Printing Apparatus Feed Length Counting for Label Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional printing apparatuses for printing bar codes on label paper using an ink ribbon lack a precise method to count the utilized label paper, making accurate charging impossible.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a feed length counting section that measures the paper feed length in a preset mode and displays or prints the utilization amount, allowing for accurate charging based on the counted feed length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual observation of residual volume is used to confirm label paper usage, then the structure remains simple, but the measurement precision of paper utilization is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual observation method with an automated feed length counting mechanism. The feed length counting section automatically measures and accumulates the length of label paper fed through the printer, substituting the mechanical/manual process with an automated counting system that provides precise utilization data without requiring complex additional hardware.
2Manufacturing precision
If no feed length counting mechanism is implemented, then the device complexity is low, but the charging accuracy based on utilization amount is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the feed length counting section continuously measures the label paper utilization and provides this data back to the control section. This feedback loop enables accurate charging calculations based on actual usage, as the system automatically tracks and reports the fed length information for billing purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The printing apparatus performs self-measurement of its own paper utilization through the integrated feed length counting section. The system automatically tracks its own usage without requiring external measurement devices or manual intervention, enabling self-service functionality for utilization monitoring and charging calculation.
3Reliability
If the thermal head continuously contacts the ink ribbon during conveyance, then the printing function is maintained, but the ink ribbon consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic contact between the thermal head and ink ribbon by controlling the heating elements to activate only during specific printing operations rather than continuous contact. The thermal head maintains readiness for printing but engages with the ink ribbon periodically only when printing is required, reducing unnecessary ink ribbon consumption while maintaining printing reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise tracking and charging of label paper usage by counting the feed length and presenting the utilization amount to users, enhancing operational efficiency and user transparency.
Implementation Method 1
heat generating elements are enabled to be in contact with the ink ribbon so as to thermally transfer the ink of the ink ribbon to the label paper
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with an embodiment, a printing apparatus includes a conveying section configured to move a recording medium fed from a paper roll along a conveyance path, a thermal head configured to thermally transfer ink of an ink ribbon to the recording medium to print, a control section configured to discriminate a print mode for the recording medium and control the printing processing for the recording medium and a feed length counting section configured to count the feed length of the recording medium conveyed from the paper roll to the thermal head in a first direction when the print mode is a preset mode.