SINGLE HEATING PLATEN DOUBLE-SIDED SUBLIMATION PRINTING PROCESS AND APPARATUS IN A RETAIL ENVIRONMENT

摘要

A process and apparatus (100, 300, 800) for sublimating printed images onto two or more sides of a product (1410) simultaneously using a single heating platen (14) are disclosed. The apparatus is configured to print (2) one or more images (92, 94, 96, 98) onto transfer media (90, 1420), then position the transfer media onto a substrate (10, 36). A product (1410) to receive the sublimated image is positioned on top of the transfer media (90, 1420), and the apparatus manipulates the transfer media to substantially surround (Fig. 14) the product and place at least one image onto each side of the product to be sublimated. A single heating platen then engages the transfer media to sublimate the image. The heating platen is configured, using a control, to sublimate opposing sides of a product substantially simultaneously in a single thermal cycle.