Printer

Abstract

Provided is a printer attached to an installation surface, the printer comprising: a frame that has an abutting surface that abuts the installation surface; a printing unit that is provided to the frame; and a cover that covers the printing unit. A receiving part, for receiving a force in a direction in which the abutting surface moves away from the installation surface, is provided to the frame outside the cover.

Description

printer

[0001] The present invention relates to a printer.

[0002] JP2022-184049A discloses a printer that is attached to a label applicator.

[0003] The printer may be removed from the installation surface of the label application machine for maintenance, etc. However, the printer does not take into consideration the ease of removal from the installation surface.

[0004] The present invention has been made in view of the above technical problems, and has an object to improve the workability when removing a printer from its installation surface.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printer that is attached to an installation surface, comprising: a frame having an abutment surface that abuts against the installation surface; a printing unit provided on the frame; and a cover that covers the printing unit, wherein the frame is provided on the outside of the cover with a receiving portion for receiving a force in a direction that moves the abutment surface away from the installation surface.

[0006] According to the above aspect, the frame is provided with a receiving portion on the outside of the cover for receiving a force in a direction that moves the contact surface away from the installation surface. Therefore, the user can easily remove the printer from the installation surface by applying force to the receiving portion. This improves the workability when removing the printer from the installation surface.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a labeling system including a printer according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the printer as viewed from the front right side. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the printer as viewed from the front left side. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the printer as viewed from the left side. FIG. 5 is a top view of the printer. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the printer with the print unit cover, control unit cover, and power supply unit cover open. FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of the printer attached to a labeling machine as viewed in the direction of arrow VII in FIG. 1. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining how the printer is removed from the installation surface of the labeling machine. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the printer as viewed from the front. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a first modified example of a receiving section. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a second modified example of a receiving section. FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining a third modified example of a receiving section. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a fourth modified example of a receiving section. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIV-XIV in FIG. 13 for explaining the fourth modified example of a receiving section. Fig. 15 is a diagram for explaining a fifth modified example of the receiving portion. Fig. 16 is a diagram for explaining the fifth modified example of the receiving portion, as viewed from the printer in the direction of arrow XVI in Fig. 15. Fig. 17 is a diagram for explaining the fifth modified example of the receiving portion, as viewed from the printer in the direction of arrow XVII in Fig. 16. Fig. 18 is a diagram for explaining a sixth modified example of the receiving portion. Fig. 19 is a diagram for explaining the sixth modified example of the receiving portion, as viewed from the printer in the direction of arrow XIX in Fig. 18. Fig. 20 is a diagram for explaining the sixth modified example of the receiving portion, as viewed from the printer in the direction of arrow XX in Fig. 19. Fig. 21 is a perspective view of a printer in which a receiving portion is formed in the print unit cover.

[0008] The embodiments described below are not limited to the drawings described by the brief description of the drawings.

[0009] (1) One aspect of the present invention is a printer that is attached to an installation surface, and includes a frame having an abutment surface that abuts against the installation surface, a printing unit provided on the frame, and a cover that covers the printing unit, and on the outside of the cover, the frame is provided with a receiving portion for receiving a force in a direction that moves the abutment surface away from the installation surface.

[0010] According to this, a receiving portion is provided on the frame on the outside of the cover to receive a force in the direction that moves the abutment surface away from the installation surface. Therefore, the user can easily remove the printer from the installation surface by applying force to the receiving portion. This improves the workability when removing the printer from the installation surface.

[0011] (2) In one aspect of the present invention, in the printer according to (1), the receiving portion is a notch formed at a corner between the abutting surface of the frame and an end surface of the frame.

[0012] This allows the receiving portion to be easily provided on a frame having a predetermined mechanical strength, and also reduces the impact on the external shape and appearance of the printer.

[0013] (3) In one aspect of the present invention, in the printer according to (2), the cutout portion has an inclined surface that is inclined relative to the contact surface.

[0014] This allows the user to firmly place their fingertips on the inclined surface, making it easy for the user to apply force to the frame in a direction that moves the contact surface away from the installation surface, and also makes it easy for the user to slip their fingers into the gap formed between the contact surface and the installation surface.

[0015] (4) In one aspect of the present invention, in the printer according to (1), the receiving portion is formed in the shape of a handle that can be gripped by a user.

[0016] This allows the user to easily remove the printer from the installation surface by grasping the handle-shaped receiving portion and applying force, thereby improving the workability when removing the printer from the installation surface.

[0017] (5) One aspect of the present invention is a printer according to any one of (1) to (3), which is provided with an interface unit having at least one of an operation unit and a display unit, and the receiving portion has a portion that overlaps with the interface unit when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the abutment surface.

[0018] This allows the user to place their index finger or the like on the receiving part and their thumb on the interface unit, which is thicker than the frame. Therefore, when placing their index finger or the like on the receiving part and pulling the frame toward themselves, they can support their hand with their thumb, improving operability.

[0019] (6) One aspect of the present invention is a printer according to any one of (1) to (4), comprising an interface unit having at least one of an operation unit and a display unit, and a drive unit that drives the printing unit, wherein the abutment surface is used as a reference surface, the interface unit is located on one side of the reference surface, and the drive unit is located on the other side of the reference surface.

[0020] With this, when the printer is attached to the installation surface, the portion that protrudes from the installation surface can be minimized, while the interface unit that the user needs for work can be exposed to the outside.

[0021] (7) One aspect of the present invention is a printer according to any one of (1) to (5), comprising a drive unit that drives the printing unit, and with the contact surface as a reference surface, the printing unit is located on one side of the reference surface, and the drive unit is located on the other side of the reference surface.

[0022] With this, when the printer is attached to the installation surface, the portion that protrudes from the installation surface can be minimized, while the printing unit required for printing can be exposed to the outside.

[0023] A printer 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] First, a label application system 200 including a printer 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

[0025] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a labeling system 200. In Fig. 1, the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction are horizontal, and the Z-axis direction is the direction of gravity. That is, Fig. 1 is a top view of the labeling system 200.

[0026] 1 , the labeling system 200 includes a printer 100 that prints on labels L, a labeling machine 110 that serves as an application device that applies the labels L printed by the printer 100 to adherends A, a label supply machine (not shown) that supplies a continuous label strip ML to the printer 100, and a conveying device 120 that conveys the adherends A. The printer 100 is attached to an installation surface 111 of the labeling machine 110.

[0027] The printer 100, the label applicator 110, the label feeder, and the conveying device 120 are communicatively connected to one another via an external computer (not shown).

[0028] In this embodiment, the printer 100 receives a continuous label strip ML, which is a long backing sheet on which a plurality of labels L are provided, from a label feeder, and prints on the labels L.

[0029] The labeling machine 110 comprises a labeling section 112 and a control unit 113 .

[0030] The label application unit 112 receives the printed label L from the printer 100 and applies the label L to the adherend A being transported by the transport device 120 .

[0031] Specifically, the label application unit 112 includes a cylinder 114 and a label holding unit 115 .

[0032] The label application unit 112 holds the label L received from the printer 100 in the label holding unit 115, and extends the cylinder 114 to move the label L toward the adherend A. As a result, the label L is applied to the side surface of the adherend A.

[0033] The labeling system 200 may be installed in an orientation such that the label L is attached to the upper surface of the adherend A, or in an orientation such that the label L is attached to the lower surface of the adherend A. The orientation of the installation surface 111 on which the printer 100 is attached is not limited. That is, the installation surface 111 may be parallel to the horizontal direction, parallel to the direction of gravity, inclined relative to the horizontal direction, or inclined relative to the direction of gravity.

[0034] The continuous label web ML may be a fanfold label or a roll label with perforations formed at predetermined intervals, or a roll label without perforations. The continuous label web ML may also be configured by temporarily attaching multiple labels L to a backing sheet so that they do not overlap with the perforations in the backing sheet.

[0035] Next, the configuration of the printer 100 will be described.

[0036] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the printer 100 as seen from the front right side, Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the printer 100 as seen from the front left side, Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the printer 100 as seen from the left side, and Fig. 5 is a top view of the printer 100.

[0037] As shown in Figures 2 to 5, the printer 100 includes a frame 2, a printing unit 3, a drive unit 4 (see Figure 5) that drives the printing unit 3, a control unit 5 (see Figure 5), and a power supply unit 6 (see Figure 5).

[0038] The print unit 3 is located on one side of the frame 2 (the front side of the printer 100). The drive unit 4, control unit 5, and power supply unit 6 are located on the other side of the frame 2 (the rear side of the printer 100).

[0039] The printer 100 also has a print unit cover 7 that covers the print unit 3, a drive unit cover 8 that covers the drive unit 4, a control unit cover 9 that covers the control unit 5, and a power supply unit cover 10 that covers the power supply unit 6.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the printer 100 with the print unit cover 7, the control unit cover 9, and the power supply unit cover 10 open.

[0041] The print unit cover 7 can be opened and closed around a print unit cover opening / closing shaft 11 .

[0042] The control unit cover 9 can be opened and closed around a control unit cover opening and closing shaft 12 (see FIG. 3).

[0043] The power supply unit cover 10 can be opened and closed around a power supply unit cover opening and closing shaft 13 .

[0044] The print unit cover 7 has a support link 14 that bends with the opening and closing operation, thereby enabling the print unit cover 7 to be kept open. In addition, magnets 15 and 16 are provided to enable the print unit cover 7 to be kept closed.

[0045] The frame 2 has a rectangular shape and a predetermined mechanical strength. In this embodiment, the frame 2 is formed by aluminum die-casting. However, the frame 2 may be formed by, for example, press-forming a metal plate.

[0046] The frame 2 is located in the center of the printer 100, and has a printing unit 3, a drive unit 4, a control unit 5, and a power supply unit 6 mounted thereon.

[0047] The frame 2 is provided with a mounting portion 17 for mounting the printer 100 to a label applicator 110 .

[0048] Specifically, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the mounting portions 17 in this embodiment are five mounting holes (upper central mounting hole 17A, upper left end mounting hole 17B, upper right end mounting hole 17C, lower left end mounting hole 17D, and lower right end mounting hole 17E) formed on the periphery of the frame 2. The positions and number of the mounting holes can be changed as appropriate. Furthermore, the mounting portions 17 are not limited to mounting holes, and any configuration can be adopted.

[0049] FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of the printer 100 mounted on the label applicator 110, viewed in the direction of arrow VII in FIG.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 7, the printer 100 is assembled to the label applicator 110 by fitting the rear side (drive unit cover 8, control unit cover 9, power supply unit cover 10) into a rectangular hole 116 formed in the installation surface 111.

[0051] The printer 100 is fastened to the installation surface 111 with a plurality of bolts 118 using a plurality of screw holes 117 provided in the installation surface 111 corresponding to the mounting holes 17A to 17E.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 6, the printing unit 3 has a printing section 18 that prints on the label L.

[0053] When the print unit cover 7 of the print unit 3 is opened, the print section 18 is exposed to the outside.

[0054] The printing unit 3 is capable of printing predetermined information on the labels L along the transport path from the inlet 20 (see FIGS. 3 and 4) of the continuous label web ML to the outlet 21 (see FIG. 2).

[0055] The printing unit 18 includes, in order from the upstream side of the conveying path (left side in FIG. 6), a width regulating shaft 23, a pair of upper and lower auxiliary conveying rollers 24, a position detection sensor (not shown), a conveying roller mechanism 71, a platen roller 28 and a thermal head 29, a peeling plate 30, etc.

[0056] The printing unit 18 also has a ribbon supply shaft 32 that supplies an unused thermal transfer ink ribbon (not shown) between the platen roller 28 and the thermal head 29, and a ribbon take-up shaft 33 that takes up a used thermal transfer ink ribbon.

[0057] The width regulating shaft 23 regulates the positions of both left and right edges of the continuous label web ML, thereby properly regulating the conveying posture of the continuous label web ML along the conveying path.

[0058] The auxiliary transport roller 24 is driven in synchronization with the platen roller 28 and assists the platen roller 28 and the thermal head 29 in transporting the continuous label web ML in the forward and reverse directions. The forward transport is transport toward the downstream side, and the reverse transport is transport toward the upstream side.

[0059] The position detection sensor detects the position detection marks provided on the continuous label web ML, thereby making it possible to detect the relative positional relationship between the continuous label web ML and the platen roller 28 and thermal head 29 .

[0060] The transport roller mechanism 71 sandwiches the liner turned by the peeling plate 30 and sends it to the rear side (left side in FIG. 6) of the printer 100. The liner is discharged outside the printer 100 via the liner guide roller 37.

[0061] The platen roller 28 sandwiches the continuous label web ML and the thermal transfer ink ribbon between it and the thermal head 29. The printing unit 3 supplies print data to the thermal head 29 and rotates the platen roller 28 to print predetermined information on the labels L.

[0062] The thermal transfer ink ribbon is supplied from a ribbon supply shaft 32 to between the platen roller 28 and the thermal head 29. The used thermal transfer ink ribbon is taken up onto a ribbon take-up shaft 33.

[0063] In the printing unit 18 of this embodiment, the platen roller 28 and the thermal head 29 can be separated by rotating the opening / closing lever 41 clockwise. This makes it possible to load the continuous label strip ML and the thermal transfer ink ribbon between the platen roller 28 and the thermal head 29.

[0064] The platen roller 28 and the thermal head 29 are ready to print when the opening / closing lever 41 is rotated counterclockwise to engage the tip of the opening / closing lever 41 with a lever engagement pin 42 attached to the transport roller mechanism 71 .

[0065] The peeling plate 30 deflects only the liner of the continuous label web ML at the leading end, so that the label L is peeled off from the liner and discharged (issued) from the discharge port 21.

[0066] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, an interface unit 35 and a power switch 43 are provided on the upper part of the frame 2.

[0067] The interface unit 35 has an operation section 44 having various operation keys and a display section 45 that displays various information. The interface unit 35 may be configured to have either the operation section 44 or the display section 45.

[0068] The control unit 5 controls the drive unit 4 , the printing unit 3 , and the power supply unit 6 .

[0069] The power supply unit 6 receives power from an external source via an outlet, and supplies power to the control unit 5 , the drive unit 4 , and the printing unit 3 .

[0070] The drive unit 4 includes a motor (not shown) that drives the platen roller 28 of the printing unit 3 and the like.

[0071] Next, the operation of removing the printer 100 from the label applicator 110 will be described.

[0072] As described above, the printer 100 is fastened to the installation surface 111 with a plurality of bolts 118 using a plurality of screw holes 117 provided corresponding to the mounting holes 17A to 17E (see FIG. 7).

[0073] When removing the printer 100 from the label applicator 110, first, the plurality of bolts 118 are removed. Next, the printer 100 is pulled out from the rectangular hole 116 formed in the installation surface 111.

[0074] The printer 100 of this embodiment has a structure that takes into consideration the ease of removal from the installation surface 111 .

[0075] The ease of removing the printer 100 from the installation surface 111 will be described in detail below.

[0076] When a user pulls out the printer 100 from the rectangular hole 116 formed in the installation surface 111, it is expected that the user will grasp various parts of the printer 100. Among these, the frame 2 has a certain level of mechanical strength, so if the user can grasp the frame 2, they can apply a firm force to remove the printer. In other words, it can be said that workability is improved.

[0077] 7 , the frame 2 has a contact surface 2a, which is the rear surface, that contacts the installation surface 111, and both the contact surface 2a and the installation surface 111 are flat. Therefore, unless a structure that takes operability into consideration is adopted, it is difficult for the user to insert their fingers between the contact surface 2a and the installation surface 111. As a result, there is a high possibility that the user will grab a part other than the frame 2.

[0078] In contrast to this, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 4, 5, 7, and 8, on the outside of the printing unit cover 7, the frame 2 is provided with a cutout portion 2b as a receiving portion for receiving a force in the direction that moves the abutment surface 2a away from the installation surface 111.

[0079] Specifically, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the printer 100 has two notches 2b formed at the corners between the contact surface 2a of the frame 2 and the end surface 2c of the frame 2. Figures 7 and 8 partially show a cross section (a cross section parallel to the ZY plane) passing through the notches 2b.

[0080] 8, the user can hook their fingers into the notched portion 2b and pull the frame 2 toward themselves (in the direction of the arrow), and can easily grasp the frame 2 by inserting their fingers into the gap formed between the contact surface 2a and the installation surface 111.

[0081] In this way, the user can easily remove the printer 100 from the installation surface 111 by applying force to the cutout portion 2b in a direction that moves the contact surface 2a away from the installation surface 111. This improves the workability when removing the printer 100 from the installation surface 111.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 8, the notch 2b of this embodiment has an inclined surface 2d that is inclined relative to the contact surface 2a.

[0083] This allows the user to firmly place their fingertips on the inclined surface 2d, and therefore the user can easily apply force to the frame 2 in a direction that moves the contact surface 2a away from the installation surface 111. In addition, the user can easily slip their fingers into the gap formed between the contact surface 2a and the installation surface 111.

[0084] The shape of the notch 2b can be changed as appropriate. For example, in the cross section shown in Fig. 8, the entire surface of the notch 2b may be formed as an inclined surface inclined relative to the contact surface 2a, or the notch 2b may be formed to have a surface extending along the Y-axis direction and a surface extending along the Z-axis direction. Furthermore, for example, a surface having a non-slip rib shape may be provided.

[0085] In this embodiment, two notches 2b are provided on the top of the printer 100. This reduces the possibility of touching the printing unit 18 and other parts that should preferably be kept out of reach of hands during removal.

[0086] However, the positions and number of the notches 2b (receiving portions) are not limited to this and can be set as appropriate. For example, the notches 2b may be provided on all peripheral portions as far as the shape of the frame 2 allows.

[0087] This eliminates the need for the user to check the position of the notch 2b, and allows the user to use the notch 2b intuitively.

[0088] Also, for example, when looking at the printer 100 from the front, it is conceivable to provide a notch 2b on each of one side and the other side (opposite sides), or to provide a notch 2b on each of one corner and the other corner (opposite corners).

[0089] These allow the printer 100 to be grasped with both hands, and therefore the printer 100 can be pulled straight out from the rectangular hole 116 formed in the installation surface 111, preventing the printer 100 from interfering with the installation surface 111 when removing it.

[0090] Further, for example, it is conceivable to provide a notch 2b at the top of the printer 100 and at one of the corners of the bottom.

[0091] This allows the user to grasp the printer 100 with both hands by using the notch 2b at the top and the notch 2b at the corners. This allows the printer 100 to be pulled straight out from the rectangular hole 116 formed in the installation surface 111, preventing the printer 100 from interfering with the installation surface 111 when removing it.

[0092] Furthermore, even if the notch 2b at the corner cannot be used due to the presence of the label attachment section 112 or the label supply section, the use of the notch 2b at the top improves the workability when removing the printer 100 from the installation surface 111.

[0093] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a schematic view of the printer 100 as seen from the front.

[0094] 9, in this embodiment, the notched portion 2b (receiving portion) has a portion that overlaps with the interface unit 35 when viewed from the front of the printer 100 (a direction perpendicular to the contact surface 2a). When we say "having an overlapping portion," it means that there is a partial overlap or that the entire overlap occurs.

[0095] 8, it is possible to place an index finger or the like in the notch 2b and place a thumb on the interface unit 35, which is thicker than the frame 2. Therefore, when placing an index finger or the like in the notch 2b and pulling the frame 2 toward oneself (in the direction of the arrow), the hand can be supported by the thumb, improving operability.

[0096] As shown in FIGS. 4, 7 and 8, the contact surface 2a of the frame 2 is provided with a recess 2e.

[0097] With this, when grasping the frame 2 by inserting a finger into the gap formed between the contact surface 2a and the installation surface 111, the user can hook the fingertip in the recess 2e, thereby enabling the user to easily grasp the frame 2. In other words, providing the recess 2e further improves the ease of removing the printer 100 from the installation surface 111.

[0098] In this embodiment, the recess 2e does not penetrate the frame 2. However, the recess 2e may be a hole that penetrates the frame 2. When the recess 2e is formed as a hole that penetrates the frame 2, it is preferable that the recess 2e is positioned and sized so that it is completely covered by the interface unit 35. Note that the recess 2e does not necessarily have to be provided.

[0099] Furthermore, in the printer 100, when the contact surface 2a is viewed as a reference surface, the interface unit 35 is located on one side of the reference surface, and the drive unit 4 is located on the other side of the reference surface.

[0100] This allows the interface unit 35 necessary for the user's work to be exposed to the outside while minimizing the portion of the printer 100 that protrudes from the installation surface 111 when the printer 100 is attached to the installation surface 111 of the label application machine 110.

[0101] Furthermore, in the printer 100, when the contact surface 2a is viewed as a reference surface, the print unit 3 is located on one side of the reference surface, and the drive unit 4 is located on the other side of the reference surface.

[0102] With this, when the printer 100 is attached to the installation surface 111 of the label application machine 110, the portion that protrudes from the installation surface 111 can be minimized, while the printing unit 3 required for printing can be exposed to the outside.

[0103] Next, a first modified example of the receiving portion will be described with reference to FIG.

[0104] 10 is a diagram for explaining a first modified example of the receiving portion, and is a partial cross-sectional view corresponding to a view of the printer 100 attached to the label applicator 110 as seen in the direction of arrow VII in FIG.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 10, the receiving portion according to the first modified example is a lever mechanism 40 having a swing shaft 40a provided on the frame 2 and a swing lever 40b swingably supported on the swing shaft 40a.

[0106] When removing the printer 100 from the label application machine 110, first remove the multiple bolts 118. Next, as shown by arrow B, the user pulls one end of the swing lever 40b, causing the swing lever 40b to swing, and as shown by arrow C, the other end of the swing lever 40b is displaced toward the installation surface 111. Then, as shown by arrow C, the other end of the swing lever 40b presses the installation surface 111, causing the abutment surface 2a to move away from the installation surface 111.

[0107] In this way, the lever mechanism 40 functions as a receiving portion that receives a force in a direction in which the contact surface 2 a moves away from the installation surface 111 .

[0108] This allows the user to easily remove the printer 100 from the installation surface 111 by applying force to the lever mechanism 40. This improves the ease of removing the printer 100 from the installation surface 111.

[0109] Next, a second modified example of the receiving portion will be described with reference to FIG.

[0110] 11 is a diagram for explaining a second modified example of the receiving portion, and corresponds to a view of the printer 100 attached to the label application machine 110 as seen in the direction of arrow VII in FIG.

[0111] 11, the receiving portion according to the second modification is a screw hole 2g provided in the frame 2. A jig J having a male screw that engages with the screw hole 2g can be attached to the screw hole 2g.

[0112] When removing the printer 100 from the label application machine 110, first remove the bolts 118. Next, as shown by arrow D, the user pulls the jig J attached to the screw hole 2g, thereby separating the contact surface 2a from the installation surface 111.

[0113] In this way, the screw hole 2g can receive, via the jig J, a force in the direction in which the contact surface 2a moves away from the installation surface 111. In other words, the screw hole 2g functions as a receiving portion that receives a force in the direction in which the contact surface 2a moves away from the installation surface 111.

[0114] This allows the user to easily remove the printer 100 from the installation surface 111 by applying force to the jig J attached to the screw hole 2g. This improves the workability when removing the printer 100 from the installation surface 111.

[0115] In addition, when the jig J is attached to the screw hole 2g, it can be said that the screw hole 2g is the receiving portion, or that the jig J is the receiving portion.

[0116] 11, the jig J is shaft-shaped. However, the shape of the jig J is not limited to this. The jig J may be, for example, handle-shaped or ring-shaped.

[0117] Next, a third modified example of the receiving portion will be described with reference to FIG.

[0118] 12 is a diagram for explaining a third modified example of the receiving portion, and shows a schematic front view of the printer 100.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 12, the receiving portion according to the third modification is a handle portion 46 formed in a handle shape by providing a through hole 2h in the frame 2 so that the user can grip it.

[0120] When removing the printer 100 from the label application machine 110, first remove the bolts 118. Next, the user grabs and pulls the handle 46, thereby separating the contact surface 2a from the installation surface 111.

[0121] In this way, the handle portion 46 functions as a receiving portion that receives a force in a direction in which the contact surface 2 a moves away from the installation surface 111 .

[0122] This allows the user to easily remove the printer 100 from the installation surface 111 by grasping the handle 46 and applying force. This improves the ease of removing the printer 100 from the installation surface 111.

[0123] 12, handles 46 are provided at each of the two corners on the top of the printer 100. However, the positions and number of the handles 46 are not limited to this.

[0124] For example, when viewed from the front, it is conceivable to provide a handle 46 on each of one side and the other side (opposite sides) of the printer 100, or to provide a handle 46 on each of one corner and the other corner (opposite corners). This allows the printer 100 to be grasped with both hands. Therefore, the printer 100 can be pulled straight out from the rectangular hole 116 formed in the installation surface 111, preventing the printer 100 from interfering with the installation surface 111 when removed.

[0125] Furthermore, it may be difficult to form a handle 46 on the frame 2 at the bottom of the printer 100. In this case, the handle 46 may be formed on a stay or the like attached to the underside of the printer 100. That is, the handle 46 at one corner of the top of the printer 100 may be provided on the frame 2, and the handle 46 at the other corner (the opposing corner) at the bottom of the printer 100 may be provided on a stay or the like attached to the underside of the printer 100. In this case, too, the printer 100 can be grasped with both hands.

[0126] Next, a fourth modified example of the receiving portion will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0127] Fig. 13 is a diagram for explaining a fourth modified example of the receiving portion. Fig. 13 shows a schematic diagram of the printer 100 as seen from the front. Fig. 14 is a diagram for explaining the fourth modified example of the receiving portion, and is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIV-XIV in Fig. 13.

[0128] 13 and 14, the receiving portion according to the fourth modification is a handle portion 47 formed on the frame 2. The handle portion 47 is formed in a handle shape that can be gripped by the user.

[0129] Specifically, the handle portion 47 has a first wall portion 47a, a second wall portion 47b, and a third wall portion 47c formed to protrude from one side (the front side of the printer 100) at the peripheral portion of the frame 2, and a fourth wall portion 47d formed parallel to the abutment surface 2a.

[0130] When removing the printer 100 from the label application machine 110, first remove the bolts 118. Next, the user grabs and pulls the handle 47, thereby separating the contact surface 2a from the installation surface 111.

[0131] In this way, the handle portion 47 functions as a receiving portion that receives a force in a direction in which the contact surface 2 a moves away from the installation surface 111 .

[0132] This allows the user to easily remove the printer 100 from the installation surface 111 by applying force to the handle 47. This improves the ease of removing the printer 100 from the installation surface 111.

[0133] The position and number of the handles 47 can be changed as appropriate, similar to the handles 46 described above.

[0134] Next, a fifth modified example of the receiving portion will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0135] Fig. 15 is a diagram for explaining a fifth modified example of the receiving portion. Fig. 16 is a diagram for explaining a fifth modified example of the receiving portion, and is a view of the printer 100 as viewed in the direction of arrow XVI in Fig. 15. Fig. 17 is a diagram for explaining a fifth modified example of the receiving portion, and is a view of the printer 100 as viewed in the direction of arrow XVII in Fig. 16.

[0136] As shown in FIGS. 15, 16 and 17, the receiving portion according to the fifth modified example is a recess 48 formed on the contact surface 2 a of the frame 2 .

[0137] 16 and 17, the recess 48 is formed in a groove shape with both ends opening to the end surface 2c of the frame 2. The recess 48 can accommodate a handle 50 that is rotatably supported by two rotation shafts 49.

[0138] When the printer 100 is attached to the installation surface 111 of the label applicator 110 , the handle 50 is housed in the recess 48 .

[0139] When the printer 100 is removed from the label applicator 110, the handle 50 can be rotated to expose the printer 100 above, as shown by arrow E in Figure 15, so that the printer 100 can be carried by holding the handle 50.

[0140] When removing the printer 100 from the label application machine 110, first remove the bolts 118. Next, by hooking a finger into the recess 48 and pulling it, the contact surface 2a is separated from the installation surface 111.

[0141] In this way, the recess 48 functions as a receiving portion that receives a force in a direction in which the contact surface 2 a moves away from the installation surface 111 .

[0142] This allows the user to easily remove the printer 100 from the installation surface 111 by applying force to the recess 48. This improves the ease of removing the printer 100 from the installation surface 111.

[0143] Next, a sixth modified example of the receiving portion will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0144] Fig. 18 is a diagram for explaining a sixth modified example of the receiving portion. Fig. 19 is a diagram for explaining the sixth modified example of the receiving portion, and is a view of the printer 100 as seen in the direction of arrow XIX in Fig. 18. Fig. 20 is a diagram for explaining the sixth modified example of the receiving portion, and is a view of the printer 100 as seen in the direction of arrow XX in Fig. 19.

[0145] As shown in FIGS. 18, 19 and 20, the receiving portion according to the sixth modified example is a recess 51 formed on the contact surface 2 a of the frame 2 .

[0146] The recess 51 is open to the end surface 2c of the frame 2. The recess 51 is capable of accommodating a handle 52.

[0147] In this example, the drive unit cover 8 covers the recess 51, thereby preventing the handle 52 from coming off to the rear side of the printer 100. For ease of understanding, the drive unit cover 8 is shown by a two-dot chain line in Figure 19.

[0148] When the printer 100 is attached to the installation surface 111 of the label applicator 110 , the handle 52 is housed in the recess 51 .

[0149] As shown by arrow F in FIG. 18, the handle 52 can be slid to be exposed above the printer 100.

[0150] 19, the frame 2 is formed with two stoppers 2f that come into contact with the two ends 52a of the handle 52 and restrict the sliding of the handle 52. This prevents the handle 52 from coming off toward the upper side of the printer 100.

[0151] When the printer 100 is removed from the label applicator 110, the handle 52 can be slid to expose it above the printer 100, as shown by arrow F in Figure 18, and the printer 100 can be carried by holding the handle 52.

[0152] When removing the printer 100 from the label application machine 110, first remove the bolts 118. Next, by hooking a finger into the recess 51 and pulling it, the contact surface 2a is separated from the installation surface 111.

[0153] In this way, the recess 51 functions as a receiving portion that receives a force in a direction in which the contact surface 2 a moves away from the installation surface 111 .

[0154] This allows the user to easily remove the printer 100 from the installation surface 111 by applying force to the recess 51. This improves the ease of removing the printer 100 from the installation surface 111.

[0155] Next, a seventh modification of the receiving portion will be described.

[0156] In the seventh modification, although not shown, a locking portion (such as a through hole) is provided on the frame 2. With this, the user can move the contact surface 2 a away from the installation surface 111 by locking a jig having a locking portion onto the locking portion and pulling it.

[0157] The configuration and effects of the printer 100 configured as above will now be described.

[0158] The printer 100 attached to the installation surface 111 comprises a frame 2 having an abutment surface 2a that abuts against the installation surface 111, a printing unit 3 provided on the frame 2, and a printing unit cover 7 that covers the printing unit 3, and on the outside of the printing unit cover 7, the frame 2 is provided with receiving portions (notch portion 2b, lever mechanism 40, screw hole 2g, jig J, handle portion 46, handle portion 47, recess 48, recess 51) to receive force in the direction that moves the abutment surface 2a away from the installation surface 111.

[0159] According to this, a receiving portion is provided on the frame 2 outside the print unit cover 7 to receive a force in a direction that moves the abutment surface 2a away from the installation surface 111. Therefore, by applying force to the receiving portion, the user can easily remove the printer 100 from the installation surface 111. This improves the workability when removing the printer 100 from the installation surface 111.

[0160] The receiving portion can be constituted by a notch 2b formed at the corner between the contact surface 2a of the frame 2 and the end surface 2c of the frame 2.

[0161] This allows the receiving portion to be easily provided on the frame 2 having a predetermined mechanical strength, and also reduces the impact on the external shape and appearance of the printer 100.

[0162] The notch 2b may have an inclined surface 2d that is inclined relative to the contact surface 2a.

[0163] This allows the user to firmly place their fingertips on the inclined surface 2d, which allows the user to easily apply force to the frame 2 in a direction that moves the contact surface 2a away from the installation surface 111. In addition, the user can easily slip their fingers into the gap formed between the contact surface 2a and the installation surface 111.

[0164] The receiving portion (jig J, handle portion 46, handle portion 47) may be formed in a handle shape that can be gripped by a user.

[0165] This allows the user to easily remove the printer 100 from the installation surface 111 by grasping the handle-shaped receiving portion and applying force. This improves the ease of removing the printer 100 from the installation surface 111.

[0166] The printer 100 is equipped with an interface unit 35 having at least one of an operation unit 44 and a display unit 45, and the receiving portion (cutout portion 2b, recess 48, recess 51) has a portion that overlaps with the interface unit 35 when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the abutment surface 2a.

[0167] This allows the user to place their index finger or the like on the receiving portion and their thumb on the interface unit 35, which is thicker than the frame 2. Therefore, when placing their index finger or the like on the receiving portion and pulling the frame 2 toward themselves, they can support their hand with their thumb, improving operability.

[0168] The printer 100 comprises an interface unit 35 having at least one of an operation unit 44 and a display unit 45, and a drive unit 4 that drives the printing unit 3. The abutment surface 2a is used as a reference surface, and the interface unit 35 is located on one side of the reference surface, and the drive unit 4 is located on the other side of the reference surface.

[0169] This allows the interface unit 35 necessary for the user's work to be exposed to the outside while minimizing the portion of the printer 100 that protrudes from the installation surface 111 when the printer 100 is attached to the installation surface 111 of the label application machine 110.

[0170] The printer 100 is equipped with a drive unit 4 that drives the printing unit 3, and with the contact surface 2a as the reference surface, the printing unit 3 is located on one side of the reference surface, and the drive unit 4 is located on the other side of the reference surface.

[0171] With this, when the printer 100 is attached to the installation surface 111 of the label application machine 110, the portion that protrudes from the installation surface 111 can be minimized, while the printing unit 3 required for printing can be exposed to the outside.

[0172] Although an embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the above embodiment merely shows one application example of the present invention, and is not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention to the specific configuration of the above embodiment.

[0173] For example, in the above embodiment, the printer 100 is described as being attached to the installation surface 111 of the label application machine 110. However, the printer 100 may be attached to the installation surface of a device other than the label application machine 110, or may be attached to the installation surface of a structure.

[0174] In the printer 100, it is possible to provide a receiving portion for receiving a force in the direction in which the contact surface 2a moves away from the installation surface 111 in a location other than the frame 2. As an example, it is possible to provide a receiving portion in the print unit cover 7.

[0175] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a printer 100 in which a receiving portion is formed in the print unit cover 7. As shown in FIG.

[0176] 21, a bent portion 7a is formed on the print unit cover 7 at the connection portion between the print unit cover 7 and the frame 2. This forms a gap G between the print unit cover 7 and the frame 2.

[0177] The user can easily remove the printer 100 from the installation surface 111 by hooking their fingers around the bent portion 7a of the print unit cover 7 through the gap G and pulling the printer 100. This improves the workability when removing the printer 100 from the installation surface 111.

Claims

1. A printer that is attached to an installation surface, comprising: a frame having an abutment surface that abuts against the installation surface; a printing unit provided on the frame; and a cover that covers the printing unit, wherein a receiving portion is provided on the frame on the outside of the cover to receive a force in a direction that moves the abutment surface away from the installation surface.

2. A printer according to claim 1, wherein the receiving portion is a notch formed at a corner between the abutting surface of the frame and an end surface of the frame.

3. A printer according to claim 2, wherein the cutout portion has an inclined surface that is inclined relative to the contact surface.

4. The printer according to claim 1, wherein the receiving portion is formed in the shape of a handle that can be gripped by a user.

5. A printer according to claim 1, comprising an interface unit having at least one of an operation unit and a display unit, wherein the receiving portion has a portion that overlaps with the interface unit when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the contact surface.

6. A printer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising an interface unit having at least one of an operation unit and a display unit, and a drive unit that drives the printing unit, wherein the abutment surface is used as a reference surface, the interface unit is located on one side of the reference surface, and the drive unit is located on the other side of the reference surface.

7. A printer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a drive unit that drives the printing unit, wherein the contact surface is used as a reference surface, the printing unit is located on one side of the reference surface, and the drive unit is located on the other side of the reference surface.

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