Printhead force adjustment and lift 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 positioned to engage a platen roller of a printer and a printhead holder that holds the printhead. The printhead assembly also includes a camshaft designed to rotate to an idle position and one or more active positions, and a force cam connected to the camshaft and positioned to apply a variable downward force to the printhead. The printhead assembly further includes a lift cam connected to the camshaft and positioned to engage the printhead holder. The force cam causes the printhead to apply a nip force to the platen roller when the camshaft is in one of the active positions. The lift cam engages the printhead holder when the camshaft is in the idle position, moving the printhead out of engagement with the platen roller.

Description

[Background technology]

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

[0002] The ribbon and substrate are fed between the printhead and platen roller at the nip point. At the nip point, the printhead heats the ribbon and presses it against the platen roller so that the 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 crucial to the printing process because it ensures that the ink-coated side of the ribbon is pressed firmly against the substrate as the ink is transferred. However, different substrates have different nip force requirements. For example, lower nip forces may be required when printing on lightweight or specialty media such as ammunition paper, vinyl stickers, or coated paper (e.g., for fine art prints). On the other hand, heavier or rougher media such as card stock, textured paper, canvas, etc. may require higher nip forces.

[0003] If the nip force is too low, the printhead may not be able to effectively transfer ink to the substrate, resulting in a blurred, incomplete, or patchy print. If the nip force is too high, the ribbon material may break due to excessive pressure, causing the print to smear, blur, or become too dark, and / or the printhead may wear out more quickly due to excessive friction and heat. Furthermore, if the printhead applies a constant nip force to the same area for a sufficient period of time (e.g., between print jobs or during extended periods of non-use), the ribbon material and / or substrate may become damaged or warped (e.g., wrinkled or dented).

[0004] Existing printing devices generally require users to manually adjust nip force settings when installing different forms of printable media. In some cases, users are required to manually adjust the printhead and related components. In other cases, users can select the desired setting using a digital electronic display. However, in all cases, users are required to take active steps to ensure the correct nip force setting, which users may forget to do. Furthermore, because adding a lift mechanism for the printhead requires additional space and can affect the usability, size, and / or cost of the printer, many existing devices leave the printhead in contact with the platen roller (e.g., applying a constant nip force) during periods of non-use.

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned problems, there exists a need for a printhead mechanism that improves the ease and convenience of adjusting the nip force applied by the printhead to various forms of printable media. Additionally, there exists a need for a printhead that is disengaged from contact with the platen roller during periods of non-use so that a constant nip force is not applied to the same area of ​​the ribbon material or substrate between print jobs or during periods of non-use. Furthermore, providing a single mechanism that can meet both requirements would reduce the cost and space requirements of its implementation. 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 printhead assembly includes a printhead arranged to engage a platen roller of the printer and a printhead holder that holds the printhead. The printhead assembly includes a camshaft designed to rotate between an idle position and one or more active positions, and a force cam connected to the camshaft and arranged to apply a downward force to the printhead. The printhead assembly includes a first lift cam and a second lift cam, the first and second lift cams connected to the camshaft and arranged to engage the printhead holder. The force cams cause the printhead to apply a nip force to the platen roller when the camshaft is in one of the one or more active positions. The first and second lift cams engage the printhead holder when the camshaft is in the idle position, moving the printhead out of engagement with the platen roller.

[0008] In another aspect, a printhead control system for a printer is disclosed. The printhead control system includes a printhead assembly. The printhead assembly includes a printhead held by a printhead holder and positioned to engage a platen roller of the printer; a camshaft configured to rotate to one or more rotational positions; a force cam configured to apply a downward force to the printhead holder; a lift cam configured to apply an upward force to the printhead holder; a cam adjustment gear connected to and configured to rotate with the camshaft; and a sensor positioned to detect the rotational position of the camshaft. The printhead control system also includes a gear subassembly including a driver configured to generate rotational motion and a gear member positioned to transmit the rotational motion generated by the driver to the cam adjustment gear. The printhead control system further includes a printer controller configured to operate the gear subassembly to position the camshaft at a desired rotational position.

[0009] In a further aspect, a method for adjusting a nip force setting of a printhead in a printer is disclosed. The method includes providing a printhead assembly. The printhead assembly includes a printhead positioned to contact a platen roller of the printer, a push plate positioned to apply a downward force to the printhead, a camshaft having a force cam positioned thereon and configured to rotate therewith, and a driver configured to change the rotational position of the camshaft. The force cam is configured to change the position of the push plate relative to the printhead in response to the rotational position of the camshaft. The method includes providing a media cartridge including a smart cell. The media cartridge holds a supply of printable media for use with the printer. The method also includes placing the media cartridge on a media holder of the printer such that a reader positioned on the media holder aligns with and receives signals from the smart cell, and transmitting the signals received from the smart cell to a controller of the printer. The method further includes determining a nip force associated with a type of printable media held by the media cartridge based on the received signal; operating a driver to rotate a camshaft at a rotational position associated with the nip force so that the force cam causes the push plate to apply a nip force to the printhead; and performing a printing operation using the nip force. [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] FIG. 3 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of several components of the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2. [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]1A and 1B are front, top, and left side isometric views of an exemplary printhead assembly constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the casing of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of the casing of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] FIG. 7 is a bottom and left side isometric view of the casing of FIG. 6. [Figure 9] FIG. 6 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of a printhead module of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the docking plate of the printhead module of FIG. [Figure 11] 11 is a front, bottom, and left side isometric view of the docking plate of FIG. 10. FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a front and top isometric view of the printhead holder of the printhead module of FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a front and left isometric view of the printhead holder of FIG. 12. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the connecting plate of the printhead module of FIG. [Figure 15] 15 is a front, top, and left isometric view of a subassembly of the printhead module of FIG. 9, including the printhead of FIG. 4, the docking plate of FIG. 10, the printhead holder of FIG. 12, and the connecting plate and spring of FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a front and top isometric view of the push plate of the printhead module of FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a front, bottom, and left side isometric view of the push plate of FIG. [Figure 18] 17 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of the subassembly of FIG. 15 with the push plate and connecting shaft of FIG. 16. FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a front elevation view of the camshaft of the printhead module of FIG. [Figure 20]FIG. 20 is a top and right side isometric view of the camshaft of FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 20 shows the camshaft of FIG. 19 with a cam adjustment gear, lift cam, and force cam disposed thereon. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of the force cam of FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 22 is a right side elevation view of the force cam of FIG. 21. [Figure 24] FIG. 22 is a front, bottom, and left side isometric view of the lift cam of FIG. [Figure 25] FIG. 22 is a left side elevational view of the lift cam of FIG. 21. [Figure 26] FIG. 22 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the cam adjustment gear of FIG. [Figure 27] FIG. 22 is a left side elevational view of the cam adjustment gear of FIG. 21. [Figure 28A] FIG. 10 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of the printhead module of FIG. 9 in a first configuration. [Figure 28B] FIG. 10 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of the printhead module of FIG. 9 in a second configuration. [Figure 28C] FIG. 10 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of the printhead module of FIG. 9 in a third configuration. [Figure 28D] FIG. 10 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of the printhead module of FIG. 9 in a fourth configuration. [Figure 29] FIG. 6 is a left side elevational view of the side plate of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 30] FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of the support shaft of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a front elevational view of the support shaft of FIG. 30 having an orientation member and bushing disposed thereon. [Figure 32] 31 is a front, bottom plate, and left side isometric view of the side plate of FIG. 29 and the support shaft of FIG. 30 coupled to the casing of FIG. 6. FIG. [Figure 33] FIG. 6 is a front and left side isometric view of the lever subassembly of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 34] FIG. 34 is a front and right side isometric view of the lever subassembly of FIG. [Figure 35] 35 is a rear elevation view of a subassembly of the printhead assembly of FIG. 5 including the printhead module of FIG. 9 and the lever subassembly of FIG. 34. [Figure 36] 36 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the subassembly of FIG. 35 coupled to the casing of FIG. 6 and the sensor coupled to the side plate of FIG. 29. FIG. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the sensor of FIG. 36. [Figure 38] FIG. 37 is a left side elevation view of the sensor of FIG. 36. [Figure 39] FIG. 6 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of a gear subassembly of the printhead assembly of FIG. [Figure 40] FIG. 40 is a front and right side isometric view of the pinion gear of the gear subassembly of FIG. [Figure 41] FIG. 40 is a front and right side isometric view of the gear train members of the gear subassembly of FIG. [Figure 42] FIG. 40 is a front, top, and right side isometric view of the first compound gear of the gear subassembly of FIG. [Figure 43] FIG. 43 is a rear elevational view of the first compound gear of FIG. [Figure 44] FIG. 40 is a front and right side isometric view of the second compound gear of the gear subassembly of FIG. [Figure 45] FIG. 45 is a rear elevational view of the second compound gear of FIG. [Figure 46] FIG. 40 is a side elevational view of the pin member of the gear subassembly of FIG. [Figure 47] FIG. 6 is a top view of the printhead assembly of FIG. 5. [Figure 48] 3 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of a media holder of the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. [Figure 49] 3 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of a media roll and media cartridge for use with the printer of FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. [Figure 50] FIG. 50 is a front, top, and left side isometric view of the media cartridge of FIG. 49. [Figure 51] 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method for adjusting nip force settings of a printhead in a printer 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 adjusting one or more settings or conditions of a printhead in a printer. In some cases, the system can include one or more cammed components arranged to apply different levels of upward and / or downward force to the printhead (or a device that holds the printhead). A processor, controller, or other electronic component of the printer can be configured to change the rotational position of the cammed components, thereby controlling the force applied to the printhead. In some cases, the system can be configured to adjust the nip force setting of the printhead, lift the printhead, or change other settings or conditions of the printhead.

[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 , the printhead assembly 200 may include a printhead module 202 operably engaged by a gear subassembly 204. A casing 206 may be provided to protect, support, and / or retain various components of the printhead module 202 disposed therein. For example, the casing 206 may protect the internal components of the printhead module 202 by preventing dust or other particles from accumulating thereon. A lever 208 adjacent the casing 206 may be configured to facilitate opening of the printhead module 202, for example, by lifting or rotating the casing 206 when the lever 208 is engaged so that one or more components of the printhead module 202 can be viewed or accessed. In some cases, it may be desirable or necessary to open the printhead module 202 to perform maintenance or cleaning, to repair or replace a heating element or other component of the printhead 138, to clear a jam (e.g., if the ribbon material 134 becomes caught or tangled in the printhead assembly 200), or under other circumstances.

[0028] The gear subassembly 204 can be positioned proximate to the printhead module 202. In some cases, the gear subassembly 204 can be independently supported or mounted within a printing device (e.g., connected to the mounting wall 120 of the printer 100) such that the gear subassembly 204 is positioned to engage the printhead module 202. The gear subassembly 204 can include a driver 210 configured to adjust the setting, state, and / or position of the printhead 138, as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 39 and 47 . The gear subassembly 204 can be operatively connected to or in communication with one or more components of the printhead module 202. For example, the driver 210 can generate rotational motion, which can be transmitted to one or more components of the printhead module 202 via a gear train 212.

[0029] A controller 213 of a printing device (e.g., printer 100) can communicate with and control or operate the driver 210 and / or other components of the printhead assembly 200. For example, the controller 213 can operate the gear subassembly 204 by turning the driver 210 on or off. In some cases, the controller 213 can communicate with the driver 210 and / or other components of the printhead assembly 200 via one or more wireless communication protocols (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-wave, or other wireless communication protocols known in the art). In other cases, the controller 213 can communicate with the driver 210 and / or other components of the printhead assembly 200 via one or more wires (not shown).

[0030] Turning to FIG. 6 , the casing 206 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 206 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. 7 ). In other cases, the overhang 226 may be substantially flush with the roof 214 .

[0031] 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, the gear subassembly 204, 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 206 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 form, while 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.

[0032] 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 206 and / or the entire printhead assembly 200 relative to the printing device.

[0033] As best shown in FIG. 7 , the casing 206 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.

[0034] 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 206 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. 7, the casing 206 may include an aft corner 250 disposed at the junction between the casing sidewall 238 and the sloped portion 220 of the roof 214.

[0035] 8 , 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 206 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 206 can include additional or alternative features designed to support various components of the printhead module 202 disposed at least partially within the casing 206. 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.

[0036] 9, 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).

[0037] The printhead module 202 may include one or more springs 284 disposed between a printhead holder 282 and a push plate 286 disposed above the printhead holder 282. In some cases, the springs 284 are provided in the form of compression springs having a spring constant or rate of at least about 2.9 Newtons / mm (or at least about 2.9 Newtons / mm). In other cases, the springs 284 may be provided in any suitable form.

[0038] The spring 284 can be compressed between the printhead holder 282 and the push plate 286 such that the spring 284 stores elastic potential energy and applies an outward force or pressure to the printhead holder 282 and the push plate 286. The outward force applied to the printhead holder 282 can be transmitted to the printhead 138 through the docking plate 280 such that the spring 284 causes the printhead 138 to apply a nipping force to the platen roller 140. Thus, by changing the degree to which the spring 284 is compressed (e.g., by changing the distance the push plate 286 is held from the printhead holder 282), the nipping force applied by the printhead 138 can be changed. In some cases, the printhead module 202 can include two springs 284, i.e., a first spring 284a and a second spring 284b. In other cases, the printhead module 202 can include any suitable number of springs 284.

[0039] A force cam 288 disposed along the camshaft 290 can be configured to adjustably engage the push plate 286. As described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 28A-28C , 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 the printing device (e.g., the printer 100). For example, the driver 210 can be configured to drive rotation of the cam adjustment gear 292, as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 39 and 47 .

[0040] Additionally, one or more lift cams 294 configured to move the print head 138 to a raised position (e.g., move the print head 138 out of 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, a first lift cam 294a and a second lift cam 294b can be positioned proximate opposite ends of the camshaft 290, and the print head holder 282 can include two flange members 296 with at least portions thereof positioned adjacent to (e.g., above) the lift cams 294. As described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 28D , the printhead module 202 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.

[0041] 10 , 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] As best shown in FIG. 11 , 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.

[0045] 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 facilitate proper positioning and / or alignment between the docking plate 280 and the print head 138.

[0046] 12 , 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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. Accordingly, a fastener (not shown) 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 hole 158).

[0049] The printhead holder 282 may include one or more printhead holder sockets 350 provided in the form of substantially circular openings extending generally through the base plate 336. In some cases, vent openings 352 may be provided in the form of substantially rectangular openings extending generally through the base plate 336. The printhead holder 282 may include a tray member 354 disposed within or directly below the vent openings 352 and configured to guide or support the printable medium 128 and / or ribbon material 134 passing directly below the printhead 138 during use of the printhead assembly 200. For example, the tray member 354 may be coupled to and extend downwardly from the base plate 336 along an edge of the vent openings 352 adjacent to the printhead holder trailing edge 340. In some cases, the vent 352 can facilitate connections between the print head 138 and one or more cables, connectors, or other components of a printing device (e.g., printer 100), for example, by providing an opening or passageway through which a cable can be provided to connect to the print head 138.

[0050] As best shown in FIG. 13 , 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. 35 ). 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.

[0051] Each of the 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 positioned above or adjacent to the lever shaft opening 358.

[0052] 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 one or more of the force cam 288 and / or lift cam 294 rotate about the axis A of the camshaft 290 (see FIG. 9 ). 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. 9 ). 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.

[0053] 14 , 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 15 , 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 during use of the printhead assembly 200. 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. 11 ) 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. 12 ). 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.

[0056] 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. 14) 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. 12) 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.

[0057] 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. 18 ).

[0058] 16 , 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.

[0059] As best shown in FIG. 17 , 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.

[0060] 18 , 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.

[0061] In some cases, the connecting shaft 430 can couple and / or maintain alignment between the print head 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. 15 ) is received by an upper spring support member 424 disposed on and extending downward from the lower shelf 418. Thus, the spring 284 can be interposed between the push plate 286 and the print head 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 print head 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 print head holder 282.

[0062] 19 , 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. 9) when the printhead module 202 is fully assembled.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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 first lift cam region 458a), 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. 21 ) that facilitates rotation of the camshaft 290 when the printhead module 202 is fully assembled.

[0065] As best shown in FIG. 20 , 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. 19 .

[0066] Turning to FIG. 21 , 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. 19 ) 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.

[0067] 22 , 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 each of the force cam first side 482 and the force cam second side 484 and extend outwardly therefrom. The collar 486 can be positioned in alignment with the force cam body 480 such that a force cam opening 488 extends generally through the force cam body 480 and both collars 486. In some cases, a force cam connection hole 490 can be disposed on and extend completely therethrough the force cam body 480. For example, the force cam connection hole 490 can be provided in the form of a substantially circular opening extending generally between the force cam outer surface 492 and the force cam opening 488. In some cases, the force cam connection hole 490 can include a threaded inner surface and can be substantially perpendicular to the force cam opening 488. Thus, the screw member 476 can extend through the force cam connection hole 490 (e.g., engage the threaded inner surface of the force cam connection hole 490) and help secure the force cam 288 to the camshaft 290 (see FIG. 21 ). In other cases, the force cam connection hole 490 can be any suitable size and shape to receive a screw, pin, or other fastener known in the art.

[0068] As best shown in FIG. 23 , 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. 20 ). 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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 fourth distance D4 may be substantially equal to the third distance D3, or the fourth distance D4 may be greater than the third distance D3.

[0071] 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 print head 138 by varying the force applied to the push plate 286 while the print head 138 is in a lowered position relative to the platen roller 140 (see FIGS. 28A, 28B, and 28C). 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 print head 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. 28D).

[0072] 24 , 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 .

[0073] 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. 21 ). 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.

[0074] As best shown in FIG. 25 , 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. 20 ). 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 with 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.

[0075] The lift cam impact surface 518, the lift cam apex 520, and the lift cam sidewall 522 can be spaced apart from the lift cam opening 526 by various distances. For example, the lift cam impact surface 518 can be spaced apart from the nearest point along the lift cam inner surface 524 by a fifth distance D5, the lift cam apex 520 can be spaced apart from the nearest point along the lift cam inner surface 524 by a sixth distance D6, the first lift cam sidewall 522a can be spaced apart from the nearest point along the lift cam inner surface 524 by a seventh distance D7, and the second lift cam sidewall 522b can be spaced apart from the nearest point along the lift cam inner surface 524 by an eighth distance D8. 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.

[0076] In some cases, the lift cam peaks 520 and lift cam sidewalls 522 can be idle portions of the lift cam outer surface 516. For example, the lift cam peaks 520 and lift cam sidewalls 522 can be positioned adjacent to, but not engage, the associated flange members 296 when the active quadrants of the force cam 288 (e.g., the first, second, and third force cam quadrants 502a, 502b, and 502c) engage the push plate 286 (see FIG. 9). 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 the associated flange member 296 (thereby lifting the print head 138 away from the platen roller 140) when the idle quadrant of the force cam 288 (e.g., the fourth force cam quadrant 502d) engages the push plate 286 (see FIG. 28D).

[0077] 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 (e.g., first, second, and third force cam quadrants 502a, 502b, 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, placing the printhead 138 in a raised state while the idle force cam quadrant (e.g., fourth force cam quadrant 502d) engages the push plate 286.

[0078] 26 , 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 the gear member outer surface 552 and equally spaced radially from one another. The adjustment gear hub 540 can include a substantially smooth hub outer surface 556 extending between the hub first end 542 and the hub second end 544.

[0079] The cam adjustment gear 292 can include one or more sensor flags 558 disposed on and extending outward from the hub outer surface 556. 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 at the hub first end 542, and one or more sensor flags 558 can be disposed at 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 at the hub first end 542 and two sensor flags 558 disposed at 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 flag 558 can be configured to indicate the rotational position of the camshaft 290 to the controller 213 (see FIG. 5) or other electronic components of the printing device (e.g., the printer 100), as described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 36.

[0080] As best shown in FIG. 27 , 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. 20 ). 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.

[0081] 28A-28D, in some cases, the camshaft 290 can be configured to rotate to or occupy one of four rotational positions during use of the printhead assembly 200. For example, in some cases, the camshaft 290 can rotate to or occupy a first rotational position 566a, a second rotational position 566b, a third rotational position 566c, or a fourth rotational position 566d. In some cases, the nip force can vary depending on the rotational position of the camshaft 290 due to variations between first, second, and third distances D1, D2, D3 separating the first, second, and third force cam quadrants 502a, 502b, 502c, respectively, from the force cam opening 488 (see FIG. 23 ). Furthermore, in some cases, the print head 138 can move between a raised position and a lowered position depending on the rotational position of the camshaft 290 due to the difference between the fifth distance D5 separating the lift cam impact surface 518 from the lift cam opening 526 and the sixth, seventh, and eighth distances D6, D7, D8 separating the lift cam apex 520 and the lift cam sidewalls 522a, 522b from the lift cam opening 526 (see FIG. 25).

[0082] Referring first to FIG. 28A , in some cases, a first rotational position 566a of the camshaft 290 can correspond to a first nip force setting of the printhead assembly 200. For example, when the camshaft 290 is in the first rotational position 566a, the first force cam quadrant 502a can contact or engage the lower shelf 418 of the push plate 286. Thus, the push plate 286 can be maintained in a first position relative to the printhead holder 282, and the springs 284 can be compressed between the lower shelf 418 of the push plate 286 and the base plate 336 of the printhead holder 282. In some cases, when the camshaft 290 is in the first rotational position 566a, the outward pressure exerted by one or more of the springs 284 can cause the printhead 138 to apply a nip force having a first magnitude to the platen roller 140. In some cases, the first strength can impart a value of at least about 80 Newtons (or at least 80 Newtons). The lift cam 294 may not engage the flange impact surface 372 of the flange member 296 when the camshaft 290 is in the first rotational position 566a. For example, in some cases, one of the lift cam sidewalls 522a, 522b can abut, but not contact, the flange impact surface 372 of the adjacent flange member 296 when the camshaft 290 is in the first rotational position 566a. Additionally, the cam adjustment gear 292 and the sensor flag 558 connected thereto can impart a first orientation when the camshaft 290 is in the first rotational position 566a, as shown in FIG. 28A .

[0083] 28B , in some cases, the second rotational position 566b of the camshaft 290 can correspond to a second nip force setting of the printhead assembly 200. For example, when the camshaft 290 is in the second rotational position 566b, the second force cam quadrant 502b can contact or engage the lower shelf 418 of the push plate 286. Thus, the push plate 286 is maintained in a second position relative to the printhead holder 282 (e.g., farther than when the camshaft 290 is in the first rotational position 566a), and the spring 284 can be compressed between the lower shelf 418 of the push plate 286 and the base plate 336 of the printhead holder 282 to a lesser extent than when the camshaft 290 is in the first rotational position 566a. In some cases, when the camshaft 290 is in the second rotational position 566b, the outward pressure exerted by the one or more springs 284 can cause the print head 138 to apply a nip force having a second magnitude to the platen roller 140. The second magnitude can be less than the first magnitude associated with the camshaft 290 in the first rotational position 566a. In some cases, the second magnitude can impart a value of at least about 60 Newtons (or at least 60 Newtons). The lift cam 294 may not engage the flange impact surface 372 of the flange member 296 when the camshaft 290 is in the second rotational position 566b. For example, in some cases, the lift cam apex 520 can be positioned adjacent to, but not contact, the flange impact surface 372 of the adjacent flange member 296 when the camshaft 290 is in the second rotational position 566b. The cam adjustment gear 292 and the associated sensor flag 558 can provide a second orientation when the camshaft 290 is in a second rotational position 566b, as shown in FIG. 28B.

[0084] 28C , in some cases, the third rotational position 566c of the camshaft 290 can correspond to a third nip force setting of the printhead assembly 200. For example, when the camshaft 290 is in the third rotational position 566c, the third force cam quadrant 502c of the force cam 288 can contact or engage the lower shelf 418 of the push plate 286. Thus, the push plate 286 can be maintained in the third position relative to the printhead holder 282 (e.g., farther than when the camshaft 290 is in the first rotational position 566a and the second rotational position 566b), and the spring 284 can be compressed between the lower shelf 418 of the push plate 286 and the base plate 336 of the printhead holder 282 to a lesser extent than when the camshaft 290 is in the first rotational position 566a and the second rotational position 566b. In some cases, when the camshaft 290 is in the third rotational position 566c, the outward pressure exerted by the one or more springs 284 can cause the print head 138 to apply a nip force having a third strength to the platen roller 140. The third strength can be less than the first and second strengths associated with the camshaft 290 in the first and second rotational positions 566a, 566b. In some cases, the third strength can impart a value of at least about 40 Newtons (or at least 40 Newtons). The lift cam 294 can not engage the flange impact surface 372 of the flange member 296 when the camshaft 290 is in the third rotational position 566c. For example, in some cases, one of the lift cam sidewalls 522a, 522b can be positioned adjacent to, but not contact, the flange impact surface 372 of the adjacent flange member 296 when the camshaft 290 is in the third rotational position 566c. The cam adjustment gear 292 and connected sensor flag 558 can provide a third orientation when the camshaft 290 is in a third rotational position 566c, as shown in Figure 28C.

[0085] Turning to FIG. 28D , the fourth rotational position 566d of the camshaft 290 can correspond to a printhead lift setting of the printhead assembly 200. For example, when the camshaft 290 is in the fourth rotational position 566d, the fourth force cam quadrant 502d of the force cam 288 can contact or engage the lower shelf 418 of the push plate 286. However, although the spring 284 can be compressed between the push plate 286 and the printhead holder 282, the printhead 138 may not be able to apply a nip force to the platen roller 140 when the camshaft 290 is in the fourth rotational position 566d due to the engagement between the lift cam 294 and the flange member 296. For example, the lift cam impingement surface 518 of the lift cam 294 can be positioned adjacent to and engage the flange impingement surface 372 of the flange member 296 when the camshaft 290 is in the fourth rotational position 566d. Engagement between the lift cam 294 and the flange impact surface 372 can lift or raise the printhead 138, docking plate 280, printhead holder 282, and push plate 286 so that the printhead 138 assumes a raised position (i.e., the printhead 138 moves out of contact or engagement with the platen roller 140). Thus, the nip force can be reduced to zero when the camshaft 290 is in the fourth rotational position 566d. The cam adjustment gear 292 and the sensor flag 558 connected thereto can impart a fourth orientation when the camshaft 290 is in the fourth rotational position 566d, as shown in FIG. 28D.

[0086] 29 , a side plate 570 can be coupled to the casing lip 228 of the casing 206 and configured to be oriented parallel to the casing sidewall 238 (see, for example, FIG. 6 ) 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 206 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 206), 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 206), and a side plate upper edge 582 (e.g., positioned to align with the upper panel 224 of the casing 206).

[0087] 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.

[0088] In the embodiment of FIG. 29 , side plate mounting hole 584 a can be positioned to align with casing mounting member 230 positioned on casing lip 228 (see FIG. 8 ); side plate support shaft hole 584 b can be positioned to align with support shaft seat 252 (see FIG. 8 ) and to 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. 13 ) and second link shaft opening 428 of push plate 286 (see FIG. 17 ) and to 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. 8 ); and side plate camshaft hole 584 e can be positioned to align with camshaft seat 256 (see FIG. 8 ) and to receive a portion of camshaft 290.

[0089] 30 , 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 206. 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.

[0090] 31 , 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.

[0091] In some cases, the second orientation member 606 can include two orientation ridges 610 connected to and extending upwardly from the orientation member body 608. The orientation ridges 610 can 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 can be positioned to receive the orientation surface 362 disposed on the first orientation member 360 of the printhead holder 282 (see FIG. 13 ). Thus, in some cases, the second orientation member 606 can be configured to maintain the proper position and orientation (e.g., relative to the casing 206) 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.

[0092] 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 to 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. 29 ) to facilitate rotation of the support shaft 590 while the printhead assembly 200 is in use. The second bushing 614b can be positioned to align with or be received within the support shaft seat 252 of the casing 206 (see FIG. 8) to facilitate rotation of the support shaft 590 while the printhead assembly 200 is in use.

[0093] 32 , the side plate 570 can be coupled to the casing 206 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 206, and the casing sidewall 238. As shown, the side plate camshaft hole 584 e can be aligned with the camshaft seat 256 to securely position the camshaft 290 within the housing 618. The side plate linkage shaft hole 584 c can be aligned 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.

[0094] The support shaft 590 can extend through the side plate support shaft hole 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. 31) extends toward the roof 214 and can receive the first orienting member 360 (see FIG. 13) in the orienting slot 612.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 33 , a lever subassembly 640 can be at least partially disposed within the housing 618 and can be operably engaged by the lever 208. In some cases, the lever subassembly 640 can be operable to open the printhead module 202 (e.g., to provide access to one or more internal components for cleaning, maintenance, or other purposes). The lever subassembly 640 can include a lever shaft 642 having a lever shaft first end 644 and a lever shaft second end (not shown) received by or disposed adjacent to the lever 208. A lever shaft notched region 646 can be disposed at the lever shaft first end 644. A lever shaft connection hole 648 provided in the form of a substantially circular opening extending at least partially through the lever shaft notched region 646 can be disposed proximate the lever shaft first end 644.

[0097] The lift member 650 and lock member 652 can be disposed proximate each opposing end of the lever shaft 642. For example, the first lift member 650a and first lock member 652a can be disposed proximate the lever shaft first end 644, and the second lift member 650b and second lock member 652b can be disposed proximate the lever 208. A lever shaft main body portion 654 can extend between the first and second lift members 650a, 650b. In some cases, the opposing ends of the main body portion 654 can be received by the lever shaft opening 358 of the printhead holder 282 (see FIG. 13 ) when the printhead assembly 200 is assembled. The lever 208, the lever shaft 642, the first lift member 650a, the second lift member 650b, the first lock member 652a, and the second lock member 652b can rotate about axis B.

[0098] Each of the first and second locking members 652a, 652b may include a locking body 656 and a hook member 658 connected to and extending downwardly therefrom. For example, the hook member 658 may engage an associated locking pin 660 when the lever subassembly 640 is in a default position (depicted in FIGS. 33 and 34 ). The locking pin 660 may be coupled to or integrally formed with an internal component of the printing device (e.g., printer 100) such that the locking pin 660 occupies a fixed position therein. Thus, engagement of the hook member 658 with the locking pin 660 may prevent movement of the lever subassembly 640 away from the locking pin 660 (e.g., maintaining the printhead module 202 in a closed configuration).

[0099] The lever subassembly 640 (e.g., including the lever shaft 642, the first and second lift members 650a, 650b, and the first and second locking members 652a, 652b) can be configured to rotate as a unit. Additionally, the lever 208 can engage with the second locking member 652b and / or the second end of the lever shaft such that rotation of the lever 208 can be transmitted to the lever subassembly 640. In some cases, a user can disengage the hook members 658 of the first and second locking members 652a, 652b from the locking pin 660 by rotating the lever 208 in the direction of arrow 662 when the lever subassembly 640 is in the default position such that the hook members 658 rotate away from and disengage the locking pin 660. In this manner, the lever subassembly 640 can be movable (e.g., allowing the printhead module 202 to be converted from a closed configuration to an open configuration).

[0100] 33 and 34 , the first and second lift members 650 a, 650 b can each include a lift member body 664 and a lever cam 666 connected to and extending inwardly from the lift member body 664 (e.g., the lever cam 666 of the first lift member 650 a can extend away from the lift member body 664 toward the second lift member 650 b, or vice versa). The lever cams 666 can each include a lever cam outer surface 668, along which a lever cam impingement surface 670 and a lever cam idle surface 672 are each disposed. In some cases, the lever cam impingement surface 670 can be disposed to protrude a greater distance from the lever shaft 642 than the lever cam idle surface 672.

[0101] 35 , the lever cam 666 can be positioned adjacent to (e.g., directly below) the lever impact surface 366 of the printhead holder 282, with the lever cam idle surface 672 positioned adjacent to (but not engaged with) the adjacent lever impact surface 366. Thus, when the lever subassembly 640 is rotated in the direction of arrow 662 shown in FIG. 33 , the lever cam 666 can rotationally engage with the lever impact surface 366 such that the lever cam impact surface 670 impacts and lifts the printhead holder 282. The connecting shaft 430 can connect or couple the printhead holder 282 and the push plate 286, as described above with reference to FIG. 18 , and the printhead holder 282 can be coupled to the docking plate 280 (and thus to the printheads 138), as described above with reference to FIG. 15 . Thus, when the lever cam 666 engages the lever impact surface 366, the printhead 138, the docking plate 280, the printhead holder 282, the push plate 286, and / or other components of the printhead module 202 connected thereto can rise as a unit (e.g., away from the platen roller 140). In this manner, the lever cam 666 can be configured to move the printhead 138 from a lowered position (e.g., in contact with the platen roller 140) to a raised position (e.g., held at a distance from the platen roller 140) when a user engages the lever 208 to release the printhead module 202. In some cases, moving the printhead 138 to the raised position can ease or reduce the resistance exerted by the printhead module 202, thereby reducing the force required for a user to use the lever 208 and lever subassembly 640 to transition the printhead module 202 between the open and closed configurations.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 35 , the lever shaft notched region 646 can extend beyond the side plate 570 when the printhead module 202 is assembled. Turning to FIG. 36 , in some cases, the printhead assembly 200 can include a lever shaft appendage 680 coupled to the lever shaft notched region 646 and a stopper 682 rotatably connected to the side plate 570 and positioned to receive and be engaged by the lever shaft appendage 680. In some cases, a fastener 400 can extend through a hole (not shown) in the lever shaft appendage 680 and be received by the lever shaft connection hole 648 (see FIGS. 33 and 35 ), and another fastener 400 can extend through a hole (not shown) in the stopper 682 and be received by the side plate stopper hole 584f (see FIG. 29 ). Thus, the lever shaft appendage 680 can be configured to rotate (e.g., counterclockwise from the perspective of FIG. 36 ) in unison with the lever subassembly 640. The stopper 682 can receive and engage a portion of the lever shaft appendage 680 such that the stopper 682 rotates (e.g., clockwise from the perspective of FIG. 36 ) in response to rotation of the lever shaft appendage 680.

[0103] In some cases, the stopper spring 684 can extend between a fixed spring pin 686 connected to the side plate 570 and a stopper pin 688 connected to the stopper 682. For example, the stopper spring 684 can be configured to move to or occupy an extended state while connected to the spring pin 686 and the stopper pin 688 such that the stopper spring 684 applies a downward force to the stopper 682 (e.g., biasing the stopper 682 toward rotation away from the lever shaft appendage 680, or counterclockwise from the perspective of FIG. 36 ). In this manner, the stopper spring 684 can apply a return force to the stopper 682 as the stopper 682 rotates in response to engagement by the lever shaft appendage 680.

[0104] In some cases, the stopper spring 684 can apply a preload tension to the lever subassembly 640 that biases the lever subassembly 640 toward a default position (see FIGS. 33 and 34 ). Thus, the stopper spring 684 can reduce or eliminate the possibility of the lever subassembly 640 unintentionally rotating out of its default position during use of the printhead assembly 200. Furthermore, in some cases, the preload tension applied by the stopper spring 684 may require the user to overcome resistance when rotating the lever 208 in the direction of arrow 662 to disengage the hook member 658 from the locking pin 660 (see FIG. 33 ).

[0105] 36 , the printhead assembly 200 may include one or more sensors 700 positioned to detect the status or position of one or more components of the printhead assembly 200. The sensors 700 may be coupled to the side plate 570 by fasteners 400 received by the side plate sensor holes 584g. In some cases, the printhead assembly 200 may include a first camshaft sensor 700a and a second camshaft sensor 700b positioned proximate to the cam adjustment gear 292 (e.g., positioned adjacent to different positions along the hub outer surface 556 of the cam adjustment gear 292). The first camshaft sensor 700a may be positioned abutting or adjacent to the side plate 570, while the second camshaft sensor 700b may be offset or held at a position away from the side plate 570 by one or more sensor pins 702. Thus, the first camshaft sensor 700a can be positioned to detect the sensor flag 558 connected to the hub second end 544 (see FIG. 26), as described below with reference to FIGS. 37 and 38, and the second camshaft sensor 700b can be positioned to detect the sensor flag 558 connected to the hub first end 542.

[0106] In some cases, the printhead assembly can include a stopper sensor 700c positioned proximate to the stopper 682. The stopper sensor 700c can be provided in the same form as the camshaft sensors 700a, 700b and can be positioned to detect a portion of the stopper 682, as described below with reference to Figures 37 and 38. For example, the stopper sensor 700c can be configured to detect when the printhead module 202 transitions between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

[0107] 37 , the sensors 700 may each be provided in the form of a substantially rectangular sensor body 706 including a rectangular sensor base member 708 defined by a sensor first end 710, a sensor second end 712 opposite the sensor first end 710, a sensor first side 714 extending between the sensor first end 710 and the sensor second end 712, and a sensor second side 716 extending between the sensor first end 710 and the sensor second end 712 and opposite the sensor first side 714. In other cases, the sensor body 706 and / or the sensor base member 708 may be rounded or any other suitable shape.

[0108] The sensor 700 may include a first wing 718a and a second wing 718b configured to facilitate attachment between the sensor 700 and the side plate 570. The first and second wings 718a, 714b may be integrally formed with or coupled to the sensor base member 708. The first wing 718a may be connected to and extend outwardly from the sensor base member 708 proximate the junction between the sensor first end 710 and the sensor first side 714. The second wing 718b may be connected to and extend outwardly from the sensor base member 708 proximate the junction between the sensor first end 710 and the sensor second side 716. The first and second wings 718a, 718b may each include a sensor connection hole 720 that aligns with the side plate sensor hole 584g and is configured to facilitate coupling of the sensor 700 to the side plate 570 (e.g., via a press fit, snap fit, threaded engagement, or other mechanism known in the art).

[0109] 38 , the sensor 700 may include a first sensor leg 722 and a second sensor leg 724 connected to and extending downwardly from a bottom side 726 of the sensor base member 708. The first sensor leg 722 may be provided in the form of a substantially rectangular protrusion disposed proximate the sensor first end 710, and the second sensor leg 724 may be provided in the form of a substantially rectangular protrusion disposed proximate the sensor second end 712. The first and second sensor legs 722, 724 may be oriented parallel to one another such that an opening or passageway 728 is disposed between the first sensor leg 722 and the second sensor leg 724. Additionally, in some cases, the sensor 700 may include a port 730 provided in the form of a substantially linear protrusion connected to and extending upwardly from a top surface 732 of the sensor base member 708. For example, port 730 may be a mating portion of sensor 700 configured to receive a connector (not shown) so that sensor 700 can communicate with controller 213 (see FIG. 5) or other electronic components of a printing device (e.g., printer 100).

[0110] In some cases, the sensor 700 may be provided in the form of an optical sensor (e.g., a photointerrupter). For example, one of the first and second sensor legs 722, 724 may include an emitter (not shown) configured to emit a light beam across the passage 728. The other of the first and second sensor legs 722, 724 may include a receiver (not shown) disposed opposite the emitter and configured to receive the light beam. Thus, the sensor 700 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 728 and reach the receiver, the sensor 700 may generate a signal indicating that the sensor 700 is in an unblocked state. If the light beam from the emitter is prevented from traversing the passage 728 and reaching the receiver, the sensor 700 may generate a signal indicating that the sensor 700 is in a blocked state.

[0111] 36, first camshaft sensor 700a and second camshaft sensor 700b can be positioned on side plate 570 such that sensor flag 558 moves through passageway 728 as cam adjusting gear 292 rotates. Depending on the position of sensor flag 558, first camshaft sensor 700a can assume or detect a blocked condition at one or more points along the rotational path of cam adjusting gear 292, and second camshaft sensor 700b can assume or detect a blocked condition at one or more points along the rotational path of cam adjusting gear 292. For example, FIG. 36 illustrates a configuration in which camshaft 290 is in a first rotational position and cam adjusting gear 292 and sensor flag 558 are imparted with a first orientation, as described above with reference to FIG. 28A. In some cases, when the camshaft 290 is in the first rotational position, the first camshaft sensor 700a is in a blocked state (i.e., one of the sensor flags 558 connected to the hub second end 544 is positioned within the passage 728) and the second camshaft sensor 700b is in an unblocked state.

[0112] In this manner, the first camshaft sensor 700a and the second camshaft sensor 700b together can form a system capable of generating multiple unique signals indicative of multiple rotational positions of the camshaft 290 corresponding to multiple settings of the printhead assembly 200 (e.g., the first, second, and third nip force settings and printhead lift setting described above with reference to Figures 28A-28D).

[0113] In some cases, the first and second camshaft sensors 700a, 700b may be configured to: (i) generate a first signal when the first camshaft sensor 700a is in a blocked state or detects a blocked state and the second camshaft sensor 700b is in an unblocked state or detects a unblocked state; (ii) generate a second signal when the first camshaft sensor 700a is in an unblocked state or detects a unblocked state and the second camshaft sensor 700b is in a blocked state or detects a blocked state; (iii) generate a third signal when both the first camshaft sensor 700a and the second camshaft sensor 700b are in a blocked state or detects a blocked state; and (iv) generate a fourth signal when both the first camshaft sensor 700a and the second camshaft sensor 700b are in an unblocked state or detects a unblocked state. The sensor flag 558 can be positioned on the cam adjustment gear 292 such that each of the first, second, third, and fourth signals corresponds to one of the first, second, third, and fourth rotational positions 566a, 566b, 566c, and 566d of the camshaft 290, as described in detail above with reference to FIGS. 28A-28D (e.g., the first signal can correspond to the first rotational position 566a of the camshaft 290, the second signal can correspond to the second rotational position 566b of the camshaft 290, the third signal can correspond to the third rotational position 566c of the camshaft 290, and the fourth signal can correspond to the fourth rotational position 566d of the camshaft 290, or any combination thereof). Thus, the controller 213 (see FIG. 5) or other electronic components of the printing device (e.g., printer 100) can be configured to monitor the rotational position of the camshaft 290 by receiving and interpreting signals generated by the first and second camshaft sensors 700a, 700b.

[0114] In other cases, any number of sensors 700 and any number of sensor flags 558 can be configured to generate any number of signals indicative of any number of distinct rotational positions of the camshaft 290 corresponding to any desired number of nip forces, lifts, or other settings of the printhead 138 and / or other components of the printhead assembly 200.

[0115] 39, the gear subassembly 204 can be operatively engaged to the printhead module 202 via a gear train 212 that communicates with (e.g., configured to generate rotational movement of) the cam adjustment gear 292 (see FIG. 47). A controller 213 (see FIG. 5), which receives the signal generated by the sensor 700, can communicate with the gear subassembly 204 (e.g., via an electronic connection with the driver 210), and can thus be enabled to select a desired rotational position of the camshaft 290 by operating the gear train 212.

[0116] In some cases, the driver 210 (e.g., an electric motor, a DC motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable device known in the art for generating rotary motion) can be connected to an output shaft 740 extending outwardly therefrom. The driver 210 can be configured to be connected to an external power source (not shown) such that the driver 210 generates rotary motion on the output shaft 740. The gear subassembly 204 can include a gear plate 742 configured to support one or more gear train members 744 of the gear train 212. The gear plate 742 can be provided in the form of a substantially linear panel defined by a gear face 746 and a driver face 748 and can include a plurality of gear plate holes 750 provided in the form of substantially circular openings extending between the gear face 746 and the driver face 748. The driver 210 can be positioned adjacent the driver face 748 such that the output shaft 740 extends through one of the gear plate holes 750 and beyond the gear face 746. The pinion gear 752 is disposed on the output shaft 740 adjacent to the gear plate 742 and can be configured to rotate integrally with the output shaft 740 (e.g., due to a press fit or friction fit between the pinion gear 752 and the output shaft 740).

[0117] The gear train member 744 can be configured to transfer the rotational motion of the pinion gear 752 to the cam adjustment gear 292. In some cases, the gear train member 744 can be in direct communication with the cam adjustment gear 292. In other cases, the gear train member 744 can transfer the rotational motion to the cam adjustment gear 292 via one or more intermediate gears.

[0118] For example, in some cases, the first gear train member 744a and the second gear train member 744b can transmit rotational motion to the cam adjustment gear 292 via the first compound gear 754 and the second compound gear 756. The pinion gear 752 can be engaged with the first gear train member 744a, the first gear train member 744a can be engaged with the second gear train member 744b, the second gear train member 744b can be engaged with the first compound gear 754, the first compound gear 754 can be engaged with the second compound gear 756, and the second compound gear 756 can be engaged with the cam adjustment gear 292 (see FIG. 47). In other cases, any number of the gear train members 744 can be indirectly in communication with the cam adjustment gear 292 via any number of intermediate gears.

[0119] 40 , the pinion gear 752 may be defined by a substantially annular pinion gear body 760 defined by a pinion gear inner core 762 and a pinion gear outer core 764. The pinion gear inner core 762 may define a substantially circular pinion gear opening 766 extending generally through the pinion gear body 760 (e.g., configured to receive the output shaft 740). A plurality of pinion gear teeth 768 may be equally radially spaced from one another along the pinion gear outer core 764 and extend outwardly therefrom.

[0120] 41 , the gear train member 744 may be defined in the form of a substantially annular gear train member body 770 defined by a gear train member inner core 772 and a gear train member outer core 774. The gear train member inner core 772 may define a substantially circular gear train member opening 776 extending generally through the gear train member body 770. A plurality of gear train member teeth 778 may be equally radially spaced apart from one another along the gear train member outer core 774 and extend outwardly therefrom. In some cases (e.g., to reduce the weight or manufacturing costs of the gear train member 744), one or more gear train member notches 780 may be provided in the form of openings extending generally through the gear train member body 770. In other cases, the gear train member notches 780 may be omitted.

[0121] 42 , the first compound gear 754 may be provided in the form of a substantially annular compound gear body 782 defined by a compound gear body first side (not shown) and a compound gear body second side 784 opposite the compound gear body first side. A first front gear member 786 may be connected to the compound gear body 782 at the compound gear body first side, and a first rear gear member 788 may be connected to the compound gear body 782 at the compound gear body second side 784. The first front gear member 786 may be defined by a first front gear inner core 790 and a first front gear outer core 792. A plurality of first front gear teeth 794 may extend outwardly from and be equally spaced radially apart from one another along the first front gear outer core 792.

[0122] As best shown in FIG. 43 , the first rear gear member 788 can be defined by a first rear gear inner core 796 and a first rear gear outer core 798. The first rear gear inner core 796 can be aligned with the first front gear inner core 790 and define a first compound gear opening 800 that extends generally through the first compound gear 754. A plurality of first rear gear teeth 802 can extend outwardly therefrom and be equally radially spaced apart from one another along the first rear gear outer core 798.

[0123] 44 , the second compound gear 756 may be provided in the form of a second front gear member 804 and a second rear gear member 806 connected to and extending outwardly from the second front gear member 804. The second front gear member 804 may be defined by a second front gear inner core 808 and a second front gear outer core 810. A plurality of second front gear teeth 812 may extend outwardly therefrom and be equally spaced apart radially from one another along the second front gear outer core 810.

[0124] As best shown in FIG. 45 , the second rear gear member 806 can be defined by a second rear gear inner core 814 and a second rear gear outer core 816. The second rear gear inner core 814 can be aligned with the second front gear inner core 808 and define a second compound gear opening 818 that extends generally through the second compound gear 756. A plurality of second rear gear teeth 820 can extend outwardly therefrom and be equally radially spaced apart from one another along the second rear gear outer core 816.

[0125] 46, one or more gear pins 822 may be provided to facilitate mounting the gear train members 744 to the gear plate 742 and / or mounting the intermediate gears (e.g., first compound gear 754 and second compound gear 756) to the side plate 570 (see FIG. 32). The gear pin 822 may be provided in the form of a substantially cylindrical gear pin body 824 defined by a gear pin first end 826 and a gear pin second end 828 opposite the gear pin first end 826.

[0126] In some cases, the gear pin 822 may include a center segment 830, a gear attachment member 832 extending between the gear pin first end 826 and the center segment 830, and an attachment member 834 extending between the center segment 830 and the gear pin second end 828. A washer groove 462 may be disposed along the gear attachment member 832 proximate the gear pin first end 826 (e.g., for receiving a washer 472 disposed to prevent an associated gear from tracking along the gear pin 822, as shown in FIG. 39 ). In other cases, the gear pin 822 may be provided in any suitable form, provided that the gear pin first end 826 is configured to receive one of the gear train members 744 and / or intermediate gears, and the gear pin second end 828 is configured to be received (e.g., by press fit or friction fit) by one of the gear plate holes 750 (see FIG. 39) or the side plate pin holes 584h (see FIG. 29).

[0127] 47 , gear pins 822 can couple gear train members 744a, 744b, first compound gear 754, and second compound gear 756 to gear plate 742 or side plate 570 (not shown). In some cases, one or more of gear train members 744 and / or intermediate gears (e.g., first compound gear 754 and second compound gear 756) can be coupled to stationary components of a printing device (e.g., printer 100). In some cases, second gear train member 744b can engage with first front gear member 786, first rear gear member 788 can engage with second front gear member 804, and second rear gear member 806 can engage with cam adjustment gear 292. Thus, driver 210 can rotate cam adjustment gear 292 by rotating output shaft 740.

[0128] 48-51, in some cases, a printing device (e.g., printer 100) can be configured to automatically detect a desired setting (e.g., optimal nip force) when a particular type of printable media 128 is placed on media holder 126 (see FIG. 2). The printing device can then operate gear subassembly 204 to rotate camshaft 290 to a position associated with the desired setting, as described above with reference to FIG.

[0129] 48 , the media holder 126 may be provided in the form of a substantially tubular media holder body 850 defined by a media holder first end 852 and a media holder second end 854 opposite the media holder first end 852. The media holder 126 may include an end wall 856 disposed at the media holder first end 852 and a media holder arm 858 connected to the end wall and extending outwardly therefrom. A reader 860 capable of distinguishing between different types of printable media 128 when attached to the media holder 126 may be disposed on the media holder arm 858. For example, the reader 860 may be provided in the form of a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader, a near field communication (NFC) reader, or any other suitable sensing or scanning device known in the art. At least a portion of the reader 860 can be flush with or extend beyond the media holder arm 858 so as to be available to contact or engage a portion of the roll of printable media 128 placed on the media holder arm 858.

[0130] Turning to FIG. 49 , a media roll 862 provided in the form of a supply of printable media 128 wound around a core (not shown) can be provided for use with the printer 100. The media roll 862 can be installed on a media cartridge 864 designed for use with the media holder 126. For example, as shown in FIG. 50 , the media cartridge 864 can have a smart cell 866 positioned adjacent to or in contact with the leader 860 when the media roll 862 is installed. The media cartridge 864 can be provided in the form of a cartridge body 868 and an end cap 870. In some cases, the cartridge body 868 can be provided in the form of a substantially circular cartridge flange 872 and three cartridge arms 874 connected to and extending outwardly from the cartridge flange 872. A distal end 876 of each cartridge arm 874 can engage the end cap 870 to couple the cartridge body 868 thereto.

[0131] The smart cell 866 can be located in a smart cell bay 878 provided in the form of an opening disposed along and extending entirely therethrough of one of the cartridge arms 874. The smart cell 866 and smart cell bay 878 can be positioned such that the reader 860 contacts or engages an adjacent surface of the smart cell 866 when the media roll 862 and media cartridge 864 are installed in the media holder 126. The smart cell 866 can transmit a signal to the reader 860 indicative of the type of printable media 128 contained in the media roll 862. For example, the smart cell 866 can be provided in the form of an RFID reader chip, an NFC chip, or any other electronic tag or chip capable of transmitting a signal to the reader 860.

[0132] In some cases, the reader 860 can communicate with the controller 213 (see FIG. 5) or another electronic component within the printing device (e.g., the printer 100), which can also communicate with the driver 210 and the sensor 700 of the gear subassembly 204. Thus, the controller 213 can determine a desired rotational position of the camshaft 290 based on signals received from the reader 860 and can operate the driver 210 to rotate the cam adjustment gear 292 until the camshaft sensors 700 a, 700 b indicate that the desired position of the camshaft 290 has been reached. For example, in some cases, the controller 213 can determine a desired nip force setting based on the type of printable media 128 installed in the media holder 126 and can place the camshaft 290 in a rotational position corresponding to the desired nip force.

[0133] FIG. 51 illustrates a method 900 for adjusting the nip force setting of a printhead in a printer (eg, printer 100) in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0134] In step 902, a printhead assembly (e.g., printhead assembly 200) is provided. In some cases, the printhead assembly includes a printhead (e.g., printhead module 202) positioned to contact a platen roller (e.g., platen roller 140) of a printer; a push plate (e.g., push plate 286) positioned to apply a downward force to the printhead, the strength of the downward force depending on the position of the push plate relative to the printhead; a camshaft (e.g., camshaft 290) with a force cam (e.g., force cam 288) positioned thereon and configured to rotate therewith; and a driver (e.g., driver 210) configured to change the rotational position of the camshaft via one or more gears (e.g., cam adjustment gear 292, gear subassembly 204). In some cases, the force cam is configured to change the position of the push plate relative to the printhead in response to the rotational position of the camshaft.

[0135] In step 904, a media cartridge (e.g., media cartridge 864) that holds a supply of printable media (e.g., printable media 128) and includes a smart cell (e.g., smart cell 866) is provided for installation into a printer.

[0136] In step 906, the media cartridge is placed on a media holder (e.g., media holder 126) of the printer. The media holder includes a reader (e.g., reader 860) aligned with the smart cell and positioned to receive signals from the smart cell.

[0137] In step 908, the reader sends a signal from the smart cell to the printer's controller (eg, controller 213).

[0138] In step 910, the controller determines a nip force associated with the type of printable media held by the media cartridge based on the received signal.

[0139] In step 912, the controller operates the driver to position the camshaft in a rotational position corresponding to the nip force (e.g., first rotational position 566a, second rotational position 566b, third rotational position 566c) so that the force cam causes the push plate to apply a nip force to the print head.

[0140] In step 914, a printing operation is performed by the printer using the nip force.

[0141] In step 916, once the printing operation is completed by the printer, the controller can operate the driver to place the camshaft in an idle rotational position (e.g., fourth rotational position 566d) so that the force cam does not engage the push plate.

[0142] 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 was individually incorporated by reference herein. Various features and advantages of the above disclosure are set forth in the following claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0143] 100 printers 120 Mounting wall 134 Ribbon material 138 Heating element or print head 210 Driver 212 Gear Train 213 Controller 200 print head assembly 202 Printhead Module 204 Gear Subassembly 206 Casing 208 Lever

Claims

1. 1. A printhead assembly for use in a printer, comprising: a printhead positioned to engage a platen roller of the printer; a print head holder for holding the print head; a camshaft designed to rotate to an idle position and one or more active positions; a force cam connected to the camshaft and positioned to apply a downward force to the printhead; a first lift cam and a second lift cam connected to the camshaft and positioned to engage the print head holder; the force cam causes the printhead to apply a nip force to the platen roller when the camshaft is in any of the one or more active positions; when the camshaft is in the idle position, the first and second lift cams engage the printhead holder and move the printhead out of engagement with the platen roller; Printhead assembly.

2. the one or more active positions include a first active position, a second active position, and a third active position; 10. The printhead assembly of claim 1.

3. the nip force applied by the platen roller has a first magnitude when the camshaft is in the first active position, a second magnitude when the camshaft is in the second active position, and a third magnitude when the camshaft is in the third active position, the first magnitude being greater than the second magnitude and the third magnitude, and the second magnitude being greater than the third magnitude; 3. The printhead assembly of claim 2.

4. a push plate in contact with the force cam and disposed above the print head holder; a first spring and a second spring disposed between the push plate and the print head holder; The printhead assembly of claim 1 further comprising:

5. the force cam includes a first face and a second side positioned to engage the push plate depending on the position of the camshaft; the push plate is positioned closer to the print head holder when engaged by the first surface of the force cam than when engaged by the second surface of the force cam; 5. The printhead assembly of claim 4.

6. a cam adjustment gear connected to the camshaft and configured to rotate therewith; a driver configured to generate rotational movement of a pinion gear connected to the driver; a gear train arranged to transmit rotational motion of the pinion gear to the cam adjustment gear; The printhead assembly of claim 1 , comprising:

7. a sensor flag connected to and extending outwardly from said cam adjustment gear; a sensor arranged to detect the sensor flag; The printhead assembly of claim 6 further comprising:

8. the sensor is configured to generate a signal indicative of a rotational position of the camshaft based on the position of the sensor flag.

8. The printhead assembly of claim 7.

9. 1. A printhead control system for a printer, comprising: a printhead assembly; the printhead assembly a printhead held by a printhead holder and positioned to engage a platen roller of the printer; a camshaft designed to rotate to one or more rotational positions; a force cam configured to apply a downward force to the printhead holder; a lift cam configured to apply an upward force to the print head holder; a cam adjustment gear connected to the camshaft and configured to rotate therewith; a sensor positioned to detect the rotational position of the camshaft; Including, the printhead control system further comprising: a gear subassembly including a driver configured to generate rotational motion and a gear member positioned to transmit the rotational motion generated by the driver to the cam adjustment gear; a controller for the printer configured to operate the gear subassembly to place the camshaft in a desired rotational position; A print head control system comprising:

10. 10. The printhead control system of claim 9, wherein the one or more rotational positions include a first rotational position, a second rotational position, a third rotational position, and a fourth rotational position.

11. 11. The printhead control system of claim 10, wherein the force cam applies a first nip force to the printhead holder when the camshaft is in the first position, the force cam applies a second nip force to the printhead holder when the camshaft is in the second position, and the force cam applies a third nip force to the printhead holder when the camshaft is in the third position.

12. the lift cam engages the print head holder when the camshaft is in the fourth rotational position to lift the print head out of engagement with the platen roller; The printhead control system of claim 10.

13. the cam adjustment gear includes a sensor flag, and the sensor is positioned to detect the sensor flag.

10. The printhead control system of claim 9.

14. 14. The printhead control system of claim 13, wherein the sensor sends a signal to the controller indicative of the rotational position of the camshaft.

15. a media cartridge holding a supply of printable media for use with the printer, the media cartridge including a smart cell; a media holder in the printer, the media holder including a reader designed to receive signals from the smart cell; Further comprising:

10. The printhead control system of claim 9.

16. the reader transmits the signal received from the smart cell to the controller, and the controller determines what type of printable medium is installed based on the signal received from the reader; 16. The printhead control system of claim 15.

17. the controller determining a nip force setting based on the type of printable media installed in the printer; 17. The printhead control system of claim 16.

18. 20. The printhead control system of claim 17, wherein the controller operates the gear subassembly to place the camshaft in a rotational position corresponding to the nip force setting.

19. the controller selecting a nip force setting based on a type of printable media installed in the printer, the controller operating the gear subassembly to position the camshaft at a rotational position corresponding to the nip force setting; 10. The printhead control system of claim 9.

20. 1. A method for adjusting a nip force setting of a printhead in a printer, comprising: providing a printhead assembly including a printhead, a push plate arranged to apply a downward force to said printhead, a camshaft having a force cam arranged thereon and configured to rotate therewith, and a driver configured to change the rotational position of said camshaft; providing a media cartridge containing a smart cell and holding a supply of printable media for use with said printer; placing the media cartridge on a media holder of the printer such that a reader disposed on the media holder aligns with and receives signals from the smart cell; transmitting the signal received from the smart cell to a controller of the printer; determining a nip force associated with the type of printable media held by the media cartridge based on the received signal; operating the driver to position the camshaft in a rotational position corresponding to the nip force, such that the force cam causes the push plate to apply the nip force to the printhead; performing a printing operation using the nip force; A method comprising:

Images