JP3492834B2 - Ink sheet cassette mechanism - Google Patents

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an ink sheet cassette mechanism which can be used by applying a multi-ink sheet which can be used many times to an existing one-time type thermal transfer recording apparatus. More specifically, in order to eliminate the problem of limitation of applicable models, which is a problem that occurs when trying to brake the supply shaft by the driving force from the platen roller etc. of the main body of the recording device, it is dedicated in the cassette case. The present invention relates to an improvement of an ink sheet cassette mechanism that is equipped with a drive motor.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A thermal transfer recording apparatus is one in which a dye or ink on an ink sheet is selectively sublimated or melted by a recording head such as a thermal head or an energization recording head and then transferred onto an image receiving sheet. A recording image is formed on the image receiving sheet. Conventionally, various proposals have been made regarding a system in which ink sheet cassettes using different ink materials are interchangeably mounted on one recording device. For example, a proposal has been made to obtain compatibility in one recording device between a melt transfer ink material and a sublimation transfer ink material, and further between monochrome transfer and color transfer. In these cases, since there is no difference in the ink sheet transport speed between the cassettes of each system, it is easy to create compatible devices. However, it has been extremely difficult to develop a recording apparatus that can use a one-time sublimation transfer type ink sheet cassette and a multi-sublimation transfer type ink sheet interchangeably. that is,
This is because in the case of the multi-sublimation transfer system, the ink sheet transport speed needs to be 1 / n (n: multi number) of the transport speed of the image receiving paper.

That is, FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a schematic structure of a conventional thermal transfer recording apparatus for exclusive use of one-time ink sheets. An ink sheet fed from an ink sheet supply roll 201 and usable only once (hereinafter referred to as ""One-time ink sheet" 205b and image receiving sheet 206
While being conveyed while being sandwiched between the recording head 212 and the platen roller 213, the recording head 212 generates a heat pattern according to the image information, and the dye of the one-time ink sheet 205b is transferred to the image receiving sheet 206. Image recording is performed. One-time ink sheet 20
The image receiving sheet 5 b is heated by the recording head 212.
In the state of being fused to 06, it passes between the recording head 212 and the platen roller 213. The ink sheet take-up roll 214 is provided with a tension applying unit 2 such as a torque limiter by a take-up roll driving unit 215 including a motor and a speed reduction mechanism.
The one-time ink sheet 205b, which is rotationally driven via 16 and has passed between the recording head 212 and the platen roller 213, is tensioned, separated from the image receiving sheet 206, and wound up. Ink sheet supply roll 201
Is braked by the braking means 202 and applies tension to the one-time ink sheet 205b. On the other hand, with respect to the one-time ink sheet 205b that can be used only once, the ink sheet that can be used many times (hereinafter, referred to as “multi-ink sheet”) is conveyed at a speed slower than the conveyance speed of the image receiving sheet to form an image. By recording,
A thermal transfer recording apparatus has been proposed in which the usage density of a multi-ink sheet is increased and the running cost is reduced (see Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 62-58917). However, in the configuration of the thermal transfer recording apparatus as described above, only the one-time ink sheet 205b can be used, and when the multi-ink sheet is replaced with the one-time ink sheet 205b, the ink sheet and the image receiving sheet are moved at the same speed. It will be transported. Therefore, it is impossible to reduce the running cost by carrying out the image recording by carrying the carrying speed of the multi-ink sheet at a speed slower than the carrying speed of the image receiving sheet.

FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the construction of a conventional thermal transfer recording apparatus dedicated to a multi-ink sheet. This apparatus is a multi-ink sheet 205a and an image receiving sheet 206 which can be used many times and which are fed from an ink sheet supply roll 201.
While being conveyed while being sandwiched between the recording head 212 and the platen roller 213, the recording head 212 generates a thermal pattern according to the image information, and the multi-ink sheet 2
This is a thermal transfer recording device for recording an image by transferring the dye of No. 05a to the image receiving sheet 206. The ink sheet supply roll driving means 203 including a motor and a speed reduction mechanism rotationally drives the ink sheet supply roll 201 and sends out the multi-ink sheet 205a at the peripheral speed of the ink sheet supply roll 201. This speed is slower than the conveying speed of the image receiving sheet 206. The ink sheet take-up roll 214 is rotationally driven by a take-up roll driving means 215 including a motor, a speed reduction mechanism and the like via a tension applying means 216 such as a torque limiter, and the recording head 212.
The multi-ink sheet 205a passing between the platen roller 213 and the platen roller 213 is wound while tension is applied. Here, the multi-ink sheet 205a is n times (n>
1) It has usable properties, and the transport speed ratio between the multi-ink sheet 205a and the image receiving sheet 206 is approximately 1: n. However, in the thermal transfer recording apparatus as described above, only the multi-ink sheet 205a that can be used many times can be used. Contrary to the above-mentioned thermal transfer recording apparatus, such a thermal transfer recording apparatus has a conveyance speed of the multi-ink sheet 205a which is 1 / n that of the image receiving sheet 206.
There is a problem that the one-time ink sheet 205b cannot be used because it is regulated by the above. The one-time ink sheet 205b is significantly inferior in cost to the multi-ink sheet 205a, but has many advantages such as high image quality and low power consumption (low running cost).
Multi-ink sheet 20 according to each purpose of use
It is desirable that the type of 5a or the one-time ink sheet 205b can be freely selected. However, the conventional thermal transfer recording apparatus is not compatible with the multi-ink sheet 2
There is a problem that only one type of the 05a or the one-time ink sheet 205b can be used.

[0005]

By the way, the ink seal
It is possible to use the one-time cassette and the multi-cassette interchangeably in one thermal transfer paper recorder recording device by equipping the cassette with the "multi-braking mechanism" that realizes the drive of the multi-ink sheet. The background to trying to fit in is the idea of installing multi-functions on the existing one-time hardware.
As a method of realizing such an idea, there is known a technique of obtaining a driving force for braking from a platen roller on the recording apparatus main body side in order to obtain a driving force for braking an ink sheet supply shaft. Although not realized yet, an idea has also been proposed in which a motor is mounted inside the multi-cassette to obtain braking by the driving force of this motor. However, recently, standardization of cassette cases has progressed, and their shapes and the like are becoming common (for example, there are VP standard and MP standard).
On the other hand, since the mechanism of the recording apparatus main body is different for each company, it is not always possible to obtain power from the platen roller as in the former conventional example. Therefore, it is the best way to realize a reliable operation by equipping the cassette with a drive motor dedicated to the supply roller braking as in the latter conventional example. However, this conventional technique is merely an idea, and no proposal has been made for a specific mechanism or the like. The present invention has been made in view of the above, and in an ink sheet cassette in which a multi-ink sheet can be used by being attached to a one-time thermal transfer recording apparatus, in order to brake the supply shaft of the multi-ink sheet. It is an object of the present invention to provide an ink sheet cassette mechanism in which the structure for mounting the drive source of (3) inside the cassette is raised to a practical level.

[0006]

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the invention of claim 1 is a cassette case having the same shape as a one-time ink sheet cassette which is detachably attached to a one-time type recording apparatus, and the cassette. An ink sheet take-up roll and an ink sheet supply roll which are rotatably supported by a case, and a braking mechanism which is arranged in the cassette case and rotates the ink sheet supply roll at a predetermined feeding speed are provided. In the multi-ink sheet cassette mechanism in which the feeding amount on the supply side is controlled by the above, as a braking mechanism for braking the moving speed of the multi-ink sheet, it relates to the change of the ink sheet supply roll diameter. Adopting a capstan roller braking system that can keep the moving speed constant without using this capstan roller
As a braking system, a braking motor and a reduction gear are used for the cassette.
It is placed inside the case and is installed on the main body of the recorder.
-Timing that is almost the same as the start timing of winding
It is characterized in that the braking operation is performed by the lock . According to a second aspect of the present invention, a cassette case having the same shape as a one-time ink sheet cassette detachably attached to a one-time type recording apparatus, an ink sheet take-up roll and an ink sheet rotatably supported by the cassette case. A multi-ink sheet cassette having a supply roll and a braking mechanism that is disposed in the cassette case and rotates the ink sheet supply roll at a predetermined delivery speed, and that controls the delivery amount on the supply side by the braking mechanism. mechanism at a, the multi-ink sheet - as the braking mechanism for braking the movement speed of the bets, Inkushi - DOO supply Russia - moving velocity with changes in Le diameter adopt the supply shaft brake system decreases, the subject
As the feed shaft braking method, the braking motor and the reduction gear are
The winding device installed in the recording case and installed in the main body of the recording device.
Approximately the same timing as the start of winding by the motor
It is characterized in that the braking operation is performed by the minging .

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cassette case having the same shape as a one-time ink sheet cassette detachably attached to a one-time type recording apparatus, and an ink sheet take-up roll rotatably supported by the cassette case. And an ink sheet supply roll, and a braking mechanism which is arranged in the cassette case and rotates the ink sheet supply roll at a predetermined feeding speed, and the feeding mechanism controls the feeding amount by the braking mechanism. In the ink sheet cassette mechanism, as a braking mechanism for braking the moving speed of the multi-ink sheet, the moving speed of the ink sheet is detected and fed back to the control section, and the moving speed is controlled by the control section. A variable supply axis braking system that keeps the speed constant is adopted , and a braking motor and a deceleration gear are used as the variable supply axis braking system.
Place it in the cassette case and install it in the main unit of the recorder.
The timing of the start of winding with the winding motor
The feature is that the braking operation is performed at substantially the same timing .

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a one-time recording method is used.
One-time ink sheet cassette that can be detachably attached to the device
Cassette case with the same shape as the
Ink sheet take-up roll and rotatably supported
And the ink sheet supply roll and the
The ink sheet supply roll is placed at a predetermined feeding speed.
And a braking mechanism that rotates by
Side multi ink seal to control the amount of extension
Movement of the above-mentioned multi-ink sheet in the cassette mechanism
Ink sheet supply as a braking mechanism for braking the speed
To keep the moving speed constant regardless of the change of the roll diameter.
A capstan roller braking system that can be used is adopted, and a releasing mechanism that releases the transmission of the driving force is provided in the driving force transmission path of the braking mechanism. The releasing system by the releasing mechanism is the braking motor and the ink sheet supply roll. It is characterized in that the intermediate gear located in the middle is released or the gear is released by moving the position of the braking motor. The invention of claim 5 is a one-time method.
One-time ink cartridge that is detachably attached to a recording device
Cassette case having the same shape as the cassette and the cassette
Ink sheet winding rotatably supported by the case
The roll and the ink sheet supply roll and the cassette case
The ink sheet supply roll is placed in
A braking mechanism that rotates at a start speed is provided.
A multi-touch device that controls the feeding amount on the supply side.
The above-mentioned multi-ink sheet
Ink sheet as a braking mechanism for braking the moving speed of the vehicle.
Supply shaft whose moving speed decreases with the change of supply roll diameter
The braking system is adopted, and the
A release mechanism is provided to release the transmission of driving force.
The release method is based on the braking motor and the ink sheet supply roll.
Release of the intermediate gear located in the middle of
It is characterized in that the gear is released by moving it in place .

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, a one-time recording method is used.
One-time ink sheet cassette that can be detachably attached to the device
Cassette case with the same shape as the
Ink sheet take-up roll and rotatably supported
And the ink sheet supply roll and the
The ink sheet supply roll is placed at a predetermined feeding speed.
And a braking mechanism that rotates by
Side multi ink seal to control the amount of extension
Movement of the above-mentioned multi-ink sheet in the cassette mechanism
As a braking mechanism for braking the speed, the moving speed of the ink sheet
Detected and fed back to the control unit to control the control unit
By adopting the supply axis variable braking method that keeps the moving speed constant by
The driving force transmission path of the braking mechanism,
A release mechanism is provided to release the transmission, and release by the release mechanism
Method is intermediate between the braking motor and the ink sheet supply roll
To release the intermediate gear located at or move the braking motor position
The feature is that the gear is released by

[0010]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION The present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a configuration explanatory view of an ink sheet cassette mechanism of one embodiment of the present invention,
The ink sheet cassette 1 includes a cassette case 2 indicated by a dotted line, a supply shaft 3 rotatably supported in the cassette case 2, and a winding rotatably supported at a predetermined distance from the supply shaft 3. The take-up shaft 4, the multi-ink sheet 5 (the supply ink roll 5a, the take-up ink roll 5b) sent out from the supply shaft 3 and taken up by the take-up shaft 4, and the ink sheet 5 sent out from the supply ink roll 5a A pulley 6 that receives the ink at a position immediately downstream of the supply ink roll 5a and changes the direction of the ink sheet, and an ink sheet that is drawn out from the pulley 6 is rotatably supported by a case 2 or the like so as to be wound around a part of the outer circumference. A cap roller (braking roller) 7 and an auxiliary roller that nips the outer peripheral surface of the capstan roller 7 to convey the ink sheet 5 between the capstan roller 7 and the capstan roller 7. Has a La (driven roller) 8, a gear 10 integral with the capstan roller 7 coaxially, a drive gear 12 which is integrated with the output shaft of the motor 11 to transmit the driving force to the gear 10. The cassette case 2 is a cassette case having the same shape as a one-time ink sheet cassette that is detachably attached to a one-time type recording apparatus.

Each of these components is a cassette case 2.
Placed inside. The capstan roller 7, the auxiliary roller 8, the gear 10, the motor 11, and the drive gear 12 constitute a braking mechanism. This braking mechanism is arranged in the space on the side of the supply shaft in the case because the braking target is the supply shaft 5a. However, the braking mechanism having the above configuration can be sufficiently arranged in the space. is there. When the ink sheet cassette 1 is set in the thermal transfer recording apparatus, the platen roller 15 and the thermal head 16 that form the printing unit are
The ink sheet 5 led out between the rolls 5a and 5b is sandwiched from above and below. When a large number of heating elements forming the thermal head are selectively heated with the image receiving sheet 17 sandwiched between the platen roller 15 and the ink sheet 5, the dye or ink on the ink sheet is selectively sublimated or melted. And transferred onto the image receiving sheet.

In the capstan roller type braking mechanism shown in FIG. 1, the capstan roller 7 (circular in cross section and non-eccentric shaft) driven by the motor 11 determines the ink sheet feeding speed on the supply side. The ink sheet moving speed is constant over the entire length of the ink sheet. However, since a space for disposing the capstan roller 7 in the vicinity of the supply roll 5a is required, the accommodation space for the supply roll 5a is inevitably reduced, and the amount of ink sheet that can be accommodated in the case 2 is small. Therefore, the number of printable sheets also decreases. Although the example using the capstan roller is shown in the above-mentioned embodiment, if the ink sheet sent from the supply roller is wound and the roller can determine the feeding speed by the friction resistance between the ink sheet and the roller, It may be any roller. Also,
When a pulse motor is used as the braking motor 11,
1 / n of moving speed of image receiving sheet (eg 4.7m / s)
The rotation speed of the motor may be set so as to convey the ink sheet at the moving speed (0.31 m / s) of (for example, n = 15). However, when a DC motor is used as the braking motor 11, a reduction gear (not shown) is used. It is necessary to intervene the group.
For example, in the case of a DC motor, since it is necessary to output with a reduction ratio of about 1/54, a reduction gear group corresponding to this reduction ratio is arranged.

Next, FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of a supply shaft braking system according to another embodiment of the present invention. In this system, FIG.
Instead of providing a capstan roller as in the example of
A supply shaft gear 20 is coaxially integrated with the supply shaft 3 itself, and the supply shaft gear 20 is directly driven by the drive gear 12 of the motor 11. In this embodiment as well, the braking mechanism including the supply shaft gear 20, the motor 11, and the drive gear 12 is arranged in the case 2. Therefore, in this supply shaft braking type ink sheet cassette, the number of parts is small, the mechanism is simplified, and the ink sheet accommodation space in the case can be secured large, so that the number of prints can be increased. However, the ink sheet moving speed decreases in accordance with the diameter ratio of the supply roll that decreases with the progress of consumption of the ink sheet. Cassettes are also worth using.

Next, FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a supply shaft variable braking system according to another embodiment of the present invention, which is shown in FIGS.
It aims at the intermediate effect of each form example. In this embodiment, the braking mechanism includes the supply shaft gear 20, the motor 11,
A drive gear 12, a driver 25, a correction table (control means) 26, a seat moving speed detector 27, etc., and all or a part of the elements constituting the braking mechanism are arranged in the case 2. The sheet moving speed detector 27 includes, for example, a pair of rollers 30 and 31 that rotate in contact with the ink sheet 5 and a photo interrupter 32 arranged on the outer peripheral edge of a pulse plate 30a coaxially integrated with one roller 30. The correction table 26 receives a signal obtained by the photo interrupter 23 detecting a slit or the like formed on the outer peripheral edge of the pulse plate 30a with a predetermined circumferential distance, and the pulse is received by the correction table 26. The moving speed of the ink sheet is determined based on the interval. Correction table 26
Compares the obtained real-time moving speed with a previously stored reference moving speed, and if there is a difference that cannot be ignored, the drive gear 12 is set to eliminate the difference.
The rotation speed of the feed shaft gear 20,
The feeding speed from the supply roll 5a is adjusted to be constant.
Specifically, as the diameter of the supply roller decreases, the feeding speed of the ink sheet decreases, so the rotational speed of the supply roll 5a is increased by an amount necessary to compensate for the deceleration. According to the braking mechanism of this embodiment, the feeding speed of the ink sheet is always constant, so that the image quality does not fluctuate due to variations in the feeding speed. The capacity (number) of ink sheets that can be stored in the case 2 is also shown in FIG.
And intermediate values of the form example of FIG. Each ink sheet cassette provided with the braking mechanism of each of the above embodiments is used in an ink sheet drive mechanism of a one-time thermal transfer printer or a color printer formed into a cassette.

Next, FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a schematic structure of another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, a braking motor 11 is used.
The reduction gear mechanism 35 is arranged in the cassette case 2, and the timing of winding and stopping by the winding motor 40 provided in the recording apparatus main body and the timing of starting and stopping the braking by the braking motor 11 are set. The points that are almost the same are characteristic. As described above, the reduction gear 35 is provided when the DC motor is used as the braking motor 11, and is unnecessary when the pulse motor is used. The winding side drive mechanism provided on the recording apparatus main body side includes a winding motor 40, an output gear 41 of the winding motor 40, and an engagement member 44 connected to a gear 42 meshing with the output gear 41 via a torque limiter 43. By engaging the engaging member 44 with the take-up shaft 4 exposed from the case of the cassette set in the recording apparatus, the driving force from the take-up motor 40 is applied to the take-up shaft 4, that is, the take-up roll. 5b is transmitted.

The head raising / lowering mechanism provided on the recording apparatus main body side has two arms 50 for supporting the thermal head 16 at their tips, and a shaft 51 for pivotally supporting an appropriate position in the middle of the arms so as to be vertically rotatable. The head drive motor 52, a gear 54 that meshes with the output gear 53 of the head drive motor 52, a shaft member 55 that integrally supports the shaft center of the gear 54, and an elliptical shape that is integrated at both ends of the shaft member 55. A cam 56, and a spiral groove 56a is formed on the inner surface of the cam 56. A cam follower 50a (projection) protruding from the other end of each arm 50 is fitted into the groove 56a. , Motor 5
As the cam 56 rotates by 2, the cam follower 5
0a moves in the groove (moves from the inner diameter direction to the outer diameter direction), and vertically moves the arm about the shaft 51. Therefore, the head 16 at the tip of the arm can move up and down, and can be brought into contact with and separated from the platen roller 15. The reduction gear 35 is a gear having a gear ratio for reducing the output of the braking motor 11 at a predetermined ratio, and as a result,
The sheet feeding speed from the winding roll 5a driven by the braking motor can be set to 1 / n of the moving speed (printing speed) of the image receiving sheet. Reference numeral 57 is a paper scanning motor, which drives a grid roller 58 that conveys the image receiving sheet 5. Paper scanning motor 57
When the image receiving sheet is conveyed by, the platen roller 15 is of a driven type that is rotated along with the movement of the image receiving sheet. However, this is only an example, and the platen roller 1
5 may be driven.

As described above, in this embodiment, the gear ratio of the braking motor and the reduction gear is selected so that the ink sheet is moved at a speed of 1 / n of the printing speed (image-receiving sheet moving speed) of the recording apparatus. Is set in advance. Ink sheet winding mode
The motor 40 is provided on the main body of the recording apparatus, and is continuously rotated by a DC motor or intermittently driven by a pulse motor to set an appropriate front tension via a torque limiter 43 and to generate an excessive amount of rotation. Be absorbed. In the operation of the multi-ink sheet, the start-up for winding up,
Since there is no problem in operating with the stop timing, the start timing for braking, and the stop timing being the same, the controller signal for the winding motor from the controller 26 is sent to the braking motor 11 side. You can easily realize multi-braking by telling. In addition, contact terminals are provided on a part of the case 2 and a part of the main body of the recording apparatus, respectively,
By configuring such that both terminals are connected when the cassette is set, signals and drive voltage can be supplied. It is easy to replace only the ink sheet 5 in the cassette with the case 2. That is, if the braking mechanism excluding the ink sheet is fixed in the cassette case and only the ink sheet is replaceable, there is no waste of discarding the cassette including the braking mechanism each time the ink sheet reaches the end. can do.

The driver 25, the controller 26, and the power source are located on the recording apparatus side. The braking motor 11, the output gear 12, and the reduction gear 35 are arranged inside the cassette case 2.

Next, FIGS. 5 (a) and 5 (b) are schematic diagrams of the essential portions of other embodiments of the present invention, respectively, which are transmitted to the driving force transmission paths of the respective braking mechanisms described in the above respective embodiments. A characteristic feature is that a release mechanism for cutting the force is provided, and the transmission force release mechanism releases the gear located in the middle of the transmission path or releases the gear by changing the position of the braking motor. Figure 5
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a release mechanism, and (a) is a braking mode.
(B) shows a method of moving a part of the gear in the gear train arranged between the braking motor and the supply shaft. It shows the method of disengaging and releasing the meshing. First, the release mechanism of FIG. 5A is obtained by adding the intermediate gears 60 and 61 to the braking mechanism as shown in FIG. 2, that is, the intermediate gear (worm wheel) that meshes with the output gear (worm) 12 of the braking motor. ) 60 is applied to a braking mechanism in which a supply shaft gear 20 that meshes with a small diameter gear 61 integrated with a supply shaft 3 is integrated with a supply shaft 3. Here, a shaft 62 having a proper position of a braking motor 11 provided in a case 2 is used. Is supported so as to be rotatable in the vertical direction, and the connecting arm 63 is projected from one end of the braking motor toward the head 16. In addition, the connecting arm 63
Is constantly urged downward (in the direction in which the gear 12 meshes with the gear 60) by the spring 64. In addition, the connecting arm 6
The tip of 3 is engaged with the upper surface of the action piece 16 a extending from the head 16. In the above configuration, when the head 16 is lowered to the solid line position shown in the figure for printing, the braking motor 11 is also lowered to the solid line position by the force of the spring 64, and therefore the output gear 12 is set to the intermediate position. Gear 6
In the meshing state with 0, the supply roller 5a is braked. However, when the head 16 is pulled up to the retracted position shown by the dotted line during non-printing, the arm 63 is pushed up by the action piece 16a, so that the braking motor and the output gear 12 also retract to the dotted line position. As a result, the mesh between the output gear 12 and the intermediate gear 60 is released, and the supply shaft 3 becomes free.

Further, in the release mechanism of FIG. 5B, the first and second intermediate gears 60 and 70 are arranged between the output shaft 12 of the braking motor 11 and the supply shaft gear 20, and the small diameter gear is provided. 61 and the second intermediate gear 70, and the second intermediate gear 70 and the supply shaft gear 20 are meshed with each other, and when the second intermediate gear 70 and the supply shaft gear 20 are in the non-printing position of the head 16. A characteristic is that the mesh is released. That is, in this embodiment, the first intermediate gear 60 (6
An arm 71 is rotatably fitted and supported at its base end portion with respect to the rotating shaft of 1), and a tip end portion of the arm 71 is engaged with an upper surface of an action piece 16a of the head. Also, the arm 7
The first and second intermediate gears 70 are connected to each other, and the arm 71
Is in the solid line position, the second intermediate gear 70 also meshes with the supply shaft gear 20 in line with the solid line position, and when the arm 16 is raised to the chain line position by the elevation of the head 16, the second intermediate gear 70 is
The intermediate gear 70 moves to the chain line position to release the mesh with the supply shaft gear 20 and free the supply shaft 3.

The releasing operation and the meshing operation can be mechanically transmitted from the movement of the thermal head 16 which repeats the pressure contact and the releasing operation by a printing sequence. That is, since the head 16 is in pressure contact with the platen roller 15 only when a multi-print operation is required, the supply shaft 3 is braked by the braking mechanism. While printing is being performed, the ink sheet 5 is moved by the braking motor 11 at a speed slower than 1 / n of the moving speed of the image receiving sheet 17, and this ink sheet is moved to the start position of the next color. If you want to move the print head color to the print head color all at once with the initializing operation, you need to release the braking force to make it free and move at high speed under the control of the winding motor. There is. Otherwise, the printing time for one sheet will be very long.

FIG. 6 shows a configuration example for generating a sufficient braking force in the capstan roller type braking mechanism. In this configuration example, the driving force from the output gear (worm) 12 of the braking motor 11 is first and second. Second intermediate gear 75
(75a, 75b), 76 meshes with the gear 10 integrated with the capstan roller 7, and the resistance imparting means (spring) 77 presses the ink sheet 5 against the outer peripheral surface of the capstan roller 7, and further the supply shaft. A gear portion 79 of a torque limiter 80 is meshed with a supply gear 78 that is coaxial with the motor 3. The torque limiter 80 constitutes a load generating device. The intermediate gear 75a is a worm wheel. As shown in Fig. 6, the capstan roller 7 and ink shield
Friction coefficient between grate 5: μ, wrap angle: θ, seat pressure contact force: N
Even if the maximum amount of braking force is applied in the limited space in Case 2, if the braking force Ff required to obtain the target feeding speed of the ink sheet cannot be obtained, The Ff value can be increased by adding a load generator to the ink supply shaft 3 side. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, in order to realize this in a small size, the gear train including the intermediate gears 75 and 76 is provided as an output gear (worm).
12 and the capstan roller (braking roller) 7 and indirectly through the supply shaft gear 20 by a small torque limiter 80 that applies oil resistance or friction resistance using a spring. I braked. The intermediate gear is omitted and the torque limiter 80 is omitted.
Only one may be used.

The braking force Ff of the sheet that can be generated by the braking mechanism having the above structure can be obtained as follows.

[0024]

[Equation 1] {Ff: Ink sheet braking force, Fb: Ink sheet rear tension, μ: Friction coefficient of ink sheet and braking roller (capstan roller), θ: Ink sheet winding angle (130 °: 2.267 rad), T: Torque Torque Value of Limiter} Next, FIG. 7 shows a specific example of the drive / transmission mechanism of the braking roller including the capstan roller. In this embodiment, the torque from the worm, which is the output gear of the braking motor, is transmitted to the braking roller (capstan roller) via the worm wheel, caulking gear, idle gear, and braking gear, and the ink sheet is wound around the braking roller. The braking force is given by. In this example, as the braking motor, the DC motor is driven so as to be driven at the same timing as the main body winding motor. Furthermore, the power supply is branched and the applied voltage is set to an appropriate value with a diode interposed. Also, the motor to be used depends on the external size, torque, etc. standard specifications of the Copal LA12G-344VB (voltage: 4, 5 V, rotation speed: 40 rpm (reduction ratio 1/2
98), torque: 500 g-cm), current: 180 m
A} was selected. The transmission gear structure is as follows. The braking roller diameter is φ8. Multi-ink sheet linear velocity = paper linear velocity × (1 / n) (n: number of multiples = 15) = 4.71 × (1/15) = 0.314 (mm / s) Therefore, braking roller rotation speed: N = 0.314 / (π × 8) = 0.
74966 (rpm) Reduction ratio to motor speed: GR = 0.74966 /
40 ≈ 1/54 The reduction gear configuration is as follows. (M = 0.5) By the way, in the braking mechanism having the structure shown in FIG. 6, when the ink sheet is fed at high speed, it is not possible to release all of the braking force only by releasing the intermediate gears 75 and 76. The application of the braking force by the torque limiter 80 must be released at the same time. This is because the tension of the supply sheet may become too large due to the braking from the torque limiter and the winding movement may not be possible.

FIGS. 8 (a) and 8 (b) are a front view and a plan view of an essential part of the mechanism of the releasing mechanism for releasing the intermediate gear 75 and the torque limiter 80 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 at the same time. The power for this purpose is transmitted from the releasing operation of the thermal head 16. This release mechanism is mounted on the side edge of the cassette case. The release mechanism is supported by a rotating shaft 85 so as to be rotatable in the vertical direction and a part of the connecting plate 1 extends from the thermal head 16.
6b, a first rotary plate 86 protruding downward, a second rotary plate 87 integrated with the front end of the rotary shaft 85, and a predetermined angle projecting from the rotary shaft 85. A first spring 89 whose one end is held by the spring holder 87b and whose other end is fixed to a proper place of the cassette via the outer peripheral surface of the pin 88, and a vertical direction with the rotating shaft 75A of the first intermediate gear 75 as the center of rotation. A third rotating plate 90 which is rotatably supported by the second intermediate gear 76 and which supports the rotating shaft of the second intermediate gear 76, and the third rotating plate 90 in the counterclockwise direction (the second intermediate gear 76). No. 2 that constantly urges in the direction of
A spring 91 and a fourth rotation plate 96, one end of which is supported by a rotation shaft 95 located at the right end, is rotatable in the vertical direction and supports the rotation shaft of the torque limiter 80, And a third spring 97 for constantly urging the rotating plate 96 of No. 4 in the clockwise direction (meshing direction of the torque limiter gear portion 79).

The first spring 89 constantly biases the second rotating plate 87 in the counterclockwise direction via the spring holder 85a, but when the head 16 is lowered for printing, the spring 89 is present. Against this, the second rotating plate 87 is held at the position shown. When the head 16 is raised during non-printing, the second rotating plate 87 is rotated in the counterclockwise direction (arrow A) by the spring 89, so that the pin 87a at the right end portion of the second rotating plate 87 moves in this direction. The left end of the engaging third rotating plate 90 is pushed up in the clockwise direction. Therefore, the third rotating plate 9
The right end portion of 0 goes down in the direction of arrow (a), and the second intermediate gear 76 separates from the gear 10 of the capstan roller. The pin 90a at the right end portion of the third rotating plate 90 is engaged with the left end portion of the fourth rotating plate 96, and the fourth rotating plate 96 is rotated halfway in the direction of (a). Rotate in the rotating direction. Therefore, the gear 79 of the torque limiter 80 supported by the fourth rotating plate 96 is not
It separates from 8, and makes the supply shaft 3 free.

The releasing operation of each of the above members is carried out in conjunction with each other,
The reverse operation from the released state to the braking enabled state is performed. That is, when the head 16 descends, each member performs the opposite operation to the above, the second intermediate gear 76 meshes with the gear 10 of the capstan roller, and the gear 79 of the torque limiter rotates with the supply shaft gear 78. It will be in a state of meshing with. Thus, in synchronization with the movement of the thermal head, the intermediate gear and the torque limiter can be set or released simultaneously with a simple mechanism.

Next, in another embodiment of the present invention, the tensile tension of the ink sheet winding shaft provided on the recording apparatus main body side is
The feature is that the load tension is set higher than when the multi-braking is released. That is, as described with reference to FIG. 8, when the transmission of the multi-braking force is canceled as described above, the tension of the ink sheet 5 drawn from the ink sheet supply shaft 3 is exceeded, and the winding side is wound. The tension of must be set. The force is set by the torque limiter provided on the winding side. This is the condition for moving the ink sheet at high speed.

Next, FIG. 9 (a) shows the application form of the mark code for detecting the color position of the conventional one-time ink sheet 100 and the sensor 10 as the mark code detecting means.
1 shows the position where 1 (transmissive photosensor) is provided. The High part of the lower pulse-shaped waveform is the sensor-1
This is a position signal obtained by reading the mark code with 01, and continuous long and short code recognition (MC-
The print start color Y (yellow) is positioned in (1 part). After that, when a pulse signal of only one shot is recognized after the continuous code (MC-1 portion), its position is M.
It is the head code (MC-2) of (magenta), and the head mark codes of C (cyan) and Y are sequentially recognized at the MC-2 and MC-4 positions. The control unit (not shown) can position the area of each color at the print start position by the head 16 by moving the ink sheet based on the detection signal from the sensor 101. When the position of the color area corresponding to the head 16 is at an arbitrary position, such as when the cassette is replaced, it is necessary to check the head mark code of Y. Therefore, only one mark code signal is required. At the position (1), the stop ink sheet conveyance passes without stopping, and it is always stopped after the continuous code is recognized. In this way, after recognizing the head mark code of Y, the area of Y or a color other than Y can be moved to the head position for the first time.

Next, FIG. 9B is a diagram showing a mark code form for a multi-ink sheet of the present invention and a method of recognizing the mark code. A mark code mc is provided along with a photo sensor (mark code detecting means) 111 so that the mark code can be recognized along the moving path of each mark code. Unlike the one-time ink sheet, in the case of the multi-ink sheet 110, since the thickness of the applied ink is large, the transmittance decreases due to the dye or binder present in the ink. For this reason, unlike the one-time ink sheet, it is not possible to provide a level difference in the transmittance between the ink area and the mark area inside the ink sheet. Therefore, in the multi-ink sheet, the S / N of detection can be improved by forming the transparent portion in the shape of a band on the side edge while providing the mark code mc on the transparent portion. Also, the position detection area in the entire length of the ink sheet can be minimized to reduce cost waste.

In order to surely recognize the first color Y, the interval time of the pulse signal of the mark code mc is always t.
Must be ₁ <t ₂ (t ₁ is the interval between two consecutive pulses that recognize the mark code of the leading color, t ₂ is the interval between two pulses that recognize the mark code of two non-leading colors) . When a continuous pulse is detected in a time shorter than t ₂ time at the final winding when the linear velocity of the ink sheet 110 is the highest, the sequence software can be recognized as the mark code of the first color. Assemble.

[0032]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cassette case having the same shape as a one-time ink sheet cassette, which is detachably attached to a one-time type recording apparatus,
An ink sheet take-up roll and an ink sheet supply roll rotatably supported by the cassette case; and a braking mechanism disposed in the cassette case for rotating the ink sheet supply roll at a predetermined feeding speed. In a multi-ink sheet cassette mechanism in which the supply amount on the supply side is controlled by a braking mechanism, a change in the ink sheet supply roll diameter is used as a braking mechanism for braking the moving speed of the multi-ink sheet. A capstan roller braking system that can keep the moving speed constant regardless of That is, since the ink sheet feeding speed on the supply side is determined by the capstan roller (circular cross section and non-eccentric shaft) driven by the braking motor,
The ink sheet moving speed is constant over the entire length of the ink sheet.

According to a second aspect of the invention, the multi-ink seal
As a braking mechanism that brakes the moving speed of the engine, the supply shaft braking method that reduces the moving speed with the change of the ink sheet supply roll diameter is adopted, so the number of parts is small and the mechanism is simplified. -Since a large storage space for sheets can be secured, the number of prints can be increased. According to a third aspect of the present invention, as a braking mechanism for braking the moving speed of the multi-ink sheet, the moving speed of the ink sheet is detected and fed back to the control section, and the moving speed is kept constant by the control of the control section. Since the supply axis variable braking method is adopted, the feeding speed of the ink sheet is always constant, and the fluctuation of the image quality due to the variation of the feeding speed does not occur. Further, the capacity (number of sheets) of the ink sheet that can be accommodated in the case is also defined in claim 1 and claim 2.
It is an intermediate value of the invention of.

[0034] According to claim 1, 2, 3, in order to realize each braking mode, the braking mode - motor and reduction gear to the Kasettoke - mode for and disposed within the scan, the winding which is provided in the recording apparatus main body - The braking operation is performed at almost the same timing as the start of winding with the tape. Therefore, efficient and efficient braking can be realized .

According to the invention described in claims 4, 5, and 6,
Cancels the transmission of the driving force during the driving force transmission path of the braking mechanism
Release mechanism is provided, and the release method by the release mechanism
Located between the motor and the ink sheet supply roll
Release the intermediate gear or move the position of the braking motor
Since it is a release, release the braking mechanism with a simple configuration
The supply roll is free and high-speed feed can be executed.

[0036]

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a braking mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a braking mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a braking mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a braking mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention.

5A is a diagram showing an example of a braking release mechanism, and FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an example of another braking release mechanism.

FIG. 6 is another configuration diagram of a capstan roller type braking mechanism.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of a specific example of a drive / transmission mechanism of a braking roller.

8A and 8B are a front view and a plan view of an example of a brake release mechanism.

FIG. 9A is a mark code and detection waveform diagram showing color positions in a conventional one-time ink sheet, and FIG. 9B is a mark code and detection waveform diagram showing color positions in the multi-ink sheet of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a schematic configuration of a conventional thermal transfer recording apparatus.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a schematic configuration of another conventional thermal transfer recording apparatus.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 ink sheet cassette, 2 cassette case, 3
Supply shaft, 4 winding shaft, 5 multi-ink sheet, 5a,
Supply ink roll, 5b Winding ink roll, 6 pulley, 7 capstan roller, 8 auxiliary roller (driven roller), 10 gear, 11 braking motor, 12 drive gear, 15 platen roller, 16 thermal head, 1
7 image receiving sheet, 20 supply shaft gear, 25 motor driver, 26 correction table (control means), 27 sheet moving speed detector, 30 roller, 32 photo interrupter, 35 deceleration gear mechanism, 40 winding motor, 41
Output gear, 42 gear, 43 torque limiter, 44
Engaging member, 50 arm, 51 shaft, 52 head drive motor, 53 output gear, 54 gear, 55 shaft member, 56 cam, 60 intermediate gear (worm wheel), 61 small diameter gear, 62 shaft, 63 connecting arm, 6
4 spring, 70 second intermediate gear, 71 arm, 75 75 first intermediate gear, 76 second intermediate gear, 77 resistance imparting means (spring), 80 torque limiter, 85 rotating shaft, 86 first rotation Moving plate, 87
2nd rotation plate, 88 pin, 89 1st spring, 90 3rd rotation plate, 91 2nd spring, 95 rotation axis, 96 4th rotation plate, 97
Third spring, 100 one-time ink seal
101 sensor, 110 multi-ink sheet,
111 sensor,

Claims (6)

(57) [Claims] 1. A cassette case having the same shape as a one-time ink sheet cassette detachably mounted on a one-time type recording apparatus, and an ink sheet take-up roll and an ink sheet supply roll rotatably supported by the cassette case. And a braking mechanism that is disposed in the cassette case and rotates the ink sheet supply roll at a predetermined delivery speed, and a multi-ink sheet cassette mechanism that controls the delivery amount on the supply side by the braking mechanism. As a braking mechanism for braking the moving speed of the multi-ink sheet, a capstan roller capable of keeping the moving speed constant regardless of the change of the ink sheet supply roll diameter.
The braking motor is adopted as the capstan roller braking system.
Place the reduction gear in the cassette case, and
Winding start timing by a winding motor provided on the body
The ink sheet cassette mechanism is characterized in that the braking operation is performed at substantially the same timing as the timing . 2. A cassette case having the same shape as a one-time ink sheet cassette detachably mounted on a one-time type recording apparatus, an ink sheet take-up roll and an ink sheet supply roll rotatably supported by the cassette case. And a braking mechanism that is disposed in the cassette case and rotates the ink sheet supply roll at a predetermined delivery speed, and a multi-ink sheet cassette mechanism that controls the delivery amount on the supply side by the braking mechanism. at Te, the multi-ink sheet - as the braking mechanism for braking the movement speed of the bets, Inkushi - DOO supply Russia - adopting the supply shaft braking system moving speed decreases with a change in Le diameter, as the supply shaft braking system, Up the braking motor and reduction gear
It is placed in the cassette case and installed in the main body of the recording device.
The timing of the start of winding by the winding motor is almost the same.
The ink sheet cassette mechanism is characterized in that the braking operation is performed at the same timing . 3. A cassette case having the same shape as a one-time ink sheet cassette detachably mounted on a one-time type recording apparatus, an ink sheet take-up roll and an ink sheet supply roll rotatably supported by the cassette case. And a braking mechanism that is disposed in the cassette case and rotates the ink sheet supply roll at a predetermined delivery speed, and a multi-ink sheet cassette mechanism that controls the delivery amount on the supply side by the braking mechanism. As a braking mechanism for braking the moving speed of the multi-ink sheet, a supply shaft that detects the moving speed of the ink sheet and feeds back to the control unit and keeps the moving speed constant by the control of the control unit. A variable braking system is adopted, and as the above-mentioned supply shaft variable braking system, a braking motor and a reduction gear are used.
Is placed in the above cassette case and installed in the recording device body.
The timing and the start of winding with the winding motor
The ink sheet cassette mechanism is characterized in that the braking operation is performed at almost the same timing . 4. A cassette case having the same shape as a one-time ink sheet cassette detachably mounted on a one-time type recording apparatus, an ink sheet take-up roll and an ink sheet supply roll rotatably supported by the cassette case. And a braking mechanism that is disposed in the cassette case and rotates the ink sheet supply roll at a predetermined delivery speed, and a multi-ink sheet cassette mechanism that controls the delivery amount on the supply side by the braking mechanism. As a braking mechanism for braking the moving speed of the multi-ink sheet, a capstan roller capable of keeping the moving speed constant regardless of the change of the ink sheet supply roll diameter.
Adopted La braking system, the driving force transmission path of the brake mechanism, the transmission of drive force
A releasing mechanism is provided for releasing, and a releasing method by the releasing mechanism
Is placed between the braking motor and the ink sheet supply roll.
By disengaging the intermediate gear to be placed or moving the position of the braking motor
Ink sheet cassette mechanism characterized by releasing gears . 5. A cassette case having the same shape as a one-time ink sheet cassette detachably mounted on a one-time type recording apparatus, an ink sheet take-up roll and an ink sheet supply roll rotatably supported by the cassette case. And a braking mechanism that is disposed in the cassette case and rotates the ink sheet supply roll at a predetermined delivery speed, and a multi-ink sheet cassette mechanism that controls the delivery amount on the supply side by the braking mechanism. As a braking mechanism for braking the moving speed of the multi-ink sheet, a supply shaft braking method in which the moving speed decreases with a change in the ink sheet supply roll diameter is adopted, and the driving force transmission of the braking mechanism is carried out . Transmission of the driving force in the path
A releasing mechanism is provided for releasing, and a releasing method by the releasing mechanism
Is placed between the braking motor and the ink sheet supply roll.
By disengaging the intermediate gear to be placed or moving the position of the braking motor
Ink sheet cassette mechanism characterized by releasing gears . 6. A cassette case having the same shape as a one-time ink sheet cassette detachably mounted on a one-time type recording apparatus, an ink sheet take-up roll and an ink sheet supply roll rotatably supported by the cassette case. And a braking mechanism that is disposed in the cassette case and rotates the ink sheet supply roll at a predetermined delivery speed, and a multi-ink sheet cassette mechanism that controls the delivery amount on the supply side by the braking mechanism. As a braking mechanism for braking the moving speed of the multi-ink sheet, a supply shaft that detects the moving speed of the ink sheet and feeds back to the control unit and keeps the moving speed constant by the control of the control unit. a variable damping system employed, the driving force transmission path of the brake mechanism, the transmission of drive force
A releasing mechanism is provided for releasing, and a releasing method by the releasing mechanism
Is placed between the braking motor and the ink sheet supply roll.
By disengaging the intermediate gear to be placed or moving the position of the braking motor
Ink sheet cassette mechanism characterized by releasing gears .