Print media handling system including dual incline support for controlling pen to paper spacing

摘要

A media handling system includes a drive roller, an elongated pinch roller and a contoured support. The pinch roller extends across the print medium near the print zone to control the localized shape of the print medium. The support underlies the print medium in the print zone and includes first and second underlying pivotal inclines. The pinch rollers push the print medium onto the first pivotal incline adjacent to the drive roller. The second underlying incline is located downstream toward the print zone exit. As the print medium is fed through the print zone, a portion of the print medium within the print zone between the pivotal inclines is suspended exhibiting a reverse bowing. Beyond the second pivotal incline the print medium droops. The presence of the two underlying inclines more uniformly distributes the stress accompanying the bowing of the print medium within the print zone.