Abstract: A shaft assembly for a thermal printer system for applying loads in an adjustable manner along the length of a thermal print head of the thermal printer system. The shaft assembly includes a shaft, and a plurality of cam mechanisms rotatably mounted on the shaft and adapted to apply respective loads to the thermal print head at respective locations along the length of the thermal print head. Each cam mechanism is rotationally coupled with an adjacent cam mechanism, and is adapted to be rotated from a non-load-applying position to load-applying position and from the load-applying position to subsequent load applying positions. Each cam mechanism is adapted to apply a respective load to structure associated with the thermal print head when the cam mechanism is in any of its load-applying positions.

Abstract: A window blind assembly having a bottom rail that defines a channel for receiving and storing unnecessary or unused slats of the blind assembly to enable the ready customization of the blind assembly to fit windows of different heights. End caps removably engageable with the ends of the storage rail may be provided for retaining the slats within the channel. Slots may be formed on each of the leading edges of the end caps, extending inwardly, for engaging a cover slat to enclose the storage rail and enhance the aesthetic appearance of the storage rail. Means are also provided for readily securing the storage rail to the cords of the blind assembly.