Patent ID: 8348371
Filing Date: 2013-01-08
Classification: A43B,A43D,B41J

Abstract:
1. A system for performing a method for customizing a piece of apparel in a retail facility according to an order placed by a customer, the system comprising: a computing device configured to receive the order including one or more graphics selected by the customer, and to convert the order into printing instructions, and to deliver the printing instructions to a printer in communication with the computing device; an inventory of one or more preassembled blank three-dimensional products within the retail facility, wherein the piece of apparel represents at least one of the one or more preassembled blank three-dimensional products; the printer within the retail facility to receive at least a portion of the piece of apparel within a loading zone, wherein the piece of apparel is selected by the customer from the inventory, and to operate an inkjet nozzle to release a coloring agent from the inkjet nozzle that physically applies a design on the portion of the piece of apparel, wherein a pattern and timing of the release of the coloring agent is controlled by the printing instructions, and wherein the design substantially replicates the one or more selected graphics; and an oven that has a chamber for receiving the piece of apparel that exhibits the design in an uncured condition, wherein the oven is configured to heat the piece of apparel until the design reaches a cured condition, and wherein the computing device, the printer, and the oven are each located in the retail facility.