Compact shuttle printer mechanism

Abstract

A compact shuttling printer mechanism suitable for use with dot forming print elements is disclosed. A single part plastic molding forms the frame and shuttling suspension for the print head or heads. The design utilizes a compound cantilevered spring principle. A linear reciprocable drive element acting as close as possible through the center of percussion of the print head and suspension assembly reciprocates the print head back and forth along a desired print line adjacent to a platen. Means for incrementing paper at the end of each reciprocation or stroke are provided. The design is adapted to provide print line visibility so that printed characters may be seen as they are formed. The reciprocation drive operates without orthogonal forces. It provides a purely linear drive force so that the machine is free of unwanted vibrations in other planes or axes. The unitary molded plastic compound cantilever spring and frame assembly greatly reduces the size, cost and complexity of the printing mechanism. A unique advantage of the cantilevered spring suspension system is the air motion provided from the flexing of the cantilever spring elements. The air motion may be used for cooling electronics and logic housed in conjunction with the printer operation function.