EP1127701A1 - Printing device with crosswise base sliding device for moving the printhead perpendicularly to the print direction - Google Patents

Abstract

Device for printing, in particular a franking machine, with a printhead (1) which is slidably held on a printhead holder (2) which is used to achieve the relative movement between the printhead (1) and the medium to be printed when printing along a first direction with respect to a base element (3 ) is designed to be movable between a first longitudinal position and a second longitudinal position, a first displacement device (6.1, 6.2) which enables printing to be offset from one another transversely to the first direction is provided, which is used to offset the print head (1; 1 ') relative to the print head holder ( 2) from a first transverse position to at least one second transverse position spaced from the first transverse position transverse to the first direction, the first displacement device having at least one first guide device (6.1) with a first guide surface (8, 9, 10) and at least one second guide device with a guide element (6.2) st, which cooperate to move the print head (1) from the first to the second transverse position by moving the print head holder (2) along the first direction with mutual relative movement, the guide element (6.2) of the second guide device being arranged on the base element (3) . <IMAGE>

Description

The invention relates to a device for printing, in particular a Franking and / or addressing machine, with a print head that can be moved is held on a printhead holder. The printhead bracket is to achieve the relative movement between printhead and medium to be printed when printing along a first direction with respect to a base element between a first longitudinal position and a second longitudinal position designed to be movable. Still is one offset the printing to one another transversely to the first direction First transfer device enabling printing images is provided. This is used to move the printhead relative to the printhead bracket from a first transverse position in at least one of the first transverse position second transverse position spaced apart from the first direction. The first displacement device comprises at least one first guide device with a first guide surface and at least a second guide device with a guide element, those for moving the print head from the first to the second transverse position by moving the printhead holder along the first Direction interact under mutual relative movement.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term “print head” denotes all types of printing devices that have a printed image on a medium can generate. In other words, the term closes on the one hand Printing facilities of any printing techniques. He shouldn't either be limited to the component that directly generates the printed image, but can also include other components that are used to generate printed images are needed. Ink reservoirs, for example etc.

A generic device is for example from the EP 0 980 761 A1 is known. In the device described there the print head slidably in a guided by a guide rod Bracket arranged. For printing, the holder and so that the print head along a first direction, namely parallel to Move the guide rod.

If a first print image has been created, the print head becomes perpendicular to offset in the first direction relative to the bracket in a further Step a second print image using the opposite method of Generate printhead along a first direction. The offset of the second printed image to the first printed image is so large that the two printed images overlap at most in the edge area, in which they are adjacent to each other across the first direction. This is it is possible to generate an overall print image with one print head, its dimension transverse to the first direction, d. H. across the printing direction, corresponds approximately to twice the print width of the print head.

The displacement device is in the known device by a on the underside of the printhead arranged pin realized to Moving the print head transversely to the first direction in a groove in the base element is led. The groove is inclined to the first direction, so that with a relative movement between the pin and groove along the first direction the offset movement of the printhead perpendicular to first direction is generated.

On the one hand, this design has the disadvantage that the groove is relatively complex to manufacture, since particularly tight tolerances are observed have to be exactly to the desired cross offset achieve. Another disadvantage is that subsequent adjustment is next to impossible.

The present invention is therefore based on the object Generic device and a generic method to indicate that with little effort a fast, high quality Allows printing.

This task is based on a device according to the Preamble of claim 1 by the in the characterizing part of Features specified claim 1 solved.

The invention is based on the technical teaching that one is special inexpensive and easy to implement device for Printing receives when the guide element of the second guide device is arranged on the base element. One at the base element arranged guide element can be clearly seen easier to manufacture than the known guide groove.

For example, it can be done easily from a simple guide pin be formed with a circular cylindrical active surface.

On the other hand, it is possible in a simple manner, the guide element to adjust later. For example, it can be perpendicular to the first Direction adjustable on the base element. Likewise it is possible for the second guide device to achieve the position adjustment to train in the manner of an eccentric. For example a guide pin with a circular cylindrical active surface around an eccentric horizontal axis be rotatably attached.

The term guiding device in the sense of the present invention includes any facility that interacts with a Counterpart as the guide element according to the invention the direction the relative movement between the guide device and the Influence counterpart.

The first guide device acts on the print head. she can be arranged directly on the print head for this purpose. Alternatively, you can they can also be arranged on the printhead holder and via appropriate Active elements for moving the print head act on it.

In preferred, because simply designed variants of the invention the first guide device has at least one first guide surface on and the second guide device is of a guide element formed with the first guide surface for moving the print head cooperates. The first guiding surface is when interacting of the guide devices from the guide element swept over. Here, the guide element can have a second guide surface have the interaction of the management facilities is swept over by the active partner. However, it is the same possible that the guide element is designed so that a Line or point contact with the first guide surface results.

As long as the contact, i.e. H. the action of a contact force between the two management facilities is ensured is also a defined one Movement of the print head guaranteed when moving. The contact force can be ensured, for example, by a spring, which acts on the printhead.

The first guide device is preferably of a guide groove and the second guide device is formed by a guide pin, since this is a particularly easy to manufacture configuration with reliable leadership results. In addition, such a configuration guaranteed forced operation, which also without separate Biasing the two guide devices against each other enables reliable guidance.

The first guide surface is inclined to the first direction. The slope course the first guide surface, in particular the guide groove to the first direction can also the course of the contact force be adapted between the management facilities. This can change especially in the case of variants via the offset movement, at which a bias of the two guide devices against each other is provided by a spring or the like, which with progressive Cross offset of the printhead is always deformed and therefore a changing contact force between the two guiding devices causes. The inclination can be adjusted accordingly take place that certain normal and / or tangential force limits not in the contact area of the two management facilities be crossed, be exceeded, be passed. This can lead to wear of the guide devices be kept low.

In preferred variants of the device according to the invention the guide groove is substantially V-shaped or Y-shaped Course on. This enables while the printhead is being moved a movement reversal across the first direction along the first Direction. This reduces the effects of this reversal of movement on the offset accuracy. This can be done against the background of the fastest possible printing process Passing through the offset area due to a jerky reversal of movement occur. By following this design leadership that is still guaranteed in the reversal of movement is such Influences reduced to a minimum. Incidentally, it goes without saying that the legs of the guide groove are not necessarily straight must be carried out. You can also have a curved course exhibit.

The legs of the V-shaped or Y-shaped guide groove are preferred arranged inclined to the first direction. This reduces the travel path required for the transverse offset Printhead bracket along the first direction, which in turn has an advantageous effect on the size of the device. Run preferentially Leg of the guide groove essentially symmetrical to one axis essentially parallel to the first direction, since here given the inclination of the legs to the first direction, the shortest travel required for the transverse offset is achieved.

A guide device is then in the transition region of the legs of the guide groove to ensure the offset movement from the first in the second transverse position is provided. This is designed so that Guide element after the reversal of movement the one not yet passed Area of the guide groove. This makes it reliable excluded that after the reversal of movement an unintentional Reset to the starting position is done by not the other The course of the guide groove is traversed, but the one just traversed Area of the guide groove again, but now in the opposite Direction.

The guide device preferably comprises a switch device, to close the first leg of the guide groove and release of the second leg of the guide groove after passing through the Switch device is formed.

The guide device arranged on the base element is preferred the first displacement device in the area of the first or second Longitudinal position of the printhead bracket arranged to offset the cross the print head immediately after reaching the first or second Allow longitudinal position of the print head holder. So that is ensures the smallest possible size of the device. Secondly, due to the short distance to be driven through Also the total printing time.

In preferred configurations of the device according to the invention is at least a second displacement device for displacing the Printhead provided from the second to the first transverse position. This enables the device to be operated in a circular manner, i. H. it must not the first to reach the printhead home position Be moved in the opposite direction.

The second displacement device can be of a simple spring and one Trigger device can be formed, which the print head in the first Transverse position, d. H. its starting position transverse to the first direction resets after actuation of the release device.

The second displacement device for displacing the Printhead from the second to the first transverse position by moving the printhead holder is formed along the first direction, whereby a separate drive is also unnecessary here.

The second transfer device works for low-cost further training on the same principle as the first transfer device. Preferably the second displacement device comprises at least a third Management facility. This third guide device is further preferred for cooperation with at least one of the guide devices the first transfer device so that the provision of a separate with the third guide device cooperating management device is unnecessary.

In advantageous variants, a guide device is the first displacement device in the area of the first longitudinal position of the printhead holder arranged on the base element and the third guide device is in the area of the second longitudinal position of the printhead holder arranged on the base element. Alternatively, there is a guide device the first displacement device in the region of the second longitudinal position the printhead holder is arranged on the base element and the third guide device is in the area of the first longitudinal position the printhead holder is arranged on the base element. By both One variant is the smallest possible size of the device ensured. On the other hand, it reduces due to the short through the total printing time.

The configuration according to the invention on the one hand makes a separate one Drive for transverse displacement of the printhead saved. Instead the drive becomes the movement of the print head during printing also used as a drive for the transfer device.

Through the use of simple, relatively moving guide devices On the one hand, the construction effort for a corresponding device. On the other hand, that is also reduced Mass of the printing unit from the printhead to be moved during printing and printhead holder, since this then only one of the guide devices wearing. This in turn has a positive effect on the quality Accelerations achievable with high-quality printing and thus the achievable Print speed.

Fig. 1

Eine perspektivische Teilansicht eines bevorzugten Ausführungsbeispiels der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung;

Fig. 2

einen schematischen Schnitt durch die Ausführung aus Figur 1 entlang der Linie II-II;

Fig. 3

eine Draufsicht auf ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung;

Fig. 4

einen schematischen Schnitt entlang Linie IV-IV in Figur 3;

Fig. 5

einen schematischen Teilschnitt durch eine weitere Ausführung der Erfindung;

Fig. 6 bis 8

alternative Gestaltungen solcher Vorrichtungen.

Further preferred designs are set out in the subclaims or result from the following description of preferred variants of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:

Fig. 1

A partial perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention;

Fig. 2

a schematic section through the embodiment of Figure 1 along the line II-II;

Fig. 3

a plan view of a further embodiment of the device according to the invention;

Fig. 4

a schematic section along line IV-IV in Figure 3;

Fig. 5

a schematic partial section through a further embodiment of the invention;

6 to 8

alternative designs of such devices.

Figure 1 shows a partial view of a franking machine with a print head 1, which is slidably held on a printhead holder 2. The print head 1 consists of an inkjet cartridge 1.1 is interchangeably mounted in a bowl 1.2. The shell 1.2 is movable stored in the print head holder 2.

The print head holder 2 is printed along a first Direction with respect to a base element 3 between a first Longitudinal position and a second longitudinal position move, whereby the Relative movement between the print head 1 and a not shown medium to be printed is achieved. It is from one only partially shown guide rod 4 out.

The printhead 1 is in the printhead holder 2 via the shell 1.2 stored so that it can be moved transversely to the first direction.

Furthermore, a first displacement device 6 is provided. This serves to move the print head 1 relative to the print head holder 2 of a first transverse position into a transverse to the first transverse position first direction spaced second transverse position. This is it Printing print images offset with respect to each other in the first direction possible.

The first displacement device 6 is from a first guide device 6.1 and a second guide device 6.2 formed. The first management facility consists of a guide groove 6.1, which on the Bottom of the shell 1.2 is arranged. The second management facility consists of a guide pin 6.2, which on the base element 3rd is arranged and can run in the guide groove 6.1.

As can be seen in FIG. 2, the guide groove 6.1 and the guide pin act 6.2 when moving the print head holder 2 and thus the Printhead 1 along the first direction with mutual relative movement to move the printhead across to the first direction in together in the following way.

The guide groove 6.1 has a slope inclined to the first direction on. With its side walls, it provides a first guide surface 8 against which the guide pin 6.2 during the procedure in Direction of arrow 11 runs.

Due to the inclination of the guide surface 8 to the first direction has, the shell 1.2, in which the guide groove 6.1 is formed is in the further movement of the print head holder 2 in the direction the arrow 11 moves transversely to the first direction towards the guide rod 4, with which the print head 1 transversely from its first transverse position is moved to the first direction.

Has the guide pin 6.2 passed through the guide groove 6.1 and was so that the transverse offset to be carried out is achieved, as indicated by the dashed line Contour 1.3 is shown, the direction of movement along reversed the first direction, d. H. the printhead bracket 2 in Move in the direction of arrow 12.

The guide pin 6.2 is in the area of the first longitudinal position Printhead bracket 2 arranged so that the transverse offset of the Printhead 1 immediately after completing a print image or can be done before starting a print image.

To reset the print head 1 from the second transverse position in the first transverse position is in the region of the second longitudinal position Print head holder 2, a second transfer device is provided. This is from a third guide device in the form of a second guide pin 14 formed, which in turn in a second guide groove 6.3 can run on the underside of the shell 1.2.

The guide groove 6.3 has a guide surface 15 against which the Guide pin 14 runs when the print head 1 continues in the direction of Arrow 12 is moved, as is clear from contour 1.4. Also here the printhead is moved due to the inclination of the guide surface 15 to the first direction by moving the print head holder 2 along the first direction. So the shell 1.2, in the the guide groove 6.3 is formed in the further process of Printhead holder 2 in the direction of arrow 12 transverse to the first direction moved to the guide rod 4, with which the print head 1 is displaced transversely to the first direction from its second transverse position.

Did the guide pin 14 pass through the guide groove 6.3 and was so that the transverse offset to be carried out is achieved, as indicated by the dashed line Contour 1.5 is shown, the direction of movement can again vice versa, d. H. the print head holder 2 again in the direction of Arrow 11 are moved.

The guide grooves 6.1 and 6.2 represent when moving the print head 1 a positive guidance of the print head, so that it is at any time, depending on the play between the guide pin and guide groove, is in a more or less precisely defined position. However, it is understood that in other variants of the invention other guide devices are provided instead of the guide grooves could be. So it may be enough to replace the guide grooves only a web similar to web 6.4 between the guide grooves 6.1 and 6.3 is provided, the corresponding guide surfaces provides.

Likewise, the guide element or elements of the second or third Guide device not necessarily in the form of a cylindrical Must have a guide pin. They are any other geometries possible with the guide surfaces of the first guide device work together.

For holding the print head 1 in its first or second transverse position during printing, d. H. during the procedure between the first and second longitudinal position and vice versa, holding means are provided.

These are from a magnet 28 and two angles 29 and 30 magnetic metal formed. The magnet 28 is with the shell 1.2 connected and runs in an offset direction of the print head 1 extending recess in the printhead holder 2. The angle 29 and 30 are arranged on the print head holder 2 and form each a stop for the magnet 28 to limit the printhead movement across the first direction. You assign one for each Stop surface 29.1 or 30.1.

The magnetic force between the magnet 28 and each Angle 29 or 30 acts, the acting on the respective stop Contact force represents which the print head in the respective transverse position holds.

It is understood that in other versions, the angle or a corresponding element can be designed as a magnet and then a corresponding element made of a soft magnetic Metal or the like is connected to the printhead.

In the example shown, the printing process has the following sequence. The Printhead 1 is in when the franking machine is switched on a maintenance and parking position, to the right of the through in Figure 2 the contour 1.5 indicated position lies. First, he is then in Move in the direction of arrow 11 until it reaches its first longitudinal position has, wherein a first print image is generated. Then will he continues in the direction of arrow 11 until he reaches the guide pin 6.2 reached. By means of the guide groove 6.1, it is then moved moved in the direction of arrow 11 into its second transverse position. Then he is producing a second print image in the direction of Move arrow 12 to its second longitudinal position. The first and second printed images complement each other to form a complete franking printout. The printing process is then completed. Printhead 1 is then moved to its first transverse position and either in move its parking position or another begins immediately Franking printout.

Figure 3 shows a perspective view of another Embodiment of the device according to the invention, in its basic structure is the same as that of Figure 1, so here only the differences should be dealt with.

The difference lies in the design of the first and second holding devices. These are arranged on the printhead holder 2 ' Formed grooves 38 and 39 and a locking element 30, that for positively holding the printhead 1 'in its respective Transverse position can engage in the respective groove 38 or 39.

The printhead 1 'is counteracting by means not shown Spring devices relative to the printhead holder 2 'in the absence of Action of other devices, such as the locking element etc., in a middle position between the first and second transverse positions Neutral position held.

As can be seen in Figure 4, the locking element is one hook-shaped lever articulated on the underside of the print head 1 ' 40 formed, the first free end 41 in the to the second holding device proper groove 39 engages. The one opposite the side surface 39.2 Side surface 39.1 of the groove 39 forms a stop for the lever 40, the transverse movement of the print head 1 'across limited in the first direction.

The lever 40 is biased by a spring 42 to the print head that it is held in its engagement position in the groove 39 or 38. In order to be able to move the print head transversely to the first direction, the lever must be disengaged from the respective groove 38 or 39 be solved. This happens when the printhead holder is moved 2 'along the first direction through those arranged on the base element 3' Ramps 43 and 44 against which the second free end 45 of the lever 40 running. The ramps are arranged so that the lever 40 only releases from the respective groove 38 or 39 when the respective one Guide pin 6.2 'or 14' already engaged with the respective - not shown - guide groove for moving the print head 1 'of his first transverse position into its second transverse position or from its second transverse position is in its first transverse position. This happens, to make sure that the guide pin is actually using the relevant guide groove comes into engagement.

The printhead has passed through the guide groove in question into its other Transversely displaced and runs the second free end 45 of the lever 40 off the ramp in question, the first free end is reached 41 of the lever 40 thanks to the spring 42 automatically with the other groove 39 or 38 engaged. The print head 1 'is then in its other Held transverse position.

It goes without saying that the lever on the Print head holder and the grooves on the print head can be arranged. Furthermore, it goes without saying that the spring devices dispensed with the printhead against the printhead holder can be. It is for the exact positioning of the Printhead in the respective position is then advantageous provide precise fit between the lever and the grooves to provide the game to keep it within reasonable limits when positioning.

Furthermore, it goes without saying that the variants for holding the printhead can be combined with one another in its transverse position can. For example, the print head can be in its first transverse position be held by magnetic action and in its second position by a corresponding locking element etc.

In all of the above-described exemplary embodiments, the displacement device is formed so that the print head is offset transversely to the first Direction is achieved, which is so large that the two at Printhead mounting procedure between the first and second Longitudinal position and vice versa generated print images at most in overlap the edge area in which they cross each other transversely to the first direction adjoin. Ideally, there is no overlap. The two printed images complement each other to form a total printout, each after overlapping transversely to the first direction, about twice the dimension which has printed images.

To the easy adjustability of the geometric relationships between enable the guide pins 6.2, 14 and the grooves 6.1 and 6.3, is the guide pin in the variant of Figure 1 on one adjustable transversely to the first direction in the base element 3 Carrier 48 arranged. It is understood that with other variants both guide pins can be mounted so adjustable.

Figure 5 shows a schematic section through the similar to Figure 2 first guide device of a further embodiment of the present Invention. This variant differs from that of FIG. 1 described variant only by the design of the first and second guide groove, so that only this difference is discussed here shall be.

The difference is that the guide groove 6.1 "is V-shaped Course with a first leg 7.1 and a second Leg 7.2 has, which is symmetrical to one to the first direction parallel axis. With its side walls, it is the first Guide surfaces 8 ", 9" and 10 "available against which the guide pin 6.2 can run.

Due to the inclination of the guide surface 8 to the first direction has, the guide groove 6.1 "when moving the print head holder 2 in the direction of arrow 11 against the biasing force of Spring 5 moved transversely to the first direction to the guide rod 4. There the guide groove 6.1 "is arranged firmly on the shell 1.2, with it also the print head 1 from its first transverse position transverse to the first Offset direction.

Has the guide pin 6.2 pass through the first leg 7.1 "and thus the guide surface after half of the transverse offset to be carried out 9 reached, the direction of movement along the first Reverse direction, d. H. the print head holder 2 in the direction of Move arrow 12.

To ensure that the guide pin 6.2 is not back in the first Retracts leg 7.1 "is in the transition area of the leg 7.1 and 7.2 of the guide groove 6.1 "a guide device 13 is arranged, which the offset movement of the print head 1 from the first to the ensures second transverse position.

This guide device comprises a swiveling switch 13, by a spring device, not shown, against a stop 13.1 is biased so that in the normal state it is the first Leg 7.1 closes. When moving the print head holder 2 in In the direction of arrow 11, guide pin 6.2 displaces switch 13 from the first leg 7.1 and can thus pass through.

After passing the switch 13, this moves due to its bias back to their normal position, in which the first leg 7.1 closes and releases the second leg 7.2. After reversal of movement the print head holder 2 displaces the guide pin 6.2 the print head 1 when moving the print head holder 2 in the direction of the arrow 12 through the one arranged on the switch 13 to the first Direction inclined guide surface 10 "and the guide surface 9" further transverse to the first direction until at the end of the guide surface 9 " reached its second transverse position.

It is understood that the switch device in other variants the device according to the invention can also be configured differently can. So it is possible, for example, not to switch the switch as a separate one Component, but by an elastically deformable projection or the like in the guide groove.

To reset the print head 1 from the second transverse position in the first transverse position is in the region of the second longitudinal position Printhead holder 2 a second guide groove 6.3 "which in the even described way cooperates with the second guide pin 14.

The exemplary embodiments described above are each limited on relocation devices, the offset and back offset of the printhead provide between a first and a second transverse position. However, it goes without saying that there are also other transfer devices of the type described can be provided to the print head between more than two transverse positions transverse to the first direction offset. They can be arranged so that the printhead while printing more than two to each other across the first direction adjacent printed images a serpentine or meandering Movement. To return to the starting position can then either provide a separate transfer device or the offset path in the opposite direction become.

Figures 6 to 8 show alternative designs in which the guide pin connected to the printhead. With these designs the advantages described above can be achieved in the same way.

Figure 6 shows a partial view of a franking machine with a print head 1 "", which is slidably held on a print head holder 2 "". The printhead 1 '' 'consists of an inkjet cartridge 1.1' '' is interchangeably mounted in a 1.2 '' 'bowl. The shell is 1.2 "' slidably mounted in the print head holder 2 "'.

The printhead holder 2 "'is printed along a first Direction with respect to a base element 3 "'between a first Longitudinal position and a second longitudinal position move, whereby the Relative movement between the print head 1 '' 'and one, not shown medium to be printed is achieved. It is from one only partially shown guide rod 4 "'out.

The printhead 1 '' 'is in the printhead holder via the shell 1.2' ' 2 "'so that it can be moved transversely to the first direction it is connected to the print head holder 2 '' 'by a spring 5' '', the biasing force acting on it in the direction of the guide rod 4 ″ exercises.

A first displacement device 6 "'is also provided. This serves to move the print head 1 '' 'relative to the print head holder 2' ' from a first transverse position to a transverse from the first transverse position second transverse position spaced apart from the first direction. This is printing printing images offset with respect to each other in the first direction possible.

The first displacement device 6 '' 'is from a first guide device 6.1 '' 'and a second guide device 6.2 "' first guide device consists of a guide groove 6.1 '' 'in the Base element 3 "'. The second guide device consists of a Guide pin 6.2 "'arranged on the underside of the shell 1.2"' is and can run in the guide groove 6.1 "'.

The guide groove 6.1 '' 'and the guide pin 6.2' 'act when moving the printhead holder 2 "'and thus the printhead 1"' along the first direction with mutual relative movement to move the printhead across the first direction in the following way.

The guide groove 6.1 "'has a Y-shaped course with a first Leg 7.1 '' 'and a second leg 7.2' 'on the symmetrical to an axis parallel to the first direction. It provides their side walls first guide surfaces 8 "', 9"' and 10 "' Against which the guide pin 6.2 "'due to the spring 5 "'pre-tension is pressed.

Due to the inclination of the guide surface 8 "'to the first direction has, the guide pin 6.2 "'when moving the print head holder 2 "'in the direction of arrow 11"' against the preload the spring 5 "'transverse to the first direction from the guide rod 4"' away. Since the guide pin 6.2 "'is firmly attached to the shell 1.2"', the printhead 1 '' 'with it also becomes from its first transverse position offset perpendicular to the first direction.

Has the guide pin 6.2 "'run through the first leg 7.1"' and thus the guide surface after half of the transverse offset to be carried out 9 "'reached, the direction of movement along the first Reverse direction, d. H. the printhead bracket 2 '' 'towards the Move arrow 12 "'.

To ensure that the guide pin 6.2 "'does not return to the retracts the first leg 7.1 '' 'is in the transition area of the leg 7.1 "'and 7.2"' of the guide groove 6.1 '' 'a guide device 13' '' arranged, which the offset movement of the print head 1 "'from the first in ensures the second transverse position.

This guide device comprises a swiveling switch 13 "'by a spring device, not shown, against the guide surface 8 "'is biased so that in the normal state the first leg 7.1 "'closes. When moving the print head holder 2 "'in the direction of arrow 11" "displaces the guide pin 6.2"' Switch 13 "'from the first leg 7.1"' and can thus pass through.

After passing the switch 13 "'this moves due to its bias back to their normal position, in which they have the first leg 7.1 "'closes and the second leg 7.2"' releases. After reversal of movement the print head holder 2 '' 'becomes the guide pin 6.2 "' and with it the print head 1 "'when moving the print head holder 2 "'in the direction of arrow 12"' through the mostly on the switch 13 '' ' arranged guide surface 10 "'inclined to the first direction offset transversely to the first direction until it is at the end of the guide surface 10 "'reached its second transverse position.

It is understood that the switch device in other variants can also be designed differently. For example, it is possible the switch not as a separate component, but through an elastic deformable projection or the like in the guide groove realize.

The guide groove 5 "'is in the area of the first longitudinal position of the printhead holder 2 arranged so that the printhead is offset 1 immediately after the completion of a printed image or before the beginning of a print image can take place.

To reset the print head 1 '' 'from the second transverse position to the first transverse position is in the region of the second longitudinal position Printhead bracket 2 '' 'provided a second transfer device. This is from a third guide device in the form of a second Guide groove 14 '' 'formed, in turn, the guide pin 6.2 "' run can.

The guide groove 14 "'has a guide surface 15"' against which the Guide pin 6.2 "'pressed due to the preload by the spring 5"' becomes. Here too, the print head is moved as a result of Inclination of the guide surface 15 "'to the first direction by a method the printhead holder 2 "'along the first direction.

It goes without saying that with other variants instead of the guide grooves and guide pins also other guide devices are provided could be.

To hold the print head 1 "'in its first or second transverse position during printing, d. H. during the procedure between the first and second longitudinal positions and vice versa, are holding means intended. These are in the form of a first holding device first longitudinal guide groove 16 "'and a second holding device in Form a second longitudinal guide groove 17 "'. These are on the Base element 2 "'arranged, being on the two guide grooves 6.1 Connect "" and 14 "'. The guide pin 6.2 "'can run in them.

The two longitudinal guide grooves 16 '' 'and 17' 'run parallel to first direction. They each have a direction parallel to the first direction Longitudinal guide surface 16.1 '' 'or 17.1 "' against which the as a longitudinal guide element acting guide pin 6.2 "'by the preload the spring 5 "'when passing through the respective longitudinal guide groove 16"' or 17 '' 'is pressed. Form the longitudinal guide surfaces 16.1 "'or 17.1' '" thus a first stop to limit the print head movement across the first direction.

Due to the parallelism of the respective longitudinal guide surface 16.1 '' 'or 17.1 "'the print head becomes the first direction when moving the Printhead bracket 2 '' 'between the first and second longitudinal positions or vice versa parallel to the first direction and thereby at Printing held in its respective transverse position.

In the example shown, the printing process has the following sequence. The The print head is in his when the franking machine is switched on Maintenance and parking position in which the guide pin 6.2 '' 'on End 18 of the Y-shaped guide groove 6.1 '' '. First of all, he will then move in the direction of arrow 12 "'until printhead 1"' is his has reached the second transverse position and the first longitudinal position. Then it will be he continues to the second longitudinal position, a first Print image is generated. Then he will continue towards the Move arrow 12 "'until it reaches the guide groove 14"'. By means of the Guide groove 14 "'it is then moved in the direction of the arrow 11 "'moved to its first transverse position. As soon as it reached its second longitudinal position has reached again, generating a second Continue moving the print image to the first longitudinal position. The first and the second printed image complement each other to form a complete franking printout. The printing process is then completed. The printhead 1 "'will then either be moved back into its parking position or with the help of the guide groove 6.1 '' 'back into its second transverse position offset to begin a new franking printout.

Figure 7 shows a plan view of a further alternative design, the the basic structure is the same as that of Figure 6, so here only the differences should be dealt with.

There is a difference in the design of the first holding device, which is formed by a simple stop 19 "" on the print head holder 2 "" is arranged. This stop 19 "" represents a stop surface 19.1 "" available for the shell 1.1 "" and limited hence the print head movement transverse to the first direction.

The first holding device further comprises one of one schematically illustrated spring 20 "" formed spring device which on the Printhead 1 "" a force directed away from the guide rod 4 "" exercises. Is the print head 1 "" on the stop surface 19.1 "" of the stop 19 "" on, the spring 20 "" causes a contact force at the stop 19 "" which holds the printhead in its first transverse position.

The second holding device is in turn of a longitudinal guide groove 21 "" formed as a stop to limit the print head movement transverse to the first direction parallel to the first direction Longitudinal guide surface 21.1 "" for the on the underside of the print head 1 "" arranged guide pin 22 "" forms. Here too the spring works 20 "" a contact force between the longitudinal guide surface 21.1 "" and guide pin 22 "", which the print head 1 '' '' in its second transverse position holds.

It is understood that the stop in other versions of the Device also in another place and in a different embodiment the printhead holder can be arranged.

Another difference to the embodiment from FIG. 6 is that Design of the guide grooves 23 "" and 24 "" to move the Printhead 1 "" from its first transverse position to its second transverse position or from its second transverse position to its first transverse position cooperate with the guide pin 22 "". These only point a guide surface 25 "" inclined to the first direction or 26 "" to offset the print head 1 "" against which the Guide pin 22 "" is biased by the spring 20 "". Area of first guide groove 23 "" is in turn a switch 27 "" is provided, which corresponds in its function to the switch 13 "" from FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 shows a top view of a further alternative design the basic structure is the same as that of Figure 6, so that only the differences should be dealt with here.

One difference lies in the design of the first and second Holding device. These are from a magnet 28 "" 'and two angles 29 "" 'and 30 ""' made of magnetic metal. The magnet 28 "" 'is connected to print head 1' '' '' and runs in one Offset direction of the print head 1 "" 'extending recess in the Print head holder 2 '' '' '. The angles 29 "" 'and 30 ""' are on the printhead bracket 2 '' '' 'arranged and each form a stop for the magnet 28 "" 'to limit the printhead movement across first direction. They each had a stop surface 29.1 "" ' or 30.1 '' '' '.

The magnetic force between the magnet 28 "" 'and each Angle 29 '' '' 'or 30 ""' acts, represents the one acting at the respective stop Contact force represents which the print head in the respective transverse position holds.

It is understood that in other versions, the angle or a corresponding element can be designed as a magnet and then a corresponding element made of a soft magnetic Metal or the like is connected to the printhead.

Another difference lies in the guide grooves 31 "" 'and 32' '' '', which to move the print head 1 '' '' 'from its first transverse position to his second transverse position or from his second transverse position to his first transverse position with the one on the underside of the print head 1 "" ' arranged guide pin 33 "" cooperate.

The guide grooves 31 "" 'and 32' '' '' are essentially V-shaped. They have a guide device in the transition area of their legs 34 '' '' 'or 35 ""', which ensures that the print head 1 "" ' when moving along the first direction from its first transverse position in its second transverse position or from its second transverse position is moved to its first transverse position.

The guide device 34 "" 'or 35 ""' has a start-up area 36 "" 'or 37 ""' which, contrary to the respective offset direction of the Printhead 1 '' '' 'is offset from the transverse position that the printhead 1 '' '' 'when moving along the first direction at the time of Reversal of movement of the movement along the first direction has reached. Since the print head 1 "" 'is not in the present variant by any spring means or the like against the printhead holder 2 "" 'is biased, it remains in when reversing movement this transverse position and then runs against the respective startup area 36 "" 'or 37' '' ''.

To reduce the impact of any bumps or the like, you can the selected fit between printhead 1 '' '' and printhead holder 2 "" 'a friction force counteracting the relative movement Act. Likewise, the print head 1 "" 'by counteracting each other Spring devices or the like relative to the printhead holder 2 "" 'held in this transverse position as a neutral position his.

It is understood that the offset from the start-up area 36 '' '' or 37 "" formed leading edges for the guide pin 33 "" 'relative to Transverse position of the guide pin 33 "" 'in the relevant transverse position only must be so large that after the movement has been reversed by the concerned leading edge in the desired direction of displacement of the Printhead 1 '' '' is deflected.

Claims (10)

Device for printing, in particular a franking machine, with a print head (1; 1 ') which is slidably held on a print head holder (2; 2') which is used to achieve the relative movement between the print head (1; 1 ') and the medium to be printed during printing is designed to be movable along a first direction with respect to a base element (3; 3 ') between a first longitudinal position and a second longitudinal position, a first displacement device (6.1, 6.2; 6.1 ") enabling printing images offset with respect to one another transversely to the first direction being provided, which is designed to move the print head (1; 1 ') relative to the print head holder (2; 2') from a first transverse position to at least one second transverse position spaced from the first transverse position transversely to the first direction, the first displacement device being at least one first guide device ( 6.1; 6.1 ') with a first guide surface (8, 9, 10; 8 ", 9", 10 ") and at least one second guide device device with a guide element (6.2) which is used to move the printhead (1; 1 ') from the first into the second transverse position by moving the print head holder (2; 2') along the first direction with mutual relative movement, characterized in that the guide element (6.2) of the second guide device on the base element (3; 3 ') is arranged. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first guide device is formed by a guide groove (6.1; 6.1 ") and the second guide device is formed by a guide pin (6.2). Apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the guide pin (6.2) has a circular cylindrical active surface. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second guide device (6.2) is arranged on the base element (3) so as to be positionally adjustable transversely to the first direction. Device according to claim 4, characterized in that the second guide device (6.2) is designed to achieve the positional adjustment in the manner of an eccentric Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the guide device (6.2) of the first displacement device (6.1, 6.2; 6.1 ") arranged on the base element (3; 3 ') in the region of the first or second longitudinal position of the print head holder (2; 2 ') is arranged. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one second displacement device (14, 6.3) is provided for displacing the print head (1) from the second into the first transverse position. Apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the second displacement device (14, 6.3) is designed to move the print head (1) from the second to the first transverse position by moving the print head holder (2) along the first direction. Apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that the second displacement device comprises at least a third guide device (14). Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that the third guide device is designed to cooperate with the first guide device of the first displacement device.

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