Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus and process for conveying a printed object, such as a printed bottle. The apparatus comprises a vacuum pump for supplying a vacuum and a rotationally driven central shaft operably associated with the vacuum pump. The central shaft has a bore therethrough for carrying a vacuum. A rotary disc is mounted on the central shaft for rotation therewith for conveying the printed object sequentially from a receipt station to a discharge station. The rotary disc has a front face, a back face and an internal vacuum chamber for carrying a vacuum. The internal vacuum chamber is in communication with the central shaft's bore and the vacuum pump. Additionally, the front face has at least one vacuum port. A valve system is preferably associated with the vacuum port for controlling the delivery of the vacuum to the vacuum port so that suction created by the vacuum picks-up the object at the receipt station.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying printed material to a cylindrical object is provided which eliminates the need for individually chucking each object, thereby significantly decreasing production time. The need for a squeegee to transfer the paint or dye onto the cylindrical object is also eliminated, resulting in longer screen life and further decreasing production time. A process for using this improved apparatus is also provided for.