Sublideck uses a patented process combining infrared heating and vacuum pressure to mould dye-sublimation printed media around shaped objects and complicated 3D surfaces. Applications include reproducing bespoke graphic designs onto car parts, consumer electronics, sports gear, packaging, household appliances, architectural features, fashion products, laptops and mobile phone covers.

Two versions of the Sublideck heat press are offered: 2D for simple shaped products and 3D for more complicated surfaces.

The heat presses can handle products up to 500x500mm and 100mm thick, although Octi-Tech added it has already built a larger bespoke machine for one US customer and is investigating the market for larger formats up to 1.25x2.5m (8x4feet).

The Sheffield-based business claimed that the use of infrared heating made the process fast and ensured precise control of time and temperature making it suitable for applying graphics to thin plastics that could warp using other techniques.

Sublideck 2D costs £3,995 and Sublideck 3D costs £8,995.

The company claims that the best results are obtained using Octi-Tech's TotalRelease film, which can be printed with standard dye-sublimation inkjet inks.