Centronics Data Computer Corporation

Samuel Y Hanna

A lightweight, inexpensive and yet highly reliable, fully self-contained cartridge for inked ribbons having a drive assembly which 'stuffs' the inked ribbon into the ribbon storage region in a full-fan-fold fashion. The storage region is substantially U-shaped and the size of the storage region, coupled with the full-fan-fold configuration of the ribbon provides a significant increased ribbon packing density. The U-shaped storage region substantially surrounds and embraces the print head, making efficient use of the central region of the cartridge. The outfeed end of the ribbon storage region is provided with a pair of posts and terminating projections which are spaced relative to one another so as to accommodate ribbon folds in the spaced regions as the ribbon is being fed to enable the ribbon to be moved across the printing location in a smooth manner. Drive means are provided to assure that the portion of the ribbon being 'stuffed' into the storage region retains the full-fan-fold arrangement.

Fully self-contained disposable cartridge for inked ribbons and the like

A replacement ribbon package for ribbon cartridge assemblies. The package comprises a Mobius Loop ribbon arranged in full fanfold fashion within a channel-shaped ribbon holder. A semirigid stripper sheet positioned between the ribbon and the base of the channel-shaped member permits the ribbon to be simply and readily stripped from the channel-shaped member once the package is inserted into the ribbon cartridge housing. A tearaway wrapper, which encircles the channel-shaped member and the ribbon serves to loosely hold the ribbon fanfold portion to prevent any creasing. The package is designed to be placed into the ribbon cartridge housing to simplify the installation operation and eliminate handling of the ribbon portion inserted into the ribbon cartridge housing. The package may be boxed or inserted within a plastic tray having a lid heat sealed to the tray flange. Instructions may be printed upon the enclosure package, the tear strip, or upon a separate insertion.

Growing community of inventors

Nashua, NH, United States of America

Samuel Y Hanna