Patent ID: 9731534
Date: 2017-08-15
CPC Classifications: B41F,B41J,B41M,B44C,G06Q,G07F

Claim:
1. A computer-implemented automated method for simultaneously sublimating images on two or more products using a dye sublimation transfer printer apparatus including an interface device containing one or more processors, comprising: prompting the user, via the interface device, to indicate a desired number of products to sublimate; receiving, via the interface device, one or more digital image files representing an image selected by the user for sublimating onto the products; presenting to the user, via the interface device, information relating to pricing of the desired products; determining, via the one or more processors, a spatial arrangement of the images on a transfer media based upon the user's desired number of products to be sublimated; printing the images onto the transfer media, wherein the images are printed onto the media according to the determined spatial arrangement; positioning the transfer media on a substrate; positioning the desired number of products onto the transfer media in a manner corresponding to the determined spatial arrangement; configuring, via the one or more processors, a single thermal cycle for one or more heating platens such that the images will be sublimated substantially simultaneously onto each one of the desired number of products in a single thermal cycle; moving the one or more heating platens into contact with the transfer media; and sublimating at least one image from the transfer media onto each of the desired number of products using the configured single thermal cycle of the one or more heating platens.