Abstract: A process and apparatus for sublimating printed images onto two or more sides of a product simultaneously using a single heating platen are disclosed. The apparatus is configured to print one or more images onto transfer media, then position the transfer media onto a substrate. A product to receive the sublimated image is positioned on top of the transfer media, and the apparatus manipulates the transfer media to substantially surround 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.

Abstract: An automatic product sublimation process is disclosed allowing for point-of-sale customization of sublimation parameters in a retail environment. A dye sublimation transfer printing system is configured to print one or more images onto transfer media, then position the media onto a substrate. A selected product is positioned on top of the media. The system is configured to automatically determine, by a processor, one or more of a temperature and duration of a single thermal cycle to sublimate the one or more images onto the selected product. The determination may be based on properties of the product, characteristics of the images, or both. One or more heating platens engage the transfer media to sublimate the product in a single thermal cycle, wherein at least one of the cycle's temperature and duration match the determined values. The disclosed process improves the quality of the sublimation technique, yet requires no substantive operator training.

Abstract: An engraving system operable to engrave user-loaded items is provided. The engraving system may have a housing, an engraver located within the housing, and a carrier configured to receive from a user a cartridge holding then item to be engraved and to position the cartridge relative to the engraver. The carrier may be configured to engrave the item via windows in the cartridge, and to flip the cartridge relative to the engraver for engraving on multiple sides of the item.

Abstract: An engraving system operable to engrave user-loaded items is provided. The engraving system may have a housing, an engraver located within the housing, and a carrier configured to receive from a user a cartridge holding then item to be engraved and to position the cartridge relative to the engraver. The carrier may be configured to engrave the item via windows in the cartridge, and to flip the cartridge relative to the engraver for engraving on multiple sides of the item.