Ribbon cassette and printer

Abstract

Provided are a ribbon cassette (10) and a printer (100) comprising the ribbon cassette. The ribbon cassette comprises: a lower housing (11) and a cover body (12) covering the lower housing, wherein the inner side wall of the cover body is provided with a second protruding portion (22) and a first limiting structure (121), the first limiting structure protrudes relative to the inner side wall of the cover body, and the first limiting structure is located on the peripheral side of the second protruding portion; a spool (8) mounted in the lower housing and rotatably connected to the second protruding portion; and an elastic member (3) sleeved on the second protruding portion, compressed between the spool and the first limiting structure, and capable of providing an axial pressing force to the spool. The end of the elastic member distant from the spool is provided with a first anti-rotation structure (31), and the first anti-rotation structure works in conjunction with the first limiting structure to limit the rotation of the elastic member in a first direction, thereby preventing the spool from driving the elastic member to rotate together when the spool rotates in the first direction, so that the elastic member is stably mounted, and the axial pressing force is stably provided to the spool.

Description

ribbon cartridges and printers

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent applications filed on February 26, 2025, with application number 202520326937.1 entitled "Ribbon Cartridge and Printer" and application number 202520321556.4 entitled "Ribbon Cartridge and Printer", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of printer equipment technology, and more particularly to a ribbon cartridge and a printer. Background Technology

[0004] Currently, a ribbon cartridge is a device inside a printer used to hold ribbon. The ribbon cartridge includes a housing and a spool disposed inside the housing. The ribbon is wound on the spool. The housing has a protrusion. The spool is connected to the protrusion and can rotate in the forward direction relative to the protrusion to wind up or unwind the ribbon.

[0005] In related technologies, a compression spring is provided between the spool and the protrusion. The compression spring provides axial clamping force to the spool, ensuring stable installation. It also increases the friction between the spool and the housing, keeping the carbon ribbon taut even without external force. However, the rotation of the spool causes the compression spring to rotate as well. This rotation may alter the spring's original elasticity and clamping force, thus affecting its axial clamping effect on the spool. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a ribbon cartridge and a printer that can solve the technical problem that the compression spring rotates with the roller.

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a ribbon cartridge, which includes:

[0008] The housing includes a lower shell and a cover body disposed on the lower shell. The inner sidewall of the cover body is provided with a second protrusion and a first limiting structure disposed on the periphery of the second protrusion.

[0009] A spool is installed inside the lower housing and is rotatably connected to the second protrusion.

[0010] An elastic element is sleeved on the second protrusion and compressed between the spool and the first limiting structure. The end of the elastic element away from the spool is provided with a first anti-rotation structure. The first anti-rotation structure cooperates with the first limiting structure to restrict the elastic element from rotating in the first direction.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first limiting structure and the first anti-rotation structure are arranged circumferentially along the second protrusion, and the first limiting structure is located on the movement trajectory of the first anti-rotation structure along the first direction.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first limiting structure includes a plurality of baffles, the plurality of baffles being arranged at circumferential intervals along the second protrusion, and the first anti-rotation structure being located between two adjacent baffles;

[0013] Specifically, when the first anti-rotation structure engages with one of the two adjacent stop bars, it restricts the elastic element from rotating in the first direction; when the first anti-rotation structure engages with the other of the two adjacent stop bars, it restricts the elastic element from rotating in the second direction, which is opposite to the first direction.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first anti-rotation structure includes a stop surface and an inclined surface opposite to the stop surface. The stop surface is located on the side of the first anti-rotation structure facing the first direction. When the stop surface cooperates with the first limiting structure, it restricts the elastic member from rotating in the first direction. When the inclined surface cooperates with the first limiting structure, it guides the first anti-rotation structure to pass through the first limiting structure in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction.

[0015] In some embodiments, the elastic element is provided with a second anti-rotation structure at one end near the spool, and a second limiting structure is provided on the inner sidewall of the cover. The second limiting structure is located on the periphery of the elastic element. The second anti-rotation structure cooperates with the second limiting structure to restrict the elastic element from rotating in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first limiting structure is connected to the second limiting structure, and the first anti-rotation structure is located on the side of the first limiting structure opposite to the first direction, and the second anti-rotation structure is located on the side of the second limiting structure opposite to the second direction.

[0017] In some embodiments, the second limiting structure includes a plurality of mating plates arranged at circumferential intervals along the elastic member, and the second anti-rotation structure abuts against the mating plates to restrict the elastic member from rotating in the second direction.

[0018] In some embodiments, the outer peripheral side of the second protrusion is provided with a plurality of ribs, the plurality of ribs being spaced apart circumferentially along the second protrusion, and the elastic member being sleeved on the plurality of ribs.

[0019] In some embodiments, the rib has a guide bevel at the end facing the spool.

[0020] In some embodiments, the elastic element is interference-fitted with the rib.

[0021] In some embodiments, the reel is a take-up reel on which carbon ribbon is wound, and the take-up reel is used to take up the carbon ribbon.

[0022] In some embodiments, the lower shell has a winding cavity and a tape inlet communicating with the winding cavity, the winding shaft is rotatably mounted in the winding cavity, and the carbon tape passes through the tape inlet and is wound around the winding shaft.

[0023] In some embodiments, the end face of the winding shaft facing the cover is pressed against the elastic element.

[0024] In some embodiments, one of the cover and the lower shell is provided with a slot and the other is provided with a snap-fit ​​part, the snap-fit ​​part being inserted into the slot.

[0025] In some embodiments, the ribbon cartridge includes:

[0026] The housing includes a lower shell and a cover covering the lower shell, wherein the inner sidewall of the cover is provided with a positioning protrusion structure;

[0027] A dispensing shaft is disposed inside the lower shell and rotatably connected to the positioning protrusion structure, and is used to rotate in a first direction to dispense carbon ribbon;

[0028] A take-up shaft is disposed inside the lower shell and rotatably connected to the positioning protrusion structure, and is spaced apart from the dispensing shaft, for rotating along the first direction to take up the carbon ribbon;

[0029] A reset member is disposed between the positioning protrusion structure and the take-up shaft. The reset member is used to provide a preload force in a second direction to the take-up shaft or the take-up shaft, so that the carbon ribbon between the take-up shaft and the take-up shaft is in a taut state, wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction; or, the reset member is disposed between the positioning protrusion structure and the take-up shaft, and the reset member is used to provide a preload force in the first direction to the take-up shaft or the take-up shaft, so that the carbon ribbon between the take-up shaft and the take-up shaft is in a taut state.

[0030] In some embodiments, the positioning protrusion structure includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion spaced apart, one of the dispensing shaft and the take-up shaft is rotatably connected to the first protrusion, and the other of the dispensing shaft and the take-up shaft is rotatably connected to the second protrusion.

[0031] In some embodiments, the dispensing shaft is rotatably connected to the first protrusion, one end of the reset member is connected to the first protrusion, the other end of the reset member is provided with a stop portion and extends into the dispensing shaft, the dispensing shaft is provided with a limiting rib, and the stop portion cooperates with the limiting rib to enable the reset member to provide a preload force in the second direction to the dispensing shaft.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first protrusion includes:

[0033] The first protrusion is connected to the inner wall of the cover, and the first protrusion has an insertion hole, and a limiting strip is provided in the insertion hole;

[0034] The second protrusion includes a first part and a second part that are connected to each other. The peripheral sidewall of the first part is provided with ribs. The first part is inserted into the insertion hole, and the ribs cooperate with the limiting strip to restrict the rotation of the first part. The second part is inserted into the dispensing shaft, and the reset member is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second part. The reset member is connected to the second part.

[0035] In some embodiments, the second protrusion further includes a partition, through which the first portion and the second portion are connected, and the partition abuts against the first protrusion.

[0036] In some embodiments, the ribbon cartridge includes a ratchet mechanism disposed on the take-up shaft, the ratchet mechanism being used to prevent the take-up shaft from rotating in the second direction.

[0037] In some embodiments, the ratchet mechanism includes a ratchet and a pawl, the ratchet being connected to one end of the take-up shaft, the pawl being movably disposed on the lower housing, and the pawl engaging with the ratchet to prevent the take-up shaft from rotating in a second direction.

[0038] In some embodiments, the ratchet mechanism further includes an elastic connector, the middle portion of the pawl is rotatably connected to the lower housing, one end of the pawl is connected to the lower housing via the elastic connector, and the elastic connector is used to drive the other end of the pawl to engage with the ratchet to prevent the take-up shaft from rotating in the second direction.

[0039] In some embodiments, the ribbon cartridge includes an elastic element compressed between the cover and a first end of the take-up shaft, the second end of the take-up shaft abutting against the inner wall of the lower shell, the first end and the second end of the take-up shaft being opposite ends.

[0040] In some embodiments, the cover is provided with a first limiting structure, the elastic element is sleeved on the positioning protrusion and compressed between the first limiting structure and the winding shaft, the end of the elastic element away from the winding shaft is provided with a first anti-rotation structure, the first limiting structure and the first anti-rotation structure are arranged along the circumference of the positioning protrusion, and the first anti-rotation structure cooperates with the first limiting structure to restrict the elastic element from rotating in the first direction.

[0041] In some embodiments, the first limiting structure includes a plurality of baffles, the plurality of baffles being arranged at circumferential intervals along the positioning protrusion structure, and the first anti-rotation structure being located between two adjacent baffles;

[0042] Specifically, when the first anti-rotation structure engages with one of the two adjacent stop bars, it restricts the elastic element from rotating in the first direction; when the first anti-rotation structure engages with the other of the two adjacent stop bars, it restricts the elastic element from rotating in the second direction, which is opposite to the first direction.

[0043] In some embodiments, a wear-increasing pad is provided between the second end of the winding shaft and the inner sidewall of the lower housing.

[0044] In some embodiments, the reset element is a torsion spring.

[0045] In some embodiments, the lower shell has a take-up cavity and a release cavity, and the lower shell also has a tape inlet communicating with the take-up cavity and a tape outlet communicating with the release cavity. The take-up shaft is rotatably mounted in the take-up cavity, and the release shaft is rotatably mounted in the release cavity. The carbon tape on the release shaft extends out from the tape outlet and extends into the take-up cavity from the tape inlet and is wound around the take-up shaft.

[0046] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a printer, which includes:

[0047] Printer body;

[0048] A printhead module is mounted on the printer body.

[0049] The ribbon cartridge as described in any of the preceding claims is disposed on the printer body.

[0050] Based on the embodiments of this application, a ribbon cartridge and printer are provided on the inner wall of the cover, with a second protrusion and a first limiting structure. The first limiting structure protrudes relative to the inner wall of the cover and is located on the periphery of the second protrusion. A roller is installed in the lower housing, and the roller is rotatably connected to the second protrusion. An elastic element is sleeved on the second protrusion and compressed between the roller and the first limiting structure, so that the elastic element can provide axial clamping force to the roller. A first anti-rotation structure is provided at the end of the elastic element away from the roller. The first anti-rotation structure cooperates with the first limiting structure to restrict the rotation of the elastic element in the first direction, thereby preventing the roller from rotating along with the elastic element when rotating in the first direction, so that the elastic element is installed stably and can stably provide axial clamping force to the roller. Attached Figure Description

[0051] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0052] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a first three-dimensional structure of a carbon ribbon box provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic element sleeved on the second protrusion according to an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 3 is an enlarged structural diagram of point A in Figure 2;

[0055] Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of the second protrusion provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic element provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 6 is an enlarged structural diagram of point B in Figure 2;

[0058] Figure 7 is a structural schematic diagram of the lower shell from a first perspective provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a second three-dimensional structure of a carbon ribbon box provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 9 is an exploded view of a carbon ribbon box provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 10 is a structural schematic diagram of the cover provided in the embodiment of this application from a first perspective;

[0062] Figure 11 is a structural schematic diagram of the cover provided in the embodiment of this application from a second perspective;

[0063] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first part of the second protrusion provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second part of the second protrusion provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 14 is a structural schematic diagram of the lower shell from a second perspective provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the printer provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0067] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 100, printer; 10, ribbon cartridge; 1, housing; 11, lower housing; 111, take-up chamber; 112, release chamber; 113, ribbon inlet; 114, ribbon outlet; 12, cover; 121, first limiting structure; 1211, stop bar; 122, second limiting structure; 1221, mating plate; 2, positioning protrusion structure; 21, first protrusion; 211, first protrusion; 2111, insertion hole; 2112, limiting bar; 212, second protrusion; 2121, first part; 2122, second part; 2123, rib; 2 124. Partition; 22. Second protrusion; 221. Rib; 222. Guide slope; 3. Elastic element; 31. First anti-rotation structure; 311. Abutting surface; 312. Inclined surface; 32. Second anti-rotation structure; 4. Carbon ribbon; 51. Snap-fit ​​part; 52. Slot part; 6. Reset part; 61. Stop part; 7. Ratchet mechanism; 71. Ratchet; 72. Pawl; 73. Elastic connector; 8. Reel; 81. Take-up shaft; 82. Dispensing shaft; 821. Limiting rib; 9. Wear-enhancing pad; 20. Printer body; 30. Printhead module. Detailed Implementation

[0068] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0069] Please refer to Figures 1 to 3. In some embodiments, the ribbon cartridge 10 includes a housing 1, a reel 8, and an elastic member 3. The housing 1 includes a lower shell 11 and a cover 12 covering the lower shell 11. The inner sidewall of the cover 12 is provided with a second protrusion 22 and a first limiting structure 121 provided around the second protrusion 22. The reel 8 is installed inside the lower shell 11 and is rotatably connected to the second protrusion 22. The elastic member 3 is sleeved on the second protrusion 22 and is compressed between the reel 8 and the first limiting structure 121. The end of the elastic member 3 away from the reel 8 is provided with a first anti-rotation structure 31. The first anti-rotation structure 31 cooperates with the first limiting structure 121 to restrict the elastic member 3 from rotating in a first direction.

[0070] Optionally, the lower housing 11 may have an internal cavity, in which a spool 8 is disposed and can be wound with a ribbon 4. More specifically, the spool 8 may dispense the ribbon 4 for use by the printer 100, or the spool 8 may recycle ribbons 4 that have already been used by the printer 100.

[0071] The elastic element 3 is a spring. The second protrusion 22 extends toward the cavity, so that the scroll 8 in the cavity can be rotatably connected with the second protrusion 22. The elastic element 3 is sleeved on the second protrusion 22 and compressed between the first limiting structure 121 and the first end of the scroll 8. It should be noted that the end of the scroll 8 closer to the cover 12 is the first end, and the end of the scroll 8 away from the cover 12 is the second end. The elastic element 3 is in a compressed state, so the elastic element 3 can drive the second end of the scroll 8 to abut against the inner wall of the lower shell 11, which can increase the friction between the scroll 8 and the lower shell 11, so that rotating the scroll 8 requires a certain driving force, thereby reducing the occurrence of incorrect rotation of the scroll 8.

[0072] In this embodiment, the first limiting structure 121 is located on the periphery of the second protrusion 22, and the first limiting structure 121 protrudes relative to the inner wall of the cover 12. The first limiting structure 121 can provide support for the elastic member 3. The end of the elastic member 3 away from the spool 8 is provided with a first anti-rotation structure 31. The first anti-rotation structure 31 extends in a direction away from the spool 8, and when the spool 8 rotates in the first direction, the first anti-rotation structure 31 can abut against the first limiting structure 121, which can restrict the elastic member 3 from rotating in the first direction, thereby preventing the spool 8 from rotating along with the elastic member 3, so that the elastic member 3 is installed stably and can stably provide axial clamping force to the spool 8.

[0073] Please refer to Figures 2 and 3. In some embodiments, the first limiting structure 121 and the first anti-rotation structure 31 are arranged circumferentially along the second protrusion 22, and the first limiting structure 121 is located on the movement trajectory of the first anti-rotation structure 31 along the first direction.

[0074] It should be noted that during the rotation of the spool 8 in the first direction, the spool 8 will drive the elastic element 3 to rotate at a certain angle in the first direction until the first anti-rotation structure 31 contacts the first limiting structure 121. After the first anti-rotation structure 31 contacts the first limiting structure 121, the first limiting structure 121 can restrict the first anti-rotation structure 31 from continuing to move in the first direction, thereby restricting the elastic element 3 from continuing to rotate in the first direction. That is, the spool 8 can no longer drive the elastic element 3 to rotate in the first direction. At this time, the elastic element 3 can be stably compressed between the first limiting structure 121 and the spool 8, making the elastic element 3 more firmly installed. Thus, the elastic element 3 can provide a stable thrust, and the axial pressing effect on the spool 8 is better.

[0075] Furthermore, when installing the elastic element 3, it is only necessary to place the first anti-rotation structure 31 of the elastic element 3 on the side of the first limiting structure 121 facing away from the first direction. There is no need to intentionally bring the first anti-rotation structure 31 into contact with the first limiting structure 121. As the reel 8 rotates along the first direction, the reel 8 will drive the first anti-rotation structure 31 to move until it abuts against the first limiting structure 121, thus allowing the first limiting structure 121 to restrict the elastic element 3 from continuing to rotate along the first direction, reducing the difficulty of installing the elastic element 3. Even if the first anti-rotation structure is installed in the wrong position, the reel 8 will still drive the first anti-rotation structure 31 to move until it abuts against the first limiting structure 121.

[0076] Please refer to Figures 2 to 4. In some embodiments, the first limiting structure 121 includes a plurality of stop bars 1211, which are arranged at circumferential intervals along the second protrusion 22. The first anti-rotation structure 31 is located between two adjacent stop bars 1211. When the first anti-rotation structure 31 engages with one of the two adjacent stop bars 1211, it restricts the elastic member 3 from rotating in a first direction. When the first anti-rotation structure 31 engages with the other of the two adjacent stop bars 1211, it restricts the elastic member 3 from rotating in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction.

[0077] It is understood that the baffle 1211 is a long plate-shaped structure, and the baffle 1211 is vertically arranged on the inner side wall of the cover 12. Multiple baffles 1211 can be arranged at intervals along the circumference of the second protrusion 22, and the first anti-rotation structure 31 can extend to the space between two adjacent baffles 1211.

[0078] During the process of the roller 8 driving the elastic element 3 to rotate in the first direction, the first anti-rotation structure 31 will also move along the first direction in the circumferential direction of the second protrusion 22. When the first anti-rotation structure 31 moves to cooperate with one of the two adjacent baffles 1211, the baffle 1211 can prevent the first anti-rotation structure 31 from continuing to move in the first direction, thereby restricting the rotation of the elastic element 3 in the first direction.

[0079] Similarly, as the roller 8 drives the elastic element 3 to rotate in the second direction, the first anti-rotation structure 31 will also move along the second direction in the circumference of the second protrusion 22. When the first anti-rotation structure 31 moves to cooperate with one of the two adjacent stop bars 1211, the other stop bar 1211 can prevent the first anti-rotation structure 31 from continuing to move in the second direction, thereby restricting the rotation of the elastic element 3 in the second direction.

[0080] Therefore, one of the two adjacent stop bars 1211 can restrict the elastic element 3 from rotating in the first direction, and the other of the two adjacent stop bars 1211 can restrict the elastic element 3 from rotating in the second direction, so that the elastic element 3 can neither rotate in the forward direction nor in the reverse direction, thereby further stabilizing the elastic element 3 between the reel 8 and the first limiting structure 121, so that the elastic element 3 can provide a stable thrust and has a good axial pressing effect on the reel 8.

[0081] Please refer to Figure 3. In some embodiments, the first anti-rotation structure 31 includes a stop surface 311 and an inclined surface 312 opposite to the stop surface 311. The stop surface 311 is located on the side of the first anti-rotation structure 31 facing the first direction. When the stop surface 311 cooperates with the first limiting structure 121, it restricts the elastic member 3 from rotating in the first direction. When the inclined surface 312 cooperates with the first limiting structure 121, the inclined surface 312 guides the first anti-rotation structure 31 through the first limiting structure 121 in the second direction, which is opposite to the first direction.

[0082] Specifically, the end of the elastic member 3 away from the spool 8 extends in a direction away from the spool 8 to form a first anti-rotation structure 31. The first anti-rotation structure 31 is a block structure and includes a blocking surface 311 and an inclined surface 312. The blocking surface 311 and the inclined surface 312 are arranged opposite to each other. The first limiting structure 121 includes a first contact surface and a second contact surface. The first contact surface and the second contact surface are arranged opposite to each other.

[0083] During the process of the roller 8 driving the elastic element 3 to rotate in the first direction, the first anti-rotation structure 31 will also move along the circumference of the second protrusion 22 in the first direction until the blocking surface 311 abuts against the first contact surface, which can restrict the elastic element 3 from continuing to rotate in the first direction, so that the elastic element 3 is stably assembled on the roller 8.

[0084] During the process of the roller 8 driving the elastic element 3 to rotate in the second direction, the first anti-rotation structure 31 will also move along the second direction in the circumference of the second protrusion 22 until the inclined surface 312 contacts the second contact surface. The inclined surface 312 is inclined in the second direction relative to the second contact surface, so that when the inclined surface 312 contacts the second contact surface, the inclined surface 312 can guide the first anti-rotation structure 31 to pass the first limiting structure 121, so that the elastic element 3 can continue to rotate in the second direction, and the torque force of the elastic element 3 can be prevented from being too large.

[0085] Please refer to Figures 2, 4 and 5. In some embodiments, the elastic member 3 is provided with a second anti-rotation structure 32 at one end near the roller 8, and a second limiting structure 122 is provided on the inner side wall of the cover 12. The second limiting structure 122 is located on the periphery of the elastic member 3. The second anti-rotation structure 32 cooperates with the second limiting structure 122 to restrict the elastic member 3 from rotating in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction.

[0086] It is understood that the end of the elastic member 3 away from the roller 8 is provided with a first anti-rotation structure 31, and the end of the elastic member 3 near the roller 8 is provided with a second anti-rotation structure 32. Both the first anti-rotation structure 31 and the second anti-rotation structure 32 extend toward the cover 12. The inner wall of the cover 12 is provided with a second limiting structure 122. The second limiting structure 122 is located on the periphery of the elastic member 3. The second limiting structure 122 protrudes relative to the inner wall of the cover 12, and the second limiting structure 122 and the second anti-rotation structure 32 are arranged along the periphery of the elastic member 3.

[0087] As the spool 8 drives the elastic element 3 to rotate in the second direction, the second anti-rotation structure 32 also moves along the circumference of the second protrusion 22 in the second direction until the second anti-rotation structure 32 contacts and engages with the second limiting structure 122. The second anti-rotation structure 32 can restrict the elastic element 3 from continuing to rotate in the second direction. Thus, the first anti-rotation structure 31 can restrict the elastic element 3 from rotating in the first direction, and the second anti-rotation structure 32 can restrict the elastic element 3 from rotating in the second direction, so that the elastic element 3 is more stably compressed between the spool 8 and the cover 12, providing a more stable clamping force for the spool 8.

[0088] Please refer to Figure 4. In some embodiments, the first limiting structure 121 is connected to the second limiting structure 122, and the first anti-rotation structure 31 is located on the side of the first limiting structure 121 facing away from the first direction, and the second anti-rotation structure 32 is located on the side of the second limiting structure 122 facing away from the second direction.

[0089] Specifically, the first limiting structure 121 is a protrusion protruding relative to the inner wall of the cover 12, and the second limiting structure 122 is also a protrusion protruding relative to the inner wall of the cover 12. The second limiting structure 122 is higher than the first limiting structure 121, which can prevent the first limiting structure from interfering with the second anti-rotation structure 32. The connection between the first limiting structure 121 and the second limiting structure 122 can increase their structural strength.

[0090] The first anti-rotation structure 31 is set on the side of the first limiting structure 121 facing away from the first direction, which can restrict the elastic member 3 from rotating in the first direction. The second anti-rotation structure 32 is set on the side of the second limiting structure 122 facing away from the second direction, which can restrict the elastic member 3 from rotating in the second direction. Under the combined limiting action of the first anti-rotation structure 31 and the second anti-rotation structure 32, the elastic member 3 can be fixed between the roller 8 and the cover 12.

[0091] Please refer to Figures 2 and 4. In some embodiments, the second limiting structure 122 includes a plurality of mating plates 1221, which are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the elastic member 3. The second anti-rotation structure 32 abuts against the mating plates 1221 to restrict the elastic member 3 from rotating in the second direction.

[0092] It is understood that the mating plate 1221 is a long plate structure and is connected to the inner side wall of the cover 12. Multiple mating plates 1221 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the elastic member 3, and multiple mating plates 1221 are correspondingly set with multiple baffles 1211. Each mating plate 1221 is connected to a baffle 1211. The second anti-rotation structure 32 can be located between two adjacent mating plates 1221. The mating plate 1221 and the second anti-rotation structure 32 abut against each other, which can restrict the elastic member 3 from rotating in the second direction.

[0093] It should be noted that during the process of the roller 8 driving the elastic element 3 to rotate in the second direction, the second anti-rotation structure 32 will also move along the second direction in the circumference of the second protrusion 22. When the second anti-rotation structure 32 abuts against a mating plate 1221, but the second anti-rotation structure 32 disengages from the mating plate 1221, the second anti-rotation structure 32 will continue to rotate in the second direction, and another mating plate 1221 will be located on the movement trajectory of the second anti-rotation structure 32 in the second direction. The other mating plate 1221 can also abut against the second anti-rotation structure 32 to restrict the elastic element 3 from continuing to rotate in the second direction. Thus, by setting multiple mating plates 1221, the rotation of the elastic element 3 in the second direction can be better restricted.

[0094] Please refer to Figures 4 and 6. In some embodiments, the outer peripheral side of the second protrusion 22 is provided with a plurality of ribs 221. The plurality of ribs 221 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the second protrusion 22, and the elastic member 3 is sleeved on the plurality of ribs 221.

[0095] Optionally, the ribs 221 can extend along the axial direction of the second protrusion 22, and the multiple ribs 221 are evenly spaced along the circumference of the second protrusion 22. When installing the elastic member 3, the elastic member 3 can be sleeved on the multiple ribs 221, which can reduce the difficulty of installing the elastic member 3.

[0096] Please refer to Figure 6. In some embodiments, the end of the rib 221 facing the spool 8 has a guide slope 222.

[0097] It should be noted that the side of the guide slope 222 closest to the roll 8 is the first side, and the side of the guide slope 222 opposite to the first side is the second side. The first side of the guide slope 222 is inclined relative to the second side in the direction of the axis of the second protrusion 22, so that the guide slope 222 as a whole is inclined in the direction of the axis of the second protrusion 22. When the elastic member 3 is installed, the second protrusion 22 extends into the elastic member 3, and one end of the elastic member 3 contacts the guide slope 222. The guide slope 222 can guide the elastic member 3 to be sleeved on the outside of the rib 221, which facilitates the installation of the elastic member 3.

[0098] Please refer to Figures 4 and 6. In some embodiments, the elastic element 3 can be interference-fitted with the rib 221, so that multiple ribs 221 contact the elastic element 3, which can make the elastic element 3 more securely installed and prevent the elastic element 3 from shaking.

[0099] Please refer to Figures 1 and 7. In some embodiments, the spool 8 is a take-up spool 81 on which the carbon ribbon 4 is wound, and the take-up spool 81 is used to take up the carbon ribbon 4.

[0100] Optionally, the ribbon cartridge 10 includes two spools 8, one of which is a take-up spool 81 and the other is a dispenser spool 82. Both the take-up spool 81 and the dispenser spool 82 are rotatably mounted inside the lower housing 11, and the take-up spool 81 and the dispenser spool 82 are spaced apart. A ribbon 4 is wound on the dispenser spool 82. The dispenser spool 82 is used to dispense the ribbon 4 by rotating in a first direction, and the take-up spool 81 is used to retract the ribbon 4 by rotating in the first direction. The ribbon 4 located between the dispenser spool 82 and the take-up spool 81 is used to heat the print head for printing, and the take-up spool 81 can be used to retract the printed ribbon 4.

[0101] Please refer to Figures 1 and 7. In some embodiments, the lower shell 11 has a winding cavity 111 and a tape inlet 113 communicating with the winding cavity 111. The winding shaft 81 is rotatably mounted in the winding cavity 111, and the carbon tape 4 passes through the tape inlet 113 and is wound around the winding shaft 81.

[0102] Optionally, the lower shell 11 includes a first shell portion and a second shell portion, the first shell portion being spaced apart from each other, and the first shell portion forming a winding cavity 111, the second shell portion forming a dispensing cavity 112, the first shell portion also having a tape inlet 113 communicating with the winding cavity 111, the second shell portion having a tape outlet 114 communicating with the dispensing cavity 112, and the tape inlet 113 being disposed toward the tape outlet 114.

[0103] More specifically, both the tape inlet 113 and the tape outlet 114 are positioned towards the space between the first shell portion and the second shell portion, so that after the carbon ribbon 4 on the dispensing shaft 82 extends out from the tape outlet 114, it can extend into the take-up cavity 111 from the tape inlet 113, and the carbon ribbon 4 can be wound around the take-up shaft 81, so that the carbon ribbon 4 can be dispensed while the carbon ribbon 4 is being printed, and the used carbon ribbon 4 can be easily recycled back to the take-up shaft 81 after printing.

[0104] Please refer to Figures 1 and 7. In some embodiments, the end face of the winding shaft 81 facing the cover 12 is pressed against the elastic member 3.

[0105] Optionally, the end face of the take-up shaft 81 facing the cover 12 is pressed against the elastic member 3, so that the elastic member 3 can be compressed between the take-up shaft 81 and the cover 12. This allows the elastic member 3 to provide axial clamping force to the take-up shaft 81, increasing the force required to rotate the take-up shaft 81, preventing the take-up shaft 81 from rotating back due to loosening, releasing the used carbon ribbon 4, and preventing blurry printing.

[0106] Please refer to Figures 1, 2 and 7. In some embodiments, one of the cover 12 and the lower shell 11 is provided with a slot 52, and the other is provided with a snap-fit ​​part 51, which is inserted into the slot 52.

[0107] Optionally, when the cover 12 is closed with the lower shell 11, the snap-fit ​​part 51 and the snap-fit ​​part 52 are engaged, which can make the connection between the cover 12 and the lower shell 11 more stable, prevent the cover 12 from becoming loose, and prevent the cover 12 from not closing tightly.

[0108] Please refer to Figures 8 to 10, which show a ribbon cartridge 10 provided in an embodiment of this application. The ribbon cartridge 10 includes a housing 1, a delivery shaft 82, a take-up shaft 81, and a reset member 6.

[0109] Specifically, the housing 1 includes a lower housing 11 and a cover 12 covering the lower housing 11. The inner sidewall of the cover 12 is provided with a positioning protrusion structure 2. The dispensing shaft 82 is disposed inside the lower housing 11 and is rotatably connected to the positioning protrusion structure 2, so that the dispensing shaft 82 can rotate in a first direction for dispensing the ribbon 4. The take-up shaft 81 is disposed inside the lower housing 11 and spaced apart from the dispensing shaft 82. The take-up shaft 81 is rotatably connected to the positioning protrusion structure 2, so that the take-up shaft 81 can rotate in the first direction for taking up the ribbon 4. The ribbon 4 between the dispensing shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81 is used for printing.

[0110] The reset member 6 is disposed between the positioning protrusion structure 2 and the take-up shaft 82. The reset member 6 is used to provide a preload force in a second direction to the take-up shaft 82 or the take-up shaft 81 so that the carbon tape 4 between the take-up shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81 is in a taut state. The second direction is opposite to the first direction. Alternatively, the reset member 6 is disposed between the positioning protrusion structure 2 and the take-up shaft 81. The reset member 6 is used to provide a preload force in a first direction to the take-up shaft 82 or the take-up shaft 81 so that the carbon tape 4 between the take-up shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81 is in a taut state.

[0111] It is understood that the housing 1 has two chambers inside, which are used to accommodate the dispensing shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81 respectively. The positioning protrusion structure 2 has two rotating mounting positions spaced apart. The dispensing shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81 are rotatably connected to the two rotating mounting positions respectively, so that the dispensing shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81 can rotate synchronously in the first direction. The dispensing shaft 82 is used to dispense the ribbon 4, and the take-up shaft 81 is used to take up the ribbon 4. The print head on the printer 100 can be used to heat the ribbon 4 located between the dispensing shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81, so that the ribbon 4 can be used for printing.

[0112] It should be noted that during the printing process, there is a risk that the ribbon 4 may be pulled out from the take-up spool 81 or the delivery spool 82 by external force and become redundant. At this time, the ribbon 4 between the take-up spool 81 and the delivery spool 82 will no longer be taut, which will cause the surface of the ribbon 4 to wrinkle. When the print head heats the ribbon 4, the printing may be unclear.

[0113] More specifically, by positioning the resetting member 6 between the positioning protrusion structure 2 and the delivery shaft 82, when the ribbon 4 becomes redundant due to external force pulling it out from the take-up shaft 81 or the delivery shaft 82, the resetting member 6 can drive the delivery shaft 82 to rotate in the second direction, retracting the pulled-out ribbon 4 onto the delivery shaft 82, thus keeping the ribbon 4 between the delivery shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81 taut. Alternatively, by positioning the resetting member 6 between the positioning protrusion structure 2 and the take-up shaft 81, when the ribbon 4 becomes redundant due to external force pulling it out from the take-up shaft 81 or the delivery shaft 82, the resetting member 6 can drive the take-up shaft 81 to rotate in the first direction, retracting the pulled-out ribbon 4 onto the take-up shaft 81, thus keeping the ribbon 4 between the delivery shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81 taut. Therefore, the resetting member 6 can keep the ribbon 4 between the delivery shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81 taut, preventing unclear printing.

[0114] Please refer to Figures 10 and 11. In some embodiments, the positioning protrusion structure 2 includes a first protrusion 21 and a second protrusion 22 spaced apart. One of the dispensing shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81 is rotatably connected to the first protrusion 21, and the other of the dispensing shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81 is rotatably connected to the second protrusion 22.

[0115] Optionally, a first protrusion 21 and a second protrusion 22 may be provided at intervals on the inner sidewall of the cover 12. Both the first protrusion 21 and the second protrusion 22 extend toward the interior of the lower shell 11, and the axis of the first protrusion 21 is parallel to the axis of the second protrusion 22. The axis of the dispensing shaft 82 is also parallel to the axis of the winding shaft 81.

[0116] In this embodiment, the first protrusion 21 can be inserted into the dispensing shaft 82, so that the dispensing shaft 82 can be rotatably connected to the first protrusion 21. The second protrusion 22 can be inserted into the take-up shaft 81, so that the take-up shaft 81 can be rotatably connected to the second protrusion 22. Thus, the dispensing shaft 82 can dispense the carbon ribbon 4 wound on it onto the take-up shaft 81, and the print head can heat the carbon ribbon 4 between the dispensing shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81 for printing. After printing, the carbon ribbon 4 can be recycled back onto the take-up shaft 81, which facilitates printing.

[0117] In other embodiments, the first protrusion 21 may be inserted into the take-up shaft 81, so that the take-up shaft 81 is rotatably connected to the first protrusion 21, and the second protrusion 22 may be inserted into the dispensing shaft 82, so that the dispensing shaft 82 is rotatably connected to the second protrusion 22. Alternatively, the dispensing shaft 82 may dispense the carbon ribbon 4 wound thereon onto the take-up shaft 81 for convenient printing.

[0118] Please refer to Figures 8 to 11. In some embodiments, the dispensing shaft 82 is rotatably connected to the first protrusion 21, one end of the reset member 6 is connected to the first protrusion 21, and the other end of the reset member 6 is provided with a stop part 61 that extends into the dispensing shaft 82. The dispensing shaft 82 is provided with a limiting rib 821 inside. The stop part 61 cooperates with the limiting rib 821 so that the reset member 6 provides a preload force in the second direction to the dispensing shaft 82.

[0119] Optionally, the first protrusion 21 can be inserted into the interior of the dispensing shaft 82, allowing the dispensing shaft 82 to rotate relative to the first protrusion 21 in a first direction. One end of the reset member 6 can be connected to the first protrusion 21, allowing the reset member 6 to form a stable connection with the first protrusion 21. The other end of the reset member 6 is provided with a stop 61, which extends into the interior of the dispensing shaft 82. When the dispensing shaft 82 rotates in the first direction under the action of an external force, the stop 61 can also cooperate with the limiting rib 821 inside the dispensing shaft 82, allowing the reset member 6 to provide a preload force to the dispensing shaft 82 in a second direction. When the external force is no longer acting on the dispensing shaft 82, the reset member 6 can drive the dispensing shaft 82 to rotate in the second direction, thereby retracting the pulled-out carbon ribbon 4 onto the dispensing shaft 82, so that the carbon ribbon 4 between the dispensing shaft 82 and the take-up shaft 81 is in a taut state, which can prevent unclear printing.

[0120] In addition, when part of the carbon ribbon 4 on the dispensing shaft 82 is pulled out, the resetting member 6 can rewind the pulled-out carbon ribbon 4 back onto the dispensing shaft 82, which can reduce the waste of carbon ribbon 4.

[0121] Please refer to Figures 10 to 13. In some embodiments, the first protrusion 21 includes a first protrusion 211 and a second protrusion 212. The first protrusion 211 is connected to the inner wall of the cover 12. The first protrusion 211 has an insertion hole 2111 and a limiting strip 2112 is provided in the insertion hole 2111. The second protrusion 212 includes a first part 2121 and a second part 2122 that are connected to each other. The peripheral sidewall of the first part 2121 is provided with a rib 2123. The first part 2121 is inserted into the insertion hole 2111, and the rib 2123 cooperates with the limiting strip 2112 to restrict the rotation of the first part 2121. The second part 2122 is inserted into the dispensing shaft 82, and a reset member 6 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second part 2122. The reset member 6 is connected to the second part 2122.

[0122] Optionally, the first protrusion 211 is integrally formed with the inner wall of the cover 12, and the end of the first protrusion 211 away from the cover 12 has a insertion hole 2111. The axis of the insertion hole 2111 is the same as the protrusion direction of the first protrusion 211. Multiple limiting strips 2112 can be provided on the inner wall surface of the insertion hole 2111. The multiple limiting strips 2112 can be spaced apart circumferentially along the insertion hole 2111. The first part 2121 of the second protrusion 212 can be inserted into the insertion hole 2111. Inside, the outer peripheral sidewall of the first part 2121 is provided with a plurality of ribs 2123. The plurality of ribs 2123 can be arranged at intervals along the circumference of the first part 2121. There is at least one rib 2123 between two adjacent limiting bars 2112. The ribs 2123 can cooperate with the limiting bars 2112 to restrict the rotation of the first part 2121. The second part 2122 can be inserted into the dispensing shaft 82, and the reset member 6 is sleeved and installed on the second part 2122.

[0123] The first part 2121 and the second part 2122 are plugged into each other, making assembly very convenient. The first part 2121 can also restrict the rotation of the second part 2122, so that the reset part 6 on the second part 2122 can reset the dispensing shaft 82, drive the dispensing shaft 82 to rotate in the second direction, and retract the pulled-out carbon ribbon 4 onto the dispensing shaft 82.

[0124] Please refer to Figures 11 to 13. In some embodiments, the second protrusion 212 further includes a partition 2124, the first part 2121 and the second part 2122 are connected by the partition 2124, and the partition 2124 abuts against the first protrusion 211.

[0125] It is understood that both the first part 2121 and the second part 2122 are cylindrical structures. A partition 2124 is provided between the first part 2121 and the second part 2122. The partition 2124 is disc-shaped, and its radial dimension is greater than that of the first part 2121 and the second part 2122. The first part 2121 is inserted into the insertion hole 2111 of the first protrusion 211. The partition 2124 can abut against the top of the first protrusion 211, thereby limiting the depth of the first part 2121 inserted into the insertion hole 2111. This allows the partition 2124 to play a limiting role, assembling the second protrusion 212 into a preset position, further facilitating the assembly of the second protrusion 212.

[0126] Referring to Figure 14, in some embodiments, the ribbon cartridge 10 further includes a ratchet mechanism 7 disposed on the take-up shaft 81, which can be used to prevent the take-up shaft 81 from rotating in a second direction.

[0127] Specifically, the ratchet mechanism 7 can prevent reverse rotation. The ratchet mechanism 7 is located at the end of the take-up shaft 81 facing the cover 12, and the ratchet mechanism 7 can prevent the take-up shaft 81 from rotating in the second direction. Under the action of the ratchet mechanism 7, the take-up shaft 81 can only rotate in the first direction, that is, the take-up shaft 81 can only rotate in the direction of recycling the carbon ribbon 4. This can prevent the take-up shaft 81 from dispensing the used carbon ribbon 4 onto the dispensing shaft 82, thereby preventing unclear printing.

[0128] Please refer to Figure 14. In some embodiments, the ratchet mechanism 7 includes a ratchet 71 and a pawl 72. The ratchet 71 is connected to one end of the take-up shaft 81, and the pawl 72 is movably disposed on the lower housing 11. The pawl 72 can cooperate with the ratchet 71 to prevent the take-up shaft 81 from rotating in the second direction.

[0129] It is understandable that the ratchet 71 is connected to the end of the take-up shaft 81 facing the cover 12. When the take-up shaft 81 rotates, it will drive the ratchet 71 to rotate together, that is, the ratchet 71 and the take-up shaft 81 will rotate synchronously. The circumferential sidewall of the ratchet 71 has multiple teeth, which are arranged circumferentially along the ratchet 71. All the teeth are unidirectional teeth and have the same orientation. When the ratchet 71 rotates in the first direction, the pawl 72 slides over the teeth, allowing the take-up shaft 81 to rotate in the first direction. When the ratchet 71 rotates in the second direction, the pawl 72 abuts against the teeth, which restricts the rotation of the ratchet 71, preventing the take-up shaft 81 from rotating in the second direction. Thus, under the combined action of the pawl 72 and the ratchet 71, the take-up shaft 81 can only rotate unidirectionally in the first direction.

[0130] Referring to Figure 14, in some embodiments, the ratchet mechanism 7 further includes an elastic connector 73, the middle part of the pawl 72 is rotatably connected to the lower housing 11, one end of the pawl 72 is connected to the lower housing 11 through the elastic connector 73, and the elastic connector 73 is used to drive the other end of the pawl 72 to engage with the ratchet 71 to prevent the winding shaft 81 from rotating in the second direction.

[0131] Specifically, the elastic connector 73 is a spring. The elastic connector 73 is compressed between one end of the pawl 72 and the lower shell 11. Under the action of the elastic connector 73, one end of the pawl 72 can be driven to move away from the lower shell 11, so that the other end of the pawl 72 moves towards the ratchet 71. Thus, under the drive of the pawl 72, the pawl 72 can maintain the state of engagement with the ratchet 71.

[0132] More specifically, when the ratchet 71 rotates in the first direction and the pawl 72 slides over the teeth, the elastic connector 73 can drive the pawl 72 to insert between two adjacent teeth, so that the pawl 72 can engage with the teeth and prevent the ratchet 71 from rotating in the second direction.

[0133] Please refer to Figures 8 to 10. In some embodiments, the ribbon cartridge 10 includes an elastic element 3, which is compressed between the cover 12 and the first end of the take-up shaft 81. The second end of the take-up shaft 81 abuts against the inner wall of the lower shell 11. The first end and the second end of the take-up shaft 81 are opposite ends.

[0134] It should be noted that the end of the take-up shaft 81 closest to the cover 12 is the first end, and the end of the take-up shaft 81 furthest from the cover 12 is the second end. An elastic element 3 is provided between the cover 12 and the first end of the take-up shaft 81. The elastic element 3 is in a compressed state, so that the elastic element 3 can drive the second end of the take-up shaft 81 to abut against the inner wall of the lower shell 11, which can increase the friction between the take-up shaft 81 and the lower shell 11, so that rotating the take-up shaft 81 requires a certain driving force, thereby reducing the occurrence of incorrect rotation of the take-up shaft 81.

[0135] Please refer to Figure 10. In some embodiments, the cover 12 is provided with a first limiting structure 121. The elastic member 3 is sleeved on the positioning protrusion 2 and compressed between the first limiting structure 121 and the winding shaft 81. The end of the elastic member 3 away from the winding shaft 81 is provided with a first anti-rotation structure 31. The first limiting structure 121 and the first anti-rotation structure 31 are arranged along the circumference of the positioning protrusion 2. The first anti-rotation structure 31 cooperates with the first limiting structure 121 to restrict the elastic member 3 from rotating in the first direction.

[0136] It is understood that the elastic element 3 is a spring, and the positioning protrusion structure 2 includes a first protrusion 21 and a second protrusion 22. The winding shaft 81 is rotatably connected to the second protrusion 22, so that the winding shaft 81 can rotate relative to the second protrusion 22 in a first direction, thereby recycling the used carbon ribbon 4.

[0137] Optionally, the cover 12 is provided with a first limiting structure 121, which can be disposed on the periphery of the second protrusion 22. The elastic member 3 is sleeved on the second protrusion 22 and can also contact the first limiting structure 121. The winding shaft 81 and the first limiting structure 121 can compress the elastic member 3, so that the elastic member 3 can push the winding shaft 81 along the axial direction of the winding shaft 81, so that the winding shaft 81 abuts against the inner sidewall of the lower shell 11. The end of the elastic member 3 away from the winding shaft 81 is provided with a first anti-rotation structure 31, and the first anti-rotation structure 31 and the first limiting structure 121 are arranged along the circumference of the second protrusion 22.

[0138] It should be noted that during the rotation of the take-up shaft 81 in the first direction, the take-up shaft 81 will drive the elastic element 3 to rotate at a certain angle in the first direction until the first anti-rotation structure 31 contacts the first limiting structure 121. After the first anti-rotation structure 31 contacts the first limiting structure 121, the first limiting structure 121 can restrict the first anti-rotation structure 31 from continuing to move in the first direction, thereby restricting the elastic element 3 from continuing to rotate in the first direction. That is, the take-up shaft 81 can no longer drive the elastic element 3 to rotate in the first direction. At this time, the elastic element 3 can be stably compressed between the first limiting structure 121 and the take-up shaft 81, making the elastic element 3 more firmly installed. Thus, the elastic element 3 can provide a stable thrust, and the axial pressing effect on the take-up shaft 81 is better.

[0139] Referring to Figure 11, in some embodiments, the first limiting structure 121 includes a plurality of stop bars 1211, which are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the positioning protrusion structure 2, and the first anti-rotation structure 31 is located between two adjacent stop bars 1211. When the first anti-rotation structure 31 engages with one of the two adjacent stop bars 1211, it restricts the elastic member 3 from rotating in a first direction; when the first anti-rotation structure 31 engages with the other of the two adjacent stop bars 1211, it restricts the elastic member 3 from rotating in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction.

[0140] It is understood that the baffle 1211 is a long plate-shaped structure, and the baffle 1211 is vertically arranged on the inner side wall of the cover 12. Multiple baffles 1211 can be arranged at intervals along the circumference of the second protrusion 22, and the first anti-rotation structure 31 can extend to the space between two adjacent baffles 1211.

[0141] During the process of the take-up shaft 81 driving the elastic element 3 to rotate in the first direction, the first anti-rotation structure 31 will also move around the axis of the take-up shaft 81 in the first direction. When the first anti-rotation structure 31 moves to cooperate with one of the two adjacent stop bars 1211, the stop bar 1211 can prevent the first anti-rotation structure 31 from continuing to move in the first direction, thereby restricting the rotation of the elastic element 3 in the first direction.

[0142] Similarly, as the take-up shaft 81 drives the elastic element 3 to rotate in the second direction, the first anti-rotation structure 31 will also move around the axis of the take-up shaft 81 in the second direction. When the first anti-rotation structure 31 moves to cooperate with one of the two adjacent stop bars 1211, the other stop bar 1211 can prevent the first anti-rotation structure 31 from continuing to move in the second direction, thereby limiting the rotation of the elastic element 3 in the second direction.

[0143] Therefore, one of the two adjacent stop bars 1211 can restrict the elastic element 3 from rotating in the first direction, and the other of the two adjacent stop bars 1211 can restrict the elastic element 3 from rotating in the second direction, so that the elastic element 3 can neither rotate in the forward direction nor in the reverse direction, thereby further stabilizing the elastic element 3 between the winding shaft 81 and the cover 12, so that the elastic element 3 can provide a stable thrust and have a good axial pressing effect on the winding shaft 81.

[0144] Please refer to Figure 9. In some embodiments, a wear-increasing pad 9 is provided between the second end of the winding shaft 81 and the inner sidewall of the lower shell 11.

[0145] Optionally, a friction-enhancing pad 9 is provided at the end of the take-up shaft 81 away from the cover 12, and the friction-enhancing pad 9 is located between the take-up shaft 81 and the inner wall of the lower shell 11. The friction-enhancing pad 9 can increase the friction between the take-up shaft 81 and the lower shell 11, so that the driving force required to rotate the take-up shaft 81 is greater, which can further reduce the occurrence of incorrect rotation of the take-up shaft 81.

[0146] Please refer to Figure 10. In some embodiments, the reset element 6 is a torsion spring. A torsion spring is a helical spring. When the torsion spring is subjected to an external force and twists, it stores elastic potential energy. Once the external force disappears, the torsion spring releases the stored energy and twists back to its shape when it is not under force, thereby driving the winding shaft 81 or the dispensing shaft 82 back to its original position, resulting in a good reset effect.

[0147] Please refer to Figures 8 and 14. In some embodiments, the lower shell 11 is formed with a take-up cavity 111 and a release cavity 112. The lower shell 11 also has a tape inlet 113 communicating with the take-up cavity 111 and a tape outlet 114 communicating with the release cavity 112. The take-up shaft 81 is rotatably mounted in the take-up cavity 111, and the release shaft 82 is rotatably mounted in the release cavity 112. The carbon tape 4 on the release shaft 82 extends out from the tape outlet 114 and extends into the take-up cavity 111 from the tape inlet 113 and is wound around the take-up shaft 81.

[0148] Optionally, the lower shell 11 includes a first shell portion and a second shell portion, the first shell portion being spaced apart from each other, and the first shell portion forming a take-up cavity 111, the second shell portion forming a dispensing cavity 112, the first shell portion also having a tape inlet 113 communicating with the take-up cavity 111, and the second shell portion having a tape outlet 114 communicating with the dispensing cavity 112, and the tape inlet 113 being disposed toward the tape outlet 114. More specifically, the tape inlet 113 and the tape outlet 114 are both disposed toward the space between the first shell portion and the second shell portion, so that after the carbon ribbon 4 on the dispensing shaft 82 extends out from the tape outlet 114, it can extend into the take-up cavity 111 from the tape inlet 113, and the carbon ribbon 4 can be wound around the take-up shaft 81, so that the carbon ribbon 4 can be dispensed while the carbon ribbon 4 is printed, and the used carbon ribbon 4 can be easily recycled back to the take-up shaft 81 after printing.

[0149] Secondly, please refer to Figure 15, which shows a printer 100 provided in an embodiment of this application. The printer 100 includes a printer body 20, a printhead module 30, and a ribbon cartridge 10. Both the printhead module 30 and the ribbon cartridge 10 are disposed on the printer body 20.

[0150] The beneficial effects of the printer 100 in this application are the same as those of the ribbon cartridge 10 in this application, and will not be described again here.

[0151] In the accompanying drawings of this embodiment, the same or similar reference numerals correspond to the same or similar components. In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the accompanying drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this patent. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0152] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A carbon ribbon box, wherein, include: The housing includes a lower shell and a cover disposed on the lower shell. The inner sidewall of the cover is provided with a second protrusion and a first limiting structure disposed on the periphery of the second protrusion. A spool is installed inside the lower housing and is rotatably connected to the second protrusion. An elastic element is sleeved on the second protrusion and compressed between the spool and the first limiting structure. The end of the elastic element away from the spool is provided with a first anti-rotation structure. The first anti-rotation structure cooperates with the first limiting structure to restrict the elastic element from rotating in the first direction.

2. The ribbon cassette according to claim 1, wherein, The first limiting structure and the first anti-rotation structure are arranged circumferentially along the second protrusion, and the first limiting structure is located on the movement trajectory of the first anti-rotation structure along the first direction.

3. The ribbon cassette according to claim 2, wherein, The first limiting structure includes multiple baffles, which are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the second protrusion, and the first anti-rotation structure is located between two adjacent baffles. Specifically, when the first anti-rotation structure engages with one of the two adjacent stop bars, it restricts the elastic element from rotating in the first direction; when the first anti-rotation structure engages with the other of the two adjacent stop bars, it restricts the elastic element from rotating in the second direction, which is opposite to the first direction.

4. The ribbon cassette according to claim 1, wherein, The first anti-rotation structure includes a stop surface and an inclined surface opposite to the stop surface. The stop surface is located on the side of the first anti-rotation structure facing the first direction. When the stop surface cooperates with the first limiting structure, it restricts the elastic element from rotating along the first direction. When the inclined surface cooperates with the first limiting structure, it guides the first anti-rotation structure to pass through the first limiting structure along a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction.

5. The ribbon cassette according to claim 1, wherein, The elastic element is provided with a second anti-rotation structure at one end near the roller, and a second limiting structure is provided on the inner side wall of the cover. The second limiting structure is located on the periphery of the elastic element. The second anti-rotation structure cooperates with the second limiting structure to restrict the elastic element from rotating in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction.

6. The ribbon cassette according to claim 5, wherein, The first limiting structure is connected to the second limiting structure, and the first anti-rotation structure is located on the side of the first limiting structure opposite to the first direction, and the second anti-rotation structure is located on the side of the second limiting structure opposite to the second direction.

7. The ribbon cassette according to claim 5, wherein, The second limiting structure includes multiple mating plates, which are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the elastic member. The second anti-rotation structure abuts against the mating plates to restrict the elastic member from rotating in the second direction.

8. The ribbon cassette according to claim 1, wherein, The outer peripheral side of the second protrusion is provided with a plurality of ribs, which are spaced apart along the circumference of the second protrusion, and the elastic element is sleeved on the plurality of ribs.

9. The ribbon cassette according to claim 8, wherein, The end of the rib facing the spool has a guide slope.

10. The ribbon cassette according to claim 8, wherein, The elastic element is interference-fitted with the rib.

11. The ribbon cassette according to claim 1, wherein, The reel is a take-up reel, on which carbon ribbon is wound, and the take-up reel is used to take up the carbon ribbon.

12. The ribbon cassette according to claim 11, wherein, The lower shell has a winding cavity and a tape inlet communicating with the winding cavity. The winding shaft is rotatably installed in the winding cavity, and the carbon tape passes through the tape inlet and is wound around the winding shaft.

13. The ribbon cassette according to claim 11, wherein, The end face of the winding shaft facing the cover is pressed against the elastic element.

14. The ribbon cassette according to claim 1, wherein, One of the cover and the lower shell is provided with a slot, and the other is provided with a snap-fit ​​part, with the snap-fit ​​part inserted into the slot.

15. The ribbon cassette according to claim 1, wherein, The ribbon cassette includes: The housing includes a lower shell and a cover covering the lower shell, wherein the inner sidewall of the cover is provided with a positioning protrusion structure; A dispensing shaft is disposed inside the lower shell and rotatably connected to the positioning protrusion structure, and is used to rotate in a first direction to dispense carbon ribbon; A take-up shaft is disposed inside the lower shell and rotatably connected to the positioning protrusion structure, and is spaced apart from the dispensing shaft, for rotating along the first direction to take up the carbon ribbon; A reset member is disposed between the positioning protrusion structure and the take-up shaft. The reset member is used to provide a preload force in a second direction to the take-up shaft or the take-up shaft, so that the carbon ribbon between the take-up shaft and the take-up shaft is in a taut state, wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction; or, the reset member is disposed between the positioning protrusion structure and the take-up shaft, and the reset member is used to provide a preload force in the first direction to the take-up shaft or the take-up shaft, so that the carbon ribbon between the take-up shaft and the take-up shaft is in a taut state.

16. The ribbon cassette according to claim 15, wherein, The positioning protrusion structure includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion spaced apart. One of the dispensing shaft and the take-up shaft is rotatably connected to the first protrusion, and the other of the dispensing shaft and the take-up shaft is rotatably connected to the second protrusion.

17. The ribbon cassette according to claim 16, wherein, The dispensing shaft is rotatably connected to the first protrusion. One end of the reset member is connected to the first protrusion. The other end of the reset member is provided with a stop portion and extends into the dispensing shaft. The dispensing shaft is provided with a limiting rib. The stop portion cooperates with the limiting rib so that the reset member provides a preload force in the second direction to the dispensing shaft.

18. The ribbon cassette according to claim 16, wherein, The first protrusion includes: The first protrusion is connected to the inner wall of the cover, and the first protrusion has an insertion hole, and a limiting strip is provided in the insertion hole; The second protrusion includes a first part and a second part that are connected to each other. The peripheral sidewall of the first part is provided with ribs. The first part is inserted into the insertion hole, and the ribs cooperate with the limiting strip to restrict the rotation of the first part. The second part is inserted into the dispensing shaft, and the reset member is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second part. The reset member is connected to the second part.

19. The ribbon cassette according to claim 18, wherein, The second protrusion also includes a partition, through which the first part and the second part are connected, and the partition abuts against the first protrusion.

20. The ribbon cassette according to claim 15, wherein, The ribbon cartridge includes a ratchet mechanism disposed on the take-up shaft, the ratchet mechanism being used to prevent the take-up shaft from rotating in the second direction.

21. The ribbon cassette according to claim 20, wherein, The ratchet mechanism includes a ratchet and a pawl. The ratchet is connected to one end of the take-up shaft, and the pawl is movably disposed on the lower housing. The pawl cooperates with the ratchet to prevent the take-up shaft from rotating in the second direction.

22. The ribbon cassette according to claim 21, wherein, The ratchet mechanism further includes an elastic connector. The middle part of the pawl is rotatably connected to the lower shell. One end of the pawl is connected to the lower shell through the elastic connector, and the elastic connector is used to drive the other end of the pawl to engage with the ratchet to prevent the winding shaft from rotating in the second direction.

23. The ribbon cassette according to claim 15, wherein, The ribbon cartridge includes an elastic element that is compressed between the cover and the first end of the take-up shaft. The second end of the take-up shaft abuts against the inner wall of the lower shell. The first and second ends of the take-up shaft are opposite ends.

24. The ribbon cassette according to claim 23, wherein, The cover is provided with a first limiting structure. The elastic element is sleeved on the positioning protrusion and compressed between the first limiting structure and the winding shaft. The end of the elastic element away from the winding shaft is provided with a first anti-rotation structure. The first limiting structure and the first anti-rotation structure are arranged along the circumference of the positioning protrusion. The first anti-rotation structure cooperates with the first limiting structure to restrict the elastic element from rotating in the first direction.

25. The ribbon cassette according to claim 24, wherein, The first limiting structure includes multiple stop bars, which are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the positioning protrusion structure, and the first anti-rotation structure is located between two adjacent stop bars; Specifically, when the first anti-rotation structure engages with one of the two adjacent stop bars, it restricts the elastic element from rotating in the first direction; when the first anti-rotation structure engages with the other of the two adjacent stop bars, it restricts the elastic element from rotating in the second direction, which is opposite to the first direction.

26. The ribbon cassette according to claim 23, wherein, A wear-increasing pad is provided between the second end of the winding shaft and the inner wall of the lower shell.

27. The ribbon cassette according to claim 15, wherein, The reset element is a torsion spring.

28. The ribbon cassette according to claim 15, wherein, The lower shell has a take-up cavity and a release cavity. The lower shell also has a tape inlet communicating with the take-up cavity and a tape outlet communicating with the release cavity. The take-up shaft is rotatably mounted in the take-up cavity, and the release shaft is rotatably mounted in the release cavity. The carbon tape on the release shaft extends out from the tape outlet and extends into the take-up cavity from the tape inlet and is wound around the take-up shaft.

29. A printer, wherein, include: Printer body; A printhead module is mounted on the printer body. The ribbon cartridge as described in any one of claims 1-28, wherein the ribbon cartridge is disposed on the printer body.

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