Modular sublimation transfer printing apparatus

An automated sublimation apparatus for sublimating an image on a product, comprising:

• a dye sublimation transfer printer configured to receive a digital image file representing an image, the dye sublimation transfer printer configured to print the received image on a transfer media;
• a substrate configured to receive the transfer media;
• one or more heating platens configured to sublimate the printed image onto one or more opposing sides of the selected product;
• a housing substantially enclosing the dye sublimation transfer printer, substrate, and one or more heating platens in a manner that prevents a user from contacting the enclosed components;
• and
• a user interface device configured to permit the user to determine an image for printing.

A vending apparatus for providing a user with a customized sublimated product, comprising:

• a dye sublimation transfer printer configured to receive a digital image file representing an image from the user and further configured to print the received image on a transfer media;
• a substrate configured to receive the transfer media;
• one or more product storage containers configured to store a plurality of products;
• a robotic transport mechanism configured to place the transfer media on the substrate, retrieve a selected product from a storage container, and position the product on the transfer media;
• one or more heating platens configured to engage the transfer media and sublimate the printed image onto one or more opposing sides of the selected product in a single thermal cycle;
• a cooling system configured to cool the sublimated product to at least about an ambient temperature;
• a delivery opening configured to provide the cooled product to the user;
• a housing substantially enclosing the dye sublimation transfer printer, substrate, one or more product storage containers, robotic transport mechanism, one or more heating platens, and cooling system in a manner that prevents a user from contacting the enclosed components;
• and
• a user interface device configured to permit the user to determine one or more images for printing, select one of the plurality of products on which to sublimate the one or more images, and facilitate payment by the user for the sublimated product.