Printer head clutch

Abstract

A clutch for stopping lateral motion of a first element or device, such as a print head in a data printer, which moves along an elongated second member such as a rod or bar. The clutch includes a movable clutch member with an aperture through which the elongated bar passes. In a data printer, this bar may be the guide bar along which the print head moves laterally. The print head or other such first member is coupled to the clutch member to move it along the bar so long as the clutch member is aligned generally normal to the bar, in which condition the bar passes freely through the aperture in the clutch member. An actuator aligned with the clutch member along its lateral travel path is put into position at a point along such travel path where it is desired to stop the moving print head or other device, and operates to tilt the clutch member so that it cocks into engagement with the bar. This produces a binding action which prevents any further movement of either the clutch member or the primary device (e.g., print head). A spring interposed between the primary device and the clutch member helps to ensure that the clutch does not actuate other than by the operation of the actuator member; also, such spring helps to release the clutch to permit desired movement of the clutch and primary device.