Method and apparatus for installing a media supply cassette in an imagesetter

摘要

An assist mechanism (10) for installing a web-type media supply into an imagesetter (12) allows a single user (100) to automatically lift and position a large format media supply roll (53) or a supply cassette (14) containing a supply roll from a reloading location remote from the imagesetter (12) to a docking location (18) in the imagesetter. The assist mechanism (10) comprises a roll-up cart having a support bracket (46) mounted on the top a telescopic column (44) with two arms (48) for supporting the supply cassette (14). The cart is positioned adjacent to the remote location at which time a foot switch (80) on the cart is used to actuate the telescopic column (44) to vertically raise and lower the support bracket (46). The bracket arms (48) hook under the ends of a supply roll bearing (51) supporting the supply roll (53), to lift the media supply from the surface. The cart (10) is then rolled to the docking location of the imagesetter (12) and the assist mechanism is actuated by the foot switch (80) to vertically adjust the telescopic column (44) supporting the support bracket (46). The media supply (14) is then positioned into a support tray (18) at the docking location. When the media supply (14) is sitting in the tray (18), the bracket arms (48) disengage from the end pins (51) and the cart is rolled away. The media supply is then automatically positioned for use by the imagesetter (12). The assist mechanism (10) is also be used to remove the cassette (14) from the tray (18) in a similar manner.