Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
Coat Film Transfer Head Device and Coat Film Transfer Tool
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a coat film transfer head
device and a coat film transfer tool, and more particularly,
coat film transfer head techniques wherein a coat film transfer
head is mounted at the tip of a film transfer tool to transfer
coat film such as a correction paint layer, marker paint layer,
and adhesive layer of a coat film transfer tape onto paper or
the like, and is operated to press the coat film transfer tape
against a coat film transferring surface.
Description of the Related Art
A coat film transfer tool of this type is used, for example,
as a character eraser to correct wrong characters . A general
structure is such that an unwinding reel with coat film transfer
tape wound thereon and a winding reel to recover the used coat
film transfer tape are rotatably disposed in a case which may
be held and operated by one hand, and at the same time, a coat
film transfer head used to press the coat film transfer tape
against a coat film transferring surface or a portion to be
corrected on paper is mounted at the tip of the case in proj ecting
fashion. Also, the reels are interlocked with each other by
means of an interlock unit, employing an automatic winding
system.
- 1 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
And, to correct a wrong character or the like by using this
coat film transfer tool, holding the grip surfaces of the case
by hand and pressing the coat film transfer tape tight against
a portion to be corrected by using a tip pressure piece of the
head, the case is moved in the desired direction, whereby the
correcting paint layer of the coat film transfer tape at the
tip pressure piece of the head is transferred to the portion
to be corrected, and then the character or the like is erased
and also the used coat film transfer tape is automatically taken
up for recovery onto the winding reel.
The head is generally designed to be suited for precise
erasure and correction of the intended portion to be corrected,
for example, a small area portion such as only one wrong
character in a series of sentences, that is, the tip of the head
is to be a so-called spire shape having a relatively sharp edge .
However, in the case of a head having a sharp edge as described,
there has been a problem such that, if the coat film transfer
tool is dropped for instance during one-handed operation or
transport of same, giving strong shocks to the head, the tip
pressure piece of the head will be damaged or the coat film
transfer tape will be broken by the tip pressure piece thereby
making the device unusable.
In this connection, a structure recently proposed and
employed is such that a head cover to protect the head is attached
in a removable or free-to-open fashion to the case of a coat
- 2 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
film transfer tool. However, such structure causes an increase
in the number of parts used and in production cost that will
further invite an increase in product cost, and also, in the
case of a removable head cover, there is a fear of missing of
the removed cover, and in the case of a free-to-open cover, the
cover being open can be an obstruction in practical use, thus
remaining some room for further improvement from the viewpoint
of a drastic solution of the above problem.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A primary object of the present invention is to provide a
novel coat film transfer head device that has solved such
conventional problem.
Another obj ect of the present invention is to provide a coat
film transfer head device having a structure such that no
protective member such as a head cover is needed and, even when
strong shocks are applied to the head, the shocks will be
effectively absorbed, thereby reliably preventing the head from
damage and the coat film transfer tape from breakage.
Also, a further obj ect of the present invention is to provide
a coat film transfer tool comprising the coat film transfer head
device.
Still another obj ect of the present invention is to provide
a coat film transfer tool comprising a structure such that, in
a refill type of the above device, the transfer tool is laterally
slidable in practical use.
- 3 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
The construction of a coat film transfer head device of the
present invention is such that the head device disposed at the
tip of a coat film transfer tool is designed to transfer a coat
film transfer tape unwound from an unwinding reel onto a coat
film transferring surface, comprising a shock absorbing means
to absorb shocks applied to the head body which serves the
function of pressing and transferring the coat film transfer
tape.
As a preferred embodiment of the above shock absorbing means,
the following will be adopted according to the purpose:
i) a structure wherein a shock absorber made up of elastic
material different from the base material of the head body is
connected in one-piece with a part of the head body;
ii) a structure wherein a shock absorber made up of elastic
material different from the base material of the head body is
removably mounted at the tip of the head body, and a part of
the shock absorber forms a head tip edge that presses the coat
film transfer tape against the film transferring surface;
iii) a structure wherein a shock absorber is laterally slidably
mounted at the tip of the head body, and a part of the shock
absorber forms a head tip edge that presses the coat film
transfer tape against the coat film transferring surface and,
when excessive shocks are applied to the shock absorber, the
shock absorber will slide in a direction lateral to the head
body to absorb the shocks;
- 4 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
iv) a structure wherein a resiliently flexible member made up
of same material as the base material of the head body is in
one piece with the tip of the head body, and a part of the
resiliently flexible member forms a head tip edge that presses
the coat film transfer tape against the coat film transferring
surface; and a structure wherein a resiliently flexible member
made up of same material as the base material of the head body
is formed in one piece with the base end portion of the head
body;
v) a structure comprising a head member which is retractably
mounted at the tip of the head body and has a head tip edge that
presses the coat film transfer tape against the coat film
transferring surface;
vi) a structure wherein a construction is mounted at the base
end portion of the head body, retractably supporting the head
body, or
vii) a structure wherein a linear bar-shaped support shaft is
formed in one piece with the base end of the head body, and the
support shaft is mounted in an axially retractable fashion at
the body support, and when excessive shocks are applied to the
head member, the head member will retract to absorb the shocks .
Also, these shock absorbing means are applicable to any types
of head devices such as what is called a rotary head type having
a rotary head structure wherein the body support mounted at the
head retainer is rotatable about its axis and a so-called
- 5 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
stationary head type wherein the body support mounted at the
head retainer is stationary.
Also, the construction of a coat film transfer tool of the
present invention comprises the coat film transfer head device,
wherein a tape cartridge having a rotatable unwinding reel with
a coat film transfer tape wound thereon and a rotatable winding
reel to recover the used coat film transfer tape is removably
inserted in a case that can be held and operated by one hand,
and in a refill type which permits the replacement of the coat
film transfer tape, the coat film transfer head device is mounted
at the tip of the tape cartridge or at the tip of the case.
Also, in a single-use type of coat film transfer tool
comprising an unwinding reel with a coat film transfer tape wound
thereon and a winding reel to recover the used coat film transfer
tape which are disposed in a case that can be held and operated
by one hand, the coat film transfer head device is mounted at
the tip of the case.
And, in a coat film transfer head device of the present
invention, there is provided a shock absorbing means to absorb
shocks applied to the head body that serves to press and transfer
a coat film transfer tape so that even when the coat film transfer
tool is dropped during one-handed operation or transport,
causing strong shocks to the head, such shocks will be absorbed
by the shock absorbing means, thereby reliably preventing
trouble such as damage to the tip pressure piece of the head
- 6 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
having a sharp-edge shape or breakage of the coat film transfer
tape by the tip pressure piece.
The above-mentioned and other related purposes and features
of the present invention will become obvious in the light of
the detailed description based upon the appended drawings and
the novel aspects mentioned in the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a character eraser in
accordance with embodiment 1 of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the interior of a case body
of the character eraser.
Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the character
eraser.
Fig. 4 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser.
Fig. 4 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 4 (c) is a side view of the head body.
Fig. 5 is an enlarged side view showing a partial cross-
section of the rotary structure of a coat film transfer head
device of the character eraser.
Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing the character eraser
being used by right hand in a state of lateral pull-slide motion.
Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing the character eraser
being used by right hand in a state of vertical pull-slide
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
motion.
Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing the character eraser
being used by right hand in a state of lateral push-slide motion.
Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing the character eraser
being used by left hand in a state of lateral pull-slide motion.
Fig. 10 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 2 of the present invention.
Fig. 10 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 10 (c) is a side view of the head body.
Fig. 11 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 3 of the present invention.
Fig. 11 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 11 (c) is a side view of the head body.
Fig. 12 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 4 of the present invention.
Fig. 12 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 12 (c) is a side view of the head body.
Fig. 13 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
_ g _
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 5 of the present invention.
Fig. 13 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 13 (c) is a side view of the head body.
Fig. 14 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 6 of the present invention.
Fig. 14 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 14 (c) is a side view of the head body.
Fig. 15 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 7 of the present invention.
Fig. 15 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 15 (c) is a side view of the head body.
Fig. 16 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 8 of the present invention.
Fig. 16 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 16 (c) is a side view of the head body.
Fig. 17 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
- 9 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
with embodiment 9 of the present invention.
Fig. 17 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 17 (c) is a side view showing an enlarged shock absorbing
structure of the head body.
Fig. 18 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 10 of the present invention.
Fig. 18 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 18 (c) is a side view of the head body.
Fig. 19 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 11 of the present invention.
Fig. 19 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 19 (c) is a side view showing an enlarged shock absorbing
structure of the head body.
Fig. 20 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 12 of the present invention.
Fig. 20 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 20 (c) is a side view of the head body.
Fig. 21 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
- 10 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 13 of the present invention.
Fig. 21 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 21 (c) is a side view of the head body.
Fig. 22 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 14 of the present invention.
Fig. 22 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 22 (c) is a side view of the head body.
Fig. 23 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 15 of the present invention.
Fig. 23 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 23 (c) is an enlarged sectional diagram along C - C line
of Fig. 23 (b) of the head body.
Fig. 23 (d) is an enlarged sectional diagram along D - D line
of Fig. 23 (b) of the head body.
Fig. 24 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 16 of the present invention.
Fig. 24 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 24 (c) is an enlarged sectional diagram along C - C line
- 11 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
of Fig. 24 (b) of the head body.
Fig. 24 (d) is an enlarged sectional diagram along D - D line
of Fig. 24 (b) of the head body.
Fig. 25 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
- film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 17 of the present invention.
Fig. 25 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 25 (c) is an enlarged sectional diagram along C - C line
of Fig. 25 (b) of the head body.
Fig. 26 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 18 of the present invention.
Fig. 26 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 26 (c) is an exploded enlarged perspective view of a
shock absorbing structure of the head body.
Fig. 27 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 19 of the present invention.
Fig. 27 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 27 (c) is an enlarged sectional diagram along C - C line
of Fig. 27 (b) of the head body.
Fig. 27 (d) is an enlarged sectional diagram along D - D line
- 12 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
of Fig. 27 (b) of the head body.
Fig. 28 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 20 of the present invention.
Fig. 28 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 28 (c) is an enlarged sectional diagram along C - C line
of Fig. 28 (b) of the head body.
Fig. 28 (d) is an enlarged sectional diagram along D - D line
of Fig. 28 (b) of the head body.
Fig. 29 (a) is a perspective view of a head body comprising
a shock absorbing structure that is an essential part of a coat
film transfer head device of the character eraser in accordance
with embodiment 21 of the present invention.
Fig. 29 (b) is a plan view of the head body.
Fig. 29 (c) is an enlarged sectional diagram along C - C line
of Fig. 29 (b) of the head body.
Fig. 30 is an exploded perspective view of a tape cartridge
of a character eraser in accordance with embodiment 22 of the
present invention.
Fig. 31 is an exploded perspective view of a character eraser
in accordance with embodiment 23 of the present invention.
Fig. 32 is an exploded perspective view of a character eraser
in accordance with embodiment 24 of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
- 13 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be
described in the following with reference to the drawings.
In Fig. 1 ~ Fig. 32 are shown a coat film transfer head device
and a coat film transfer tool embodying the present invention,
and the same numerals used throughout the drawings stand for
the same component members or elements.
Embodiment 1:
A coat film transfer tool in accordance with this embodiment
is shown in Fig. 1 ~ Fig. 4 . Specifically, the coat film transfer
tool 1 is designed to be used as a character eraser to correct
wrong characters or the like, which comprises a cartridge or
refill type structure wherein coat film transfer tape T is
replaceable as a consumable part.
That is, the coat film transfer tool 1 is such that a tape
cartridge C having a coat film transfer head device H as shown
in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 is disposed in a case 2 whose appearance
is shown in Fig. 1, and the coat film transfer head device H
comprises a shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing means)
3.
The case 2 is a flat box, as shown, having front contour shape
and widthwise dimensions enough to incorporate a tape cartridge
C, and a pair of opposing flat face and back surfaces 2a, 2b
are standard grip surfaces to be held during one-handed
operation. The case 2 is made of plastic and is rigidly molded
by inj ection molding or the like, having a structure such that
- 14 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
case body 4 and cap body 5 can be separated from each other and
the tape cartridge C is removably inserted in the case body 4.
Also, at the tip of the case 2 is formed a head insertion port
6 where coat film transfer head device H is disposed in
projecting fashion.
The tape cartridge C is a component part that is replaceable
as a consumable part. The structure of the tape cartridge C
is such that an unwinding reel 11 with coat film transfer tape
T wound thereon and a rotatable winding reel 12 to recover the
used coat film transfer tape T are rotatably inserted in
cartridge case 10, and the coat film transfer head device H which
presses the coat film transfer tape T against a coat film
transferring surface is disposed and rotatable about the head
axis.
Also, although it is not shown in the drawing, the tape
cartridge 10 is furnished, in the form of a unit, with a tape
interlock unit to interlock the unwinding reel 11 and the winding
reel 12 with each other as well as major basic components such
as a clutch mechanism to synchronize the unwinding and winding
speeds of the coat film transfer tape T on the unwinding reel
11 and winding reel 12.
The cartridge case 10 is made of synthetic resin in the form
of a cartridge to store both reels 11 and 12, wherein the shape
and dimension are determined so as to make the case as
light-weight and compact as possible provided that the reels
- 15 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
11 and 12 may be reliably stored, specifically having a framework
structure made up mostly of thin framework members.
As coat film transfer tape T, a conventionally well-known
type has a structure such that a release agent layer, correction
paint layer, and adhesive (pressure sensing adhesive) are
laminated in order on one side of a film base. The correction
paint layer employed is what is called a dry type that permits
writing thereon immediately after coat film transfer.
The coat film transfer tape T unwound from the unwinding reel
11 is guided to the tip pressure piece 20c along the tape
traveling surface at one side of the coat film transfer head
device H and then the tape T is reversed via the tip pressure
piece 20c and is further guided along the tape traveling surface
at the other side to be taken up onto the winding reel 12.
The coat film transfer head device H serves to press the coat
film transfer tape T against the portion to be corrected (coat
film transferring surface) such as a wrong character or the like
on paper, which is located at the tip of the cartridge case 10
and has a function to guide as well as a function to press the
coat film transfer tape T.
Specifically, the coat film transfer head device H comprises
head body 20, head support 21 and rotary control 22, and also
a so-called rotary head structure wherein the head body 20 is
supported and rotatable about its axis. Also, the coat film
transfer head device H comprises, as described above, the shock
- 16 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
absorbing structure 3 (see Fig. 4) which absorbs the shocks
applied to the head body 20.
The head body 20 serves to press and transfer the coat film
transfer taper T and has a shape suited for precisely correcting
the intended portion to be corrected, for example, a small area
portion such as only one wrong character in a series of sentences,
that is, a so-called spire shape having a relatively sharp edge.
The head body 20 of the embodiment shown in the drawing is
of thin plate type having a rectangular shape a little wider
than the coat film transfer tape T and is relatively sharp as
viewed from the side or has a tapered cross-section that is
gradually reduced in thickness toward the tip. The head body
20 has flat side surfaces 20a, 20b as tape traveling surfaces,
and the tip 20c is a tip pressure piece that applies pressures
to the coat film transfer tape T. Also, guide flanges 23, 23
to guide the coat film transfer tape T are formed at the side
edges of the head body 20.
Here, when the head body 20 is relatively less in plate
thickness, it is not always necessary to make the shape tapered
as shown, but permitted to make the shape being equal in
thickness over the entire body in the lengthwise direction. In
other words, it is enough for the structure to have a thickness
(sharpness) such that the tip pressure piece 20c of the head
body 20 may precisely function to erase and correct only one
wrong character in a series of sentences.
- 17 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
Also, the head body 20 has at its tip the shock absorbing
structure 3, and at the base end portion is formed a journal
25 as a body support in one piece with the head body.
Specifically, the shock absorbing structure 3 is such that
a shock absorber 30 made up of elastic material different from
the plastic base material of the head body 20 is connected in
one piece with a part of the head body. The shock absorber 30
of the embodiment shown is connected in one piece with the tip
of the head body 20 during or after head molding, thereby forming
a head tip edge or the tip pressure piece 20c that presses the
coat film transfer tape T.
As a component material of shock absorber 30, it is required
not only to have a substantial function as a suitable shock
absorbing material but also to be able to secure a pressing
function as a tip pressure piece 20c, for example, it is
preferred to use soft plastic, thermoplastic elastomer or
rubber which is excellent in softness . In the embodiment shown,
shock absorber 30 made up of such material is connected, for
example, by two-color molding in one piece with the base material
of head body 20.
Also, the shock absorber 30 shown is band-shaped having a
specific width parallel to the tip pressure piece 20c, but it
is not always necessary to have such shape, and for example,
a structure having irregular connecting surfaces may be
employed in order to improve the strength of connection with
- 18 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
the base material of the head body.
Further, as an another structure, the shock absorbing
structure 3 may be rigidly connected to the tip of head body
20 as shown or when the tip of head body 20 is formed of base
material, forming the base of the tip, the shock absorbing
structure may be connected in one piece with a part of head body
20 to obtain an absorbing effect. In that case, a component
material of shock absorber 30 which has a substantial function
as a suitable shock absorbing material may be employed.
Head retainer 21 serves to support the head body 20 in a manner
such that the head body is rotatable about its axis.
Specifically, the head retainer comprises a journal 25, which
supports the head body, and a bearing 26 located in cartridge
case 10.
Journal 25, as shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, is cylindrical
in shape being concentric and in one-piece with head body 20.
Specifically, the journal is circular cross-sectional in shape
partially having an opening 25a for setting coat film transfer
tape T onto head body 20.
Bearing 26 is disposed in one piece with the tip of cartridge
case 10. The bearing 26, as shown in Fig. 5, is cylindrical
in shape having a inner periphery in response to the outer
periphery of the journal 25, and the same as in journal 25, the
bearing is circular cross-sectional in shape partially having
an opening 26a for setting coat film transfer tape T onto head
- 19 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
body 20. And, the journal 25 is slidably and rotatably
supported on the bearing 26, and the head body 20 is free to
rotate about its axis within the range of the specified angle
of rotation described later.
Rotary control 22 serves to determine the position of head
body 20 in the rotational direction and is also used as a head
position indicator that indicates the tape press-transfer
position of the head body 20.
The rotary control 22 is a cylindrical rod comprising as an
essential part an operation lever 35 having an operation knob
35a at the tip. The operation lever 35 extends linearly and
outwardly in the direction of diameter from the axis of j ournal
25 and is projected outwardly of case 2 through slit insertion
port 36 and operation guide 37 which are respectively located
in the corresponding positions of bearing 26 and case 2. In
this case, the insertion port 36 of the bearing 26 also functions
to prevent the head body 20 from slipping off in the axial
direction.
Also, the position of the operation lever 35 in the rotational
direction to the head body 20 is determined in relation to the
tape press-transfer position of the head body 20, while the
insertion port 36 and operation guide 37 are disposed extending
in a peripheral direction to permit the movement of operation
lever 35 in the axial direction of head body 20. Especially,
the operation guide 37 of case 2 serves to define the operation
- 20 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
of the operation lever 35 in the axial direction and to control
the tape press-transfer position of the head body 20.
Next, the relationship between the operation lever 35 and
the tape press-transfer position of head body 20 will be
described in relation to the operation guide 37. In the
embodiment shown, the configuration of the operation guide 37
as a defining unit for operation in the rotational direction
is determined as described below with reference to Fig. 5.
(a) When the operation lever 35 is in engagement with one end
37a of operation guide 37 or in a vertical downward position
[first defining position A shown in Fig. 5 (a) ], the head body
20 of coat film transfer head device H is at a guiding angle
position so that the tip pressure piece 20c keeps the coat film
transfer tape T nearly opposite to grip surfaces 2a, 2b of case
2, that is, the face and back surfaces of coat film transfer
tape T are positioned nearly identical (parallel) in direction
with the grip surfaces 2a, 2b.
In this case, the new coat film transfer tape T unwound from
unwinding reel 11 is located at the lower side of the head body
20, which is in a state suited for use in lateral pull-slide
motion by a right-handed person, for example, to correct a part
of European writing. (See Fig. 6.)
(b) When the operation lever 35 is in an intermediate position
between the ends 37a, 37b of the operation guide 37 or in a
horizontal position [second defining position B shown in Fig.
- 21 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
(b)], the head body 20 of coat film transfer head device H
is at a guiding angle position so that the tip pressure piece
20c keeps the coat film transfer tape T in the winding position
of unwinding reel 11 and winding reel 12, that is, the face and
back surfaces of coat film transfer tape T are nearly vertical
(orthogonal) to the grip surfaces 2a, 2b.
In this case, the new coat film transfer tape T unwound from
the unwinding reel 11 is located at the left side of the head
body 20, which is in a state suited for use in vertical pull-slide
motion, for example, to correct a part of Japanese writing.
(See Fig. 7.)
(c) When the operation lever 35 is in engagement with the other
end 37b of operation guide 37 or in a vertical upward position
[third defining position C shown in Fig. 5 (c) ] , the head body
20 of coat film transfer head device H is at a guiding angle
position so that, in an upside-down position of (a), the tip
pressure piece 20c keeps the coat film transfer tape T nearly
opposite to the face and back surfaces 2a, 2b.
In this case, the new coat film transfer tape T unwound from
the unwinding reel 11 is located at the upper side of the head
body 20, which is in a state suited for use in lateral push-slide
motion by a right-handed person, for example, to correct a part
of European writing (see Fig. 8) or in a state suited for use
in lateral pull-slide motion by a left-handed person, for
example, to correct a part of European writing (see Fig. 9).
- 22 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
Also, as described above, the position of the operation lever
35 directly and visually indicates the facing direction of the
new coat film transfer tape T (a function as a head position
indicator) , and the user is able to check the tape press-transfer
position of the head body 20 by observing the position of the
operation lever 35.
The operation range in the rotational direction of operation
guide 37 (approx.180deg. max. in the illustration) may be set
to various values in a range from small to large angles, taking
into account the relationship between the operation lever 35
and the tape press-transfer position of head body 20.
Thus, a coat film transfer tool 1 having a configuration as
described may be used in various ways as shown in Fig. 6 ~ Fig.
9 for example to correct wrong characters or the like,
irrespective of right-handed or left-handed persons, by
manipulating the operation lever 35 according to the purpose
to select and set the optimum tape press-transfer position of
head body 20 of coat film transfer head device H [typically,
the first defining position A in Fig. 5 (a), second defining
position B in Fig. 5 (b) , third defining position C in Fig. 5
(c) ] and by holding the grip surfaces of case 2 (standard grip
surfaces are face and back surfaces 2a, 2b, but any suitable
portions or surfaces of case 2 may be gripped according to the
purpose) in relation to the selected transfer position.
That is, in any method of using, the case 2 is held by hand
- 23 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
the same as in holding a writing tool, then the tip pressure
piece 20c of coat film transfer head device H is pressed tight
against the starting end of the portion to be corrected (coat
film transferring surface) 40 on paper for example to correct
a wrong character or the like and the case 2 is immediately moved
along the paper or the like and then stopped at the end
(right-hand end) of the portion to be corrected 40.
With the above operation completed, correction paint layer
(white) 41 of coat film transfer tape T at the tip pressure piece
20c of the coat film transfer head device H has been transferred,
coming off the film base material, onto the portion to be
corrected 40. In this way, a wrong character or the like will
be erased and it is then possible to write a correct character
thereon.
On the other hand, the head body 20 of coat film transfer
head device H is free to rotate about its axis although it is
based on the tape press-transfer position predetermined by
operation lever 35, and it is possible to make a correction,
with respect to a curved portion as in a diagram, precisely along
the curve as shown in Fig. 6 (b), Fig. 8 (b) or Fig. 9 (b) as
well as linear portions such as a string of characters.
Also, even when the film transfer tool 1 is dropped during
one-handed operation or transport, giving strong shocks to the
head body 20 of coat film transfer head device H, the shocks
will be absorbed by shock absorber 30 of shock absorbing
- 24 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
structure 3 disposed at the tip of head body 20, reliably
preventing the tip pressure piece 20c of head body 20 from damage
or coat film transfer tape T from being broken by the tip pressure
piece 20c.
Embodiment 2:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 10 (a) ~ Fig. 10 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H in embodiment 1.
That is, in embodiment 1, shock absorber 30 is connected in
one piece with only the tip of head body 20, while in the coat
film transfer head device H of this embodiment, shock absorbers
41 of shock absorbing structure 40 are connected at a plurality
of portions in on piece with the base material section of head
body 20 alternately in the lengthwise direction.
Specifically, shock absorbers 41 are connected in one piece
with the tip of head body 20 the same as in embodiment 1 and
also with the base material of head body 20 at a plurality of
portions (3 portions in the illustration) alternately in the
lengthwise direction. As the component material of shock
absorbers 41, elastic material different from plastic that is
the base material of head body 20 is employed the same as in
embodiment 1, for example, it is preferred to use soft plastic,
thermoplastic elastomer or rubber being excellent in softness.
The shock absorber 30 of the embodiment illustrated is connected,
by two-color molding for example, in one piece with the base
- 25 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
material of head body 20.
Also, it is possible, as shown, to make the shock absorbing
structure 3 such that the shock absorbers are alternately
connected in one piece with the base material of head body 20
or the tip of head body 20 is formed of base material and the
base of the tip is of shock absorbing material (elastic material ) ,
and the shock absorbers are alternately connected in one piece
with the tip and the base material at a plurality of portions
in the lengthwise direction.
Thus, due to such configuration, the head body 20 of coat
film transfer head device H is provided with a greater shock
absorbing function and also the entire tip portion of head body
20 is given appropriate elasticity.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 1.
Embodiment 3:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 11 (a) ~ Fig. 11 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 50 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
is such that shock absorber 51 made up of elastic material
different from the base material of head body 20 is removably
mounted at the tip of head body 20, and a part of the shock
absorber 51 forms a head tip edge for press-transfer of coat
- 26 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
film transfer tape T or head tip pressure piece 20c.
Specifically, the shock absorber 51 is, same as in embodiment
1, made up of elastic material different from plastic that is
the base material of the head body 20 is naturally required to
be substantially suitable as a shock absorbing material and able
to secure a pressing function as tip pressure piece 20c, for
example, using soft plastic, thermoplastic elastomer or rubber
being excellent in softness as a material.
The shock absorber 51 is rhombic in cross-section and
symmetrical with respect to front and back as illustrated, and
each tip of the rhombus forms the tip pressure piece 20c. In
relation to this, at the tip of head body 20 is formed a retaining
groove 52 having a cross-section corresponding to that of the
shock absorber 51 which is retained in the groove 52 and is
removable sideways.
Thus, due to such configuration, even when the film transfer
tool 1 is dropped during one-handed operation or transport,
giving strong shocks to the head body 20 of coat film transfer
head device H, the shocks will be absorbed by shock absorber
51 of shock absorbing structure 50 disposed at the tip of head
body 20, reliably preventing the tip pressure piece 20c of head
body 20 from damage or coat film transfer tape T from being broken
by the tip pressure piece 20c.
Also, since the shock absorber 51 is rhombic in cross-section
and symmetrical with respect to front and back, being retained
- 27 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
in the retaining groove 52 of head body 20 and removable sideways,
even when the tip pressure piece 20c is worn out in use, the
shock absorber 51, once removed from the retaining groove 52
and reversed in position with respect to front and back, may
be again fitted in the retaining groove 52 thereby newly forming
a tip pressure piece 20c.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 1.
Embodiment 4:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 12 (a) ~ Fig. 12 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 55 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
is such that shock absorber 56 disposed at the tip of head body
20 is slidable sideways, and a part of the shock absorber 56
forms a head tip edge for press-transfer of coat film transfer
tape T or a head tip pressure piece 20c. As the material of
shock absorber 56, same as in embodiment 3, it is possible to
use elastic material different from plastic that is the base
material of the head body 20.
The shock absorber 56, same as in embodiment 3, is rhombic
in cross-section and symmetrical with respect to front and back,
and accordingly, retaining groove 57 of head body 20 is also
rhombic in cross-section, and reversing the position of shock
- 28 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
absorber 56 with respect to front and back may newly form a tip
pressure piece 20c.
Thus, due to such configuration, even when the film transfer
tool 1 is dropped during one-handed operation or transport,
giving strong shocks to the head body 20 of coat film transfer
head device H, the shock absorber 56 will slide sidewardly of
head body 20 (see the two-dot chain line in the illustration)
to absorb the shocks, reliably preventing the tip pressure piece
20c of head body 20 from damage or coat film transfer tape T
from being broken by the tip pressure piece 20c.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 1.
Embodiment 5:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 13 (a) ~ Fig. 13 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 60 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
is such that resiliently flexible member 61 made up of same
material as the base material of head body 20 is formed in one
piece with the tip of head body 20, and a part of the resiliently
flexible member 61 forms the tip pressure piece 20c.
Specifically, the resiliently flexible member 61 provided
with a flexible frame structure having a hollow therein, and
in the example shown, the contour of the frame structure is
- 29 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
nearly rhombic in cross-section, the tip edge of which is the
tip pressure piece 20c. The contour and frame in the frame
structure are designed to be enough in thickness to secure a
substantial shock absorbing function and a pressing function
as tip pressure piece 20c.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 1.
Embodiment 6:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 14 (a) ~ Fig. 14 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 70 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
is, same as in embodiment 5, such that resiliently flexible
member 71 made up of same material as the base material of head
body 20 is formed in one piece with the tip of head body 20,
and a part of the resiliently flexible member 71 forms the tip
pressure piece 20c.
Specifically, the resiliently flexible member 71 has a frame
structure slightly modified from embodiment 5, which is
provided with a reinforcement member inside the outer frame
having a contour being almost triangular in cross-section, and
its tip edge is tip pressure piece 20c
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 5.
- 30 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
Embodiment 7:
This embodiment is shown in Fig. 15 (a) ~ Fig. 15 (c) , which
includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 80 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
is, same as in embodiments 5 and 6, such that resiliently
flexible member 81 made up of same material as the base material
of head body 20 is formed in one piece with the tip of head body
20, and a part of the resiliently flexible member 81 forms the
tip pressure piece 20c.
Specifically, the resiliently flexible member 81 comprises
flexible member body 81a and tape guide 81b. The flexible
member body 81a is a thin plate extending in parallel to head
body 20, and its tip is slightly curved upward as illustrated.
Also, the tape guide 81b is a thin plate formed at an angle in
one piece with the curved tip of the flexible member body 81a.
The tip of the tape guide 81b is curved downward as illustrated,
and the tip edge serves as the tip pressure piece 20c. The
component members 81a and 81b of resiliently flexible member
81 are designed to be enough in shape and dimension to secure
a substantial shock absorbing function and a pressing function
as tip pressure piece 20c.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 5.
- 31 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
Embodiment 8:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 16 (a) ~ Fig. 16 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 90 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
is slightly modified from that of embodiment 7. Specifically,
resiliently flexible member 91 comprises flexible member body
91a and a pair of tape guides 91b, 91b.
The flexible member body 91a is a thin plate extending in
parallel to head body 20. Also, the tape guide 91b is a thin
plate formed at an angle in one piece with the tip of the flexible
member body 91a, and in the example illustrated, a pair of tape
guides 91b are formed symmetrically to each other extending
above and underneath the flexible member body 91a, and the tip
edge serves as tip pressure piece 20c that is rounded to a certain
extent. The component members 91a and 91b of resiliently
flexible member 91 are designed to be enough in shape and
dimension to secure a substantial shock absorbing function and
a pressing function as tip pressure piece 20c.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 7.
Embodiment 9:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 17 (a) ~ Fig. 17 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
- 32 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 95 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
is slightly modified from that of embodiment 7. Specifically,
resiliently flexible member 95 comprises flexible member body
96a and a pair of tape guides 96b, 96b.
The flexible member body 96a is a thin plate extending in
parallel to head body 20. Also, the tape guide 96b is a thin
plate formed at an angle in one piece with the tip of the flexible
member body 96a via connecting flexible member 97, and in the
example illustrated, a pair of tape guides 96b, 96b are arranged
symmetrically to each other above and underneath the flexible
member body 96a, and the tip edge serves as tip pressure piece
20c, 20c. The component members 96a, 96b and 97 of resiliently
flexible member 95 are designed to be enough in shape and
dimension to secure a substantial shock absorbing function and
a pressing function as tip pressure piece 20c.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 7.
Embodiment 10:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 18 (a) ~ Fig. 18 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 100 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
- 33 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
is, same as in embodiment 5 or 9, such that resiliently flexible
member 101 made up of the material same as the base material
of head body 20 is formed in one piece with the tip of head body
20, and a part of the resiliently flexible member 101 serves
as the tip pressure piece 20c.
Specifically, resiliently flexible member 101 has a
resiliently flexible framework structure formed in one piece
with the framework member, which comprises, as illustrated,
side framework members lOla, lOla extending along the side edges
of head body 20 and linear members lOlb, 101c, 101c bridging
between the members 101a, 101a.
The framework member lOla, as shown in Fig. 18 (c), forms
a triangular shape with its tip as a peak, and the both ends
of the linear member l Olb are connected to the peaks of framework
members lOla, lOla thereby forming the tip pressure piece 20c.
Also, the ends of remaining linear members lOlc, 101c are
connected to framework members 101a, 101a nearly in the middle
between the peak of the framework member lOla, lOla, the tip
pressure piece 20c (linear member lOlb) , and the base end, thus
serving as a reinforcement for the framework structure and also
as a guide for coat film transfer tape T.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 5.
Embodiment 11:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 19 (a) ~ Fig. 19 (c) ,
- 34 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 105 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
is, same as in embodiment 5 or 10, such that resiliently flexible
member 106 made up of the material same as the base material
of head body 20 is formed in one piece with the tip of head body
20, and a part of the resiliently flexible member 106 serves
as the tip pressure piece 20c.
Specifically, resiliently flexible member 106 has a
resiliently flexible framework structure formed in one piece
with the framework plate, which comprises, as illustrated, thin
plate flexible member body 106a extending in parallel to head
body 20 and a plurality of tape guides 106b, 106b, 106b (three
guides in the illustration) which are formed in one piece at
specified intervals in the lengthwise direction of the flexible
member body 106a.
The tip edges of the tape guides 106b, 106b, 106b as shown
in Fig. 19 (c), are a part of the triangular shape with tip
pressure piece 20c as its peak, which form a guide for coat film
transfer tape T.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 5.
Embodiment 12:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 20 (a) ~ Fig. 20 (c) ,
- 35 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 110 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
is such that resiliently flexible member 111 made up of the
material same as the base material of head body 20 is formed
in one piece with the base end of head body 20.
Specifically, resiliently flexible member 111 is formed of
one linear rod having a sectional area smaller than that of head
body 20, and the linear rod 111 linearly extends backwards from
the widthwise center of the base end of head body 20 and is
connected in one piece with body support 25.
Thus, due to such configuration, even when the film transfer
tool 1 is dropped during one-handed operation or transport,
giving strong shocks to the head body 20 of coat film transfer
head device H, the shocks will be absorbed by shock absorber
111 of shock absorbing structure 100 provided at the base end
of head body 20, reliably preventing the tip pressure piece 20c
of head body 20 from damage or coat film transfer tape T from
being broken by the tip pressure piece 20c.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 1.
Embodiment 13:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 21 (a) ~ Fig. 21 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
- 36 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 120 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
is such that resiliently flexible member 121 is slightly
modified in the resiliently flexible member 121 from that of
embodiment 12.
Specifically, resiliently flexible member 121 is formed of
two linear rods 121a, 121a, and these linear rods 121a, 121a
being parallel to each other linearly extend backwards from the
widthwise center of the base end of head body 20 and is connected
in one piece with body support 25.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 12.
Embodiment 14:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 22 (a) ~ Fig. 22 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 130 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
is, same as in embodiments 12 and 13, such that resiliently
flexible member 131 made up of same material as the base material
of head body 20 is formed in one piece with the base end member
of head body 20.
Specifically, resiliently flexible member 131, as
illustrated, has a zigzag structure having a sectional area
- 37 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
smaller than that of head body 20. In other words, there are
provided slit notches 131a, 131a, .. . at specific intervals in
the lengthwise direction of head body 20.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 12.
Embodiment 15:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 23 (a) ~ Fig. 23 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 140 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
is retractably disposed at the tip of head body 20 and provided
with head member 141 having the tip pressure piece 20c.
Specifically, the head member 141 is nearly triangular in
cross-section forming the tip pressure piece 20c, and a support
shaft 141a is formed in one piece with the base end of same.
The support shaft 141a is a linear rod in shape being rectangular
in cross-section [see Fig. 23 (d)], which linearly extends
i
backwards from the base end center of the head member 141 and
is axially retractably supported by the head body 20.
That is, as shown in Fig. 23 (c) , at the tip center of head
body 20 is formed insertion hole 142 having a sectional shape
in accordance with the support shaft 141a and extending
backwards, and the base end portion is provided with an engaging
portion 142a for the engagement of swell base end 141b of the
- 38 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
support shaft 141a and with an receiving portion 142b for the
accommodation of swell base end 141b in retraction.
And, in a normal state, the swell base end 141b of support
shaft 141a is positioned in engaging portion 142a, securing a
position for use as shown, and when excessive shocks (especially
shocks in lengthwise direction) are applied to head member 141,
the shocks will cause the swell base end 141b to be disengaged
from the engaging portion 142a and to be shifted backward into
the receiving portion 142b, going beyond the insertion hole 142 .
Then, the head member 141 will retract to absorb the shocks.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 1.
Embodiment 16:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 24 (a) ~ Fig. 24 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 150 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment,
slightly modified from that of embodiment 12, is such that
support shaft 151a of head member 151 is circular in cross-
section [see Fig. 24 (d) ), and insertion hole 152 of head body
20 is circular in shape in accordance with support shaft 151a,
and the head member 151 is rotatably supported by head body 20.
Thus, due to such configuration, even when shocks are applied
to the head member 151 in rotational direction as well as in
- 39 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
lengthwise direction, the head member 151 will rotate to some
extent to efficiently absorb the shocks, reliably preventing
the head member 151 from damage.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 15.
Embodiment 17:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 25 (a) ~ Fig. 25 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 160 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment,
slightly modified from that of embodiment 12, is such that
support shaft 161a of head member 161 is provided with a spring
163 that applies forwardly urging forces to the head member 161 .
Specifically, the spring 163 is disposed at support shaft
161a in a manner such that it is engaged between the base surface
i
of the head member 161 and the tip surface of head body 20, and
accordingly, the base end portion of insertion hole 162 of the
head body 20 is provided with an engaging portion 162a for the
engagement of swell base end 161b of the support shaft 161a,
and the engaging portion 162a has a lengthwise dimension that
is larger than the maximum dimension of support shaft 161a in
retraction.
And, in a normal state, the swell base end 161b of support
shaft 161a is engaged with the front end of the engaging portion
- 40 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
162a due to the urging force of the spring 163, securing a
position for use as shown, and when excessive shocks are applied
to head member 161, the head member 161 will retract against
the urging force of spring 163 and will reliably absorb the
shocks.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 15.
Embodiment 18:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 26 (a) ~ Fig. 26 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means ) 165 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment,
same as in embodiments 1517, is retractably disposed at the
tip of head body 20 and comprises head member 166 having the
tip pressure piece 20c.
i
Specifically, the head member 166 is nearly triangular in
i
i
cross-section forming the tip pressure piece 20c; and support
i
166a is formed in one piece with the base end of same. The
support 166a is a plate whose cross-section is rectangular,
which extends backwards from the base end of the head member
166 and is axially retractably supported by the head body 20.
That is, as shown in Fig. 26 (c), at the tip of head body
20 is formed a pair of supports 167, 167 extending forward, and
both ends of the support 166a are inserted into slots 167a, 167a
- 41 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
of supports 167, 167. Also, support 166a and the slots 167a,
167a are respectively provided with proj ections 168a, 168a and
recesses 168b, 168b in corresponding positions for the purpose
of engagement.
And, in a normal state, the proj ection 168a and recess 168b
are engaged by spring with each other, then the support 166a
is placed in the specified position defined by supports 167,
167 of head body 20, securing a position for use as shown, and
when excessive shocks (especially shocks in lengthwise
direction) are applied to head member 166, the shocks will cause
the projections 168a and recesses 168b to be disengaged from
each other and the support 166a to slide backward in the slots
167a, 167a of supports 167, 167, then the head member 166 will
retract to absorb the shocks.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 1.
Embodiment 19:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 27 (a) ~ Fig. 27 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means) 170 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment
is disposed at the base end portion of head body 20 and
retractably supports the head body 20.
Specifically, the shock absorbing structure 170 is such that
- 42 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
a straight rod shaped support shaft 171 is formed in one piece
with the base end of head body 20, and the support shaft 171
is axially retractably fitted in body support 25. The specific
support structure of the support shaft 171 is same as described
in embodiment 12. That is, the support shaft 171 is a linear
rod having a rectangular cross-section [see Fig. 27 (b)]. On
the other hand, at the end center of body support 25 is formed
insertion hole 172 that extends backwards having a cross-
sectional shape corresponding to the support shaft 171, and at
the base end portion of same is formed an engaging portion 172a
for engaging swell base end 171a of the support shaft 171 and
a receiving portion 172b for receiving the swell base end 171a
retracted.
And, in a normal state, the swell base end 171a of support
shaft 171 is retained in engaging portion 172a, securing a
position for use as shown, and when excessive shocks (especially
shocks in lengthwise direction) are applied to head body 20,
the shocks will cause the swell base end 171a to be disengaged
from engaging portion 172a and to be shifted backward into the
receiving portion172b, going beyondinsertion holel72. Thus,
the head body 20 will retract to absorb the shocks.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 1.
Embodiment 20:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 28 (a) ~ Fig. 28 (c) ,
- 43 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means ) 180 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment,
slightly modified from that of embodiment 19, is such that
support shaft 181 is circular in cross-section, and insertion
hole 182 of body support 25 is circular in shape in accordance
with support shaft 171 [see Fig. 28 (d) ] , and the head body 20
is rotatably supported by body support 25.
Thus, due to such configuration, even when shocks are applied
to the head body 20 in rotational direction as well as in
lengthwise direction, the head body 20 will rotate to some extent
in the rotational direction to efficiently absorb the shocks,
thus reliably preventing the head body 20 from damage.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 19.
Embodiment 21:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 29 (a) ~ Fig. 29 (c) ,
which includes some modifications with respect to the specific
structure of coat film transfer head device H.
That is, the shock absorbing structure (shock absorbing
means ) 190 in coat film transfer head device H of this embodiment,
also slightly modified from that of embodiment 19, is such that
support shaft 191 is provided with a spring 193 which applies
urging forces to head body 20 in the forward direction.
- 44 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
Specifically, the spring 193 is disposed at support shaft
191 in a manner such that it is engaged between the base end
of the head body 20 and the end surface of body support 25, and
accordingly, the base end portion of insertion hole 192 of the
head body 20 is provided with an engaging portion 192a for the
engagement of swell base end 191a of the support shaft 191, and
the engaging portion 192a has a lengthwise dimension that is
larger than the maximum dimension of support shaft 191 in
retraction.
And, in a normal state, the swell base end 191a of support
shaft 191 is engaged with the front end of the engaging portion
192a due to the urging force of the spring 193, securing a
position for use as shown, and when excessive shocks are applied
to head body 20, the head body 20 will retract against the urging
force of spring 193 and will reliably absorb the shocks.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 19.
Embodiment 22:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 30, which includes
some modifications with respect to the specific structure of
coat film transfer head device H.
That is, in this embodiment, the structure is such that head
body 20 of coat film transfer head device H comprises a
stationary head structure secured to cartridge case 10.
Specifically, body support 25 of head body 20 is secured in
- 45 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
one piece to head retainer 200 of cartridge case 10, and tip
pressure piece 20c of head body 20 is a linear edge in shape
extending nearly in parallel to grip surfaces 2a, 2b (see Fig.
3 ) of case 2 or, in other words, a linear edge in shape extending
nearly vertically to the rotational axis of the reels 11, 12
supported by cartridge case 10, thus providing a structure to
be used for lateral pull-slide motion only.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 1.
Embodiment 23:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 31, which includes
some modifications with respect to the specific structure of
coat film transfer head device H.
That is, in this embodiment, the coat film transfer head
device H is disposed at the tip of case 2. The specific structure
of the coat film transfer head device H is fully same as in
embodiment 1 except its fitting position.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
embodiment 1.
Embodiment 24:
The present embodiment is shown in Fig. 32, which includes
some modifications with respect to the basic structure of coat
film transfer tool 1.
That is, in each of coat film transfer tool 1 of the
embodiments described above, coat film transfer tape T is of
- 46 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
replaceable cartridge type or refill type as consumables . In
this embodiment, all the component parts including coat film
transfer tape T are of single-use type to be used as consumables.
Namely, coat film transfer tool 1 of this embodiment
comprises unwinding reel 11 with coat film transfer tape T wound
thereon and winding reel 12 to recover the used coat film
transfer tape T, and the coat film transfer head device H is
mounted at the tip of case 2 in a manner such that it is rotatable
about the head axis. The specific structure of the coat film
transfer head device H is fully same as in embodiment 1 except
its fitting position.
Also, although the specific structure is not shown, besides
the unwinding reel 11 and winding reel 12, maj or basic components
such as a tape interlock unit to interlock these reels 11 and
12 with each other, a clutch mechanism which synchronizes the
unwinding and winding speeds of coat film transfer tape T on
the unwinding reel 11 and winding reel 12 are also arranged in
case body 4 of case 2 in the form of a unit.
The other configuration and operation are the same as in
i
embodiment 1.
The embodiments 1 ~ 24 describe above are onl
y preferred i
embodiments of the present invention, and it is to be understood
that the present invention is not limited only to these
embodiments and that various changes in design may be made within
departing from the true scope of the invention.
- 47 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
For example, by using a paint layer that produces a clear
fluorescent color in stead of the correction paint layer of coat
film transfer tape T in coat film transfer tool 1 as shown, the
film transfer tool may be used as a so-called marker coat film
transfer tool wherein the area coated with the paint layer
becomes visually conspicuous.
Also, by using a structure such that an adhesive surface is
formed on one side of the film base material as coat film transfer
tape T, the film transfer tool may be used as a bonding tool
wherein only the adhesive layer is transferred onto paper or
the like.
As described in detail, in a coat film transfer head device
of the present invention, since there is provided a shock
absorbing means which absorbs the shocks applied to the head
body for press-transfer of coat film transfer tape, even when
the film transfer tool is dropped during one-handed operation
or transport, for instance, causing strong shocks to be applied
i
to the head, the shocks will be absorbed by the shock absorbing
means, reliably preventing the tip pressure piece of the head,
having a sharp edge, from damage or the coat film transfer tape
from being broken by the tip pressure piece. i
As a result, a protective member such as a conventional head
cover is not needed at all, and it is possible to reduce the
number of parts used and the production cost that will lead to
reduction of the product cost, and also to solve problems that
- 48 -
CA 02326250 2000-11-16
may arise in using a conventional protective member, such as,
a problem of missing the protective cover or a problem that the
conventionalprotective member can become an obstruction during
use.
The specific embodiments mentioned in the above detailed
description are only intended to make clear the technical
details of the present invention, and it is to be understood
that the invention is not limited in its application to only
the specific examples described and that various changes may
be made within the spirit of the invention and the purview of
the appended claims.
- 49 -