To obtain a clutch mechanism of a simple structure capable of being used for a thermal printer by coupling a spring type clutch assembly used together with a rotary shaft to give a predetermine tension to a ribbon to a medium distributing means.
A ribbon supply spindle has a shaft 398 extending through a central support wall. A clutch shaft 400 is extended in a lengthwise direction along the shaft 398. A slip clutch 396 has a series of oblique teeth 142 at a predetermined interval around the shaft 398. A torsion spring 402 is provided to surround the shaft 398 and to be disposed coaxially with the shaft 398. A clutch color 404 is mounted at the shaft 398 to contain part of the coiled spring 402. According to the clutch 396 of this constitution, a back tension can be applied to a ribbon supply spindle in the printer with a simple structure.
MONNIER DAN E (US)
ZUBRISKI DAVID S (US)
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