Hand-held labeler

Claim 2

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel.

Claim 3

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, and means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel.

Claim 4

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, and means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel.

Claim 5

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, a pair of hubs for rotatably mounting a label roll, and means for rotatably mounting the hubs and the second subframe portion for rotation about the same axis.

Claim 6

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, a pair of hubs for rotatably mounting a label roll, and means for rotatably mounting the hubs and the second subframe portion for rotation about the same axis.

Claim 7

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying pressure sensitive labels releasably secured to a web of supporting material, comprising: a frame having a handle and a movable section, a subframe disposed in a space within the frame and connected to the frame, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, an inker disposed in the space for inking the print head, the inker including a replaceable ink roller, means pivotally mounting the movable section for movement between a normally closed position and an open position to facilitate replacing a spent ink roller, means for delaminating printed labels from the web, means for applying the printed labels, the subframe having a pair of substantially mirror-image side-by-side subframe sections, the frame having a pair of holes and a pair of latches mounted to the frame outboard of the subframe and having means projecting through the holes and accessible from outside the frame for releasing the latches.

Claim 8

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying pressure sensitive labels releasably secured to a web of supporting material, comprising: a frame having a handle and a movable section, a subframe disposed in a space within the frame and connected to the frame, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, an inker disposed in the space for inking the print head, the inker including a replaceable ink roller, means pivotally mounting the movable section for movement between a normally closed position and an open position to facilitate replacing a spent ink roller, means for delaminating printed labels from the web, means for applying the printed labels, the subframe having a pair of substantially mirror-image side-by-side subframe sections, the frame having a pair of holes and a pair of latches mounted to the frame outboard of the subframe and having means projecting through the holes and accessible from outside the frame for releasing the latches.

Claim 9

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounted the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion mounts the platen and the print head and receives the feed wheel, wherein the mounting means includes pivot means connecting the subframe portions to enable the second subframe portion to be pivoted to expose part of the pathway.

Claim 10

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounted the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion mounts the platen and the print head and receives the feed wheel, wherein the mounting means includes pivot means connecting the subframe portions to enable the second subframe portion to be pivoted to expose part of the pathway.

Claim 11

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the second subframe portion includes a pair of connected substantially mirror-image subframe sections.

Claim 12

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the second subframe portion includes a pair of connected substantially mirror-image subframe sections.

Claim 13

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion includes a pair of connected substantially mirror-image subframe sections, and wherein the second subframe portion includes a pair of connected substantially mirror-image subframe sections.

Claim 14

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion includes a pair of connected substantially mirror-image subframe sections, and wherein the second subframe portion includes a pair of connected substantially mirror-image subframe sections.

Claim 15

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion includes a pair of connected substantially mirror-image subframe sections, and wherein the second subframe portion includes a pair of connected substantially mirror-image subframe sections, wherein the movable mounting means includes pivot means pivotally connecting the second subframe portion of the first subframe portion.

Claim 16

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion includes a pair of connected substantially mirror-image subframe sections, and wherein the second subframe portion includes a pair of connected substantially mirror-image subframe sections, wherein the movable mounting means includes pivot means pivotally connecting the second subframe portion of the first subframe portion.

Claim 17

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting materials, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, means for mounting a label roll to the subframe including a pair of hub members, and means connected to the hub members for pivotally connecting the subframe portions to each other.

Claim 18

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting materials, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, means for mounting a label roll to the subframe including a pair of hub members, and means connected to the hub members for pivotally connecting the subframe portions to each other.

Claim 19

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe porton being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion is generally planar, and wherein the second subframe portion is movable in the plane of the first subframe portion.

Claim 20

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe porton being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion is generally planar, and wherein the second subframe portion is movable in the plane of the first subframe portion.

Claim 21

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion is generally planar, wherein the second subframe portion is movable in the plane of the first subframe portion, wherein the movable mounting means includes a pivot about which the second subframe portion is pivotally movable on the first subframe portion.

Claim 22

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion is generally planar, wherein the second subframe portion is movable in the plane of the first subframe portion, wherein the movable mounting means includes a pivot about which the second subframe portion is pivotally movable on the first subframe portion.

Claim 23

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the second subframe portion carried an intermittently operable brake which is ineffective while the web is being advanced by the feed wheel.

Claim 24

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the second subframe portion carried an intermittently operable brake which is ineffective while the web is being advanced by the feed wheel.

Claim 25

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, and a leaf spring connected to the second subframe portion and yieldable while the web is being paid out of the label roll and returnable to effect gradual paying out of the web from the label roll.

Claim 26

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, and a leaf spring connected to the second subframe portion and yieldable while the web is being paid out of the label roll and returnable to effect gradual paying out of the web from the label roll.

Claim 27

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion includes a pair of substantially mirror-image first sections defining a first zone of the pathway, and the second subframe portion includes a pair of substantially mirror-image second sections defining a second zone of the pathway.

Claim 28

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion includes a pair of substantially mirror-image first sections defining a first zone of the pathway, and the second subframe portion includes a pair of substantially mirror-image second sections defining a second zone of the pathway.

Claim 29

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movable mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel, and wherein the mounting means includes means for pivotally mounting the second subframe portion on the first subframe portion.

Claim 30

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movable mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel, and wherein the mounting means includes means for pivotally mounting the second subframe portion on the first subframe portion.

Claim 31

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel, a housing section movable between an open and a closed position for selectively covering a portion of the housing opening, and a pair of latches connected to the housing and straddling the subframe for releasably holding the movable housing section in the closed position.

Claim 32

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel, a housing section movable between an open and a closed position for selectively covering a portion of the housing opening, and a pair of latches connected to the housing and straddling the subframe for releasably holding the movable housing section in the closed position.

Claim 33

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel, and an intermittently operable brake carried by the second subframe portion.

Claim 34

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel, and an intermittently operable brake carried by the second subframe portion.

Claim 35

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, and means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel, and a leaf spring connected to the second subframe portion and yieldable while the web is being paid out of the label roll and returnable to effect gradual paying out of the web from the label roll.

Claim 36

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, and means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel, and a leaf spring connected to the second subframe portion and yieldable while the web is being paid out of the label roll and returnable to effect gradual paying out of the web from the label roll.

Claim 37

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion includes a pair of substantially mirror-image first sections connected to each other and defining a first zone of the pathway and the second subframe portion includes a pair of substantially mirror-image second sections connected to each other and defining a second zone of the pathway, and an intermittently operable brake carried by the second subframe portion.

Claim 38

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion for movement into the housing opening to expose part of the pathway and the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion includes a pair of substantially mirror-image first sections connected to each other and defining a first zone of the pathway and the second subframe portion includes a pair of substantially mirror-image second sections connected to each other and defining a second zone of the pathway, and an intermittently operable brake carried by the second subframe portion.

Claim 39

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, a pair of hubs for rotatably mounting a label roll, means for rotatably mounting the hubs and the second subframe portion for rotation about the same axis, the first subframe portion having a pair of aligned first holes, the second subframe portion having a pair of aligned second holes, and wherein the hub mounting means includes a stud received in each of the respective first and second holes.

Claim 40

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, a pair of hubs for rotatably mounting a label roll, means for rotatably mounting the hubs and the second subframe portion for rotation about the same axis, the first subframe portion having a pair of aligned first holes, the second subframe portion having a pair of aligned second holes, and wherein the hub mounting means includes a stud received in each of the respective first and second holes.

Claim 41

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, a pair of hubs for rotatably mounting a label roll, means for rotatably mounting the hubs and the second subframe portion for rotation about the same axis, the first subframe portion having a pair of aligned first holes, the second subframe portion having a pair of aligned second holes, wherein the hub mounting means includes a stud received in each of the respective first and second holes, wherein the studs are disposed on the axis, the second subframe portion is rotatable in the plane of the first subframe portion, and the axis is perpendicular to the plane.

Claim 42

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing an interior space, a platen, a print head disposed in the housing, means for delaminating labels from the web disposed adjacent the platen, means engageable with the web for advancing the web, the housing having a handle, an actuator disposed at the handle, means responsive to the manual actuation of the actuator for moving the print head and the web advancing means, a subframe disposed in the space and providing a pathway for the web, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, a pair of hubs for rotatably mounting a label roll, means for rotatably mounting the hubs and the second subframe portion for rotation about the same axis, the first subframe portion having a pair of aligned first holes, the second subframe portion having a pair of aligned second holes, wherein the hub mounting means includes a stud received in each of the respective first and second holes, wherein the studs are disposed on the axis, the second subframe portion is rotatable in the plane of the first subframe portion, and the axis is perpendicular to the plane.

Claim 43

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion includes a pair of connected substantially mirror-image subframe sections.

Claim 44

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying labels, the apparatus being adapted to carry a label roll having pressure sensitive labels releasably adhered to a web of supporting material, the apparatus comprising: a frame including a housing having an opening, the housing providing interior space, the housing having a handle a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle a subframe disposed in the space, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means for delaminating printed labels, means for applying printed labels, a feed wheel disposed in the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of cooperation with the platen and for moving the feed wheel to advance the web, means providing a pathway for the web through the subframe from the label roll, to the platen, about the delaminating means, to the feed wheel and from there to the exterior of the housing, the subframe having at least a first subframe portion and a second subframe portion, each subframe portion including part of the pathway, the first subframe portion being stationarily mounted relative to the housing, means movably mounting the second subframe portion relative to the first subframe portion, the second subframe portion being movable into the housing opening to expose a part of the pathway and at least part of the feed wheel, wherein the first subframe portion includes a pair of connected substantially mirror-image subframe sections.

Claim 45

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying pressure sensitive labels releasably secured to a web of supporting material, comprising: a frame having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space within and connected to the frame, a platen mounted on the subframe, a print head mounted on the subframe and cooperable with the platen for printing on successive labels, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into printing cooperation with the platen and for advancing the web, a shaft mounted on the frame, an applicator mounted on the shaft, the frame having a movable section pivotally mounted on the shaft and movable between a normally closed position and an open position, an inker for the print head disposed in the space within the frame, and means for releasably latching the movable section in the closed position, the latching means including a pair of latches straddling the subframe and connected to the frame.

Claim 46

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying pressure sensitive labels releasably secured to a web of supporting material, comprising: a frame having a handle, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space within and connected to the frame, a platen mounted on the subframe, a print head mounted on the subframe and cooperable with the platen for printing on successive labels, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into printing cooperation with the platen and for advancing the web, a shaft mounted on the frame, an applicator mounted on the shaft, the frame having a movable section pivotally mounted on the shaft and movable between a normally closed position and an open position, an inker for the print head disposed in the space within the frame, and means for releasably latching the movable section in the closed position, the latching means including a pair of latches straddling the subframe and connected to the frame.

Claim 47

Hand-held apparatus as defined in claim 23, wherein the latches are accessible from outside the frame to enable the latch to be unlatched.

Claim 48

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying pressure sensitive labels releasably secured to a web of supporting material, comprising: a frame having a handle and a movable section, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space within and connected to the frame, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of printing cooperation and for advancing the web, an inker disposed in the space within the frame for inking the print head, the inker including a replaceable ink roller, means mounting the movable section for pivotal movement between a normally closed position and an open position to facilitate replacing a spent ink roller, means for delaminating printed labels from the web, means for applying the printed labels, a pair of latches disposed inside the frame and outwardly of the subframe for releasably holding the movable section in the closed position, each latch including a flexible resilient member connected to the frame, the movable section having means for engaging the latches, and means accessible from outside the frame for flexing the flexible resilient members and unlatching the movable section.

Claim 49

Hand-held apparatus for printing and applying pressure sensitive labels releasably secured to a web of supporting material, comprising: a frame having a handle and a movable section, a manually operable actuator disposed at the handle, a subframe disposed in the space within and connected to the frame, a platen and a cooperable print head mounted on the subframe, means responsive to movement of the actuator for moving the print head into and out of printing cooperation and for advancing the web, an inker disposed in the space within the frame for inking the print head, the inker including a replaceable ink roller, means mounting the movable section for pivotal movement between a normally closed position and an open position to facilitate replacing a spent ink roller, means for delaminating printed labels from the web, means for applying the printed labels, a pair of latches disposed inside the frame and outwardly of the subframe for releasably holding the movable section in the closed position, each latch including a flexible resilient member connected to the frame, the movable section having means for engaging the latches, and means accessible from outside the frame for flexing the flexible resilient members and unlatching the movable section.

Claim 50

Hand-held apparatus as defined in claim 25, wherein the subframe is comprised of mating subframe halves having means providing a path for the web, wherein the frame has opposed recesses, each flexible resilient member including a leaf spring, a post connected to one end portion of each leaf spring and received in a respective recess, a tooth connected to the other end portion of each leaf spring, the movable section having a pair of members each terminating at a latch face, the latch faces being engaged by the respective teeth when the movable section is in the closed position, the members having respective cam faces adjacent the latch faces for camming the teeth and flexing the leaf springs when the movable section is being moved to the closed position to enable the latch faces to be received in engagement with the teeth when the movable section is moved to the closed position.

Claim 51

Hand-held apparatus as defined in any one of the preceding claims, in which the frame and the subframe are composed of moldable plastics material.