Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus for providing back tension onto a print media web comprises a plate having a post extended perpendicularly therefrom. The post is adapted to support a roll of print media thereon such that a web of the print media roll is paid out by rotation of the roll about the post. A constant-force spring is attached to a portion of the media plate at and has a handle coupled to an opposite end of the spring. A pressing element is coupled to the handle such that the spring is biased to urge the pressing element against the media supply roll to maintain the roll firmly in contact with the post during rotation of the roll. The force provided by the pressing element onto the media supply roll imparts sufficient back tension on the print media web to maintain a constant pay out rate. The present back tension apparatus provides a relatively simple mechanism that is readily adaptable for many conventional printers, such as a thermal transfer printer.

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First Claim