Abstract: A method and apparatus for recording image information on a moving receiver media at a thermal print station features a ribbon cassette assembly that stores a thermal ribbon having dye, the thermal ribbon being supported as a supply role and take-up role on the ribbon cassette assembly, the ribbon cassette assembly including a wall structure defining a plenum chamber. Air under pressure is provided to the plenum chamber. An elongated thermal print head is positioned in engagement with the thermal ribbon; and recording elements on the thermal print head are directed along a main scan direction. The print head has associated therewith a heat sink that includes a series of parallel fins arranged along the length of the print head and the fins are oriented at least generally perpendicular to the main scan direction of printing. Cooling air flows from the wall structure, which structure extends in the direction of elongation of the print head.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for recording image information on a moving receiver media at a thermal print station features a ribbon cassette assembly that stores a thermal ribbon having dye, the thermal ribbon being supported as a supply role and take-up role on the ribbon cassette assembly, the ribbon cassette assembly including a wall structure defining a plenum chamber. Air under pressure is provided to the plenum chamber. An elongated thermal print head is positioned in engagement with the thermal ribbon; and recording elements on the thermal print head are directed along a main scan direction. The print head has associated therewith a heat sink that includes a series of parallel fins arranged along the length of the print head and the fins are oriented at least generally perpendicular to the main scan direction of printing. Cooling air flows from the wall structure, which structure extends in the direction of elongation of the print head.