking pin 636b), and one or more lever cams (e.g., first lever cam 756a and second lever cam 756b) disposed on the lever shaft and arranged to engage the printhead holder. In some cases, the printhead assembly can be movable between a closed position and an open position, the printhead can be movable between a lowered position and a raised position, and / or the lever subassembly can be movable between a default configuration and a lift configuration. The printhead holder may include one or more lever strike surfaces positioned adjacent to and arranged to be engaged by the one or more lever cams.

[0151] In step 1004, the lever subassembly transitions to a lift configuration such that the printhead moves from the lowered position to the raised position while the one or more lever cams engage the printhead holder and the one or more locking members maintain engagement with the one or more locking pins.

[0152] In step 1006, one or more locking members disengage one or more locking pins.

[0153] In step 1008, the printhead assembly is moved from the closed position to the open position.

[0154] In step 1010, a maintenance operation may be performed. The maintenance operation may include repairing or replacing printheads and / or other components of the printhead assembly, loading consumables into the printhead assembly, and the like.

[0155] In step 1012, the printhead assembly returns to the closed position and the locking member re-engages the locking pin while the printhead is in the raised position.

[0156] In step 1014, the lever subassembly returns to the default configuration and the printhead returns to the down side.

[0157] 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]

[0158] 138 print head 140 Platen roller 200 print head assembly 202 Printhead Module Casing 204 Casing Lever subassembly 206 Lever subassembly 208 Lever

Claims

1. 1. A printhead assembly for use in a printer, comprising: a print head connected to a print head holder and movable between a lowered position and a raised position; a lever subassembly; Equipped with The lever subassembly is A lever shaft; a locking mechanism configured, when engaged, to maintain the printhead assembly in a closed position; a lever cam connected to the lever shaft and positioned adjacent to a portion of the print head holder; Including, the lever cam engages the print head holder to move the print head from a lowered position to a raised position; the printhead is moved to the raised position before disengaging the locking mechanism when moving the printhead assembly from the closed position to the open position. Printhead assembly.

2. 2. The printhead assembly of claim 1, wherein after moving the printhead assembly from the open position to the closed position, the printhead is maintained in the raised position until the locking mechanism is re-engaged.

3. 2. The printhead assembly of claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism includes a locking member that releasably engages a locking pin.

4. 4. The printhead assembly of claim 3, wherein the lever cam engages the printhead holder to move the printhead to the raised position before the locking member and locking pin disengage.

5. 4. The printhead assembly of claim 3, wherein the lever cam is designed to rotate with the lever shaft, and the locking member is designed to allow the lever shaft to rotate relative to the locking member.

6. 4. The printhead assembly of claim 3, further comprising a sensor positioned to detect whether the locking mechanism is disengaged.

7. 1. A printhead assembly for use in a printer, comprising: a housing formed by a casing and a side plate coupled to the casing; a printhead connected to a printhead holder held within the housing; a lever subassembly; Equipped with The lever subassembly is a lever shaft partially disposed within the housing, a first end of the lever shaft extending beyond the side plate and a second end of the lever shaft opposite the first end and extending beyond the side wall of the casing; a first locking member and a second locking member disposed on the lever shaft, the first locking member releasably engaging a first locking pin and the second locking member releasably engaging a second locking pin; a lever cam disposed on the lever shaft and configured to rotate therewith; a lever connected to the second end of the lever shaft for operative engagement with the lever subassembly; Including, the printhead assembly is movable between a closed position and an open position; When the printer is in use, the print head is in a lowered position; When the printhead assembly is transitioned between the closed position and the open position, the printhead occupies a raised position. Printhead assembly.

8. 8. The printhead assembly of claim 7, wherein the lever cam is positioned to engage the printhead holder, and the lever cam engages the printhead holder to move the printhead to the raised position.

9. 9. The printhead assembly of claim 8, wherein the lever shaft moves from a first stage of rotation to a second stage of rotation when the printhead assembly transitions from the closed position to the open position.

10. 10. The printhead assembly of claim 9, wherein the lever cam rotates into engagement with the printhead holder, and the first and second locking members remain stationary during the first stage of rotation.

11. 11. The printhead assembly of claim 10, wherein the printhead is in the raised position when the first stage of rotation is completed.

12. 12. The printhead assembly of claim 11, wherein during the second stage of rotation, the first locking member disengages the first locking pin and the second locking member disengages the second locking pin.

13. 12. The printhead assembly of claim 11, wherein the first locking member engages the first locking pin and the second locking member engages the second locking pin until the first locking member is struck by a first component of the lever subassembly configured to rotate with the lever shaft and the second locking member is struck by a second component of the lever subassembly configured to rotate with the lever shaft.

14. 8. The printhead assembly of claim 7, wherein a force required to open the printhead assembly when the printhead is in the raised position is less than a force required to open the printhead assembly when the printhead is in the lowered position.

15. 8. The printhead assembly of claim 7, wherein a force required to close the printhead assembly when the printhead is in the raised position is less than a force required to close the printhead assembly when the printhead is in the lowered position.

16. 8. The printhead assembly of claim 7, wherein rotation of the lever shaft disengages the first locking member from the first locking pin and the second locking member from the second locking pin.

17. a lever shaft appendage connected to a first end of the lever shaft and configured to rotate therewith; a stop connected to the side plate and arranged to be engaged by the lever shaft appendage as the lever shaft rotates; 17. The printhead assembly of claim 16, further comprising:

18. 18. The printhead assembly of claim 17, wherein a stopper spring extending between a first pin connected to the side plate and a second pin connected to the stopper is arranged to apply a return force to the lever shaft in response to the lever shaft appendage engaging the stopper.

19. a stopper sensor flag connected to the stopper and extending outwardly therefrom; a sensor connected to the side plate and positioned to detect the stopper sensor flag; Further preparation, the sensor is configured to generate a signal indicating whether the print head is in the lowered position or the raised position based on whether the sensor detects the stopper sensor flag.

18. The printhead assembly of claim 17.

20. 1. A method for opening and closing a printhead assembly in a printer, comprising: providing a printhead assembly including a printhead connected to a printhead holder, a lever subassembly including a lever shaft carrying a locking member that releasably engages a locking pin, and a lever cam disposed on the lever shaft and arranged to engage the printhead holder; transitioning the lever subassembly from a default configuration to a lift configuration such that the lever cam engages the printhead holder and the printhead moves from a lowered position to a raised position while the locking member maintains engagement with the locking pin; releasing the engagement between the locking member and the locking pin; moving the printhead assembly from a closed position to an open position; returning the printhead assembly to a closed position and re-engaging the locking member with the locking pin while the printhead is in the raised position; returning the lever subassembly to a default configuration such that the lever cam no longer engages the printhead holder and the printhead returns to the lowered position; A method comprising:

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