Importance

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Abstract

A thermal transfer printing apparatus for printing an elongate continuous web of items. The apparatus comprises a frame structure having an imprinter mounted thereon. A plurality of idlers supports the web of items and defines a path of travel for the web. A segment of the path of travel is adjacent the imprinter and its print head. A rockable arm is connected to the frame structure and contacts the web along a top surface of the web at two locations. A first of the locations is upstream of the print head and a second of the locations is downstream of the print head. The arm is connected to the frame structure about a pivot point and rocks about this pivot point during operation of the apparatus in a manner similar to a 'teeter-totter.' A stepper motor drives two drive rollers thereby advancing the web. When a selected item is in a proper printing position within the segment of the path of travel adjacent the imprinter, air cylinders actuate a nip and the print head against the drive rollers to maintain proper tension within the selected item. The rockable arm then rocks about its pivot point and the stepper motor drives the drive rollers to pull the selected item past the print head so that the item may be imprinted.

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First Claim