Printer system

[Object] To provide a printer system that is simple in structure, and has dual-head capability or duplex printing capability as desired.[Solution] A printer system 1 includes a first printer unit 10, and a second printer unit 20. The first printer unit 10 includes a first-printer housing 10a, and a first thermal transfer part 13. The second printer unit 20 includes a second-printer housing 20a, and a second thermal transfer part 23. The first printer unit 10 and the second printer unit 20 are independent of each other and capable of connecting to each other. A sheet printing paper 2 printed on by the first printer unit 10 is sent to the second printer unit 20 and then continuously printed on by the second printer unit 20.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a printer system including a combination of multiple single-head simplex printers each having a single ribbon assembly. The printer system is designed to achieve dual-head capability or duplex printing capability as desired.

BACKGROUND ART

A known example of dye-sublimation printers is duplex printers capable of printing on both sides of printing paper (see PTL 1).

Another known example of dye-sublimation printers is dual-head printers that use two ribbon assemblies to first print an image or other information on one side of printing paper through dye-sublimation printing. Such a dual-head printer prints a special color such as hologram or pearl on the same side of the printing paper.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

PTL 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

Such a duplex printer or dual-head printer mentioned above, however, is fabricated as a product separate from a common single-head simplex printer having a single ribbon assembly. In this case, the duplex printer needs to have a reversing function incorporated in the housing to reverse the orientation of the printing paper. This adds complexity to the structure of the duplex printer. Similarly, in the case of the dual-head printer, two ribbon assemblies and two thermal transfer parts need to be accommodated in the housing of the dual-head printer. This adds complexity to the structure of the dual-head printer.

In view of the above circumstances, it is an object of the present disclosure to provide a printer system having dual-head capability or duplex printing capability. The printer system is simplified in its structure.

Solution to Problem

According to the present disclosure, there is provided a printer system including a first printer unit, and a second printer unit. The first printer unit prints on a printing paper. The first printer unit has a first-printer housing, and a first thermal transfer part disposed in the first-printer housing. The second printer unit prints on the printing paper. The second printer unit has a second-printer housing, and a second thermal transfer part disposed in the second-printer housing. The first printer unit and the second printer unit are independent of each other and capable of connecting to each other. The printing paper printed on by the first printer unit is sent to the second printer unit and then continuously printed on by the second printer unit.

According to the present disclosure, in the printer system, the first thermal transfer part of the first printer unit faces one side of the printing paper, and the second thermal transfer part of the second printer unit faces the other side of the printing paper.

According to the present disclosure, in the printer system, the first printer unit and the second printer unit are identical to each other in structure, and the second printer unit is placed in an inverted position relative to the first printer unit.

According to the present disclosure, in the printer system, the first thermal transfer part of the first printer unit, and the second thermal transfer part of the second printer unit face one side of the printing paper.

According to the present disclosure, in the printer system, a sheet-printing-paper supply part that supplies a sheet printing paper is connected upstream of the first printer unit.

According to the present disclosure, in the printer system, a printing-paper supply unit is connected upstream of the first printer unit. The printing-paper supply unit includes a printing-paper supply housing, and a roll-printing-paper supply part. The roll-printing-paper supply part is disposed in the printing-paper supply housing to supply a roll printing paper.

According to the present disclosure, in the printer system, the first printer unit and the second printer unit are connected to each other via a cutter unit. The cutter unit includes a cutter housing, and a cutter disposed in the cutter housing. The cutter cuts the roll printing paper to create a sheet printing paper.

According to the present disclosure, in the printer system, a guide flap that guides the roll printing paper printed on by the first printer unit is disposed near an exit of the first printer unit. The guide flap assumes a transport position or a release position. The transport position is a position in which the guide flap sends the roll printing paper toward the cutter of the cutter unit. The release position is a position in which the guide flap releases the roll printer paper outward away from the cutter of the cutter unit.

According to the present disclosure, in the printer system, the cutter unit includes a paper-connecting plate that transports the cut sheet printing paper to the second printer unit.

According to the present disclosure, in the printer system, the paper-connecting plate is capable of being swung by a push-out mechanism. The push-out mechanism is provided to the second printer unit, and comes into contact with the paper-connecting plate. The paper-connecting plate assumes a transport position or a standby position. The transport position is a position in which the paper-connecting plate transports the sheet printing paper toward the second printer unit. The standby position is a position in which the paper-connecting plate does not allow the sheet printing paper to be transported toward the second printer unit.

According to the present disclosure, in the printer system, the second printer unit includes a pair of left and right push-out mechanisms with different shapes. When the second printer unit is placed in a normal position, one of the push-out mechanisms comes into contact with the paper-connecting plate to cause the paper-connecting plate to assume the transport position. When the second printer unit is placed in an inverted position, the other one of the push-out mechanisms comes into contact with the paper-connecting plate to cause the paper-connecting plate to assume the standby position.

According to the present disclosure, in the printer system, at least one of the first printer unit and the second printer unit includes an ink ribbon cassette. The ink ribbon cassette includes a cassette body, and an ink ribbon assembly accommodated in the cassette body. The ink ribbon assembly includes an ink ribbon supply part, an ink ribbon take-up part, and an ink ribbon extending between the ink ribbon supply part and the ink ribbon take-up part. The cassette body includes an ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part, and an ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part. The ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part accommodates the ink ribbon supply part, and has one open side. The ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part accommodates the ink ribbon take-up part, and has one open side. Stoppers that engage and lock the ink ribbon supply part and the ink ribbon take-up part in place are disposed at the one open side of the ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part, and at the one open side of the ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

As described above, the present disclosure provides a printer system that offers dual-head capability or duplex printing capability as desired. The printer system is simplified in its structure.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

First Embodiment

A first embodiment of the present disclosure is now described below with reference to the drawings.

FIGS.1to5illustrate the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Reference is first made toFIGS.1to3to describe a printer system1according to the first embodiment. As illustrated inFIGS.1to3, the printer system1includes a first printer unit10, and a second printer unit20. The first printer unit10includes a first-printer housing10a, and a first thermal transfer part13(to be also referred to as first thermal head hereinafter) disposed in the first-printer housing10a. The first printer unit10prints on a sheet printing paper2, which is a printing paper in sheet form. The second printer unit20includes a second-printer housing20a, and a second thermal head23(to be also referred to as second thermal head hereinafter) disposed in the second-printer housing20a. The second printer unit20prints on the sheet printing paper2.

As illustrated inFIGS.1to3, the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20are substantially identical to each other in structure. The printer system1according to the first embodiment is obtained by connecting the second printer unit20to the first printer unit10. At this time, the second printer unit20is placed in an inverted position relative to the first printer unit10that is placed in a normal position.

A sheet-printing-paper supply part7is disposed upstream of the first printer unit10to supply the sheet printing paper2toward the first printer unit10.

Detailed reference is now made to the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20.

The first printer unit10includes a feed roller15, a pinch roller16, and a grip roller17, which are disposed in the first-printer housing10ain the stated order as viewed from the upstream side. The feed roller15feeds the sheet printing paper2. The pinch roller16and the grip roller17hold and transport the sheet printing paper2. A first platen roller14is disposed in the first-printer housing10a. The first platen roller14is disposed facing the first thermal head13, and holds the sheet printing paper2between the first platen roller14and the first thermal head13. An ink ribbon assembly11A is mounted in the first-printer housing10a. The ink ribbon assembly11A includes an ink ribbon supply part11, an ink ribbon take-up part12, and an ink ribbon19extending between the ink ribbon supply part11and the ink ribbon take-up part12.

Further, delivery rollers18aand18bare disposed in the first-printer housing10ato hold the sheet printing paper2and discharge the sheet printing paper2outward. The delivery rollers18aand18bare located downstream of the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14.

Further, the second printer unit20includes a feed roller25, a pinch roller26, and a grip roller27, which are disposed in the second-printer housing20ain the stated order as viewed from the upstream side. The feed roller25feeds the sheet printing paper2. The pinch roller26and the grip roller27hold and transport the sheet printing paper2. A second platen roller24is disposed in the second-printer housing20ato hold the sheet printing paper2between the second platen roller24and the second thermal head23. The second platen roller24faces the second thermal head23. An ink ribbon assembly21A is disposed in the second-printer housing20a. The ink ribbon assembly21A includes an ink ribbon supply part21, an ink ribbon take-up part22, and an ink ribbon29extending between the ink ribbon supply part21and the ink ribbon take-up part22.

Further, delivery rollers28aand28bare disposed in the second-printer housing20ato hold the sheet printing paper2and discharge the sheet printing paper2outward. The delivery rollers28aand28bare located downstream of the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24.

As illustrated inFIG.5, the ink ribbon assembly11A can be mounted to the first printer unit10. As described above, the ink ribbon assembly11A includes the ink ribbon supply part11, the ink ribbon take-up part12, and the ink ribbon19extending between the ink ribbon supply part11and the ink ribbon take-up part12. The ink ribbon assembly11A is accommodated in a cassette body50ainstalled in the first-printer housing10a. The cassette body50a, and the ink ribbon assembly11A accommodated in the cassette body50aconstitute an ink ribbon cassette50.

Further, the cassette body50aof the ink ribbon cassette50includes an ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part51that accommodates the ink ribbon supply part11, and an ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part52that accommodates the ink ribbon take-up part12.

Each of the ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part51and the ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part52of the cassette body50ais open on the bottom side (one side). Stoppers55are disposed at the one open side of the ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part51, and at the one open side of the ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part52. With the first printer unit10placed in a normal position, the ink ribbon supply part11of the ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part51is supported by the stopper55. This prevents the ink ribbon supply part11from falling downward. Likewise, the ink ribbon take-up part12in the ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part52is supported by the stopper55. This prevents the ink ribbon take-up part12from falling downward.

With the first printer unit10placed in an inverted position, that is, in the same position as the second printer unit20, the ink ribbon supply part11in the ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part51is supported from below by the ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part51. At this time, the ink ribbon take-up part12in the ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part52is supported from below by the ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part52. The above-mentioned configuration ensures that neither the ink ribbon supply part11nor the ink ribbon take-up part12falls downward.

The second printer unit20similarly includes the ink ribbon assembly21A, which includes the following components: the ink ribbon supply part21, the ink ribbon take-up part22, and the ink ribbon29extending between the ink ribbon supply part21and the ink ribbon take-up part22. The ink ribbon assembly21A is accommodated in the cassette body50ainstalled in the second-printer housing20aand identical in structure to that of the first printer unit10. The cassette body50aand the ink ribbon assembly21A constitute the ink ribbon cassette50(seeFIG.5).

According to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, in the case of the first printer unit10placed in a normal position, the stoppers55of the cassette body50ahold the ink ribbon assembly11A in place. In this regard, in the case of the second printer unit20placed in an inverted position as well, the stoppers55may hold the ink ribbon assembly21A in place.

As described above, the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20are substantially identical to each other in structure. The second printer unit20placed in an inverted position (seeFIG.3) is connected to the first printer unit10placed in a normal position (seeFIG.2). The printer system1according to the first embodiment is thus obtained.

In the printer system1, the sheet printing paper2printed on by the first printer unit10is sent to the second printer unit20. The sheet printing paper2printed on by the first printer unit10is then continuously printed on by the second printer unit20.

Reference is now made to the connection between the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20. The exit side of the first printer unit10where the sheet printing paper2exits the first printer unit10is located at the same position (height) as the position (height) of the entrance side of the second printer unit20where the sheet printing paper2enters the second printer unit20. This ensures that the sheet printing paper2printed on by the first printer unit10is smoothly moved toward the entrance of the second printer unit20.

One of the first-printer housing10aof the first printer unit10, and the second-printer housing20aof the second printer unit20is provided with a projection (not illustrated). The other one of the first-printer housing10aand the second-printer housing20ais provided with a recess (not illustrated) for fitting engagement with the projection. By bringing the projection and the recess into fitting engagement with each other, the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20are accurately connected to each other at the correct position.

One of the first-printer housing10aand the second-printer housing20amay be provided with a reference component (not illustrated), and the other may be provided with a detector (not illustrated) that detects the reference component. As described above, the first-printer housing10aand the second-printer housing20aare each provided with the reference component or the detector. In this case, if the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20have been accurately connected to each other at the correct position, this can be detected by the detector. A signal from the detector is sent to a controller (not illustrated) of the first printer unit10and to a controller (not illustrated) of the second printer unit20.

Upon connecting the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20to each other, the controller of the first printer unit10and the controller of the second printer unit20are electrically connected to each other.

Reference is now made to operation of the first embodiment configured as described above.

First, as illustrated inFIGS.1to3, the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20that are independent of each other and identical to each other in structure are prepared. Subsequently, the second printer unit20placed in an inverted position is connected to the first printer unit10placed in a normal position. The printer system1according to the first embodiment is thus obtained.

Subsequently, as illustrated inFIG.4, the sheet-printing-paper supply part7accommodating multiple sheets of sheet printing paper2is installed near the entrance of the first printer unit10. The sheet printing paper2is sequentially sent sheet by sheet from the sheet-printing-paper supply part7toward the first printer unit10.

The sheet printing paper2sent to the first printer unit10sequentially passes the feed roller15, and then the pinch roller16and the grip roller17. The sheet printing paper2is then sent to the location between the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14.

Subsequently, the ink ribbon19is sent to the location between the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14from the ink ribbon supply part11. In this case, the first thermal head13faces one side, the top side, of the sheet printing paper2. The ink ribbon19has the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and an overcoat layer.

The sheet printing paper2and the ink ribbon19are then held between the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14. Subsequently, the sheet printing paper2is retracted toward the sheet-printing-paper supply part7, and the ink ribbon19is heated and pressed against the sheet printing paper2by the first thermal head13. In this way, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan on the ink ribbon19are thermally transferred by the first thermal head13onto the sheet printing paper2through a dye-sublimation process. Further, the overcoat layer is thermally transferred and printed onto the sheet printing paper2on which these colors have been thermally transferred.

As described above, the ink ribbon19is heated and pressed against the sheet printing paper2by the first thermal head13. As a result, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the overcoat layer are thermally transferred and printed onto the top side of the sheet printing paper2.

The sheet printing paper2thus printed on its top side by the first printer unit10is then sent toward the second printer unit20via the delivery rollers18aand18b.

The second printer unit20is placed in an inverted position relative to the first printer unit10that is placed in a normal position. In this case, the second thermal head23of the second printer unit20faces the other side, the bottom side, of the sheet printing paper2.

Subsequently, the sheet printing paper2sent to the second printer unit20sequentially passes the feed roller25, and then the pinch roller26and the grip roller27. The sheet printing paper2is then sent to the location between the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24.

Subsequently, the ink ribbon29is sent to the location between the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24from the ink ribbon supply part21. In this case, the ink ribbon29has the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and an overcoat layer.

The sheet printing paper2and the ink ribbon29are then held between the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24. Subsequently, with the sheet printing paper2being retracted toward the first printer unit10, the ink ribbon29is heated and pressed against the sheet printing paper2by the second thermal head23. In this way, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan on the ink ribbon29are thermally transferred by the second thermal head23onto the sheet printing paper2through a dye-sublimation process. Further, the overcoat layer is thermally transferred and printed onto the sheet printing paper2on which these colors have been thermally transferred.

As described above, the ink ribbon29is heated and pressed against the sheet printing paper2by the second thermal head23. As a result, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the overcoat layer are thermally transferred and printed onto the other side, the bottom side, of the sheet printing paper2.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, the printer system1is obtained in an easy and simple manner solely by connecting the second printer unit20placed in an inverted position to the first printer unit10placed in a normal position. In this case, the sheet printing paper2is printed on its top side by the first printer unit10of the printer system1. The sheet printing paper2is printed on its bottom side by the second printer unit20. In this way, duplex printing is performed on the sheet printing paper2by the printer system1. In this case, the printer system1does not need to incorporate a complicated printing-paper reversing mechanism to perform duplex printing on the sheet printing paper2. As a result, the printer system1is simplified in overall structure.

In connecting the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20to each other, the projection and the recess, which are each provided to the first-printer housing10aor the second-printer housing20a, are brought into fitting engagement with each other. This makes it possible to connect the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20with ease and at the correct position.

Furthermore, the reference component provided to the first-printer housing10aor the second-printer housing20ais detected by the corresponding detector. This makes it possible to detect whether the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20have been connected to each other at the correct position.

Second Embodiment

Reference is now made toFIG.6to describe a second embodiment.

According to the second embodiment illustrated inFIG.6, a printer system1includes a first printer unit10placed in a normal position, and a second printer unit20placed in a normal position and connected to the first printer unit10. The second embodiment is otherwise substantially identical in structure to the first embodiment illustrated inFIGS.1to5.

According to the second embodiment illustrated inFIG.6, the ink ribbon19of the first printer unit10has the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and an overcoat layer, and the ink ribbon29of the second printer unit20has special colors such as hologram and pearl.

Features of the second embodiment inFIG.6identical to those of the first embodiment inFIGS.1to5are denoted by the same reference signs and not described in further detail.

Reference is now made to operation of the second embodiment configured as described above.

First, as illustrated inFIG.6, the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20that are independent of each other and substantially identical to each other in structure are prepared. Subsequently, the second printer unit20placed in a normal position is connected to the first printer unit10placed in a normal position. The printer system1according to the second embodiment is thus obtained.

Subsequently, the sheet-printing-paper supply part7accommodating multiple sheets of sheet printing paper2is installed near the entrance of the first printer unit10. The sheet printing paper2is sequentially sent sheet by sheet from the sheet-printing-paper supply part7toward the first printer unit10.

The sheet printing paper2sent to the first printer unit10sequentially passes the feed roller15, and then the pinch roller16and the grip roller17. The sheet printing paper2is then sent to the location between the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14.

Subsequently, the ink ribbon19is sent to the location between the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14from the ink ribbon supply part11. In this case, the first thermal head13faces one side, the top side, of the sheet printing paper2.

The sheet printing paper2and the ink ribbon19are then held between the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14. Subsequently, the sheet printing paper2is retracted toward the sheet-printing-paper supply part7, and the ink ribbon19is heated and pressed against the sheet printing paper2by the first thermal head13. In this way, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan on the ink ribbon19are thermally transferred by the first thermal head13onto the sheet printing paper2through a dye-sublimation process. Further, the overcoat layer is thermally transferred and printed onto the sheet printing paper2on which these colors have been thermally transferred.

As described above, as the ink ribbon19is heated and pressed against the sheet printing paper2by the first thermal head13, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the overcoat layer are thermally transferred and printed onto the top side of the sheet printing paper2.

The sheet printing paper2thus printed on its top side by the first printer unit10is then sent toward the second printer unit20via the delivery rollers18aand18b.

As with the first printer unit10placed in a normal position, the second printer unit20is placed in a normal position. This means that the second thermal head23of the second printer unit20faces one side, the top side, of the sheet printing paper2.

Subsequently, the sheet printing paper2sent to the second printer unit20sequentially passes the feed roller25, and then the pinch roller26and the grip roller27. The sheet printing paper2is then sent to the location between the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24.

Subsequently, the ink ribbon29is sent to the location between the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24from the ink ribbon supply part21.

The sheet printing paper2and the ink ribbon29are then held between the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24. Subsequently, with the sheet printing paper2being retracted toward the first printer unit10, the ink ribbon29is heated and pressed against the sheet printing paper2by the second thermal head23. In this way, the special colors such as hologram and pearl on the ink ribbon29are thermally transferred by the second thermal head23onto the sheet printing paper2.

As described above, the ink ribbon29is heated and pressed against the sheet printing paper2by the second thermal head23. As a result, in addition to the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the overcoat layer, special colors such as hologram and pearl are thermally transferred and printed onto the top side of the sheet printing paper2.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, the printer system1is obtained in an easy and simple manner solely by connecting the first printer unit10, which is placed in a normal position, with the second printer unit20, which is likewise placed in a normal position. In this case, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the overcoat layer are thermally transferred and printed by the first printer unit10of the printer system1onto the top side of the sheet printing paper2. Special colors such as hologram and pearl are thermally transferred and printed by the second printer unit20onto the top side of the sheet printing paper2. In this way, the printer system1prints the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the overcoat layer onto the sheet printing paper2, and prints special colors such as hologram and pearl onto the sheet printing paper2. The printer system1thus performs dual-head printing on the sheet printing paper2. In this case, the printer system1does not need to incorporate a complicated dual-head mechanism to perform dual-head printing on the sheet printing paper2. As a result, the printer system1is simplified in overall structure.

In connecting the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20to each other, the projection and the recess, which are each provided to the first-printer housing10aor the second-printer housing20a, are brought into fitting engagement with each other. This makes it possible to connect the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20with ease and at the correct position.

Furthermore, the reference component provided to the first-printer housing10aor the second-printer housing20ais detected by the corresponding detector. This makes it possible to detect whether the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20have been connected to each other at the correct position.

Third Embodiment

A third embodiment of the present disclosure is now described below with reference to the drawings.

FIGS.7and15illustrate the third embodiment of the present disclosure.

Reference is first made toFIG.7to describe a printer system1according to the third embodiment. As illustrated inFIG.7, the printer system1includes a first printer unit10, and a second printer unit20. The first printer unit10includes a first-printer housing10a, and a first thermal transfer part13(to be also referred to as first thermal head hereinafter) disposed in the first-printer housing10a. The first printer unit10prints on a roll printing paper3, which is a printing paper in roll form. The second printer unit20includes a second-printer housing20a, and a second thermal head23(to be also referred to as second thermal head hereinafter) disposed in the second-printer housing20a. The second printer unit20prints on a sheet printing paper2.

A printing-paper supply unit30is connected upstream (on the right-hand side inFIG.7) of the first printer unit10. The printing-paper supply unit30includes a printing-paper supply housing30a, and a roll-printing-paper supply part31, which is disposed in the printing-paper supply housing30aand supplies the roll printing paper3.

Further, a cutter unit40is interposed between the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20. The cutter unit40includes a cutter housing40a, and a cutter41, which is disposed in the cutter housing40aand cuts the roll printing paper3to create the sheet printing paper2. Although the cutter41of the cutter unit40is in the form of a pair of cutting blades, the cutter41may be in the form of a rotary blade.

As illustrated inFIG.7, the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20are substantially identical to each other in structure. The second printer unit20placed in an inverted position is connected to the first printer unit10placed in a normal position. The printer system1according to the third embodiment is thus obtained. At this time, the cutter unit40is interposed between the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20.

Detailed reference is now made to the printing-paper supply unit30, the first printer unit10, the cutter unit40, and the second printer unit20.

First, the printing-paper supply unit30includes the printing-paper supply housing30a, and the roll-printing-paper supply part31. The roll-printing-paper supply part31, which is disposed in the printing-paper supply housing30a, accommodates the roll printing paper3, and supplies the roll printing paper3toward the first printer unit10.

Reference is now made to the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20.

The first printer unit10includes a feed roller15, an additional feed roller15a, a pinch roller16, and a grip roller17, which are disposed in the first-printer housing10ain the stated order as viewed from the upstream side. The feed roller15and the additional feed roller15afeed the roll printing paper3. The pinch roller16and the grip roller17hold and transport the roll printing paper3. A first platen roller14is disposed in the first-printer housing10a. The first platen roller14is disposed facing the first thermal head13, and holds the roll printing paper3between the first platen roller14and the first thermal head13. An ink ribbon assembly11A is disposed in the first-printer housing10a. The ink ribbon assembly11A includes an ink ribbon supply part11, an ink ribbon take-up part12, and an ink ribbon19extending between the ink ribbon supply part11and the ink ribbon take-up part12.

Further, delivery rollers18aand18bare disposed in the first-printer housing10ato hold the roll printing paper3and discharge the roll printing paper3outward. The delivery rollers18aand18bare located downstream of the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14.

Further, the second printer unit20includes a feed roller25, a pinch roller26, and a grip roller27, which are disposed in the second-printer housing20ain the stated order as viewed from the upstream side. The feed roller25feeds the sheet printing paper2. The pinch roller26and the grip roller27hold and transport the sheet printing paper2. A second platen roller24is disposed in the second-printer housing20ato hold the sheet printing paper2between the second platen roller24and the second thermal head23. The second platen roller24faces the second thermal head23. An ink ribbon assembly21A is disposed in the second-printer housing20a. The ink ribbon assembly21A includes an ink ribbon supply part21, an ink ribbon take-up part22, and an ink ribbon29extending between the ink ribbon supply part21and the ink ribbon take-up part22.

Further, delivery rollers28aand28bare disposed in the second-printer housing20ato hold the sheet printing paper2and discharge the sheet printing paper2outward. The delivery rollers28aand28bare located downstream of the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24.

As described above, the first printer unit10includes the ink ribbon assembly11A. The ink ribbon assembly11A includes the ink ribbon supply part11, the ink ribbon take-up part12, and the ink ribbon19extending between the ink ribbon supply part11and the ink ribbon take-up part12. The ink ribbon assembly11A is accommodated in a cassette body50ainstalled in the first-printer housing10a(seeFIG.5). The cassette body50a, and the ink ribbon assembly11A accommodated in the cassette body50aconstitute an ink ribbon cassette50.

Further, the cassette body50aof the ink ribbon cassette50includes an ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part51that accommodates the ink ribbon supply part11, and an ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part52that accommodates the ink ribbon take-up part12.

Each of the ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part51and the ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part52of the cassette body50ais open on the bottom side (one side). Stoppers55are disposed at the one open side of the ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part51, and at the one open side of the ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part52. With the first printer unit10placed in a normal position, the ink ribbon supply part11of the ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part51is supported by the stopper55. This prevents the ink ribbon supply part11from falling downward. Likewise, the ink ribbon take-up part12in the ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part52is supported by the stopper55. This prevents the ink ribbon take-up part12from falling downward.

When the first printer unit10is placed in an inverted position, that is, in the same position as the second printer unit20, the ink ribbon supply part11in the ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part51is supported from below by the ink-ribbon-supply-part accommodating part51. At this time, the ink ribbon take-up part12in the ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part52is supported from below by the ink-ribbon-take-up-part accommodating part52. The above-mentioned configuration ensures that neither the ink ribbon supply part11nor the ink ribbon take-up part12falls downward.

The second printer unit20similarly includes the ink ribbon assembly21A, which includes the following components: the ink ribbon supply part21, the ink ribbon take-up part22, and the ink ribbon29extending between the ink ribbon supply part21and the ink ribbon take-up part22. The ink ribbon assembly21A is accommodated in the cassette body50ainstalled in the second-printer housing20aand identical in structure to that of the first printer unit10. The cassette body50aand the ink ribbon assembly21A constitute the ink ribbon cassette50(seeFIG.5).

According to the third embodiment of the present disclosure, in the case of the first printer unit10placed in a normal position, the stoppers55of the cassette body50ahold the ink ribbon assembly11A in place. In this regard, in the case of the second printer unit20placed in an inverted position as well, the stoppers55of the cassette body50amay hold the ink ribbon assembly21A in place.

As described above, the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20are substantially identical to each other in structure. The second printer unit20placed in an inverted position is connected via the cutter unit40to the first printer unit10placed in a normal position. The printer system1according to the third embodiment is thus obtained.

In the printer system1, the roll printing paper3printed on by the first printer unit10is sent to the cutter unit40. The roll printing paper3is cut by the cutter unit40, and the sheet printing paper2is created.

Subsequently, the sheet printing paper2is sent to the second printer unit20. The sheet printing paper2printed on by the first printer unit10is then continuously printed on by the second printer unit20.

Reference is now made to the connection between the printing-paper supply unit30and the first printer unit10. The exit side of the printing-paper supply unit30where the roll printing paper3exits the printing-paper supply unit30is located at the same position (height) as the position (height) of the entrance side of the first printer unit10where the roll printing paper3enters the first printer unit10. This ensures that the roll printing paper3supplied from the printing-paper supply unit30is smoothly moved toward the entrance of the first printer unit10.

One of the printing-paper supply housing30aof the printing-paper supply unit30, and the first-printer housing10aof the first printer unit10is provided with a projection (not illustrated). The other one of the printing-paper supply housing30aof the printing-paper supply unit30, and the first-printer housing10aof the first printer unit10is provided with a recess (not illustrated). By bringing the projection and the recess into fitting engagement with each other, the printing-paper supply unit30and the first printer unit10can be accurately connected to each other at the correct position.

One of the printing-paper supply housing30aand the first-printer housing10amay be provided with a reference component (not illustrated), and the other may be provided with a detector (not illustrated) that detects the reference component. As described above, the printing-paper supply housing30aand the first-printer housing10aare each provided with the reference component or the detector. Consequently, when the printing-paper supply unit30and the first printer unit10have been accurately connected to each other at the correct position, this can be detected by the detector. A signal from the detector is sent to a controller (not illustrated) of the first printer unit10.

Upon connecting the printing-paper supply unit30and the first printer unit10to each other, the printing-paper supply unit30and the first printer unit10are electrically connected to each other. At this time, a controller incorporated in the first printer unit10controls driving of the first printer unit10, and also controls driving of the printing-paper supply unit30.

Further, one of the first-printer housing10aof the first printer unit10, and the cutter housing40aof the cutter unit40is provided with a projection. The other one of the first-printer housing10aof the first printer unit10, and the cutter housing40aof the cutter unit40is provided with a recess for fitting engagement with the projection. Further, one of the first-printer housing10aand the cutter housing40ais provided with a reference component, and the other is provided with a detector that detects the reference component.

One of the cutter housing40aof the cutter unit40, and the second-printer housing20aof the second printer unit20is provided with a projection, and the other is provided with a recess for fitting engagement with the projection. One of the cutter housing40aand the second-printer housing20ais provided with a reference component, and the other is provided with a detector that detects the reference component.

Upon connecting the cutter unit40and the first printer unit10to each other, the cutter unit40and the first printer unit10are electrically connected to each other. At this time, the controller incorporated in the first printer unit10controls driving of the first printer unit10, and also controls driving of the cutter unit40.

As illustrated inFIG.7, a guide flap45is disposed in the first-printer housing10aof the first printer unit10. The guide flap45guides the roll printing paper3that has undergone printing in the first printer unit10toward the cutter unit40. More specifically, the guide flap45is disposed in the first-printer housing10ain a swingable manner. The guide flap45assumes either a transport position or a release position. In the transport position, the guide flap45sends the roll printing paper3that has received printing in the first printer unit10toward the cutter41of the cutter unit40. In the release position, the guide flap45releases the roll printing paper3outward away from the cutter41of the cutter unit40.

A paper-connecting plate46is disposed in the cutter housing40aof the cutter unit40. The paper-connecting plate46transports the sheet printing paper2obtained by cutting the roll printing paper3in the cutter unit40toward the second printer unit20. The paper-connecting plate46swings within the cutter housing40awhen a push-out mechanism provided to the second printer unit20comes into contact with the paper-connecting plate46.

The paper-connecting plate46includes a paper-connecting plate body46a, and a proximal end portion46bdisposed at the proximal end of the paper-connecting plate body46a. The paper-connecting plate body46aof the paper-connecting plate46is mounted to the cutter housing40ain a manner that allows the paper-connecting plate body46ato swing about a pivot shaft46cas illustrated inFIG.15.

The second-printer housing20aof the second printer unit20is provided with a pair of left and right push-out mechanisms with different shapes respectively located at the left and right of the second-printer housing20a. More specifically, for example, the second-printer housing20ais provided with a pair of push-out pins61and62. The push-out pins61and62project toward the cutter unit40by different lengths (seeFIG.15).

The second printer unit20placed in an inverted position is connected via the cutter unit40to the first printer unit10placed in a normal position. In this case, the shorter push-out pin, the push-out pin61, of the second printer unit20is positioned in contact with the proximal end portion46bof the paper-connecting plate46, and the longer push-out pin, the push-out pin62, is positioned away from the proximal end portion46b. In this case, the paper-connecting plate body46aswings about 45 degrees from a position in which the paper-connecting plate body46ais oriented vertically downward. At this time, the paper-connecting plate46does not serve to transport the sheet printing paper2, and assumes a standby position (a position indicated by solid lines inFIG.15). With the paper-connecting plate46swinging by about 45 degrees and assuming the standby position, the paper-connecting plate46does not interfere with the feed roller25of the second printer unit20.

In another exemplary configuration, the second printer unit20placed in a normal position is connected via the cutter unit40to the first printer unit10placed in a normal position as will be described later (seeFIG.8). In this case, the push-out pins61and62of the second printer unit20are swapped left to right. In this case, the longer push-out pin, the push-out pin62, of the second printer unit20is positioned in contact with the proximal end portion46bof the paper-connecting plate46, and the shorter push-out pin, the push-out pin61, is positioned away from the proximal end portion46b. In this case, the paper-connecting plate body46aswings about 90 degrees into a horizontal position from a position in which the paper-connecting plate body46ais oriented vertically downward. At this time, the paper-connecting plate46assumes a transport position (a position indicated by dashed lines inFIG.15) in which the paper-connecting plate46transports the sheet printing paper2toward the second printer unit20.

Reference is now made toFIG.7to describe operation of the third embodiment configured as described above.

First, as illustrated inFIG.7, the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20that are independent of each other and identical to each other in structure, the printing-paper supply unit30, and the cutter unit40are prepared. Subsequently, the first printer unit10placed in a normal position is connected to the printing-paper supply unit30. The second printer unit20placed in an inverted position is then connected to the first printer unit10via the cutter unit40. The printer system1according to the third embodiment is thus obtained.

Subsequently, as illustrated inFIG.7, the roll printing paper3is sent from the printing-paper supply unit30toward the first printer unit10.

The roll printing paper3sent to the first printer unit10sequentially passes the feed roller15and the additional feed roller15a, and then the pinch roller16and the grip roller17. The roll printing paper3is then sent to the location between the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14.

Subsequently, the ink ribbon19is sent to the location between the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14from the ink ribbon supply part11. In this case, the first thermal head13faces one side, the top side, of the roll printing paper3. The ink ribbon19has the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and an overcoat layer.

The roll printing paper3and the ink ribbon19are then held between the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14. The roll printing paper3is then retracted toward the printing-paper supply unit30, and the ink ribbon19is heated and pressed against the roll printing paper3by the first thermal head13. In this way, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan on the ink ribbon19are thermally transferred by the first thermal head13onto the roll printing paper3through a dye-sublimation process. Further, the overcoat layer is thermally transferred and printed onto the roll printing paper3on which these colors have been thermally transferred.

As described above, the ink ribbon19is heated and pressed against the roll printing paper3by the first thermal head13. As a result, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the overcoat layer are thermally transferred and printed onto the top side of the roll printing paper3.

Meanwhile, in sending the roll printing paper3from the printing-paper supply unit30toward the first printer unit10, the leading edge of the roll printing paper3projects toward the cutter unit40via the delivery rollers18aand18b.

At this time, the guide flap45of the first printer unit10has swung into a release position in which an end portion of the guide flap45near the first thermal head13is oriented upward. This ensures that the leading edge of the roll printing paper3sent from the printing-paper supply unit30toward the first printer unit10is not transported to the cutter41of the cutter unit40. The roll printing paper3is guided downward by the guide flap45, such that the roll printing paper3is released downward (moved downward) away from the cutter41.

Thereafter, the guide flap45of the first printer unit10swings into a transport position in which the guide flap45is oriented horizontally.

Subsequently, the roll printing paper3printed on its top side by the first printer unit10is sent to the cutter unit40. At this time, an end portion of the roll printing paper3is cut by the cutter41of the cutter unit40. Further, the roll printing paper3is advanced toward the second printer unit20, and cut to a specified length to thereby form the sheet printing paper2.

Further, the sheet printing paper2formed by using the cutter41of the cutter unit40is sent toward the second printer unit20.

The second printer unit20is placed in an inverted position relative to the first printer unit10that is placed in a normal position. Consequently, the second thermal head23of the second printer unit20faces the other side, the bottom side, of the sheet printing paper2.

Subsequently, the sheet printing paper2sent to the second printer unit20sequentially passes the feed roller25, and then the pinch roller26and the grip roller27. The sheet printing paper2is then sent to the location between the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24.

Subsequently, the ink ribbon29is sent to the location between the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24from the ink ribbon supply part21. In this case, the ink ribbon29has the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and an overcoat layer.

The sheet printing paper2and the ink ribbon29are then held between the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24. The sheet printing paper2is then retracted toward the cutter unit40, and the ink ribbon29is heated and pressed against the sheet printing paper2by the second thermal head23. In this way, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan on the ink ribbon29are thermally transferred by the second thermal head23onto the sheet printing paper2through a dye-sublimation process. Further, the overcoat layer is thermally transferred and printed onto the sheet printing paper2on which these colors have been thermally transferred.

As described above, as the ink ribbon29is heated and pressed against the sheet printing paper2by the second thermal head23, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the overcoat layer are thermally transferred and printed onto the other side, the bottom side, of the sheet printing paper2.

As described above, according to the third embodiment, the printer system1is obtained in an easy and simple manner solely by connecting the first printer unit10placed in a normal position to the printing-paper supply unit30, and then connecting the second printer unit20placed in an inverted position to the first printer unit10via the cutter unit40. In this case, the first printer unit10of the printer system1prints on the top side of the roll printing paper3. The second printer unit20prints on the bottom side of the sheet printing paper2. In this way, after the roll printing paper3is first printed on its top side by the printer system1, the roll printing paper3is cut to form the sheet printing paper2, which is then printed on its bottom side. As a result, duplex printing is performed on the sheet printing paper2by using the roll printing paper3. In this case, the printer system1does not need to incorporate a complicated printing-paper reversing mechanism to perform duplex printing. As a result, the printer system1is simplified in overall structure.

In connecting the printing-paper supply unit30, the first printer unit10, the cutter unit40, and the second printer unit20to each other, the projection and the recess, which are each provided to the printing-paper supply housing30a, the first-printer housing10a, the cutter housing40a, or the second-printer housing20a, are brought into fitting engagement with each other. This makes it possible to connect the printing-paper supply unit30, the first printer unit10, the cutter unit40, and the second printer unit20with ease and at the correct position.

Furthermore, the reference component provided to the printing-paper supply housing30a, the first-printer housing10a, the cutter housing40a, or the second-printer housing20ais detected by the corresponding detector. This makes it possible to detect whether the printing-paper supply unit30, the first printer unit10, the cutter unit40, and the second printer unit20have been connected to each other at the correct position.

Furthermore, in sending the roll printing paper from the printing-paper supply unit30toward the first printer unit10, the leading edge of the roll printing paper3is released downward away from the cutter41by means of the guide flap45that is assuming a release position. This ensures that the roll printing paper3sent from the printing-paper supply unit30toward the first printer unit10does not interfere with the sheet printing paper2existing in the cutter unit40or in the second printer unit20.

Fourth Embodiment

Reference is now made toFIGS.8to14to describe a fourth embodiment.

According to the fourth embodiment illustrated inFIGS.8to14, a printer system1includes a printing-paper supply unit30, a first printer unit10placed in a normal position, and a second printer unit20placed in a normal position and connected to the first printer unit10via the cutter unit40. The fourth embodiment is otherwise substantially identical in structure to the third embodiment illustrated inFIGS.7and15.

According to the fourth embodiment inFIGS.8to14, the ink ribbon19of the first printer unit10has the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and an overcoat layer. The ink ribbon29of the second printer unit20has special colors such as hologram and pearl.

Features of the fourth embodiment inFIGS.8to14identical to those of the third embodiment inFIGS.7and15are denoted by the same reference signs and not described in further detail.

Reference is now made to operation of the fourth embodiment configured as illustrated inFIGS.8to14.

First, as illustrated inFIGS.8to14, the first printer unit10and the second printer unit20that are independent of each other and identical to each other in structure, the printing-paper supply unit30, and the cutter unit40are prepared. Subsequently, the first printer unit10placed in a normal position is connected to the printing-paper supply unit30. The second printer unit20placed in a normal position is then connected to the first printer unit10via the cutter unit40. The printer system1according to the fourth embodiment is thus obtained.

In this case, the second printer unit20placed in a normal position is connected via the cutter unit40to the first printer unit10placed in a normal position. The push-out pins61and62of the second printer unit20are thus swapped left to right. Consequently, the longer push-out pin, the push-out pin62, of the second printer unit20is positioned in contact with the proximal end portion46bof the paper-connecting plate46, and the shorter push-out pin, the push-out pin61, is positioned away from the proximal end portion46b. In this case, the paper-connecting plate body46aswings about 90 degrees into a horizontal position from a position in which the paper-connecting plate body46ais oriented vertically downward. The paper-connecting plate46thus assumes a transport position (a position indicated by dashed lines inFIGS.9and15) in which the paper-connecting plate46transports the sheet printing paper2toward the second printer unit20.

Subsequently, as illustrated inFIGS.8to14, the roll printing paper3is sent from the printing-paper supply unit30toward the first printer unit10.

The roll printing paper3sent to the first printer unit10sequentially passes the feed roller15and the additional feed roller15a, and then the pinch roller16and the grip roller17. The roll printing paper3is then sent to the location between the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14.

Subsequently, the ink ribbon19is sent to the location between the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14from the ink ribbon supply part11. In this case, the first thermal head13faces one side, the top side, of the roll printing paper3. The ink ribbon19has the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and an overcoat layer.

The roll printing paper3and the ink ribbon19are then held between the first thermal head13and the first platen roller14. With the roll printing paper3being retracted toward the printing-paper supply unit30, the ink ribbon19is heated and pressed against the roll printing paper3by the first thermal head13. In this way, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan on the ink ribbon19are thermally transferred by the first thermal head13onto the roll printing paper3through a dye-sublimation process. Further, the overcoat layer is thermally transferred and printed through a dye-sublimation process onto the roll printing paper3on which these colors have been thermally transferred.

As described above, the ink ribbon19is heated and pressed against the roll printing paper3by the first thermal head13. As a result, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the overcoat layer are thermally transferred and printed through a dye-sublimation process onto the top side of the roll printing paper3.

Meanwhile, in sending the roll printing paper3from the printing-paper supply unit30toward the first printer unit10, the leading edge of the roll printing paper3projects toward the cutter unit40via the delivery rollers18aand18b(seeFIGS.8and10).

At this time, the guide flap45of the first printer unit10has swung into a release position in which an end portion of the guide flap45near the first thermal head13is oriented upward. This ensures that the leading edge of the roll printing paper3sent from the printing-paper supply unit30toward the first printer unit10is not transported to the cutter41of the cutter unit40. The roll printing paper3is guided downward by the guide flap45, such that the roll printing paper3is released downward away from the cutter41(seeFIG.14).

Thereafter, the guide flap45of the first printer unit10swings into a transport position in which the guide flap45is oriented horizontally (seeFIG.11).

Subsequently, the roll printing paper3printed on its top side by the first printer unit10is sent to the cutter unit40(seeFIG.12). An end portion of the roll printing paper3is then cut by the cutter41of the cutter unit40. Further, the roll printing paper3is advanced toward the second printer unit20, and cut to a specified length to thereby create the sheet printing paper2.

Further, as illustrated inFIG.13, the sheet printing paper2formed by using the cutter41of the cutter unit40is sent toward the second printer unit20.

The roll printing paper3cut by the cutter41is retracted toward the first printer unit10.

Meanwhile, the paper-connecting plate46provided to the cutter unit40is assuming a transport position in which the paper-connecting plate46is oriented horizontally. As a result, the sheet printing paper2formed by using the cutter unit40can be transported by the paper-connecting plate46assuming a horizontal position (a position indicated by dashed lines inFIGS.9and15) toward the second printer unit20in a reliable and stable manner.

As with the first printer unit10placed in a normal position, the second printer unit20is placed in a normal position. This means that the second thermal head23of the second printer unit20faces one side, the top side, of the sheet printing paper2.

Subsequently, the sheet printing paper2sent to the second printer unit20sequentially passes the feed roller25, and then the pinch roller26and the grip roller27. The sheet printing paper2is then sent to the location between the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24.

Subsequently, the ink ribbon29is sent to the location between the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24from the ink ribbon supply part21.

The sheet printing paper2and the ink ribbon29are then held between the second thermal head23and the second platen roller24. The sheet printing paper2is then retracted toward the cutter unit40, and the ink ribbon29is heated and pressed against the sheet printing paper2by the second thermal head23. In this way, the special colors such as hologram and pearl on the ink ribbon29are thermally transferred by the second thermal head23onto the sheet printing paper2.

As described above, as the ink ribbon29is heated and pressed against the sheet printing paper2by the second thermal head23, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the overcoat layer are thermally transferred onto the top side of the sheet printing paper2. Further, in addition to the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the overcoat layer, special colors such as hologram and pearl are thermally transferred and printed onto the sheet printing paper2.

As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, the first printer unit10placed in a normal position is connected to the printing-paper supply unit30. Then, the second printer unit20that is likewise placed in a normal position is connected via the cutter unit40to the first printer unit10. The printer system1is thus obtained in an easy and simple manner. The colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the overcoat layer are thermally transferred and printed by the first printer unit10of the printer system1onto the top side of the roll printing paper3. Further, special colors such as hologram and pearl are thermally transferred and printed by the second printer unit20onto the top side of the sheet printing paper2. In this way, after the roll printing paper3is first printed on its top side by the printer system1, the roll printing paper3is cut to form the sheet printing paper2. The sheet printing paper2is then printed on its top side. In this way, the colors yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the overcoat layer are thermally transferred by using the roll printing paper3. Further, special colors are thermally transferred onto the top side of the sheet printing paper2obtained by cutting the roll printing paper3. In this way, dual-head printing is performed. Consequently, the printer system1does not need to incorporate a complicated dual-head mechanism to perform dual-head printing. As a result, the printer system1is simplified in overall structure.

In connecting the printing-paper supply unit30, the first printer unit10, the cutter unit40, and the second printer unit20to each other, the projection and the recess, which are each provided to the printing-paper supply housing30a, the first-printer housing10a, the cutter housing40a, or the second-printer housing20a, are brought into fitting engagement with each other. This makes it possible to connect the printing-paper supply unit30, the first printer unit10, the cutter unit40, and the second printer unit20with ease and at the correct position.

Furthermore, the reference component provided to the printing-paper supply housing30a, the first-printer housing10a, the cutter housing40a, or the second-printer housing20ais detected by the corresponding detector. This makes it possible to detect whether the printing-paper supply unit30, the first printer unit10, the cutter unit40, and the second printer unit20have been connected to each other at the correct position.

Furthermore, in sending the roll printing paper3from the printing-paper supply unit30toward the first printer unit10, the leading edge of the roll printing paper3is released downward away from the cutter41by means of the guide flap45that is assuming a release position. This ensures that the roll printing paper3sent from the printing-paper supply unit30toward the first printer unit10does not interfere with the sheet printing paper2existing in the cutter unit40or in the second printer unit20.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST