Printhead adjustment device

Abstract

A printhead adjustment device (100) includes a printhead retainer (106) configured to be coupled with and adjustable in position relative to a printhead (102), and includes an adjustment assembly (108) configured to be mounted to the printhead retainer and that is formed with an eccentrically curved surface (302) configured to control a separation between a first component coupled to the printhead retainer and a second component configured to be coupled to the printhead, wherein control of the separation of the first component and the second component is configured to control positioning of the printhead relative to a platen roll.

Description

PRINTHEAD ADJUSTMENT DEVICECROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Number 63 / 562,781 filed on March 8, 2024 which is incorporated herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present subject matter generally relates to a printer, and in particular to an adjustment assembly for adjusting a printhead position.BACKGROUND

[0003] In thermal printing, achieving optimal print quality and reliable printer operation hinges on precise control of the pressure applied by the printhead to the print media. This pressure ensures proper contact for image transfer, but excessive pressure can damage both the media and the printhead, leading to poor output and premature wear.

[0004] The thermal printhead generates heat to create an image on thermally sensitive media. This heat forms dots in a line, known as the dotted line. Precise alignment of this dotted line with a platen roller is crucial in conventional thermal printing. The platen roller's position must be adjusted based on the characteristics of the print media, as different media types require different alignments for optimal results.

[0005] Thermal printers accommodate a range of media, including receipt paper, fabric, labels, and cardstock. These media may have a direct thermal coating or utilize a thermal transfer ribbon. The print media is pressed against the printhead using the platen roller to transfer the image.

[0006] An optimal position of the platen roller relative to the printhead's dotted line varies depending on the thickness and stiffness of the print media. Furthermore, the optimal position of the platen roller to the dotted line on the thermal printhead may be at different physical locations and requires adjustments periodically to align with respect to the thermal printhead. However, conventional adjustment methods often struggle to achieve precise alignment, especially across various media types. This can lead to misalignment, resulting in reduced print quality and inconsistencies in the final output.

[0007] Developments have been made to mitigate the abovementioned limitations and drawbacks to enhance the printing operation, and print quality, and reduce the damage associated therewith. In recent developments, adjustment mechanisms have been introduced to improve printhead alignment. However, there are limitations associated with the adjustment mechanisms used in the printhead. Such limitations include inefficient tangential alignment of the printhead with respect to the platen roller and the complex location of the adjustment mechanisms within the printhead. Such a configuration causes difficulty in accessibility during operations and lesser control over movement and alignment of the printhead retainer due to inefficient positioning of the adjustment mechanism with respect to the printhead retainer and printhead. This can make it difficult to achieve accurate printhead positioning, impacting the overall quality and efficiency of the printing process.

[0008] Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussions, there is a need to overcome the limitations related to adjustment mechanisms or assemblies for the printhead of conventional thermal printers. Furthermore, the improved printhead adjustment mechanisms or assemblies need more precise and accessible control over printhead alignment, enabling optimal printing across various media types and enhancing both print quality and operational efficiency.SUMMARY

[0009] The present subject matter relates to a thermal printer employing an adjustment assembly for adjusting the distance between a printhead and a platen roller. In some embodiments, the present subject matter includes a printhead adjustment device for adjusting the printhead of a printer. Thus, the printhead adjustment device facilitates alignment of the printhead with respect to the platen roller of the printer. In some embodiments, the printhead adjustment device facilitates in tangential alignment of the printhead with respect to the platen roller of the printer. In some embodiments, the present subject matter pertains to the adjustment assembly that precisely controls the distance between the printhead and the platen roller, a critical factor in achieving optimal print quality. The present subject matter provides an efficient printhead adjustment device designed to fine-tune the position of the printhead relative to the platen roller, thus ensuring accurate positioning of the printhead, leading to enhanced print quality and overall printer performance.

[0010] The printhead adjustment device may include a printhead retainer configured to be fixed in position relative to a platen roller. In some embodiments, the printhead adjustment device may also include a printhead configured to be in a relative alignment with the platen roller. In some embodiments, the printhead adjustment device may include a printhead bracket arranged to theprinthead. In some embodiments, the printhead adjustment device may include a printhead retainer mounted on the printhead. In some embodiments, the printhead adjustment device may include one or more adjustment assemblies coupled to the printhead bracket and the printhead retainer. Some embodiments provide the printhead adjustment device may include a bracket clip adapted to couple the printhead retainer to the printhead bracket. In some embodiments, the bracket clip restricts the movement of the printhead retainer in horizontal (or X-direction) and vertical (or Y-direction) directions, and allows movement in the lateral direction (or Z-direction).

[0011] Some embodiments provide that the printhead bracket may include an elongated slot to receive the printhead retainer. In some embodiments, the printhead retainer bracket may include a protruding member configured to couple one or more adjustment assemblies. In some embodiments, one or more adjustment assemblies may include a cam component including a curved groove at a base and sidewalls enclosing the base of the cam component. One or more adjustment assemblies may include a follower component, a locator key attached to a pawl, and a notch. One or more adjustment assemblies may include a ring sleeve to secure the protruding member within the notch of the pawl of the follower component and a knob coupled to the cam component and the follower component.

[0012] In some embodiments, the knob may include a cavity to receive and hold the pawl of the follower component. In some embodiments, the knob includes a lock adapted to engage with a recess on the sidewalls of the cam component. The curved groove of the cam component further includes one or more locking positions to lock the locator key of the follower component.

[0013] Some embodiments provide a method for adjusting a printhead position in a printer. The method may include fixing a printhead retainer in position relative to a platen roller of the printer. The method may include coupling an adjustment assembly to the printhead retainer. The method may include engaging the adjustment assembly with a printhead. The method may also include actuating the adjustment assembly to move the printhead relative to the printhead retainer and the platen roller. In some embodiments, the method may include mounting a bracket clip adapted to couple the printhead retainer to the printhead bracket.

[0014] Some embodiments provide an adjustment assembly for the tangency adjustment of a printhead. In some embodiments, the adjustment assembly may include a cam component including a curved groove at a base and sidewalls enclosing the base of the cam component, a follower component including a locator key attached to a pawl including a notch, a ring sleeve to secure the protruding member within the notch of the pawl of the follower component and a knob coupled to the cam component and the follower component.

[0015] These and other features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the present subject matter will be better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed or disclosed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0016] The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present subject matter, exemplary constructions of the subject matter are shown in the drawings. However, the present subject matter is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.

[0017] Embodiments of the present subject matter will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:

[0018] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a printhead adjustment device, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 2A is an exploded view of a printhead adjustment mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of a prior art;

[0020] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the printhead adjustment mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the prior art;

[0021] FIG. 3A is an exploded view of the one or more adjustment assemblies, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0022] FIG. 3B is an exploded view of the one or more adjustment assemblies, in accordance with another embodiment;

[0023] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the one or more adjustment assemblies, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0024] FIG. 5A is a top view of a knob, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0025] FIG. 5B is a side view of the knob, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0026] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a printhead assembly, in accordance with another embodiment;

[0027] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the printhead assembly, in accordance with another embodiment;

[0028] FIG. 7A is an internal view of a printer having the printhead adjustment device (as shown in FIG. 1), in accordance with another embodiment;

[0029] FIG. 7B is an internal view of the printer having the printhead adjustment device and the platen roller (as shown in FIG. 6B), in accordance with another embodiment; and

[0030] FIG. 8 is a flow chart of a method for adjusting a printhead position in a printer, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0031] In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] The following detailed description illustrates various embodiments of the present subject matter and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present subject matter have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practicing the present subject matter are also possible. Some embodiments disclosed herein include one or more of methods, devices, and / or systems for adjusting a printhead retainer with respect to a printhead of a thermal printer.Definitions:

[0033] "printhead adjustment device" refers to mechanisms that are adapted to adjust the printhead of a printer. Such mechanisms are used in printers to precisely control the positioning and alignment of the printhead relative to the printing media.

[0034] "printhead" refers to a component of a printer that transfers color and / or patterns (characters, images) onto a print media such as paper. "Printhead" may also simply refer to a supporting and / or mounting structure for additional parts of a printer that transfer color and / or patterns, and it may or may not include the electronics and / or heat-able elements for generating images or patterns on print media.

[0035] "printhead retainer" refers to a component of the printhead that is coupled to the printhead and locked with a bracket clip.

[0036] "platen roller" refers to a cylindrical component within a thermal printer that plays a crucial role in the printing process. The primary function of the platen roller is to apply pressure to the back of the printing media, pressing it firmly against the thermal printhead. This ensures that the heat generated by the printhead is transferred efficiently and uniformly to the media, resulting in high-quality printed images.

[0037] "tangential alignment" refers to the precise positioning of the printhead so that the printhead contacts the platen roller and the printing media at a single point, forming a tangent line. This ensures that the heat from the printhead is applied evenly across the media, resulting in consistent image quality and preventing damage to the printhead or media.

[0038] "printhead bracket" refers to a component of the printhead that enables the printhead retainer to be mounted on the printhead.

[0039] "adjustment assembly" refers to a combination of one or more components that are adapted to adjust or align the printhead of the printer.

[0040] "bracket clip" refers to a component of the printhead that is adapted to couple the printhead retainer to the printhead bracket.

[0041] These and other features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the present subject matter will be better understood with reference to the below-stated description and appended claims. These definitions are provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form. These definitions are not intended to identify key features or essential features or keywords of the claimed or disclosed subject matter, nor are they intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0042] The printhead adjustment device disclosed herein is described in detail by way of examples and with reference to the figures. Unless otherwise specified, like numbers in the figures indicate references to the same, similar, or corresponding elements throughout the figures. It will be appreciated that modifications to disclosed and described examples, arrangements, configurations, components, elements, apparatuses, methods, materials, etc. may be made and may be desired for a specific application.

[0043] In the present subject matter, any identification of specific shapes, materials, techniques, arrangements, etc., is either related to a specific example presented or is a general description. Specific details or examples are not intended to be, and should not be, construed as mandatory or limiting unless specifically designated as such.

[0044] In some embodiments, the present subject matter describes enhancing the performance of thermal printers which is used for generating images on thermally sensitive media. Such printers utilize a printhead equipped with a heat source, such as a resistor array, to either directly alter the color of the media or transfer ink from a ribbon onto the media. A critical aspect of the printing process lies in achieving optimal pressure between the printhead and the media. This is typically accomplished by positioning the media between a platen roller and the printhead. However, achieving high-quality printing necessitates precise tangential alignment of the printhead with respect to both the media and the platen roller. This alignment ensures consistent contact and heat transfer, resulting in sharp images and accurate color reproduction.

[0045] In some embodiments, the present subject matter addresses the abovementioned challenges by introducing a printhead adjustment device specifically designed to facilitate efficient and accurate tangential alignment of the printhead of a printer. Some embodiments of the present subject matter provide the printhead adjustment device that allows for fine-tuning the position of the printhead, leading to improved print quality and overall printer performance. By enabling precise control over the alignment of the printhead, the present subject matter contributes to enhanced printing outcomes and greater user satisfaction. In some embodiments, the printhead adjustment device may include assembly of components or mechanisms that are adapted to align or tangentially adjust the printhead for the print media and the platen roller. Tangential alignment in a thermal printer describes the precise positioning of the printhead relative to the platen roller. For example, an imaginary line drawn through the center of the platen roller. For ideal printing, the surface of the printhead should just barely touch that line at a single point, creating a tangent. When the printhead is tangentially aligned, the force applied to the media is distributed evenly across the contact area. This prevents excessive pressure at any one point, which could damage the media or the printhead. Thermal printing relies on precise heat transfer. Tangential alignment ensures that the heat from the printhead is applied uniformly across the media. For achieving good print quality and / or printer operation, the printhead adjustment device may align the printhead to maintain a selected distance between the printhead with respect to print media and / or the platen roller.

[0046] In some embodiments, the printhead adjustment device utilizes a cam mechanism to efficiently and accurately achieve tangential alignment. The present subject matter allows for precise adjustments in both vertical and horizontal directions, ensuring optimal printhead positioning. The improved accuracy of the device leads to enhanced print quality, with sharper images, reduced banding, and more consistent color distribution. The cam mechanism also allows for fine-grained control over printhead positioning, enabling more precise tangential alignment than the conventional adjustmentmechanisms. Beneficially, the cam mechanism includes a locking position that holds an alignment position of the printhead with respect to the media and platen roller, when the printhead adjustment device is operated at said locking position. Furthermore, the printhead adjustment device located at the locking position without a slip or misalignment enables smoother operation and avoids unwanted interference or errors due to vibrational misalignments. This leads to improved print quality, sharper images, reduced banding, and more consistent color distribution. Furthermore, the printhead adjustment device is mounted on the printhead and easily accessible to enable effortless operations and adjustments to improve overall efficiency.

[0047] In some embodiments, the present subject matter is a printer is provided. In some embodiments, the printer may include a platen roller, a printhead, and a printhead retainer fixed in position relative to the platen roller. The printer may also include an adjustment assembly coupled to the printhead retainer and engaged with the printhead. Furthermore, the adjustment assembly is adapted to adjust the alignment of the printhead inside the printer. For example, the printer may be partly or fully opened to access the printhead and the adjustment assembly. As per requirement, the adjustment assembly may be operated to align the printhead with respect to the platen roller. In some embodiments, the adjustment assembly may enable ease of access to control the alignment of the printhead, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the operation of the printer. Subsequently, the adjustment assembly may provide stable and accurate alignment of the printhead that facilitates effortless operations and adjustments to improve the overall efficiency of the printer.

[0048] In some embodiments, the present subject matter also provides a method for adjusting a printhead position in a printer. As mentioned herein above, the present subject matter provides a robust and efficient printhead adjustment device including the adjustment assembly, and the printer including the adjustment assembly. Some embodiments of the present subject matter detail the method of operating the printhead adjustment device, more particularly adjusting the printhead position with respect to the platen roller. As discussed herein below, the present subject matter states and describes with applications and examples on the construction, function and operations of the printhead adjustment device including the adjustment assembly, and the printer including the adjustment assembly along with the method of operating the printhead adjustment device of the printer.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a printhead adjustment device 100, in accordance with an embodiment. In an embodiment herein, the printhead adjustment device 100 may include a printhead 102. In accordance with an embodiment herein, the printhead adjustment device 100 includes a printhead bracket 104. According to an embodiment herein, the printhead adjustment device100 includes a printhead retainer 106. In an embodiment herein, the printhead adjustment device 100 includes one or more adjustment assemblies 108. In accordance with an embodiment herein, the printhead adjustment device 100 also includes a bracket clip 110.

[0050] In some embodiments, the printhead bracket 104 is arranged on, positioned adjacent to, coupled with, and / or slidingly coupled to the printhead 102. Furthermore, the printhead bracket 104 may be a component mounted on the printhead 102, and adapted to receive one or more components thereon. In some examples, but not limited to, the printhead bracket 104 may be coupled to the printhead 102 using screws, bolts, rivets, and the like. In some embodiments, the printhead bracket 104 may be coupled to the top of the printhead 102. In some examples, the printhead bracket may include an elongated coupling member that extends over the length of the printhead 102.

[0051] In some embodiments, the printhead retainer 106 may be arranged on, adjacent to, and / or coupled with the printhead 102. As used herein, the printhead retainer 106 is a component of the printhead 102 that retains the position of the printhead 102 or realigns the printhead 102 on removal or application of force, when in operation. Furthermore, the printhead retainer 106 may enable a reversible adjustment of the printhead 102 on application to a print media under printing operation.

[0052] In some embodiments, the printhead bracket 104 may include an elongated slot 112 formed to receive the printhead retainer 106. The elongated slot 112 may be a hollow cut-out portion of the printhead bracket 104. In some examples, the elongated slot 112 may be at the base of the printhead bracket 104. In some embodiments, the printhead retainer 106 may be arranged within the elongated slot 112 of the printhead bracket 104, and may also be sized and / or shaped to enable tangential adjustment or alignment of the printhead retainer 106, such as relative to the printhead bracket 104.

[0053] In some embodiments, the printhead bracket 104 may include a protruding member 114 (e.g., a first component or a second component) configured to couple the one or more adjustment assemblies 108 to the printhead retainer 106. In some examples, the protruding member 114 may be an elongated cylindrical element or a cylindrical rod, or a stud that may extend vertically upwards from the surface of the printhead bracket 104. For example, the protruding member 114 may secure the one or more adjustment assemblies 108 to the printhead retainer 106 in a desired position.

[0054] As depicted in FIG. 1, the one or more adjustment assemblies 108 may include a cam component 116, a follower component 118, and a ring sleeve 120. In some embodiments, the one or more adjustment assemblies 108 may include a knob 122 to couple to the cam component 116 and the follower component 118. In some embodiments, the bracket clip 110 is adapted to couple the printhead retainer 106 to the printhead bracket 104. In some embodiments, the bracket clip 110 restricts themovement of the printhead retainer 106 in a lateral (e.g. X) and a vertical (e.g. Y) direction, and allows movement in another lateral direction (e.g., Z-direction). In some examples, the bracket clip 110 may secure and lock the movement of the printhead retainer 106 in the X-direction and Y-direction. In some examples, the bracket clip 110 may allow movement of the printhead retainer 106 in a Z-direction (e.g., as illustrated in Figs. 6A and 6B herein below.

[0055] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a printhead adjustment mechanism 200, in accordance with an example of the prior art. FIG. 2B is an exploded perspective view of the mechanism of FIG. 2A. The printhead adjustment mechanism 200 shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B is an existing solution available to adjust an alignment of conventional printheads. The printhead adjustment mechanism 200 includes a conventional printhead retainer 202. Furthermore, the conventional printhead retainer 202 is mounted on a conventional printhead 204. The printhead adjustment mechanism 200 also includes a conventional printhead bracket 206 to receive the conventional printhead retainer 202 and the conventional printhead 204. As depicted in the FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, the printhead adjustment mechanism 200 includes two adjustment members 208A-B mounted on the conventional printhead retainer 202 to adjust the alignment of the conventional printhead 204.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 2B, the two adjustment members 208A-B include threaded screws 210A-B coupled to cylindrical caps 212A-B and threaded rings 214A-B. The two adjustment members 208A-B are rotated to adjust the alignment of the conventional printhead 204. However, the printhead adjustment mechanism 200 shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B include limitations and drawbacks associated with handling and operations. The two adjustment members 208A-B include multiple components that are threaded and therefore complex in construction and challenging in mounting on the conventional printhead 204. Additionally, the threaded screws 210A-B, cylindrical caps 212A-B and threaded rings 214A-B are exposed to wear due to rotation and rotational vibrations in operations, which in turn may allow movement, misadjustment as a result of movement, and finally improper and damaged printing results. The two adjustment members 208A-B can adjust the alignment of the conventional printhead 204 but the threaded screws 210A-B require the user to repeatedly turn a knob multiple times to turn a screw thread to achieve different positions. This may lead to fatigue, user error due to inability of the user to know when they have achieved precise positioning, and may also fail during use leading to misalignment and failed print jobs. Consequently, the aforementioned limitations amount to difficulties that create challenges in achieving accurate printhead 204 positioning, impacting the overall quality and efficiency of the printing process.

[0057] The present subject matter in contrast provides a robust and efficient printhead adjustment device 100 that facilitates rapid, accurate, and fine alignment of the printhead to maintain a selected distance between the printhead with respect to print media and / or the platen roller. In some embodiments, the one or more adjustment assemblies 108 includes the cam component 116 to efficiently and accurately achieve tangential alignment of the printhead 106. The present subject matter allows for precise adjustments in horizontal directions, enabling optimal printhead positioning. This leads to improved print quality, lower wear, and enhanced overall efficiency over the printhead adjustment mechanism 200 as described in the prior art. In various embodiments, the cam component 116 includes a curved groove and multiple locking positions that may allow for more precise and repeatable adjustments compared to the prior art threaded screw system. This design enables finer, more precise, and more repeatable control over printhead 102 alignment, which may lead to improved print quality across various media types. The use of the knob 122 coupled to the cam component 116 and follower component 118 may provide easier and more intuitive operation, potentially reducing the time and effort required for adjustments. Additionally, the present subject matter with fewer exposed moving parts may be less susceptible to wear and environmental factors, potentially increasing durability and reliability even after repeated use and through the course of extended vibration. The compact nature of the adjustment assembly 108 may allow for a more streamlined printer design, potentially reducing overall size and manufacturing complexity. Furthermore, the bracket clip 110 feature may restrict movement to a single plane, potentially simplifying the adjustment process while maintaining stability in other directions.

[0058] FIG. 3A is an exploded view of the one or more adjustment assemblies 108A, in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 3B is an exploded view of the one or more adjustment assemblies 108B, in accordance with another embodiment. In some embodiments, for example, the cam component 116 may include a curved guide 302 (e.g. part of a curved groove) formed in and / or extending through a base 304. The curved guide 302 may have one or more defining walls of the base 304 that follow a spiral path, an eccentric path, a non-circular path, or a varying thickness path. In some embodiments, the shape of the curved guide 302 is part of the one or more components used to control the position between the printhead 102. For examples, the curved guide 302 may include varying depths or thicknesses to provide incremental or decremental movements and thereby varying alignment of the printhead 102. For example, the varying thickness may be an increasing or decreasing thickness relative to a central axis of the adjustment assembly 108A (e.g., extending along the Y-axis. In some embodiments, the varying thickness may be a change in thickness relative to an outer diameter of the adjustment assembly. In some embodiments, the varying thickness may refer to the distance of the wall surface from the outer diameterand / or the central axis of the adjustment assembly 108A or 108B, and not the actual thickness of the wall forming the wall surface. For example, a constant thickness but curving wall may form the curving wall surface while being supported by other structures.

[0059] In some embodiments, the cam component 116 may include sidewalls 306 enclosing the base 304 of the cam component 116. In some embodiments, the cam component 116 may include a hollow cylinder or a hollow drum including an open top and a closed base that constructs the sidewalls 306. In an embodiment, the sidewalls 306 include a recess 316. For example, the recess 316 is a rectangular slit on the sidewalls 306, adapted to receive and lock the knob 122. In some embodiments, for example, the follower component 118 may include a locator key 308 (e.g., a first component or a second component) attached to a pawl 310A-B including a notch 312. As shown, the locator key 308 is an elongated cylinder attached to the pawl 310A-B. Furthermore, the pawl 310A-B is a curved cuboidal structure with an elliptical-shaped cut-out that is the notch 312. In some examples, the follower component 118 may refer to a vertical element (e.g., a locator key 308) attached to a horizontal element (e.g., pawl 310A-B). In other embodiments, the vertical elements and horizontal elements may be reversed, angled differently, otherwise arranged, and / or may refer to other components.

[0060] In some embodiments, the locator key 308 may be a cylindrical rod attached to variants of the pawl 310A-B. For example, the pawl 310A is a curved rectangular plate having the notch 312. In another example, the pawl 310B is a circular disc plate having the notch 312. In some embodiments, the ring sleeve 120 may secure the protruding member 114 within the notch 312 of the pawl 310 of the follower component 118. For example, the ring sleeve 120 may be sleeved over the protruding member 114 and / or abutted against an upper surface of the pawl 310A-B of the follower component 118 or one or more other objects disposed above the upper surface of the base 304.

[0061] In accordance with an embodiment, the printhead bracket 104 is mounted on the printhead 102, and the one or more adjustment assemblies 108 are coupled to the printhead retainer 106 and the printhead bracket 104. In this configuration, the protruding member 114 may translate inside the notch 312 and the ring sleeve 120 may be arranged at the top edge of the protruding member 114. In some embodiments, for example, the knob 122 may include a cavity 314A-B to receive and hold the pawl 310A-B of the follower component 118. In some embodiments, for example, the knob 122 may include a surface 218A or indicator 218B to enable or otherwise facilitate a twisting or turning of the knob 122.

[0062] FIG. 4 is an inside view of the one or more adjustment assemblies 108 (e.g., 108A, 108B), in accordance with various embodiments. In some embodiments, for example, the cam component 116 may receive the follower component 118 and may allow movement of the follower component 118within the curved guide 302 at the base 304. In some embodiments, the curved guide 302 may include a plurality of locking positions 402A-D (e.g., each defined by one or more detents) within the curved guide 302 to lock or otherwise hold the locator key 308 of the follower component 118 at a particular static position along the curved guide 302. For example, the plurality of locking positions 402A-D may include at least three locking positions to secure the

[0063] In some embodiments, the curved guide 302 may include a circular path, a path that diverges from a circular path, an eccentric path (e.g., eccentrically curved), and / or may have a wall facing towards a central axis of the associated adjustment assembly 108 that varies in thickness or distance relative to an outer border that may be circular (e.g., an outside circular circumference of the base 304 or an interior or exterior surface of the sidewall 306 as described above), and / or may have a wall facing away from a central axis of the associated adjustment assembly 108 that varies in thickness or distance relative to an outer border that may be circular (e.g., an outside circular circumference of the base 304 or an interior or exterior surface of the sidewall 306 as described above). Furthermore, two or more of the plurality of locking positions 302A-D may be positioned 90 degrees apart on the curved guide 302. In various embodiments, the relative angle between the locking positions may be between 1 degree and 300 degrees apart. For example, the relative angle maybe 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 45, 60, 90, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 180, 200, 220, 240, 260, 280 or 290 degrees or some other angle between the listed angles. In some embodiments, the knob 122 is rotated from an initial position 402A to a final position 402D. In such a rotation, the follower component 118 may be switched between the plurality of locking positions 402A-D to provide movement of the printhead 102 in the Z-direction while preventing movement (e.g., being locked) along the X-direction and Y-direction.

[0064] FIG. 5A is a top view of the knob 122, in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 5B is a side view of the knob 122, in accordance with an embodiment. In some embodiments, the knob 122 may include one or more locks 502, which may be shaped as a protrusion or a fin. In some embodiments, the knob 122 may include one or two locks 502 configured as protrusions, and one or two locks 502 configured as fins. In some embodiments, the lock 502 is adapted to engage with the recess 316 (as shown in FIG. 3A and 3B) on the sidewalls 306 (as shown in FIG. 3) of the cam component 116 (as shown in FIG. 1). In an example, the lock 502 (e.g., a fin) is engaged to the recess 316 (e.g., a slot opening upwards) to couple the knob 122 to the cam component 116 and to lock the knob 122 rotationally with respect to the cam component 116. In another example, the lock 502 (e.g., a protrusion) is engaged to the recess 316 (e.g., a hole, recess, or other opening) to couple the knob 122 to the cam component 116 and to lock the knob 122 to the cam component 116 (e.g., to prevent separation along the Y axis or a vertical axis). In someembodiments, the one or more locks 502 secures the cam component 116 in one of the locking positions that accurately aligns the printhead 102. In some examples, the one or more locks 502 may be disengaged to further rotate the knob 122 to attain a next locking position, and so forth.

[0065] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a printhead assembly 600, in accordance with another embodiment. FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the printhead assembly 600, in accordance with another embodiment. In the exemplary embodiments depicted in FIGs. 6A-B, the printhead adjustment device 100 (as shown in FIG. 1) is mounted on a platen roller 602, and the printhead bracket 104 (as shown in FIG. 1) is mounted and / or coupled to the platen roller 602 through the printhead adjustment device 100.

[0066] Furthermore, the printhead bracket 104 is adapted to accommodate or receive the platen roller 602 at the underside of the printhead adjustment device 100. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6A, a pair of one or more adjustment assemblies 108A and / or one or more adjustment assemblies 108B is mounted or coupled to the printhead adjustment device 100. In some embodiments, one of adjustment assembly 108A or 108B is used, such as in the positions indicated for either adjustment assembly 108A or 108B as shown, or in any other position in between the positions shown for adjustment assembly 108A or adjustment assembly 108B. While FIG. 6A has been labeled with one of adjustment assembly 108A and one of adjustment assembly 108B, the illustration shows two of adjustment assembly 108B being used. A person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that adjustment assembly 108A may be used in both positions, or adjustment assembly 108B may be used in both positions, or one of adjustment assembly 108A and one of adjustment assembly 108B may be used.

[0067] In an embodiment, when the adjustment assembly 108A is operated, the adjustment assembly 108A moves the side of the printhead 102 (e.g., an end of the printhead 102 as shown in FIG. 1) closest to the adjustment assembly 108A (e.g., an end of the printhead 102 that is proximate to the adjustment assembly 108A) in the Z-direction (imaginary axis as depicted in FIG. 6A) over the platen roller 602. Similarly, when the adjustment assembly 108B is operated, the side of the printhead 102 (e.g., an end of the printhead 102 as shown in FIG. 1) closest to the adjustment assembly 108B (e.g., proximate to the adjustment assembly 108B) is moved in the Z-direction over the platen roller 502. In other embodiments that include only a single adjustment assembly 108A, the operation of the adjustment assembly 108A may move the entire printhead 102 in the z-direction relative to the platen roller.

[0068] The adjustment assembly 108A and adjustment assembly 108B may be operated simultaneously to provide efficient alignment of the printhead 102 on the platen roller 602. In some embodiments, the printhead assembly 600 may include a feedback mechanism configured to detect an alignment of the printhead 102 over the platen roller 602. In some examples, the feedback mechanismmay include sensors (e.g., photoelectric, optical) to detect the alignment of the printhead 102 over the platen roller 502.

[0069] It may be noted that the adjustment assembly 108A-B may include the plurality of locking positions 402A-D (as shown in FIG. 4). Referring to FIG. 6B, the plurality of locking positions 402A- D may correspond to a plurality of positions 604A-D of the printhead 102 along the z-direction with respect to the platen roller 502. In some embodiments, moving from 604A to 604B of the printhead 102 may provide at least a threshold distance of shifting from initial position 604A to position 604B in the Z- direction (as depicted in Fig. 5B). Similarly, switching from 602B to 604C and then from 604C to 604D may each move the printhead 102 at least another threshold distance. The threshold distance may be a distance that is at least, no more than, to exactly equal to a distance falling within the range between 0.001 mm to 2 mm, or may fall within a subrange of the range between 0.001 mm to 2 mm. For example, the distance may be between 0.001 mm and 0.01 mm, between 0.01 mm and 0.1 mm, between 0.1 and 0.4 mm, between 0.15 and 0.35 mm, between 0.1 and 0.5 mm, and between 0.01 and 1 mm. In other embodiments, the threshold distance may be exactly equal to, at least, or no more than 0.15 mm, 0.25 mm, 0.35 mm, 0.45 mm, 0.55 mm, 0.65 mm, 0.75 mm, 0.85 mm, 0.95 mm, 1.05 mm, 1.15 mm, 1.25 mm, 1.35 mm, 1.45 mm, 1.55 mm, 1.65 mm, 1.75 mm, 1.85 mm, or 1.95mm.

[0070] For example, if the distance shifted along the z-direction by movement between each of the positions 402A-D is 0.25 mm, then movement from 402A to 402B may cause the printhead 102 to be shifted 0.25 mm towards the platen roller 602 along the Z-direction. Likewise, continued movement from positions 402B to 402C and then 402D may cause the printhead 102 to be moved 0.50 mm, 0.75 mm, and 1.00 mm towards the platen roller 602 along the z-direction from its starting point.

[0071] FIG. 7A is an internal view of a printer 700 depicting the printhead adjustment device 100 (as shown in FIG. 1), in accordance with another embodiment. FIG. 7B is an internal view of the printer 700 depicting the printhead adjustment device 100 and the platen roller 602 (as shown in FIG. 5A), in accordance with another embodiment. According to an embodiment herein, the printer 700 includes the platen roller 602, the printhead 106, the printhead retainer 106, and the printhead adjustment device 100 coupled to the printhead retainer 106 and engaged with the printhead 102. The printer 700 also includes the adjustment assembly 108 configured to move the printhead 102 relative to the printhead retainer 106 and the platen roller 602. The printer 700 also includes the printhead bracket 104 mounted to the printhead 102 and extending through the printhead retainer 106.

[0072] FIG. 8 is an illustration of a flow chart of a method 800 for adjusting a printhead position in a printer, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0073] At step 802, a printhead bracket 104 may be, for example, fixed on a printhead 102 of the printer. In some examples, but not limited, the printhead bracket 104 may be coupled to the printhead 102 using screws, bolts, rivets, or other fasteners. In some embodiments, the printhead bracket may be coupled to the top of the printhead 102.

[0074] At step 804, an adjustment assembly 108 may be arranged to, coupled to, fixed to, or mounted on the printhead retainer 106. In some embodiments, the adjustment assembly 108 may include the cam component 116, the follower component 118, and the ring sleeve 120. In some embodiments, the one or more adjustment assemblies 108 may also include the knob 122 to couple to the cam component 116 and the follower component 118. In some embodiments, the components of the adjustment assembly 108 are arranged and operatively coupled to the printhead retainer 106.

[0075] At step 806, one or more adjustment assemblies 108 may be, for example, coupled to the printhead 102.

[0076] At step 808, the adjustment assembly 108 is actuated to move the printhead 102 relative to the printhead retainer 106 and the platen roller. In some embodiments, the adjustment assembly 108 is operated and the knob 122 is rotated to move and align the printhead 102 with respect to the platen roller to one or more locking positions. For example, in some embodiments, turning the knob 122 operates the adjustment assembly 108, causing one or more walls (e.g. surfaces) that face towards or away from a central axis of the adjustment assembly 108 to press against one or both of the locator key 308 and the protruding member 114 and to move the locator key 308 and the protruding member 114 towards and away from each other. In some embodiments, the locator key 308 is moved relative to the adjustment assembly 108, and in other embodiments, the protruding member 114 is moved relative to the adjustment assembly 108. By so doing, the printhead 102 may be moved and adjusted relative to the platen roller 602 (e.g., as shown in Fig. 6B).

[0077] In some embodiments, locator key 308 extends into an opening or recess in the printhead 102 or an object fixed to the printhead 102. In other embodiments, the locator key 308 is fixed to the printhead 102 or an object fixed to the printhead 102, and extends into the adjustment assembly 108 (e.g., 208). In some embodiments, the protruding member 114 is fixed (e.g., mounted to the printhead bracket 104 and extends into the

[0078] Steps 802 to 808 are only illustrative and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claims herein.

[0079] In some embodiments, the printhead bracket may include an elongated slot to receive the printhead retainer. In some embodiments, the one or more adjustment assemblies may include a cam component that includes a curved groove at a base and sidewalls enclosing the base of the cam component. In some embodiments, the one or more adjustment assemblies may include a follower component including a locator key attached to a pawl including a notch.

[0080] In some embodiments, the one or more adjustment assemblies may include a ring sleeve to secure the protruding member within the notch of the pawl of the follower component and a knob coupled to the cam component and the follower component.

[0081] In some embodiments, the knob may include a cavity to receive and hold the pawl of the follower component. In some embodiments, the knob includes a lock adapted to engage with a lock recess on the sidewalls of the cam component. In some embodiments, the curved groove of the cam component may include one or more locking positions to lock the locator key of the follower component.

[0082] The cam mechanism enables quicker and easier adjustments compared to conventional methods. This reduces the time and effort required for setup and maintenance, improving overall printing efficiency. Cam mechanisms are robust and resistant to wear. This ensures the longevity and reliability of the printhead adjustment device 100, reducing the need for frequent replacements or repairs. The cam mechanism may often be integrated into a more compact and streamlined design compared to conventional adjustment methods. This simplifies the overall printer design and reduces manufacturing costs. The cam mechanism can be designed for intuitive operation, requiring minimal training or expertise for users to adjust. This enhances the user-friendliness of the printer.

[0083] Modifications to embodiments of the present subject matter described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present subject matter as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as "including", "comprising", "incorporating", "have", "is" used to describe and claim the present subject matter are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A printhead adjustment device comprising: a printhead retainer configured to be coupled with and adjustable in position relative to a printhead; an adjustment assembly configured to be mounted to the printhead retainer and that is formed with an eccentrically curved surface configured to control a separation between a first component coupled to the printhead retainer and a second component configured to be coupled to the printhead, wherein control of the separation of the first component and the second component is configured to control positioning of the printhead relative to a platen roll.

2. The printhead adjustment device of claim 1, further comprising a printhead bracket configured to be mounted to the printhead and extended through the printhead retainer.

3. The printhead adjustment device of claim 2, further comprising a bracket clip adapted to couple the printhead retainer to the printhead bracket.

4. The printhead adjustment device of claim 3, wherein the bracket clip restricts movement of the printhead retainer to a single plane of motion.

5. The printhead adjustment device of any of claims 1-4, wherein the first component comprises a protruding member fixed to the printhead retainer, the protruding member being configured to couple with the adjustment assembly.

6. The printhead adjustment device of claim 5, wherein the protruding member is an elongated cylindrical element extending vertically from the surface of the printhead retainer.

7. The printhead adjustment device of any of claims 1-6, further comprising a cam component that comprises the eccentrically curved surface.

8. The printhead adjustment device of claim 7, wherein the eccentrically curved surface is part of a curved groove.

9. The printhead adjustment device of any of claims 1-8, further comprising a follower component, and wherein the second component comprises a locator key extending from the follower component.

10. The printhead adjustment device of any of claims 1-9, wherein the eccentrically curved surface comprises one or more locking positions to lock the relative positions of the first component and the second component.

11. The printhead adjustment device of any of claims 7-11, wherein the adjustment assembly comprises a knob having a lock adapted to engage with a recess on a sidewall of the cam component.

12. The printhead adjustment device of claim 11, wherein rotation of the knob moves the second component along the eccentrically curved surface to adjust the position of the printhead relative to the platen roller.

13. The printhead adjustment device of any of claims 2-13, wherein the printhead bracket comprises an elongated slot to receive the printhead retainer.

14. A method for adjusting a printhead position in a printer, comprising: using a printhead adjustment device comprising a printhead retainer configured to be coupled with and adjustable in position relative to a printhead, and further comprising an adjustment assembly configured to be mounted to the printhead retainer and that is formed with an eccentrically curved surface configured to control a separation between a first component coupled to the printhead retainer and a second component configured to be coupled to the printhead, wherein control of the separation of the first component and the second component is configured to control positioning of the printhead relative to a platen roll, actuating the adjustment assembly to move the printhead relative to the platen roller.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the printhead adjustment device further comprises a printhead bracket configured to be mounted to the printhead and extended through the printhead retainer.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the printhead adjustment device further comprises a bracket clip adapted to couple the printhead retainer to the printhead bracket.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the bracket clip restricts movement of the printhead retainer to a single plane of motion.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the first component comprises a protruding member fixed to the printhead retainer, the protruding member being configured to couple with the adjustment assembly.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the protruding member is an elongated cylindrical element extending vertically from the surface of the printhead retainer.

20. The method of any of claims 14-19, wherein the printhead adjustment device further comprises a cam component that comprises the eccentrically curved surface.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the eccentrically curved surface is part of a curved groove.

22. The method of any of claims 14-21, wherein the printhead adjustment device further comprises a follower component, and wherein the second component comprises a locator key extending from the follower component.

23. The method of any of claims 14-22, wherein the eccentrically curved surface comprises one or more locking positions to lock the relative positions of the first component and the second component.

24. The method of any of claims 20-23, wherein the adjustment assembly comprises a knob having a lock adapted to engage with a recess on a sidewall of the cam component.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein rotation of the knob moves the second component along the eccentrically curved surface to adjust the position of the printhead relative to the platen roller.

26. A printer comprising: a platen roller; a printhead configured to be in a relative alignment with the platen roller; a printhead retainer fixed in position relative to the platen roller; an adjustment assembly coupled to the printhead retainer and engaged with the printhead, wherein the adjustment assembly is configured to move the printhead relative to the printhead retainer and the platen roller; and a printhead bracket mounted to the printhead and extending through the printhead retainer.

27. The printer of claim 26, further comprising a bracket clip adapted to couple the printhead retainer to the printhead bracket, wherein the bracket clip restricts movement of the printhead retainer to a single plane of motion.

28. The printer of any of claims 26-27, wherein the printhead retainer comprises a protruding member configured to couple with the adjustment assembly.

29. The printer of claim 28, wherein the protruding member is an elongated cylindrical element extending vertically from the surface of the printhead retainer.

30. The printer of claim 29, wherein the adjustment assembly comprises: a cam component comprising a curved groove formed in a base; a follower component comprising a locator key and a pawl including a notch, wherein the locator key is attached to the pawl; a ring sleeve to secure a protruding member within the notch of the pawl of the follower component; and a knob coupled to the cam component and the follower component.

31. The printer of claim 30, wherein the curved groove of the cam component further comprises one or more locking positions to lock the locator key of the follower component.

32. The printer of claim 30, wherein the knob comprises a lock adapted to engage with a recess on the sidewalls of the cam component.

33. The printer of claim 32, wherein rotation of the knob moves the locator key along the curved groove to adjust the position of the printhead relative to the platen roller.

34. The printer of any of claims 26-33, wherein the printhead bracket comprises an elongated slot to receive the printhead retainer.

35. The printer of any of claims 26-34, wherein the adjustment assembly is configured to adjust the printhead position to accommodate different types of print media with varying thicknesses.

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