Abstract: A portable printer having improved ergonomic and operational characteristics. The printer includes an asymmetrically-damped media centering mechanism having first and second media support members moveable along a common longitudinal axis and configured to grasp roll media. The media support members are coupled to a reciprocal movement mechanism configured to translate a longitudinal movement of the first media support member into a corresponding opposite longitudinal movement of the second media support member. A pivoting arm is coupled to the reciprocal movement mechanism. The pivoting arm pivots to a first position when the first and second media support members are moved closer to each other, which causes a damping gear to engage the reciprocal movement mechanism, thereby damping the grasping motion of the media support members and providing an improved user experience.

Abstract: A latching mechanism includes a housing defining a slot for receiving a device therein. The housing includes first and second slide blocks disposed on either side of the slot. Each slide block is movable between a retracted position, wherein a pin thereof is disposed within the housing, and an extended position, wherein the pin extends into the slot to engage the device therein. A U-shaped member is disposed within the housing and includes first and second legs interconnected by a base. The U-shaped member is movable relative to the housing between an unlocked position, wherein the legs retain the slide blocks in the retracted position, a locked position, wherein the slide blocks are permitted to move to the extended position, and an eject position, wherein the legs retain the slide blocks in the retracted position and wherein the base extends into the slot to eject the handheld device.

Abstract: A portable printer having improved ergonomic and operational characteristics. The printer includes an asymmetrically-damped media centering mechanism having first and second media support members moveable along a common longitudinal axis and configured to grasp roll media. The media support members are coupled to a reciprocal movement mechanism configured to translate a longitudinal movement of the first media support member into a corresponding opposite longitudinal movement of the second media support member. A pivoting arm is coupled to the reciprocal movement mechanism. The pivoting arm pivots to a first position when the first and second media support members are moved closer to each other, which causes a damping gear to engage the reciprocal movement mechanism, thereby damping the grasping motion of the media support members and providing an improved user experience.

Abstract: A portable printer having improved ergonomic and operational characteristics. The printer includes an asymmetrically-damped media centering mechanism having first and second media support members moveable along a common longitudinal axis and configured to grasp roll media. The media support members are coupled to a reciprocal movement mechanism configured to translate a longitudinal movement of the first media support member into a corresponding opposite longitudinal movement of the second media support member. A pivoting arm is coupled to the reciprocal movement mechanism. The pivoting arm pivots to a first position when the first and second media support members are moved closer to each other, which causes a damping gear to engage the reciprocal movement mechanism, thereby damping the grasping motion of the media support members and providing an improved user experience.

Abstract: A latching mechanism includes a housing defining a slot for receiving a device therein. The housing includes first and second slide blocks disposed on either side of the slot. Each slide block is movable between a retracted position, wherein a pin thereof is disposed within the housing, and an extended position, wherein the pin extends into the slot to engage the device therein. A U-shaped member is disposed within the housing and includes first and second legs interconnected by a base. The U-shaped member is movable relative to the housing between an unlocked position, wherein the legs retain the slide blocks in the retracted position, a locked position, wherein the slide blocks are permitted to move to the extended position, and an eject position, wherein the legs retain the slide blocks in the retracted position and wherein the base extends into the slot to eject the handheld device.

Abstract: A portable printer having improved ergonomic and operational characteristics. The printer includes an asymmetrically-damped media centering mechanism having first and second media support members moveable along a common longitudinal axis and configured to grasp roll media. The media support members are coupled to a reciprocal movement mechanism configured to translate a longitudinal movement of the first media support member into a corresponding opposite longitudinal movement of the second media support member. A pivoting arm is coupled to the reciprocal movement mechanism. The pivoting arm pivots to a first position when the first and second media support members are moved closer to each other, which causes a damping gear to engage the reciprocal movement mechanism, thereby damping the grasping motion of the media support members and providing an improved user experience.