Abstract: An apparatus for applying a pre-printed transfer to a substrate at an elevated temperature and under increased pressure is disclosed. The apparatus includes a framework, an enclosure containing a plurality of control mechanisms, a heated platen assembly, and an index mechanism. The heated platen assembly comprises a first member capable of vertical travel and a second member that is removable. The pre-printed transfer is positioned proximate the second member and the substrate is positioned proximate the first member. The index mechanism has at least a supply portion for holding a continuous web of pre-printed transfers and a collection portion for receiving the continuous web after the pre-printed transfer has been applied to the substrate. Also disclosed is a method of applying a pre-printed transfer to a desired substrate utilizing this apparatus.

Abstract: A transfer press apparatus is provided which includes, among other features, a frame, a cuff assembly supported on the frame and including a support formed of a heat-conductive material with radially opposed inner and outer surfaces and a heating element disposed on the outer surface of the support, and an actuating assembly for positioning the cuff assembly from an engaged to a disengaged position.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention is an apparatus for microregistering a screen within a screen printing device, wherein the screen printing device has at least one pallet and a pallet drive mechanism for indexing the pallet. The apparatus includes a semi-stationary print head assembly which is selectively movable in an x-direction which is parallel to the path of the pallet and selectively lockable at a desired print location, the print head assembly including: a mechanism for registering the screen in a generally horizontal x-y plane, wherein angular displacement of the screen in a theta direction corresponds to rotation about a substantially vertical axis passing through the x-y plane; and, a mechanism for adjusting the orientation of the screen within the x-y plane with either a linear displacement in the y-direction or an angular displacement in the theta-direction, or both.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a printing apparatus which includes a polygonal support frame, a plurality of spaced apart pallets movably mounted on the support frame, and a pallet drive assembly mounted to the support frame and connected to the pallets for indexing the pallets around the support frame to desired printing locations.

Abstract: A press is provided for applying heat transfers to rigid or flexible substrates such as plaques, tiles, plates, clothing and the like. The press includes a frame (10) presenting a lower platen (12), and an upper platen (58) supported on an arm (50) for movement toward and away from the lower platen. The upper platen (58) presents a mounting bracket (78) by which it is connected to the support arm, and a pressure adjustment assembly (54) is supported between the upper platen and the support arm for adjusting the position of the upper platen. The pressure adjustment assembly (54) includes a pin (80) supported in apertures of the support arm (50) and the upper platen (58) and a lever (88) protruding generally radially from the pin for permitting the rotational position of the pin to be adjusted.

Abstract: A heat transfer machine is provided with upper and lower platens and a compound linkage which permits one motion opening and closing as well as application of a large compression force to the platens. The linkage automatically toggles between a primary linkage configuration and a secondary linkage configuration upon movement of a lever arm by the machine operator. The primary linkage configuration allows the upper platen to be opened and closed while the secondary linkage configuration permits application of the compressive force to the platens.