Patent ID: 6313861
Filing Date: 2001-11-06
Classification: B41J

Abstract:
A thermal transfer printing apparatus for applying images to a continuous web of print media, said print media comprising a plurality of labels serially mounted on a continuous backing web, the apparatus comprising:a printing mechanism having a platen and a thermal print head mounted for biased engagement with said platen, said print media passing intermediate said thermal print head and said platen;a print head lifting mechanism selectively engageable with said print head for moving said print head between a first position wherein said print head is biased into engagement with said platen, and a second position wherein said print head is lifted out of engagement with said platen;a feed drive positioned forwardly of said printing mechanism for pulling said continuous web forwardly through said printing mechanism; anda tensioning device positioned rearwardly of said printing mechanism for maintaining said continuous web in a taught condition,wherein said tensioning device comprises a rearward feed drive positioned rearwardly of said printing mechanism for pulling said continuous web rearwardly through said printing mechanismsaid feed drive cooperating with said tensioning device to maintain said continuous web in a taught position for printing and to facilitate smooth release of said print head from said print media during lifting of the print head.