(57) A daisy wheel printer having a platen (70), a translatable carriage (200, 300), a
pair of parallel support rods (33, 40) for the carriage, a pressure roller control
mechanism (72, 122), and electro-mechanical drive mechanisms (57, 90), for the carriage
(200,300) and the platen (70) has a unitary cast base member (21) incorporating all
of the support members (31, 32, 41, 65, 77, 78, 101) required for these elements.
The unitary base member (21) also integrally incorporates a support platform (26)
for the electrical power components, a separate integral chamber for the electronic
control components, and a thermally conductive heat sink (20) for conducting away
heat generated by the electrical components.
The unitary base member (21) also provides electromagnetic radiation shielding and
static discharge protection without the need for additional shielding or ground components.
The carriage assembly (200, 300) for the printing element includes a one piece die
cast lower support brace (201, 202), and an upper carriage assembly (300) incorporating
the detachable ribbon cartridge drive mechanism and a simple one piece ribbon latching
device.
The printer further features an easily removable paper deflector (110) and an improved
pressure roller assembly (140...143).
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