U.S. patent application number 17/177965 was filed with the patent office on 2022-08-18 for sublimation systems and related methods.
This patent application is currently assigned to Cricut, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Cricut, Inc.. Invention is credited to Ashish Arora, Cole Chamberlain, John Dalton.
Application Number | 20220258514 17/177965 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-08-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220258514 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dalton; John ; et
al. |
August 18, 2022 |
Sublimation Systems and Related Methods
Abstract
A sublimation device includes a first heater and a second
heater. The first heater includes a proximal end, a distal end, and
an inner surface. The distal end is disposed opposite the proximal
end. The inner surface extends between the proximal end and the
distal end and at least partially forms a cavity. The second heater
is disposed proximate the distal end of the first heater.
Inventors: |
Dalton; John; (South Jordan,
UT) ; Chamberlain; Cole; (American Fork, UT) ;
Arora; Ashish; (South Jordan, UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Cricut, Inc. |
South Jordan |
UT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Cricut, Inc.
South Jordan
UT
|
Appl. No.: |
17/177965 |
Filed: |
February 17, 2021 |
International
Class: |
B41M 5/035 20060101
B41M005/035; B41F 16/00 20060101 B41F016/00 |
Claims
1. A sublimation device comprising: a first heater including a
proximal end, a distal end disposed opposite the proximal end, and
an inner surface extending between the proximal end and the distal
end, the inner surface at least partially forming a cavity; and a
second heater disposed proximate the distal end of the first heater
and configured to support a workpiece thereon, wherein: the first
heater is configured to move, relative to the second heater,
between an open orientation and a closed orientation; the first
heater includes two or more distinct heat zones configured to
provide different temperatures to correspondingly-zoned regions of
an outer side surface of the workpiece; and wherein an upper
opening is defined at the proximal end of the first heater, and the
upper opening is configured to remain open during a sublimation
process performed on the workpiece.
2. The sublimation device of claim 1, wherein the cavity includes a
major axis surrounded by the inner surface of the first heater,
wherein the second heater includes a top surface disposed
perpendicular to the major axis.
3. (canceled)
4. The sublimation device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the
two or more distinct heat zones extend vertically along a side edge
of the first heater such that the at least one of the two or more
heat zones is configured to contact a portion of the outer side
surface of the workpiece adjacent to a flange of the workpiece when
the workpiece is placed into the cavity.
5. The sublimation device of claim 1, wherein the two or more
distinct heat zones include: a first side heat zone extending
vertically along a first side edge of the first heater; a second
side heat zone extending vertically along a second side edge of the
first heater; and a middle heat zone disposed between the first
side heat zone and the second side heat zone.
6. The sublimation device of claim 1, wherein the second heater
comprises a flat upper surface that is configured to face a bottom
surface of the workpiece when the workpiece is placed into the
cavity.
7. The sublimation device of claim 1, wherein the cavity is
cylindrical.
8. The sublimation device of claim 5, wherein: the first heater
forms a gap that is configured to receive a flange portion
extending from the workpiece when the workpiece is placed into the
cavity; and the gap is defined between the first side edge of the
first heater and the second side edge of the first heater.
9. The sublimation device of claim 1, wherein the distal end of the
first heater defines a lower opening.
10. The sublimation device of claim 9, wherein: the first heater
forms a vertical sidewall defining at least a portion of the
cavity; and the second heater is disposed at least partially within
the lower opening such that an upper surface of the second heater
defines at least a portion of a lower surface of the cavity.
11. The sublimation device of claim 1, further comprising: an outer
casing; and an insulative layer disposed between the second heater
and the outer casing.
12-20. (canceled)
21. A sublimation device comprising: a first heater having a
tube-shaped structure at least partially defining a cylindrical
cavity, wherein the cylindrical cavity comprises a central axis,
wherein a lower end of the tube-shaped structure defines a lower
opening and an upper end of the tube-shaped structure, opposite the
lower end, defines an upper opening; and a second heater disposed
proximate the lower end of the first heater, the second heater
comprising an upper surface that is perpendicular to the central
axis and that is configured to support a workpiece thereon,
wherein: the upper surface of the second heater defines a lower
surface of the cylindrical cavity such that the second heater
defines a closed bottom of the cylindrical cavity; and the upper
opening of the tube-shaped structure of the first heater is
configured to remain open during a sublimation process performed on
the workpiece.
22. (canceled)
23. The sublimation device of claim 21, wherein the first heater is
configured to move, relative to the second heater, between an open
orientation and a closed orientation.
24. The sublimation device of claim 21, wherein an air gap is
defined between the first heater and the second heater.
25. The sublimation device of claim 21, further comprising an
insulative insert disposed radially outward and concentrically
around the first heater.
26. The sublimation device of claim 25, further comprising a spring
sheet disposed radially outward and concentrically around the
insulative insert.
27. A sublimation device comprising: a heating assembly having a
tube-shaped structure at least partially defining a cylindrical
cavity that comprises a central axis, wherein a lower end of the
tube-shaped structure defines a lower opening and an upper end of
the tube-shaped structure defines an upper opening, and wherein the
tube-shaped structure of the heating assembly comprises an
insulative insert, the insulative insert comprising: a sidewall
portion extending concentrically around the central axis of the
cylindrical cavity; and an upper lip portion extending radially
outward from the sidewall portion at the upper end of the
tube-shaped structure; and a spring sheet disposed radially outward
and concentrically around the sidewall portion of the insulative
insert.
28. The sublimation device of claim 27, wherein the spring sheet is
configured to move the heating assembly between an open orientation
and a closed orientation.
29. The sublimation device of claim 28, wherein the heating
assembly is configured to: contact an outer surface of a workpiece
disposed in the cylindrical cavity when the heating assembly is in
the closed orientation; and move away from the outer surface of the
workpiece disposed in the cylindrical cavity when the heating
assembly moves to the open orientation.
30. The sublimation device of claim 27, wherein the upper lip
portion of the insulative insert extends radially outward over a
top edge of the spring sheet.
31. The sublimation device of claim 27, wherein the sidewall
portion of the insulative insert of the tube-shaped structure of
the heating assembly comprises a plurality of layers, wherein at
least one heating element is disposed between adjacent layers of
the plurality of layers.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to sublimation
systems, methods, and devices. In particular, the present
disclosure relates to heat press systems, methods, and devices
configured for ink sublimation.
BACKGROUND
[0002] This section provides background information related to the
present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.
[0003] Heat presses and other sublimation devices are used to
create artwork on a workpiece (e.g., a mug) via sublimation by
applying a transfer sheet of infusible ink onto a surface of the
workpiece and applying heat and pressure. The sublimation process
is responsive to temperature, pressure, and duration such that
variations in temperature, pressure, or time applied to the
transfer sheet against the surface of the workpiece results in
variations in ink transfer. For example, uneven heat distribution
to the surface of the workpiece during sublimation may result in
cooler surface portions, which causes less ink to transfer to the
workpiece at those portions, which results in faded or dimmed
portions of the transferred artwork on the surface of the
workpiece.
[0004] An even distribution of heat onto the surface of a workpiece
from the sublimation device may be difficult when, for example,
differently sized workpieces having different geometries are
interfaced with the sublimation device. Furthermore, the
sublimation device may be subjected to a variety of ambient
temperature conditions. Because of these difficulties, conventional
sublimation devices result in uneven and inconsistent transfers of
designs onto workpieces such that unsightly fading and dimming of
the transferred designs appear on the workpiece.
[0005] Accordingly, there are a number of disadvantages in the art
that can be addressed.
SUMMARY
[0006] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure,
and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of
its features.
[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to
heat press systems, methods, and apparatus. In particular, the
present disclosure relates to ink sublimation mug presses. For
example, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, a mug press
includes a heater at least partially defining a receptacle and a
base heater disposed at the bottom of the receptacle.
[0008] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the base heater
comprises a top surface; and the top surface of the base heater is
disposed perpendicular to a major axis of the receptacle.
[0009] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heater
comprises two or more distinct heat zones.
[0010] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the mug press
further comprises an outer casing and an insulative layer disposed
between the base heater and the outer casing.
[0011] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the mug press
includes a power supply or other electronic components in
communication with the base heater within the mug press are
separated from the base heater by the insulative barrier.
[0012] One aspect of the disclosure provides a sublimation device.
The sublimation device includes a first heater and a second heater.
The first heater includes a proximal end, a distal end, and an
inner surface. The distal end is disposed opposite the proximal
end. The inner surface extends between the proximal end and the
distal end and at least partially forms a cavity. The second heater
is disposed proximate the distal end of the first heater.
[0013] Implementations of this aspect of the disclosure may include
one or more of the following optional features. In some
implementations, the cavity includes a major axis surrounded by the
inner surface of the first heater. The second heater may include a
top surface disposed perpendicular to the major axis.
[0014] In some implementations, the first heater includes two or
more distinct heat zones. At least one of the two or more distinct
heat zones may extend vertically along a side edge of the first
heater such that the at least one of the two or more heat zones is
configured to contact a portion of an outer surface of a workpiece
adjacent to a flange of the workpiece when the workpiece is placed
into the cavity. The two or more distinct heat zones may include a
first side heat zone, a second side heat zone, and a middle heat
zone. The first side heat zone may extend vertically along a first
side edge of the first heater. The second side heat zone may extend
vertically along a second side edge of the first heater. The middle
heat zone may be disposed between the first side heat zone and the
second side heat zone.
[0015] In some implementations, the second heater is configured to
face a bottom surface of a workpiece when the workpiece is placed
into the cavity.
[0016] In some implementations, the cavity is cylindrical.
[0017] In some implementations, the first heater forms a gap that
is configured to receive a flange portion extending from a
workpiece when the workpiece is placed into the cavity.
[0018] In some implementations, the cavity is open at the proximal
end and closed at the distal end. The first heater may form a
vertical sidewall defining at least a portion of the cavity. An
upper surface of the second heater may define at least a portion of
a closed bottom of the cavity.
[0019] In some implementations, the sublimation device includes an
outer casing and an insulative layer disposed between the second
heater and the outer casing. The insulative layer may be disposed
below the second heater.
[0020] In some implementations, the second heater is disposed
within the cavity.
[0021] In some implementations, the first heater at least partially
surrounds the second heater.
[0022] Another aspect of the disclosure provides a method of
sublimating ink on a workpiece. The method may include activating a
first heater. The method may also include transmitting, in a first
direction, a first heat flow from the first heater during a first
time period. The method may further include activating a second
heater. The method may also include transmitting, in a second
direction, a second heat flow from the second heater during at
least a portion of the first time period.
[0023] Implementations of this aspect of the disclosure may include
one or more of the following optional features. In some
implementations, the first direction is orthogonal to the second
direction. The first direction may extend radially, and the second
direction may extend axially. The first heater may at least
partially define a cavity. The method may further include disposing
a workpiece within the cavity. The method may further include
transmitting, in the second direction, a third heat flow from the
first heater during the first time period. A first portion of the
third heat flow may be disposed on a first axial side of the second
heater, and a second portion of the third heat flow may be disposed
on a second axial side of the second heater.
[0024] The details of one or more implementations of the disclosure
are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description
below. Other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent
from the description and drawings, and from the claims.
[0025] Each of the above independent aspects of the present
disclosure, and those aspects described in the detailed description
below, may include any of the features, options, and possibilities
set out in the present disclosure and figures, including those
under the other independent aspects, and may also include any
combination of any of the features, options, and possibilities set
out in the present disclosure and figures.
[0026] Additional features and advantages of exemplary aspects of
the disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows,
and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned
by the practice of such exemplary aspects. The features and
advantages of such aspects may be realized and obtained by means of
the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the
appended claims. These and other features will become more fully
apparent from the following description and appended claims or may
be learned by the practice of such exemplary aspects as set forth
hereinafter.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0027] In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited
and other advantages and features of the present disclosure can be
obtained, a more particular description of the present disclosure
briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific
embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings.
Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments
of the present disclosure and are not therefore to be considered to
be limiting of its scope, the present disclosure will be described
and explained with additional specificity and detail through the
use of the accompanying drawings in which:
[0028] FIG. 1 is a front view of a sublimation device and two
exemplary workpieces, according to the principles of the present
disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 2 is a top view of the sublimation device of FIG.
1.
[0030] FIG. 3 is a front view of the sublimation device of FIG. 1
showing a first workpiece arranged proximate a cavity of the
sublimation device that is sized to receive either of, for example,
the first workpiece or a second workpiece while a
workpiece-engaging device of the sublimation device is arranged in
a disengaged orientation, according to the present disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 4 is another front view of the sublimation device
according to FIG. 3 showing the first workpiece arranged within the
cavity of the sublimation device while the workpiece-engaging
device is arranged in an engaged orientation, according to the
present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 5 is another front view of the sublimation device
according to FIG. 3 showing the second workpiece arranged within
the cavity of the sublimation device while the workpiece-engaging
device is arranged in an engaged orientation, according to the
present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of the sublimation device
of FIGS. 1-2 showing the workpiece-engaging device arranged in an
engaged orientation while a workpiece is not arranged within the
cavity of the sublimation device, according to the present
disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the sublimation device
of FIGS. 1-2 with an outer housing removed, according to the
present disclosure.
[0035] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the
sublimation device according to line 8-8 of FIG. 7.
[0036] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a portion of the
workpiece-engaging device of the sublimation device of FIG. 1,
according to the present disclosure.
[0037] FIG. 10 is a top assembled view of the portion of the
workpiece-engaging device of the sublimation device of FIG. 9,
according to the present disclosure.
[0038] FIG. 11 is a side assembled view of the portion of the
workpiece-engaging device of FIG. 9.
[0039] FIG. 12 is an exploded view of an exemplary heater of the
sublimation device of FIG. 1, according to the present
disclosure.
[0040] FIG. 13 is a top assembled perspective view of the heater of
FIG. 12 arranged in a substantially cylindrical configuration
according to the present disclosure.
[0041] FIG. 14 is an assembled view of the exemplary heater of FIG.
12 arranged in a non-cylindrical, substantially flattened
configuration, according to the present disclosure.
[0042] FIG. 15 is an assembled view of another exemplary heater of
the sublimation device of FIG. 1 arranged in a non-cylindrical,
substantially flattened configuration, according to the present
disclosure.
[0043] FIG. 16 is a lower perspective view of an exemplary
workpiece base heater, according to the present disclosure.
[0044] FIG. 17 is a bottom view of the workpiece base heater of
FIG. 16.
[0045] FIG. 18 is a side view of the workpiece base heater of FIG.
16.
[0046] FIGS. 19A-19H illustrate a method for utilizing the
sublimation device of FIG. 1, according to the principles of the
present disclosure.
[0047] FIG. 20A is an enlarged cross-sectional view according to
line 20-20 of FIG. 19E illustrating a portion of a workpiece that
is inserted into, and subjected to heat and pressure from, the
sublimation device, according to the present disclosure.
[0048] FIG. 20B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the
workpiece of FIG. 20A that includes sublimated ink from a transfer
sheet, according to the present disclosure.
[0049] FIG. 21A is an enlarged cross-sectional view according to
line 21A of FIG. 20A.
[0050] FIG. 21B is an enlarged cross-sectional view according to
FIG. 21A illustrating the sublimation device of FIG. 19E that is
heating the ink that is secured to the transfer sheet.
[0051] FIG. 21C is an enlarged cross-sectional view according to
FIG. 21B illustrating the ink that was previously secured to the
transfer sheet and is sublimating into an outer surface of the
workpiece.
[0052] FIG. 21D is an enlarged cross-sectional view according to
line 21D of FIG. 20B.
[0053] FIG. 22 is a schematic view of an example computing device
that may be used to implement the systems and methods described
herein.
[0054] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding
parts throughout the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0055] The present disclosure relates generally to sublimation
systems and devices and methods for using the same. In some
instances, a workpiece (e.g., a mug) is removably-secured within a
cavity of a sublimation device (e.g., a heat press) described in
the present disclosure for transferring a sublimation ink from a
sheet to the workpiece. Embodiments of the present disclosure
provide technical solutions to a number of technical problems in
the art.
[0056] In some configurations, the sublimation device includes one
or more heating devices. The one or more heating devices may work
in conjunction to evenly distribute heat across an outer side
surface of the workpiece.
[0057] In some implementations, exemplary configurations of the
sublimation device may evenly distribute heat across the outer
surface of the workpiece regardless of one or more sources of heat
loss. In some instances, the heat loss may arise from, for example,
conductive heat losses or convective heat losses. Such losses may
arise from, for example, the configuration of the workpiece itself,
or by, for example, airflow of the ambient air surrounding the
sublimation device during a workpiece sublimation process.
[0058] Example configurations will now be described more fully with
reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are
provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully
convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in
the art. Specific details are set forth such as examples of
specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough
understanding of configurations of the present disclosure. It will
be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific
details need not be employed, that example configurations may be
embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and
the example configurations should not be construed to limit the
scope of the disclosure.
[0059] With reference to FIGS. 1-6, implementations of the present
disclosure relate generally to a sublimation device 10, components
thereof, and methods of use. As seen at FIGS. 1 and 3-5, the
sublimation device 10 is sized for receiving a plurality of
differently sized workpieces W of a similar type or species.
[0060] Referring to FIG. 1, the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W are generally represented by a first workpiece W.sub.1
and a second workpiece W.sub.2. Both of the first workpiece W.sub.1
and the second workpiece W.sub.2 may be of the same type or same
species, and may each include a body portion W.sub.B and a handle
or flange portion W.sub.F. In some examples, the second workpiece
W.sub.2 may include, for example, one or both of a larger length
L.sub.2 and a larger diameter D.sub.2 when compared to, for
example, a length L.sub.1 and a diameter D.sub.1 of the first
workpiece W.sub.1. In other examples, second workpiece W.sub.2 may
include, for example, one or both of a longer flange length F.sub.2
and a thicker flange thickness T.sub.2 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1 and 5)
when compared to, for example, a flange length F.sub.1 and a flange
thickness T.sub.1 (see, e.g., FIGS. 3-4) of the first workpiece
W.sub.1.
[0061] The plurality of differently sized workpieces W may include
any desirable configuration that provides any desirable function.
In some instances, the body portion W.sub.B of the plurality of
differently sized workpieces W may be shaped to retain, for
example, a liquid, solid, or semi-solid. Accordingly, the plurality
of differently sized workpieces W may be a vase, bowl, beverage
container, or the like. In this regard, while the workpieces W are
generally shown and described herein as being mugs, it will be
appreciated that the sublimation device 10 may utilize other
workpieces W within the scope of the present disclosure. The
plurality of differently sized workpieces W may include any
desirable material such as, for example, a ceramic material.
Although the plurality of differently sized workpieces W are shown
and described to include the flange portion W.sub.F, the plurality
of differently sized workpieces W may be configured to not include
the flange portion W.sub.F.
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1-6, the exemplary sublimation device 10
may be configured to transfer heat H (see, e.g., FIGS. 20 and 21B)
to an outer side surface W.sub.O of one or more workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W for
sublimating a design, which may be alternatively referred to as
artwork A (see, e.g., FIGS. 19A-19H, 20A, and 20B) onto the outer
side surface W.sub.O of one or more workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of
the plurality of differently sized workpieces W. In at least one
embodiment, the sublimation device 10 may be configured to apply
not only the heat H, but, also a force or pressure P (see, e.g.,
FIG. 20A) to a transfer sheet S that includes infusible sublimation
ink I that forms the design A. Accordingly, as will be described in
the following disclosure at FIGS. 19B-19D, the transfer sheet S may
be removably-applied to the outer side surface W.sub.O of one or
more workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W prior to being placed into the sublimation
device 10. Once placed within and subsequently activating the
sublimation device 10, the infusible sublimation ink I that is
arranged adjacent the outer side surface W.sub.O of one or more
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W is sublimated or infused onto the outer side surface
W.sub.O of one or more workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality
of differently sized workpieces W.
[0063] In some configurations, the sublimation device 10 may be
actuated or powered on upon pressing a button 12 (see, e.g., FIGS.
2 and 6) that extends through a passage formed by an outer housing
14. The sublimation device 10 may further include a workpiece
engagement actuator (e.g., a handle) that is seen generally at 16.
Movement of the workpiece engagement actuator 16 to/from a first
orientation (see, e.g., FIG. 3) and a second orientation (see,
e.g., FIGS. 1-2 and 4-6) results in corresponding movement of a
workpiece-engaging device (e.g., a clamp), which is seen generally
at 18 to/from an disengaged orientation (see, e.g., FIG. 3) and an
engaged or engaging orientation (see, e.g., FIGS. 1-2 and 4-6). As
seen at FIG. 6, the workpiece engagement actuator 16 may be
rotatable (see, e.g. arrow R' at FIGS. 1-2 and 4-5 and arrow R at
FIG. 3) about an axis A.sub.16-A.sub.16; accordingly, the workpiece
engagement actuator 16 is configured to be selectively rotated: (1)
according to the direction of arrow R' about the axis
A.sub.16-A.sub.16 in a first direction for arranging the workpiece
engagement actuator 16 in an up orientation (see, e.g., FIG. 3)
relative to the outer housing 14; and (2) according to the
direction of the arrow R about the axis A.sub.16-A.sub.16 in a
second direction (that is opposite the first direction R') for
arranging the workpiece engagement actuator 16 in a down
orientation (see, e.g., FIGS. 1-2 and 4-6) relative to the outer
housing 14.
[0064] With reference to FIG. 7, the workpiece engagement actuator
16 may be connected to the workpiece-engaging device 18 by way of
an intervening connecting structure 17 in such a way that: (1) the
raising of the workpiece engagement actuator 16 to the up
orientation disengages, releases, or "opens" the workpiece-engaging
device 18; and (2) the lowering of the workpiece engagement
actuator 16 engages or "closes" the workpiece-engaging device 18.
Alternatively, in some configurations, the workpiece-engaging
device 18 may be "opened" by pushing the workpiece engagement
actuator 16 downward, and, in an opposite manner, a lifting motion
of the workpiece engagement actuator 16 in an upwardly direction
may cause the workpiece-engaging device 18 to be "closed".
[0065] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, in some implementations,
the workpiece-engaging device 18 includes a wall 18' formed
generally into a cylindrical configuration defining a substantially
cylindrical cavity 20. As the workpiece engagement actuator 16 is
moved up R' or down R during use, the material (e.g., wall 18') of
workpiece-engaging device 18 is manipulated such that the
circumference of the wall 18' defining the cavity 20 expands (e.g.,
radially) or contracts (e.g., radially). For example, radius
R.sub.20 may be maximized when the workpiece engagement actuator 16
is moved up R' or minimized when the workpiece engagement actuator
16 is moved down R. The radius R.sub.20 that is generally defined
by the substantially cylindrical cavity 20 may be referenced from a
central axis A.sub.20-A.sub.20 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1 and 3),
extending through an axial center of the cavity 20. When arranged
in the engaged or "closed" orientation, the workpiece-engaging
device 18 applies a circumferential force or pressure P in a radial
direction toward the central axis A.sub.20-A.sub.20 against the
outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W that may
be placed within the cavity 20.
[0066] Also, in some implementations, the workpiece-engaging device
18 may not entirely form a cylindrical configuration, providing an
axial gap 22 that also extends radially though the outer housing
14. As seen at FIGS. 1 and 3, a portion of an upper trim surface
14.sub.U that may trim the outer housing 14 forms a substantially
U-shape (see, e.g., FIGS. 1 and 3), and, a portion of the
workpiece-engaging device 18 may collectively form the gap 22.
During use, the gap 22 may provide a space through which, for
example, the flange portion W.sub.F of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
may protrude after one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W is axially placed into
cavity 20 along the central axis A.sub.20-A.sub.20. As seen at FIG.
3, when the workpiece engagement actuator 16 is arranged in a
disengaged, upward position, the workpiece-engaging device 18 may
be said to be arranged in an "open" orientation such that one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W may be inserted into the cavity 20. Furthermore,
as seen at FIG. 3, in some instances, prior to axially inserting
one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of
differently sized workpieces W into the cavity 20, the flange
portion W.sub.F of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W may be axially aligned
with the gap 22.
[0067] With reference to FIG. 3, after one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
is arranged within the cavity 20, the workpiece engagement actuator
16 may be rotated according to the direction of the arrow R for
subsequent arrangement in the "down" orientation or "closed"
position so that workpiece-engaging device 18 "closes" for
circumferentially engaging and compressing one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
within the cavity 20. As noted above, the circumference of the
cavity 20 reduces (e.g., the radius R.sub.20 that is generally
defined by the cavity 20 is reduced) when workpiece-engaging device
18 is arranged in the engaged orientation or "closed" position so
that when one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality
of differently sized workpieces W is first placed within the cavity
20, the material of the workpiece-engaging device 18 forming the
cylindrical wall that forms the cavity 20 presses against the outer
side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of
the plurality of differently sized workpieces W.
[0068] As seen at FIGS. 4-5, the cavity 20 of the sublimation
device 10 is sized for receiving the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W that may include, for example, the first workpiece
W.sub.1 that may be, for example, a 12 oz beverage container and
the second workpiece W.sub.2 that may be, for example, a 15 oz
beverage container. Once one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of
the plurality of differently sized workpieces W has been placed
within the cavity 20 and the workpiece-engaging device 18 has been
arranged in the engaged orientation or "closed" position for
circumferentially engaging the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W for circumferentially applying pressure P in a
radially inward direction toward the central axis A.sub.20-A.sub.20
of the cavity 20, the sublimation device 10 may be activated for
imparting heat H to the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W for sublimating the infusible sublimation ink I that
forms the design A onto the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W. The infusible sublimation ink I that forms the
design A may include any number of pictures, artwork, text, or the
like, which may be created by a user. In some examples, as seen at
FIG. 19A, the user may interface the transfer sheet S within a
crafting machine 100 such that the crafting machine 100 may print
and/or cut the design A on and/or into the transfer sheet S.
[0069] The sublimation of the infusible sublimation ink I that
forms the design A onto the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W may include the transfer of the infusible
sublimation ink I from the transfer sheet S onto or into the outer
side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of
the plurality of differently sized workpieces W. With reference to
FIGS. 19B-19D, before arranging the workpiece-engaging device 18 in
a closed orientation around the outer side surface W.sub.O of one
of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W (as seen at FIG. 19E), the user may place the
transfer sheet S containing the infusible sublimation ink I
adjacent the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces
W. Accordingly, when one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W including the transfer
sheet S is arranged within the cavity 20, the transfer sheet S is
circumferentially arranged between an inner cylindrical wall (see,
e.g., reference numeral 18' at FIGS. 2 and 6) of the
workpiece-engaging device 18 and the outer side surface W.sub.O of
one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of
differently sized workpieces W. In this way, when the inner
cylindrical wall 18' of the workpiece-engaging device 18
circumferentially applies a pressure P in a radially inwardly
direction toward the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W, the transfer sheet S is pressed against the outer
side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of
the plurality of differently sized workpieces W. Thus situated,
heat H can then be substantially circumferentially applied: (1)
from the inner cylindrical wall 18' of the workpiece-engaging
device 18; (2) through a thickness of the transfer sheet S
containing sublimation ink pressed against the outer side surface
W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality
of differently sized workpieces W; and (3) onto or into the outer
side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of
the plurality of differently sized workpieces W.
[0070] In some implementations, a predetermined amount and/or a
predetermined duration of pressure P and heat H applied to the
outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W during
the sublimation process achieves sufficient transfer of the
infusible sublimation ink I from transfer sheet S to the outer side
surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W. Variations in one or
more of temperature associated with the H, the pressure P, or time
between different portions of the outer side surface W.sub.O of one
of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W may result in inconsistent transfers of
infusible sublimation ink I, thereby causing faded, dimmed, or
otherwise insufficient transfer of the infusible sublimation ink I
to certain portions of the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W. Faded and dimmed portions of the infusible
sublimation ink I to certain portions of the outer side surface
W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality
of differently sized workpieces W may appear, for example, where
lower or insufficient temperatures associated with the applied heat
H occurs on the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces
W. Accordingly, the sublimation device 10 is configured to provide
consistent transfer of the heat H with sufficient pressure P around
the entire outer side surface W.sub.O of the workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W where
the infusible sublimation ink I is to be sublimated thereon.
[0071] In some instances, the inner cylindrical wall 18' of the
workpiece-engaging device 18 or one or more other components of the
sublimation device 10 proximate the inner cylindrical wall 18' of
the workpiece-engaging device 18 is configured to maintain a
temperature of approximately above about 180.degree. C. in order to
sublimate the infusible sublimation ink I on the transfer sheet S
to the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W. In
other configurations, the inner cylindrical wall 18' of the
workpiece-engaging device 18 or one or more other components of the
sublimation device 10 proximate the inner cylindrical wall 18' of
the workpiece-engaging device 18 is configured to maintain a
temperature of approximately above about 190.degree.
C..+-.5.degree. C. in order to sublimate the infusible sublimation
ink I on the transfer sheet S to the outer side surface W.sub.O of
one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of
differently sized workpieces W. In some implementations, the inner
cylindrical wall 18' of the workpiece-engaging device 18 or one or
more other components of the sublimation device 10 proximate the
inner cylindrical wall 18' of the workpiece-engaging device 18 is
configured to maintain a temperature of approximately about
193.degree. C. for approximately about 40 seconds.
[0072] As will be described in the following disclosure, a base
heater 28 (see, e.g., FIG. 6) may be configured to maintain a
temperature of approximately 210.degree. C. (+1-10%) in order to
mitigate a reduction of the temperature of the outer side surface
W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality
of differently sized workpieces W proximate a lower end surface
W.sub.L (see, e.g., FIG. 1) of one of the workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2 that is opposite an upper end surface W.sub.U (see, e.g.,
FIG. 1) of the one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2. Accordingly,
by heating the lower end surface W.sub.L of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces
W, the sublimation device 10 assists in eliminating a heat sink
that would otherwise result in a temperature drop near an edge
(e.g., where the outer side surface W.sub.O meets the lower end
surface W.sub.L) of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2.
[0073] In some instances, the sublimation device 10 may impart heat
H to the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
for about 4-to-5 minutes. Furthermore, as will described in the
following disclosure at FIGS. 14 and 15, portions of a heater 26
that may be arranged proximate to, or form the inner cylindrical
wall 18' of, the workpiece-engaging device 18 may include a
plurality of heating zones that will heat different portions (e.g.,
a left side zone, a right side zone, and a center zone) of the
inner cylindrical wall 18' of the workpiece-engaging device 18 to
different temperatures. For example, both of a left side zone and a
right side zone of the inner cylindrical wall 18' of the
workpiece-engaging device 18 may be heated H to a higher
temperature (e.g., by about 10-20.degree. C., such as, for example,
to a temperature of approximately about 200-210.degree. C.) in
comparison to a center zone of the of the inner cylindrical wall
18' of the workpiece-engaging device 18. Accordingly, by heating
the left side zone and the right side zone of the of the inner
cylindrical wall 18' of the workpiece-engaging device 18 to a
higher temperature than the center zone of the of the inner
cylindrical wall 18' of the workpiece-engaging device 18, a
successful sublimation of the infusible sublimation ink I arranged
near, for example, the flange portion W.sub.F of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W may occur (i.e., otherwise, the flange portion W.sub.F
of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of
differently sized workpieces W may result in a heat sink, and,
therefore, a loss of heat H, which may result in a faded and dimmed
portion of the infusible sublimation ink I on the outer side
surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W that is arranged near
the flange portion W.sub.F.
[0074] During sublimation, the transfer of heat H may be affected
by either convective or conductive heat losses. Even if,
hypothetically, heat H was transferred evenly from the inner
cylindrical wall 18' of the workpiece-engaging device 18 to the
outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2, certain areas of the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 may be cooler than others due to
these heat losses, which may affect certain areas of the outer side
surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 more than
others. For example, because the cavity 20 is open at a top end
thereof, the upper end surface W.sub.U of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
may be exposed to airflow or ambient air, and, as a result, is
cooled due to convective heat loss; this may also occur at or
around the edges of gap 22 (that may be at least partially formed
by the upper trim surface 14.sub.U that may trim the outer housing
14) where the flange portion W.sub.F of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
is arranged.
[0075] Additionally, one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 may
functionally act as a heat sink to conductively transfer the heat H
away from the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
to different extents at different areas of the outer side surface
W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality
of differently sized workpieces W. For example, some workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 are formed such that the thickness of the material
of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 may not be the same, and, as a
result, varies. In some instances, the lower end surface W.sub.L of
one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 may be thicker than a
sidewall portion of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 that forms the
outer side surface W.sub.O. In some examples, the thickness of the
sidewall portion of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 that forms the
outer side surface W.sub.O may vary around or vertically up and
down the cylindrical sidewalls of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2.
Thicker portions of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 may, for
example, be found at the lower end surface W.sub.L of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 where the outer side surface W.sub.O
meets the lower end surface W.sub.L. Thick portions of material
forming the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 may be commonly found at or
around the flange portion W.sub.F of one of the workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2 or where the flange portion W.sub.F of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 meets the body portion W.sub.B of one
of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2. Accordingly, lower surface
temperatures, and, thus, less effective transfer of the infusible
sublimation ink I from the transfer sheet S to the outer side
surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 are more
likely to occur at areas on the outer side surface W.sub.O of one
of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W that coincide with these thicker "heat-sink
portions" or other areas of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 that
are susceptible to conductive and convective heat losses.
[0076] Exemplary sublimation devices 10 that are described in the
present disclosure provide a heat source that enables consistent
transfer of heat H to the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W such that the entirety of the body portion W.sub.B of
one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of
differently sized workpieces W is available for sublimation as a
result of the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 being heated to a sufficient temperature, and,
with sufficient consistency, for successful transfer of the
infusible sublimation ink I from the transfer sheet S to the outer
side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of
the plurality of differently sized workpieces W without dimmed or
faded areas of the design A on the outer side surface W.sub.O of
one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of
differently sized workpieces W. In some implementations, the
entirety of the body portion W.sub.B that is available for
sublimation may include the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 extending from the upper end
surface W.sub.U of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W to the lower end
surface W.sub.L of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W. Furthermore, the
entirety of the body portion W.sub.B of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
that is available for sublimation may also include some of the body
portion W.sub.B of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W that extend from either
side of the flange portion W.sub.F of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces
W.
[0077] Referring to FIG. 6, another view of an exemplary
sublimation device 10 including the workpiece engagement actuator
16 and the workpiece-engaging device 18 that form the cavity 20 is
shown. In some configurations, the workpiece-engaging device 18
includes a heating assembly 24 formed by one or more materials or
one or more material layers that form the substantially cylindrical
sidewall of the workpiece-engaging device 18 that may contribute to
at least partially forming the cylindrical cavity 20.
[0078] In some configurations, the heating assembly 24 includes the
heater 26 and/or the base heater 28. In some implementations, the
heater 26 forms a pad and may include, for example, one or more
layers of material (see, e.g., layers 44a-44c, 46a-46d, and 48 at
FIG. 12) disposed adjacent one another and then formed into the
substantially cylindrical shape of the workpiece-engaging device 18
such that the one or more layers of material are disposed
concentrically together. Furthermore, the base heater 28 may be
disposed adjacent a lower end of the heater 26 for enclosing a
bottom end of the substantially cylindrical shape of the heater 26,
which may alternatively be referred to as a "heat pad". As seen at
FIG. 6, in some instances, an innermost layer of the one or more
layers of the cylindrical portion of heating assembly 24 may
include the heater 26; accordingly an innermost layer of the heater
26 may define the inner cylindrical wall 18' of the
workpiece-engaging device 18 that is configured to contact the
outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W.
[0079] In some implementations, the top surface of base heater 28
may be arranged perpendicular to the central axis A.sub.20-A.sub.20
of the substantially cylindrical cavity 20. In this way, when one
of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W is placed within the cavity 20, the top surface
of base heater 28 contacts the lower end surface W.sub.L of one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W to provide a transfer of heat H to one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W from below in addition to a transfer of heat H to the
outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W from the
heater 26. The base heater 28 provides heat H to the lower end
surface W.sub.L of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W so that the lower end
surface W.sub.L does not act as a heat sink that draws heat away
from the lower end surface W.sub.L of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
where the lower end surface W.sub.L meets the outer side surface
W.sub.O during sublimation. In other words, the base heater 28
heats the lower end surface W.sub.L of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
during sublimation to minimize a temperature difference or
temperature gradient between the lower end surface W.sub.L and a
portion edge of the outer side surface W.sub.O that is near or
extends from the lower end surface W.sub.L. As such, a transfer of
heat H from the portion edge of the outer side surface W.sub.O that
is near or extends from the lower end surface W.sub.L into the
lower end surface W.sub.L of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2
of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W, which would
otherwise reduce the temperature at the portion edge of the outer
side surface W.sub.O that is near or extends from the lower end
surface W.sub.L is minimized or eliminated.
[0080] In some instances, the base heater 28 may be configured to
heat H the lower end surface W.sub.L of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
such that the lower end surface W.sub.L is hotter than the outer
side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of
the plurality of differently sized workpieces W during sublimation,
causing the portion edge of the outer side surface W.sub.O that is
near or extends from the lower end surface W.sub.L to increase in
temperature relative to the rest of the outer side surface W.sub.O.
This increased temperature at the portion edge of the outer side
surface W.sub.O that is near or extends from the lower end surface
W.sub.L may offset any potential convective heat losses introduced
by ambient airflow into the cavity 20 that travels near the lower
end surface W.sub.L.
[0081] Accordingly, while the user may not be transferring the
infusible sublimation ink I from the transfer sheet S to the lower
end surface W.sub.L of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of
the plurality of differently sized workpieces W, the heat H
provided to the lower end surface W.sub.L enables the heater 26 to
heat the portion edge of the outer side surface W.sub.O that is
near or extends from the lower end surface W.sub.L without the
lower end surface W.sub.L reducing the surface temperature of the
portion edge of the outer side surface W.sub.O that is near or
extends from the lower end surface W.sub.L due to conductive heat
losses and/or convective heat losses. Thus, temperatures at or near
the portion edge of the outer side surface W.sub.O that is near or
extends from the lower end surface W.sub.L may be maintained
consistent with the rest of the outer side surface W.sub.O of one
of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W so that the infusible sublimation ink I
transferred thereto is not faded or dimmed at one or more regions
at or near the portion edge of the outer side surface W.sub.O that
is near or extends from the lower end surface W.sub.L during the
sublimation process.
[0082] With reference to FIG. 7, a view of an exemplary sublimation
device 10 is shown without the outer housing 14 in order to
illustrate an exemplary configuration of internal components
thereof such as, for example, intervening connecting structure 17
that connects the workpiece engagement actuator 16 to the
workpiece-engaging device 18. In some implementations, as seen at,
for example, FIG. 7, the heating assembly 24 may be surrounded by
one or more of the workpiece-engaging device 18 and/or other
support structures. In another example as shown at FIG. 7, the
heating assembly 24 may be at least partially supported by a
surrounding clamp framework 25 that may include, for example,
various support brackets, a spring sheet or other outer support
members around a periphery of heating assembly 24, such as, for
example, clamp jaws, an upper curved support bracket. The
surrounding clamp framework 25 may further include other support
structure and clamping mechanisms associated with the intervening
connecting structure 17 that extends between and connects the
workpiece engagement actuator 16 to one or both of the
workpiece-engaging device 18 and the heating assembly 24.
[0083] Referring to FIG. 8, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary
configuration of internal components of the sublimation device 10
of FIG. 7 is shown. As seen at FIG. 8, some configurations of the
heating assembly 24 may include a cylindrical wall portion having
multiple layers, such as, for example, the heater 26 and an
insulative insert 30. Also shown at FIG. 8 is an exemplary
configuration of a base heater 28 that may include a ceramic
material or other material with one or more internal heating coils
32 disposed therein. In some instances, the base heater 28 may be
secured within the outer housing 14 of the sublimation device 10
via a pedestal 34 situated below and/or around the base heater 28.
In addition, in some implementations, a lower insulative barrier 36
may be disposed between the pedestal 34 and the outer housing 14;
in this way, the heat H that is generated by the base heater 28
during use is at least partially prevented from transferring to the
outer housing 14 and into a support surface (such as, e.g., a table
125 as seen at FIGS. 19A-19H) on which the sublimation device 10 is
placed.
[0084] In some configurations, the lower insulative barrier 36 and
the pedestal 34 may be separated by a distance D.sub.35 to allow an
air gap 35 to form therebetween. This air gap 35 improves the
insulation between the pedestal 34 and the lower insulative barrier
36, and, furthermore, between the base heater 28 and the outer
housing 14 or any surface (e.g., the table 125) on which the
sublimation device 10 rests. In some configurations, at least a
portion of the insulative barrier 36 may also be separated from
outer housing 14 at a distance D.sub.35 to form another air gap 37
for further enhancing insulation properties between the base heater
28 and the outer housing 14.
[0085] With continued reference to FIG. 8, the pedestal 34 may
include an outer axially-extending portion 34.sub.1, a
frustoconical portion 34.sub.2, an inner axially-extending portion
34.sub.3, and a substantially radially-extending portion 34.sub.4.
The axially-extending portion 34.sub.1 may surround or circumscribe
the insulative barrier 36. A radially outward-most portion of the
frustoconical portion 34.sub.2 extends from an upper end of the
axially-extending portion 34.sub.1 and is arranged over or above
the insulative barrier for forming the air gap 35.
[0086] As the frustoconical portion 34.sub.2 extends in a
substantially radial direction toward the central axis
A.sub.20-A.sub.20 of the cavity 20 from the upper end of the
axially-extending portion 34.sub.1, some of the frustoconical
portion 34.sub.2 may be arranged axially below or under a lower
opening 26.sub.LO formed by a lower end 26.sub.LE of the heater 26.
However, as the frustoconical portion 34.sub.2 further extends in
the substantially radial direction toward the central axis
A.sub.20-A.sub.20 of the cavity 20, the frustoconical portion
34.sub.2 also extends in a substantially axial direction away from
the insulative barrier 36 such that some of the frustoconical
portion 34.sub.2 of the pedestal 34 extends axially through the
lower opening 26.sub.LO of the heater 26 and into the cavity 20 at
a distance D.sub.34. Accordingly, some of the pedestal 34 (e.g.,
the outer axially-extending portion 34.sub.1 and some of the
frustoconical portion 34.sub.2) is not arranged within the cavity
20 while another portion of the pedestal 34 (e.g., the portion of
the frustoconical portion 34.sub.2 that extends axially through the
lower opening 26.sub.LO of the heater 26 and into the cavity 20 at
the distance D.sub.34) is arranged within the cavity 20.
[0087] With further reference to FIG. 8, a first end of the inner
axially-extending portion 34.sub.3, extends from a radially
inwardly-most portion of the frustoconical portion 34.sub.2 in an
axial direction toward the insulative barrier 36. Accordingly, in
some configurations, some of the inner axially-extending portion
34.sub.3 may be arranged within the cavity 20 and some of the inner
axially-extending portion 34.sub.3 may not be arranged within the
cavity 20.
[0088] As also seen at FIG. 8, a first end of the substantially
radially-extending portion 34.sub.4 extends from a second end of
the inner axially-extending portion 34.sub.3 toward the central
axis A.sub.20-A.sub.20 of the cavity 20. The inner
axially-extending portion 34.sub.3 and the substantially
radially-extending portion 34.sub.4 may form a nest that contains
the base heater 28. The substantially radially-extending portion
34.sub.4 may form a passage 39 of the pedestal 34; accordingly one
or more components associates with the base heater 28 such as, for
example, one or more internal heating coils 32 may pass through or
extend through the passage 39.
[0089] Because the frustoconical portion 34.sub.2 of the pedestal
34 extends axially through the lower opening 26.sub.LO of the
heater 26 and into the cavity 20 at the distance D.sub.34, the
pedestal 34 is configured to correspondingly axially raise, axially
elevate, or axially position the base heater 28 within the cavity
20. For example, as seen at FIG. 8, an axial length portion
L.sub.26-P of an axial length L.sub.26 of the pedestal 34 surrounds
the base heater 28 as a result of the pedestal 34 arranging the
base heater 28 at least at an axial distance (see, e.g., the
distance D.sub.34) away from the lower end 26.sub.LE of the heater
26.
[0090] As a result of the arrangement of the heater 26, which may
be alternatively referred to as a first heater, and the base heater
28, which may be alternatively referred to as a second heater, at
least two unique flows (see, e.g., arrows F1, F2) of heat H within
the cavity 20 may be achieved. For example, as seen at FIG. 8, upon
activating the heater 26, heat H may transmit therefrom in a first
direction, which may be a radially inwardly direction toward the
central axis A.sub.20-A.sub.20 of the cavity 20, resulting in a
first heat flow F1 during a first time period. Furthermore, as also
seen at FIG. 8, upon activating the base heater 28, heat H may
transmit therefrom in a second direction, which may be an axial
direction away from the lower end 26.sub.LE of the heater 26,
resulting in a second heat flow F2 during at least a portion of the
first time period.
[0091] In some instances, the first direction associated with the
first heat flow F1 is orthogonal to the second direction associated
with the second heat flow F2. In some examples, upon activating the
heater 26, heat H may transmit therefrom in the second direction,
toward the base heater 28 and an upper end (opposite the lower end
26.sub.LE) of the heater 26, resulting in a third heat flow F3
during at least a portion of the first time period. In particular,
a first portion of the third heat flow F3 may be disposed on a
first (e.g., lower) axial side of the base heater 28, and a second
portion of the third heat flow F3 may be disposed on a second
(e.g., upper) axial side of the base heater 28. Accordingly, at
least a portion of the heat flow F2 and/or the heat flow F3 may be
transferred to the lower end surface W.sub.L of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 during use of the sublimation device
10, due in part to the pedestal 34. The heat H associated with the
first, second, and/or third heat flows F1, F2, F3 may be insulated
by, for example, one or more of the air gaps 35, 37 and/or material
that forms one or both of the pedestal 34 and the insulative
barrier 36.
[0092] Referring to FIG. 9, an exploded view of the heating
assembly 24 and an exemplary configuration of some of the support
structure. In assembled form, another exemplary configuration of
the support structure is also seen at FIG. 8, which may include,
for example, the insulative insert 30. In some configurations, as
seen at FIG. 9, the exemplary insulative insert 30 may include an
upper lip portion 38 that is separate from and joined to a sidewall
portion 40; although the upper lip portion 38 is shown separated
from the sidewall portion 40 at FIG. 9, the upper lip portion 38
may be integrally formed with the sidewall portion 40 as one piece
as seen, for example, at FIG. 8. In other implementations, as seen
at FIG. 9, the heater 26 may be configured to be disposed radially
inwardly of (relative to the central axis A.sub.20-A.sub.20 of the
cavity 20) and concentrically with respect to the insulative insert
30. In some configurations, a spring sheet 42 (see also FIG. 7) may
be configured to be disposed radially outwardly of (relative to the
central axis A.sub.20-A.sub.20 of the cavity 20) and concentrically
with respect to the insulative insert 30 and the heater 26. The
spring sheet 42 may provide structural rigidity and support to the
heating assembly 24 as well as a connection point for the clamping
mechanism associated with the intervening connecting structure 17
that extends between and connects the workpiece engagement actuator
16 to one or both of the workpiece-engaging device 18 and the
heating assembly 24 such that when spring sheet 42 is urged by the
intervening connecting structure 17 to one of a "closed"
orientation (for arranging the workpiece-engaging device 18 in a
closed orientation around the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W) and an "opened" orientation (for arranging the
workpiece-engaging device 18 in an opened orientation away from the
outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W), the
heating assembly 24 is also corresponding arranged in a "closed"
orientation and an "opened" orientation, respectively. With
reference to FIG. 10, a lower end view of the heating assembly 24
and the spring sheet 42 (that are arranged in an assembled
configuration), shows the concentric disposition of the various
components thereof. FIG. 11 shows a side elevation view thereof
with the heating assembly 24 assembled to and concentrically
disposed within the spring sheet 42 (relative to the central axis
A.sub.20-A.sub.20 of the cavity 20), with the upper lip 38
extending radially outwardly over a top edge of the spring sheet
42.
[0093] Referring to FIG. 12, an exploded view of an exemplary
heater 26, is shown. The exemplary heater 26 may include a
plurality of layers. In some configurations, the heater 26 may
include eight layers, with an innermost layer (that is seen at
reference numeral 44a) configured for engagement with the outer
side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of
the plurality of differently sized workpieces W and an outermost
layer (that is seen at reference numeral 46d) configured for
engagement with an inner surface 40' (see, e.g., FIG. 9) of the
sidewall portion 40 of the insulative insert 30. In some
configurations, the innermost layer 44a may include a glass fiber
material. In other configurations, the innermost layer 44a may
include a fiberglass and/or TEFLON.RTM. coated mesh.
[0094] With reference to FIG. 12, one or more additional layers of
the plurality of layers may include a material that is similar to
that of the innermost layer 44a; such exemplary layers share the
same reference numeral and are seen at reference numerals 44b and
44c. The material layers 44a, 44b, 44c may be referred to as a
plurality of "first material type" layers that include a similar
material composition. Accordingly, in some configurations, the
plurality of first material type layers 44a-44c may include glass
fiber layers.
[0095] With continued reference to FIG. 12, one or more additional
layers of the plurality of layers may include a different type of
material when compared to the plurality of first material type
layers 44a-44c; such exemplary layers share the same reference
numeral and are seen at reference numerals 46a, 46b, 46c, and 46d.
The material layers 46a, 46b, 46c, and 46d may be referred to as a
plurality of "second material type" layers that include a similar
material composition. Accordingly, in some configurations, the
plurality of second material type layers 46a-46d may include
silicon layers. As seen at FIG. 12, the plurality of first material
type layers 44a-44c and the plurality second material type layers
46a-46d are arranged in a configuration such that layers of each of
the plurality of first material type layers 44a-44c and the
plurality second material type layers 46a-46d are not arranged
adjacent one another. In some instances, the plurality second
material type layers 46a-46d may include silicone and are hot
melted or hot pressed into adjacently arranged layers formed by the
plurality of first material type layers 44a-44c that may include
glass fiber in order to fuse the adjacently layers 44a-44c, 46a-46d
together.
[0096] With reference to FIG. 12, in some configurations, the
heater 26 may further include a heat-generating element 48. The
heat generating element 48 may be connected to an electrical lead
or electrical terminal (see, e.g., reference numeral 49 at FIGS.
9-11) such that when the heater 26 is powered-on (e.g., upon a user
depressing the button 12 of the sublimation device 10), the
heat-generating element 48 is electrically activated, and,
therefore, generates the heat H in direction toward the innermost
layer 44a. In order for the heat generating element 48 to be
electrically activated, the sublimation device 10 may be
electrically connected to a battery, or, alternatively, a power
outlet by, for example a power cord (not shown) extending from the
sublimation device 10. As seen at FIG. 12, the heat-generating
element 48 may be disposed between two of the layers of the
plurality second material type layers 46a-46d, such as, for
example, a silicone layer 46b and another silicon layer 46c.
Although one heat-generating element 48 is shown at FIG. 12, the
heater 26 may include more than one heat-generating elements 48;
for example, the illustrated heat-generating element 48 or another
heat-generating element may be placed between, for example, a
silicone layer 46a and the silicon layer 46b, and/or, the silicon
layer 46c and a silicon layer 46d. Furthermore, in some
configurations, the heater 26 may include more or less: silicone
layers 46a, 46b, 46c, and 46d; and glass fiber layers 44a, 44b, and
44c than those shown. In other configurations, one or more layers
of other materials or combinations thereof may also be disposed
adjacent to or between any of the plurality of first material type
layers 44a-44c, the plurality of second material type layers
46a-46d, and the heat-generating element 48.
[0097] The thicknesses of each layer of the plurality of first
material type layers 44a-44c, the plurality of second material type
layers 46a-46d, and the heat-generating element 48 of the heater 26
shown in FIG. 12 may be the same, or, alternatively, vary between
one or more other embodiments. In some embodiments, the thicknesses
of one or more layers of the plurality of second material type
layers 46a-46d are different than the thicknesses of one or more
layers of the plurality of first material type layers 44a-44c.
Accordingly, the thicknesses of any of the layers 44a-44c, 46a-46d,
and the heat-generating element 48 forming the heater 26 may be
deliberately differentiated in order to provide a desired transfer
of the heat H from the heat-generating element 48 in a direction
toward and subsequently through the innermost layer 44a that is
configured for engagement with the outer side surface W.sub.O of
one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of
differently sized workpieces W.
[0098] In some implementations, a total thickness of the heater 26
may be between approximately about 1.5 mm and 1.9 mm. An exemplary
thickness of each layer of the plurality of first material type
layers 44a-44c, which may include a fiberglass material may be
approximately about 0.1 mm. An exemplary thickness of each layer of
the plurality of second material type layers 46a-46d, which may
include a silicone material may be approximately about 0.5 mm. An
exemplary thickness of the heat-generating element 48 may be
approximately about 0.06 mm.
[0099] Referring to FIG. 13, an exemplary configuration of the
heater 26 is shown that may include the layers 44a-44c, 46a-46d,
and the heat-generating element 48 of FIG. 12. As seen at FIG. 13,
the layers 44a-44c, 46a-46d, and the heat-generating element 48,
which may originally be formed or arranged to include a flat,
substantially rectangular shape, may be disposed adjacent one
another and then rolled or bent around an axis (for reference, see,
e.g., the central axis A.sub.20-A.sub.20 of the cavity 20) for
forming a substantially cylindrical or tube-shaped structure that
forms the cavity 20. As noted above with reference to previously
described embodiments, the heater 26 may be also form the gap 22.
Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, in some configurations, the heater 26
may include a temperature sensor 68, such as, for example, a
resistive sensor. Exemplary resistive sensors may include, for
example, a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor or
positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistor. Such exemplary
temperature sensors 68 may be disposed at, on, or near a surface of
the heater 26 that is configured to be arranged opposite the outer
side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of
the plurality of differently sized workpieces W (e.g., as seen at
FIGS. 14-15, one or more temperature sensors may be arranged on a
portion of a surface of the innermost layer 44a that is configured
to be disposed adjacent the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W) in order to detect a temperature of the heater
26 and/or the temperature of the outer side surface W.sub.O of one
of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W during the sublimation process. The measured
temperature can be communicated to a processor (see, e.g., the
processor 150.sub.1 of a CPU 150 of the sublimation device 10 at
FIG. 22) of the sublimation device 10 in order to provide a
temperature control feedback loop that may maintain the heater 26
at a sufficient temperature for a predetermined period of time for
providing a successful sublimation of a design A on the outer side
surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W.
[0100] With continued reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, two exemplary
configurations of the heater 26 are shown; however, in order to
described the following function of the exemplary heaters 26, the
heaters 26 are not arranged in a substantially cylindrical
configuration (e.g., about the central axis A.sub.20-A.sub.20 of
the cavity 20 as seen at FIG. 13), but, rather, are arranged in a
substantially flat orientation for illustrative purposes only. In
some implementations, the heater 26 includes a plurality of
distinct heat-generating zones (see, e.g., three heat-generating
zones 50a, 50b, and 50c of FIG. 14 and five heat-generating zones
52a, 52b, 52c, 52d, and 52e of FIG. 15). With reference to FIG. 14,
the heater 26 includes a first heat-generating zone 50a, a second
heat-generating zone 50b, and a third heat-generating zone 50c. The
first heat-generating zone 50a and the third heat-generating zone
50c may extend vertically along, respectively, a first end 26.sub.1
and a second end 26.sub.2 of the heater 26 while the second heat
zone 50b extends across most of a width W.sub.26 of the heater 26
as defined by an intermediate width W.sub.26-I of the heater 26.
Each of the first heat-generating zone 50a and the third
heat-generating zone 50c may be defined by a similar width
dimension (see, e.g., widths W.sub.26-E1, W.sub.26-E2) that extend
from, respectively, the first end 26.sub.1 and the second end
26.sub.2 of the heater 26. Although the innermost layer 44a is seen
at FIG. 14, the plurality of distinct heat-generating zones 50a,
50b, 50c of the heater 26 may arise from the heat-generating
element 48 being correspondingly "zoned" with each corresponding
zone being controlled by, for example, the processor 150.sub.1 in
order to provide different temperatures to correspondingly-zoned
regions of the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
during sublimation. For example, the first heat-generating zone 50a
and the third heat-generating zone 50c may be heated to a first
temperature that is greater than a second temperature provided by
the second heat-generating zone 50b.
[0101] When the heater 26 of FIG. 14 is arranged in a substantially
cylindrical configuration (e.g., about the central axis
A.sub.20-A.sub.20 of the cavity 20 as seen at FIG. 13) in order to
define the substantially cylindrical cavity 20, the first end
26.sub.1 and the second end 26.sub.2 of the heater 26 define the
gap 22, and, as such, the first heat-generating zone 50a and the
third heat-generating zone 50c of the heater 26 extend vertically
along, respectively, the first end 26.sub.1 and the second end
26.sub.2 such that the first heat-generating zone 50a and the third
heat-generating zone 50c disposed on either side of the outer side
surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W that is proximate or
near the flange portion W.sub.F of one of the workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W during
sublimation. As such, in some instances, the temperature of the
first heat-generating zone 50a and the third heat-generating zone
50c may be higher than that of the second heat-generating zone 50b
in order to, for example, compensate for conductive heat losses
that may occur proximate or near the around the flange portion
W.sub.F of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality
of differently sized workpieces W as described above, as well as,
for example, convective heat losses due to airflow that may occur
at the gap 22. Accordingly, in this exemplary configuration of the
heater 26, the comparatively higher temperature of first
heat-generating zone 50a and the third heat-generating zone 50c may
result in an even heat distribution across all of the outer side
surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces Win the event that the
flange portion W.sub.F of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of
the plurality of differently sized workpieces W results in a heat
loss as discusses above.
[0102] Accordingly, a comparatively higher temperature produced at
the first heat-generating zone 50a and the third heat-generating
zone 50c achieves the same surface temperature of outer side
surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W as provided by the
second heat-generating zone 50b where the likelihood of a heat loss
or heat sink is lower or non-existent. As such, the exemplary
configuration of the heater 26 of FIG. 14 may result in improved
distribution of the heat H provided to the outer side surface
W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality
of differently sized workpieces W that may result in a sharp,
crisp, non-faded, and non-dimmed design A transferred to the outer
side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of
the plurality of differently sized workpieces W during
sublimation.
[0103] Although the heat-generating element 48 may be
correspondingly "zoned" as described above, other configurations of
the heater 26 may include a plurality of separate heat-generating
elements 48; in such configurations, the plurality of separate
heat-generating elements 48 may be arranged in one layer, or,
alternatively, the plurality of separate heat-generating elements
48 may be arranged between the various layers of the plurality of
layers defined by the plurality of first material type layers
44a-44c and the plurality of second material type layers 46a-46d.
In some implementations, one heat-generating element 48 may heat
one or more zones of the plurality of distinct heat-generating
zones 50a, 50b, 50c and another heat-generating element 48 may heat
the other zones of the plurality of distinct heat-generating zones
50a, 50b, 50c. In other configurations, a single heat-generating
element 48 may include multiple heating zones that may correspond
to each zone of the plurality of distinct heat-generating zones
50a, 50b, 50c, which can be controlled by the processor 150.sub.1
in order to produce different temperatures at each zone of the
plurality of distinct heat-generating zones 50a, 50b, 50c.
[0104] With reference to FIG. 15, the exemplary heater 26 may
include a first heat-generating zone 52a, a second heat-generating
zone 52b, a third heat-generating zone 52c, a fourth
heat-generating zone 52d, and a fifth heat-generating zone 52e. The
first heat-generating zone 52a and the fifth heat-generating zone
52e may extend vertically along, respectively, the first end
26.sub.1 and the second end 26.sub.2 of the heater 26 while the
second heat-generating zone 52b, the third heat-generating zone
52c, and the fourth heat-generating zone 52d extend across most of
a width W.sub.26 of the heater 26 as defined by an intermediate
width W.sub.26-I of the heater 26. Each of the first
heat-generating zone 52a and the fifth heat-generating zone 52e may
be defined by a similar width dimension (see, e.g., widths
W.sub.26-E1, W.sub.26-E2) that extend from, respectively, the first
end 26.sub.1 and the second end 26.sub.2 of the heater 26.
Accordingly, the heater of FIG. 15 is substantially similar to the
heater 26 of FIG. 15 with the exception that the intermediate width
W.sub.26-I of the heater 26 is further subdivided into a upper
heat-generating zone (see, e.g., the second heat-generating zone
52b), a middle heat-generating zone (see, e.g., the third
heat-generating zone 52c), and a lower heat-generating zone (see,
e.g., the fourth heat-generating zone 52d). Accordingly, the second
heat-generating zone 52b generally corresponds to providing heat H
to a portion of the outer side surface W.sub.O proximate or near
the upper end surface W.sub.U of one of the workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W during
sublimation whereas the fourth heat-generating zone 52d generally
corresponds to providing heat H to a portion of the outer side
surface W.sub.O proximate or near the lower end surface W.sub.L of
one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of
differently sized workpieces W during sublimation. Accordingly, in
some implementations, the second heat-generating zone 52b may be
heated to a higher temperature than that of the third
heat-generating zone 52c in order to account for convective heat
loss from airflow at a portion of the outer side surface W.sub.O
proximate or near the upper end surface W.sub.U of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W during sublimation; similarly, the fourth
heat-generating zone 52d may be heated to a higher temperature than
that of the third heat-generating zone 52c in order to account for
convective heat losses and/or conductive heat losses due to contact
between the lower end surface W.sub.L of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
and the base heater 28 during sublimation.
[0105] Furthermore, the exemplary heaters 26 of FIGS. 14 and 15 may
be used in conjunction with the base heater 28. Also, dimensions of
the heaters 26 of FIGS. 14 and 15, whether relative or absolute,
are illustrative only and not meant to be limiting. Any dimensions
and size of the overall heaters 26 and/or the plurality of distinct
heat-generating zones 50a-50c or 52a-52e thereof may be different
in one or more other embodiments in order to, for example,
customize a desired heating H of a particular configuration of any
desirable workpiece that may be interfaced with the sublimation
device 10.
[0106] Referring to FIGS. 16-18, an exemplary configuration of the
base heater 28 is shown. The base heater 28 may include a body 54
with one or more resistive heating coils (not shown) disposed
within body 54. In some implementations, the body 54 may include a
ceramic material, forming a top surface 56 that is configured to
contact the lower end surface W.sub.L of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
during sublimation. Electrical terminals 58a and 58b may also
extend outside of the body 54 to provide electrical connections for
heating the interior heating coil(s) disposed within body 54.
[0107] Furthermore, the base heater 28 may include one or more
protrusions 60 and/or one or more cavities 62 into which connection
hardware, such as, for example, screws or the like, may be inserted
in order to secure the base heater 28 within outer housing 14. In
some configurations, the connection hardware may be used to secure
the base heater 28 to the outer housing 14 through the insulative
barrier 36, with the insulative barrier 36 being disposed beneath
the base heater 28 and between the base heater 28 and the outer
housing 14. Accordingly, the insulative barrier 36 may include one
or more openings through which protrusions 60 and/or connection
hardware may extend there through in order to secure the base
heater 28 to the outer housing 14.
[0108] In some configurations, the insulative barrier 36 may
include one or more openings through which one or more terminals
58a, 58b or electrical wires in communication with terminals 58a,
58b may extend such that the heating coil(s) of the base heater 28
may be connected to an electrical power. In this way, the power
supply, other electronics, or other components of the sublimation
device 10 that may power the heating coil(s) of the base heater 28
are separated from the heated body 54 of the base heater 28 by the
insulative barrier 36 in order to protect such components from the
heat H.
[0109] Referring to FIGS. 19A-19H, a method for utilizing the
sublimating device 10 is shown. Firstly, as seen at FIG. 19A, the
transfer sheet S is shown including the design A formed by the
infusible sublimation ink I. In some instances, the crafting
machine 100, which is shown arranged upon the table 125, may print
and/or cut the design A on and/or into the transfer sheet S; in
some examples, a mat may support the transfer sheet S while the
crafting machine 100 creates the design A. However, in other
implementations, the transfer sheet S is shown including the design
A formed by the infusible sublimation ink I may be separately
purchased and not formed by the crafting machine 100.
[0110] As seen at FIG. 19B, a user may arrange a surface of the
transfer sheet that carries the infusible sublimation ink I
opposite the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces
W. Then, as seen at FIG. 19C, the user may arrange the infusible
sublimation ink I adjacent the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W; in such instances, the transfer sheet may
include a tacky surface that permits the transfer sheet to be
temporarily secured to the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W.
[0111] Referring to FIG. 19D, after the transfer sheet S is
removably-secured to the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W, the lower end surface W.sub.L of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W may be arranged over the sublimation device and be
axially aligned with the about the central axis A.sub.20-A.sub.20
of the cavity 20. As seen at FIGS. 19A-19D, the workpiece
engagement actuator 16 may be arranged in the first orientation
(see also, e.g., FIG. 3) and the workpiece-engaging device 18 may
be correspondingly arranged in the disengaged orientation.
[0112] Then, as seen at FIG. 19E, after the one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
is disposed within the cavity 20, the workpiece engagement actuator
16 may be arranged in the second orientation (see also, e.g., FIGS.
4 and 5) in order to cause the workpiece-engaging device 18 to be
arranged in the engaged orientation (see also, e.g., FIGS. 4 and
5). Once the workpiece engagement actuator 16 and the
workpiece-engaging device 18 are arranged as described above at
FIG. 19E, the heater 26 may circumferentially engage the outer side
surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W, applying a
radially-inwardly-directed force or pressure P (see, e.g., FIG.
20A) thereto. Furthermore, upon the workpiece engagement actuator
16 and the workpiece-engaging device 18 are arranged as described
above at FIG. 19E, the heater 26 may automatically apply heat H
(see, e.g., FIG. 20A) to the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W. In other configurations, application of the
heat H may occur in response to, for example, the user depressing
an actuator (see, e.g., the button 12).
[0113] The sublimation device 10 may include electronics (see,
e.g., the processor 150.sub.1 of the CPU 150 at FIG. 22) that may
monitor or sense the temperature (e.g., as a result of the
temperature sensor 68 that may be communicatively-coupled to the
processor 150.sub.1) associated with the applied heat H from the
heater 26 for determining if the heater 26 should cease providing
the heat toward the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W. In other implementations, the processor 150.sub.1 may
include a timer that will also contribute to determining if heat H
should continue to be provided by the heater 26, or, if the heat H
should no longer be provided by the heater 26.
[0114] After the processor 150.sub.1 determines that the heater 26
should no longer provide heat H, the processor 150.sub.1 may
electrically deactivate the heater 26 and/or provide an indication
(e.g., a sound and/or a flashing light) to a user that the
sublimation process is complete. Thereafter, as seen at FIG. 19F, a
user may return the workpiece engagement actuator 16 to the first
orientation (see also, e.g., FIG. 3) thereby causing the
workpiece-engaging device 18 to be returned to the disengaged
orientation. Thereafter, the user may remove the one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W from the cavity 20.
[0115] Then, referring to FIG. 19G, the user may peel away the
transfer sheet S from the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the
workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized
workpieces W. As seen at FIGS. 19G and 19H, the design A that is
formed by the infusible sublimation ink I is no longer carried by
the transfer sheet S, but, rather, is infused into the outer side
surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W.
[0116] Referring to FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 21A-21D, exemplary
cross-sectional views of infusible sublimation ink I being infused
into the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces
W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W
are shown.
[0117] As seen at FIGS. 21A-21D, the sublimation device 10 performs
the act of "sublimation," which may be defined as a chemical
process where a solid material (see, e.g., the infusible
sublimation ink I at FIG. 21A) turns into a gas (see, e.g., FIG.
21B) without going through a liquid stage. "Sublimation printing,"
which may also be referred to as "dye sublimation printing," may be
utilized for transferring images onto suitable materials. Upon
arranging the transfer sheet S (including the infusible sublimation
ink I disposed thereon) proximate the heater 26 that produces heat
H (see, e.g., FIG. 20A), the infusible sublimation ink I changes
from: (1) a solid state disposed upon the transfer sheet S as seen
at FIG. 21A; and then to (2) a gaseous state as seen at FIG. 21B
that permeates into, for example, micro-pores in the outer side
surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the
plurality of differently sized workpieces W (see, e.g., FIGS. 20B
and 21B-21D).
[0118] When the heat H is removed from the transfer sheet S and the
outer side surface W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1,
W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently sized workpieces W, the
infusible sublimation ink I that transitioned from a solid state
(as seen at, e.g., FIG. 21A) to a gaseous state (as seen at, e.g.,
FIG. 21B) that permeated into the outer side surface W.sub.O of one
of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W (as seen at, e.g., FIGS. 21C-21D) is permanently
set into place by within the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W (as seen at FIG. 21D). Furthermore, with
reference to FIGS. 21A-21B, not only does the heat H change the
state of the infusible sublimation ink I, but it may also open, for
example, micro-pores of the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W that receives the infusible sublimation ink I
(as seen at, e.g., FIG. 21C) that changed from a solid state to a
gaseous state.
[0119] Once the heat H and pressure P is released, the infusible
sublimation ink I that is "gassed" into the outer side surface
W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality
of differently sized workpieces W returns to the solid state, and,
as seen at FIGS. 21C-21D, the micro-pores of the outer side surface
W.sub.O of one of the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality
of differently sized workpieces W transitions from the open state
back to the closed state, thereby trapping the infusible
sublimation ink I within the outer side surface W.sub.O of one of
the workpieces W.sub.1, W.sub.2 of the plurality of differently
sized workpieces W as seen at FIG. 21D.
[0120] FIG. 22 is schematic view of an example CPU 150, which may
be alternatively referred to as a computing device that may be used
to implement the systems and methods described in this document.
The components 150.sub.1, 150.sub.2, 150.sub.3, 150.sub.4,
150.sub.5, and 150.sub.6 shown at FIG. 22, their connections and
relationships, and their functions, are meant to be exemplary only,
and are not meant to limit implementations of the inventions
described and/or claimed in this document.
[0121] The computing device 150 includes a processor 150.sub.1,
memory 150.sub.2, a storage device 150.sub.3, a high-speed
interface/controller 150.sub.4 connecting to the memory 150.sub.2
and high-speed expansion ports 150.sub.5, and a low speed
interface/controller 150.sub.6 connecting to a low speed bus 1507
and a storage device 150.sub.3. Each of the components 150.sub.1,
150.sub.2, 150.sub.3, 150.sub.4, 150.sub.5, and 150.sub.6, are
interconnected using various busses, and may be mounted on a common
motherboard or in other manners as appropriate. The processor
150.sub.1 can process instructions for execution within the
computing device 150, including instructions stored in the memory
150.sub.2 or on the storage device 150.sub.3 to display graphical
information for a graphical user interface (GUI) on an external
input/output device, such as display 1508 coupled to high speed
interface 150.sub.4. In other implementations, multiple processors
and/or multiple buses may be used, as appropriate, along with
multiple memories and types of memory. Also, multiple computing
devices 150 may be connected, with each device providing portions
of the necessary operations (e.g., as a server bank, a group of
blade servers, or a multi-processor system).
[0122] The memory 150.sub.2 stores information non-transitorily
within the computing device 150. The memory 150.sub.2 may be a
computer-readable medium, a volatile memory unit(s), or
non-volatile memory unit(s). The non-transitory memory 150.sub.2
may be physical devices used to store programs (e.g., sequences of
instructions) or data (e.g., program state information) on a
temporary or permanent basis for use by the computing device 150.
Examples of non-volatile memory include, but are not limited to,
flash memory and read-only memory (ROM)/programmable read-only
memory (PROM)/erasable programmable read-only memory
(EPROM)/electronically erasable programmable read-only memory
(EEPROM) (e.g., typically used for firmware, such as boot
programs). Examples of volatile memory include, but are not limited
to, random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory
(DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), phase change memory
(PCM) as well as disks or tapes.
[0123] The storage device 150.sub.3 is capable of providing mass
storage for the computing device 150. In some implementations, the
storage device 150.sub.3 is a computer-readable medium. In various
different implementations, the storage device 150.sub.3 may be a
floppy disk device, a hard disk device, an optical disk device, or
a tape device, a flash memory or other similar solid state memory
device, or an array of devices, including devices in a storage area
network or other configurations. In additional implementations, a
computer program product is tangibly embodied in an information
carrier. The computer program product contains instructions that,
when executed, perform one or more methods, such as those described
above. The information carrier is a computer- or machine-readable
medium, such as the memory 150.sub.2, the storage device 150.sub.3,
or memory on processor 150.sub.1.
[0124] The high speed controller 150.sub.4 manages
bandwidth-intensive operations for the computing device 150, while
the low speed controller 150.sub.6 manages lower
bandwidth-intensive operations. Such allocation of duties is
exemplary only. In some implementations, the high-speed controller
150.sub.4 is coupled to the memory 150.sub.2, the display 1508
(e.g., through a graphics processor or accelerator), and to the
high-speed expansion ports 150.sub.5, which may accept various
expansion cards (not shown). In some implementations, the low-speed
controller 150.sub.6 is coupled to the storage device 150.sub.3 and
a low-speed expansion port 150.sub.9. The low-speed expansion port
150.sub.9, which may include various communication ports (e.g.,
USB, Bluetooth, Ethernet, wireless Ethernet), may be coupled to one
or more input/output devices, such as a keyboard, a pointing
device, a scanner, or a networking device such as a switch or
router, e.g., through a network adapter.
[0125] The computing device 150 may be implemented in a number of
different forms, as shown in the figure. For example, it may be
implemented in one or a combination of the sublimating device 10
and a laptop computer CP.
[0126] Various implementations of the systems and techniques
described herein can be realized in digital electronic and/or
optical circuitry, integrated circuitry, specially designed ASICs
(application specific integrated circuits), computer hardware,
firmware, software, and/or combinations thereof. These various
implementations can include implementation in one or more computer
programs that are executable and/or interpretable on a programmable
system including at least one programmable processor, which may be
special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and
instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a
storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output
device.
[0127] These computer programs (also known as programs, software,
software applications or code) include machine instructions for a
programmable processor, and can be implemented in a high-level
procedural and/or object-oriented programming language, and/or in
assembly/machine language. As used herein, the terms
"machine-readable medium" and "computer-readable medium" refer to
any computer program product, non-transitory computer readable
medium, apparatus and/or device (e.g., magnetic discs, optical
disks, memory, Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs)) used to provide
machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor,
including a machine-readable medium that receives machine
instructions as a machine-readable signal. The term
"machine-readable signal" refers to any signal used to provide
machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor.
[0128] The processes and logic flows described in this
specification can be performed by one or more programmable
processors, also referred to as data processing hardware, executing
one or more computer programs to perform functions by operating on
input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can
also be performed by special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA
(field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application specific
integrated circuit). Processors suitable for the execution of a
computer program include, by way of example, both general and
special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of
any kind of digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive
instructions and data from a read only memory or a random access
memory or both. The essential elements of a computer are a
processor for performing instructions and one or more memory
devices for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer
will also include, or be operatively coupled to receive data from
or transfer data to, or both, one or more mass storage devices for
storing data, e.g., magnetic, magneto optical disks, or optical
disks. However, a computer need not have such devices. Computer
readable media suitable for storing computer program instructions
and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, media and memory
devices, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices,
e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks,
e.g., internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto optical
disks; and CD ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and the memory
can be supplemented by, or incorporated in, special purpose logic
circuitry.
[0129] To provide for interaction with a user, one or more aspects
of the disclosure can be implemented on a computer having a display
device, e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube), LCD (liquid crystal
display) monitor, or touch screen for displaying information to the
user and optionally a keyboard and a pointing device, e.g., a mouse
or a trackball, by which the user can provide input to the
computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide interaction
with a user as well; for example, feedback provided to the user can
be any form of sensory feedback, e.g., visual feedback, auditory
feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from the user can be
received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.
In addition, a computer can interact with a user by sending
documents to and receiving documents from a device that is used by
the user; for example, by sending web pages to a web browser on a
user's client device in response to requests received from the web
browser.
[0130] A software application (i.e., a software resource) may refer
to computer software that causes a computing device to perform a
task. In some examples, a software application may be referred to
as an "application," an "app," or a "program." Example applications
include, but are not limited to, system diagnostic applications,
system management applications, system maintenance applications,
word processing applications, spreadsheet applications, messaging
applications, media streaming applications, social networking
applications, and gaming applications.
[0131] The non-transitory memory may be physical devices used to
store programs (e.g., sequences of instructions) or data (e.g.,
program state information) on a temporary or permanent basis for
use by a computing device. The non-transitory memory may be
volatile and/or non-volatile addressable semiconductor memory.
Examples of non-volatile memory include, but are not limited to,
flash memory and read-only memory (ROM)/programmable read-only
memory (PROM)/erasable programmable read-only memory
(EPROM)/electronically erasable programmable read-only memory
(EEPROM) (e.g., typically used for firmware, such as boot
programs). Examples of volatile memory include, but are not limited
to, random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory
(DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), phase change memory
(PCM) as well as disks or tapes.
[0132] As noted above, each of the embodiments described in the
detailed description above may include any of the features,
options, and possibilities set out in the present disclosure,
including those under the other independent embodiments, and may
also include any combination of any of the features, options, and
possibilities set out in the present disclosure and figures.
Further examples consistent with the present teachings described
herein are set out in the following numbered clauses:
[0133] The following Clauses provide an exemplary configuration for
a mug press and/or related systems or methods described above.
[0134] Clause 1: A mug press, comprising: a heater at least
partially defining a receptacle; and a base heater disposed at the
bottom of the receptacle.
[0135] Clause 2: The mug press of clause 1, wherein: the base
heater comprises a top surface; and the top surface of the base
heater is disposed perpendicular to a major axis of the
receptacle.
[0136] Clause 3: The mug press of clause 1 or 2, wherein the heater
comprises two or more distinct heat zones.
[0137] Clause 4: The mug press of clause 3, wherein at least one of
the two or more distinct heat zones extends vertically along a side
edge of the heater such that the at least one of the two or more
heat zones is configured to contact a portion of an outer surface
of a mug adjacent to a handle of the mug when the mug is placed
into the receptacle during use of the mug press.
[0138] Clause 5: The mug press of clause 3 or 4, the heater
comprising: a first side heat zone extending vertically along a
first side edge of the heater; a second side heat zone extending
vertically along a second side edge of the heater; and a middle
heat zone disposed between the first and second heat zones.
[0139] Clause 6: The mug press of clause 5, wherein the first and
second side heat zones are configured to make contact with portions
of an outer surface of a mug adjacent to either side of a handle of
the mug when the mug is placed into the receptacle during use of
the mug press.
[0140] Clause 7: The mug press of clause 5 or 6, further comprising
a lower heat zone disposed at a bottom edge of the heater and
extending between the first and second side heat zones below the
middle heat zone.
[0141] Clause 8: The mug press of any of clauses 5 through 7,
further comprising an upper heat zone disposed at a top edge of the
heater and extending between the first and second side heat zones
above the middle heat zone.
[0142] Clause 9: The mug press of any of clauses 1 through 8,
wherein the base heater is configured to contact a bottom surface
of a mug when the mug is placed into the receptacle during use.
[0143] Clause 10: The mug press of any of clauses 1 through 9,
wherein the receptacle is cylindrical.
[0144] Clause 11: The mug press of any of clauses 1 through 10, the
receptacle comprising a gap through which a handle of a mug can
extend when the mug is placed in the receptacle during use of the
mug press.
[0145] Clause 12: The mug press of any of clauses 1 through 11,
wherein the receptacle comprises a cylindrical space that is open
at a top thereof and closed at a bottom thereof.
[0146] Clause 13: The mug press of clause 12, wherein: the heater
forms vertical sidewalls defining at least a portion of the
cylindrical space; and an upper surface of the base heater forms a
lower surface of the receptacle and defines at least a portion of
closed bottom of the cylindrical space.
[0147] Clause 14: The mug press of any of clauses 3 through 13,
wherein: the heater comprises: two or more layers; and a heating
element disposed between two adjacent layers, and the heating
element is configured to heat the two or more distinct heat zones
separately.
[0148] Clause 15: The mug press of clause 14, further comprising
two or more heating elements, each heating element configured to
heat at least one of the two or more distinct heat zones.
[0149] Clause 16: The mug press of any of clauses 1 through 15,
further comprising: an outer casing; and an insulative layer
disposed between the base heater and the outer casing.
[0150] Clause 17: The mug press of clause 16, wherein the
insulative barrier is disposed below the base heater.
[0151] Clause 18: The mug press of clause 16 or 17, insulative
barrier comprising one or more openings through which one or more
base heater electrical terminals, connection mechanisms, or
electric wires may pass.
[0152] Clause 19: The mug press of any of clauses 16 through 18,
wherein a power supply or other electronic components in
communication with the base heater within the mug press are
separated from the base heater by the insulative barrier.
[0153] Clause 20: The mug press of clause 1, wherein a diameter of
the receptacle is configured to be expanded and contracted to
release and clamp down, respectively, onto a mug during use of the
mug press.
[0154] Clause 21: A sublimation device comprising: a first heater
including a proximal end, a distal end disposed opposite the
proximal end, and an inner surface extending between the proximal
end and the distal end, the inner surface at least partially
forming a cavity; and a second heater disposed proximate the distal
end of the first heater.
[0155] Clause 22: The sublimation device of clause 1, wherein the
cavity includes a major axis surrounded by the inner surface of the
first heater, wherein the second heater includes a top surface
disposed perpendicular to the major axis.
[0156] Clause 23: The sublimation device of any of clauses 21
through 22, wherein the first heater includes two or more distinct
heat zones.
[0157] Clause 24: The sublimation device of clause 23, wherein at
least one of the two or more distinct heat zones extend vertically
along a side edge of the first heater such that the at least one of
the two or more heat zones is configured to contact a portion of an
outer surface of a workpiece adjacent to a flange of the workpiece
when the workpiece is placed into the cavity.
[0158] Clause 25: The sublimation device of any of clauses 23
through 24, wherein the two or more distinct heat zones include: a
first side heat zone extending vertically along a first side edge
of the first heater; a second side heat zone extending vertically
along a second side edge of the first heater; and a middle heat
zone disposed between the first side heat zone and the second side
heat zone.
[0159] Clause 26: The sublimation device of any of clauses 21
through 25, wherein the second heater is configured to face a
bottom surface of a workpiece when the workpiece is placed into the
cavity.
[0160] Clause 27: The sublimation device of any of clauses 21
through 26, wherein the cavity is cylindrical.
[0161] Clause 28: The sublimation device of any of clauses 21
through 27, wherein the first heater forms a gap that is configured
to receive a flange portion extending from a workpiece when the
workpiece is placed into the cavity.
[0162] Clause 29: The sublimation device of any of clauses 21
through 28, wherein the cavity is open at the proximal end and
closed at the distal end.
[0163] Clause 30: The sublimation device of clause 29, wherein: the
first heater forms a vertical sidewall defining at least a portion
of the cavity; and an upper surface of the second heater defines at
least a portion of a closed bottom of the cavity.
[0164] Clause 31: The sublimation device of any of clauses 21
through 30, further comprising: an outer casing; and an insulative
layer disposed between the second heater and the outer casing.
[0165] Clause 32: The sublimation device of clause 31, wherein the
insulative layer is disposed below the second heater.
[0166] Clause 33: The sublimation device of any of clauses 21
through 32, wherein the second heater is disposed within the
cavity.
[0167] Clause 34: The sublimation device of any of clauses 21
through 33, wherein the first heater at least partially surrounds
the second heater.
[0168] Clause 35: A method of sublimating ink on a workpiece, the
method comprising: activating a first heater; transmitting, in a
first direction, a first heat flow from the first heater during a
first time period; activating a second heater; and transmitting, in
a second direction, a second heat flow from the second heater
during at least a portion of the first time period.
[0169] Clause 36: The method of clause 35, wherein the first
direction is orthogonal to the second direction.
[0170] Clause 37: The method of clause 36, wherein the first
direction extends radially, and the second direction extends
axially.
[0171] Clause 38: The method of any of clauses 36 through 37,
wherein the first heater at least partially defines a cavity, the
method further comprising disposing a workpiece within the
cavity.
[0172] Clause 39: The method of any of clauses 36 through 38,
further comprising transmitting, in the second direction, a third
heat flow from the first heater during the first time period.
[0173] Clause 40: The method of clause 39, wherein a first portion
of the third heat flow is disposed on a first axial side of the
second heater, and a second portion of the third heat flow is
disposed on a second axial side of the second heater.
[0174] The articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to mean that
there are one or more of the elements in the preceding
descriptions. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are
intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional
elements other than the listed elements. Additionally, it should be
understood that references to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment"
of the present disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as
excluding the existence of additional implementations that also
incorporate the recited features. Numbers, percentages, ratios, or
other values stated herein are intended to include that value, and
also other values that are "about" or "approximately" the stated
value, as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art
encompassed by implementations of the present disclosure. A stated
value should therefore be interpreted broadly enough to encompass
values that are at least close enough to the stated value to
perform a desired function or achieve a desired result. The stated
values include at least the variation to be expected in a suitable
manufacturing or production process, and may include values that
are within 5%, within 1%, within 0.1%, or within 0.01% of a stated
value.
[0175] A person having ordinary skill in the art should realize in
view of the present disclosure that equivalent constructions do not
depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and
that various changes, substitutions, and alterations may be made to
implementations disclosed herein without departing from the spirit
and scope of the present disclosure. Equivalent constructions,
including functional "means-plus-function" clauses are intended to
cover the structures described herein as performing the recited
function, including both structural equivalents that operate in the
same manner, and equivalent structures that provide the same
function. It is the express intention of the applicant not to
invoke means-plus-function or other functional claiming for any
claim except for those in which the words `means for` appear
together with an associated function. Each addition, deletion, and
modification to the implementations that falls within the meaning
and scope of the claims is to be embraced by the claims.
[0176] The terms "approximately," "about," and "substantially" as
used herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that
still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For
example, the terms "approximately," "about," and "substantially"
may refer to an amount that is within less than 5% of, within less
than 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and within less than 0.01% of
a stated amount. Further, it should be understood that any
directions or reference frames in the preceding description are
merely relative directions or movements. For example, any
references to "up" and "down" or "above" or "below" are merely
descriptive of the relative position or movement of the related
elements.
[0177] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly,
other implementations are within the scope of the following claims,
and all changes that come within the meaning and range of
equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their
scope.
* * * * *