Abstract: Exposure time is determined by a device which is sensitive to an environmental substance in a controlled environment. Embodiments include a humidity sensitive timer treated with a cobalt salt which changes colors after a certain exposure time within the controlled environment. Elapsed time is measured by exposing the timer to a humidity controlled environment and monitoring the timer for a change in color.

Abstract: A sterilization indicator that presents a visually distinct and uniform color transition after having been passed through sterilizing conditions. This sterilization indicator has a base layer with an indicator compound applied to at least an indicating region thereon. It also has a raised lamina attached to the base layer so as to substantially surround the indicating region.

Abstract: Recording materials are converted in a direct thermal imaging apparatus to time temperature indicators by exposure to heat from the thermal print head of a direct thermal printer. Methods for converting a recording material to a time temperature indicator comprise heating the recording material with a direct thermal imaging apparatus. The recording material contains an indicator compound which is convertible from an inactive state to an active state when heat is applied thereto by a direct thermal imaging apparatus for less than one second. Time-temperature indicators with active indicator compounds in a printed pattern are formed by a direct thermal imaging apparatus.

Abstract: A device and method of making a device for indicating a change in condition is disclosed. A first embodiment is a device for indicating a transition from a frozen condition to a thawed condition is disclosed. The device includes a housing and a capsule. A first reactant and a liquid are included within the capsule. The liquid is chosen such that it expands upon freezing. The capsule is sized such that when the liquid freezes and expands, the capsule fractures. A second reactant is provided within the housing. The location of the second reactant and the method of attaching (if any) the second reactant to the housing may take various forms. When the liquid within the capsule freezes, it expands and fractures the capsule. Upon thawing, the reactant within the capsule escapes and mixes with the reactant located outside the capsule. A second embodiment is a time-temperature indicator. A flexible housing is used, allowing the user to manually deform the housing to fracture a capsule enclosed therein.

Abstract: Time-temperature indicators (TTIs) which are generated by converting indicator compounds from an inactive state to an active state using a thermal transfer printing apparatus are described.

Abstract: A time-temperature indicator device comprises a polymeric layer having a first and second surface and a dye composition adhered to said first surface comprising a dye which diffuses into the polymeric layer as a result of a cumulative time-temperature exposure wherein the polymeric layer is formed from a natural or synthetic rubber polymer or copolymer. The device may be attached to a product for monitoring cumulative time-temperature exposure.

Abstract: A sensor assembly can detect at least one target material in an environment. The sensor assembly comprises at least one sensor and an amorphous fluoropolymer material coating disposed on a surface of the at least one sensor.

Abstract: A temperature sensitive indicator 24 in the form of a label or decal is affixed to the outside of a thermal switch 20. The temperature sensitive label provides a permanent record of the temperature limits exposed to the thermal switch. The temperature sensitive material changes colors when the thermal switch is exposed to its predetermined temperature limit. The changed color provides a quick and clear indication of an event that caused switch activation. The color indication on the outside surface of the switch also provides a visual indication that is easy to acquire and inspect without the need to have physical access to the switch itself.

Abstract: A dual bar code for detecting food contamination. When no contamination is present a first bar code identifies the food product. When contamination is present a second bar code identifies the presence of contaminants.

Abstract: A marker (10) for identifying plants, which is designed for inserting into soil (16), is designed in such a way that it absorbs moisture. (FIG. 1).

Abstract: A time indicator rapidly changes color after a specific time interval. The indicator comprises “back part” that includes a base substrate with a colored dye or colorant deposited on a first surface. A colorant impermeable barrier layer overlays the colorant or colored dye. The indicator further comprises a “front part” that includes a substrate having an adhesive on a first surface thereof. When the back part and front part are put into adhesive contact with each other, the parts coact with each other to cause the colorant impermeable barrier layer to change to a colorant permeable layer to permit the dye to migrate through the layers to cause a color change visible through the front part.

Abstract: A moisture sensor is disclosed that includes a capsule, having a bottom portion and a top portion and an inlet for receiving fluid located at the top portion of the capsule, wherein the capsule is capable of containing at least one chemical that changes appearance in the fluid's presence. There is also a process for utilizing a moisture sensor that is disclosed. The process includes inserting at least one chemical that changes appearance when a fluid is present in a capsule, wherein the capsule has a bottom portion and a top portion and an inlet for receiving fluid located at the top portion of the capsule, and inserting the capsule into a ceiling where the bottom portion of the capsule is located below the ceiling.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a chemical indicator that is used to determine whether instruments and other products to be sterilized have experienced a sterilization treatment process or to confirm whether sterilization has been efficiently performed, by the color tone change of the indicator when sterilizing medical instruments and other products and the like by a hydrogen peroxide low temperature plasma sterilizing method.

Abstract: A chemically sensitive warning apparatus capable of changing colors upon contact with a chemical is disclosed. The apparatus preferably comprises an elongated tape having opposed, first and second major surfaces and warning indicia visible to an individual viewing the first surface to provide visual indication of possible danger or hazardous condition. Mounted to the tape is at least one chemical indicator that is responsive to the presence of at least one chemical by changing colors so as to provide a visual indication of the exposure of the indicator to the chemical. The tape may also include at least one color reference indicia to facilitate interpretation of the color of the chemical indicator when the chemical indicator changes color upon exposure to the chemical.

Abstract: A moisture sensor is disclosed that includes a capsule, having a bottom portion and a top portion and an inlet for receiving fluid located at the top portion of the capsule, wherein the capsule is capable of containing at least one chemical that changes appearance in the fluid's presence. There is also a process for utilizing a moisture sensor that is disclosed. The process includes inserting at least one chemical that changes appearance when a fluid is present in a capsule, wherein the capsule has a bottom portion and a top portion and an inlet for receiving fluid located at the top portion of the capsule, and inserting the capsule into a ceiling where the bottom portion of the capsule is located below the ceiling.

Abstract: The invention designed to provide a gas indicator which can be applied over a broad range of gas concentration from a low concentration gas to a high concentration gas is concerned with a gas indicator comprising a housing and a change-color gas sensor element with which the housing is loaded, the housing internally defining a gas passage space extending from its gate through its bottom with the area of its cross-section parallel to the plane of the gate being progressively reduced from the gate to the bottom.

Abstract: The method uses color to determine the wear of the screw and barrel of the molding machine. The method measures the color and/or color variation to determine the wear. A first material of a first color and a second material of a second color are fed into the machine to create a third material with a third color. The third material is either extruded to form a part or is injected into a mold to form a part. The color of the part is then measured with a measuring device, such as, spectrophotometer. The color will change as the screw and barrel wear. The color value would then be compared with previous color values to determine the amount of wear.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a food contamination detector associated with a double bar code, given the trademark GILBAR™ by the owner of the present invention, that includes coded indicia used to identify the presence of conditions indicative of microbial contamination in food, including toxic contaminants, bacterial metabolites, and other microbial secretions. Of the two bar code symbols associated with the food contamination detector, the first identifies the food product in terms of the type of food, the quantity, the price and the like, while the second bar code symbol is designed to identify the presence of contaminants. When contamination is not detected, the first bar code symbol is scanner readable, whereas the second bar code symbol is not. Once contamination is detected, bars in both bar code symbols can appear or disappear causing the first bar code symbol to become scanner unreadable and the second bar code symbol to become scanner readable.

Abstract: A tamper-indicating device is described. The device has a transparent or translucent cylindrical body that includes triboluminescent material, and an outer opaque layer that prevents ambient light from entering. A chamber in the body holds an undeveloped piece of photographic film bearing an image. The device is assembled from two body members. One of the body members includes a recess for storing film and an optical assembly that can be adjusted to prevent light from passing through the assembly and exposing the film. To use the device with a hasp, the body members are positioned on opposite sides of a hasp, inserted through the hasp, and attached. The optical assembly is then manipulated to allow any light generated from the triboluminescent materials during a tampering activity that damages the device to reach the film and destroy the image on the film.

Abstract: An instrument and a method for measuring a duration at or above a predetermined temperature, such as a solder reflow temperature, are disclosed. The instrument includes a capillary tube and an indicator material that is solid at temperatures below the predetermined temperature and a liquid that will move into and through the capillary tube at and above the predetermined temperature. In the method according to the invention, an instrument according to the invention is heated, then cooled. The amount of indicator material in the capillary tube indicates how much time the instrument spent at temperatures at or above the predetermined temperature. The instrument and method are useful, for instance, for indicating the length of time an integrated circuit package is at or above a solder reflow temperature during manufacturing processes.

Abstract: The device for detecting, assessing and signaling thawing of deep frozen foodstuff includes a stratified disc (1), which can be applied to the product to be checked, and formed by a first support (3), a second support (7) and impermeable transparent films (8,9). A pattern (4), made on the first support (3) and extending up to a central display zone (6), is obtained by application of water expansion facilitating substances. Coloring water-soluble substances, which assume a well seen color when in contact with liquid water, are also applied to the display zone (6). The second support (7) has printed thereon information about the disc (1) use, and allows to see the display zone (6). The transparent and impermeable films, respectively upper (8) and lower (9), are fastened to the upper surface (3b) and to the lower surface (3a) of this first support (3).

Abstract: An opened fuse indicator includes a substantially transparent lens, a transparent base, and a dark colored backing layer. A sputtered metal layer is formed on the transparent base to provide a light-colored electrically conductive surface including a narrowed portion that forms a fuse link that is visible against the dark background of backing layer when viewed through the transparent lens. The conductive sputtered metal layer is electrically connected to a pair of fuse terminals to form a secondary fuse circuit in parallel with a main fuse circuit. Current directed through the secondary fuse circuit after the main circuit opens melts the sputtered metal layer so that it is no longer visible against the dark colored backing layer and the fuse is thereby indicated as opened.

Abstract: Exposure time is determined by a device which is sensitive to an environmental substance in a controlled environment. Embodiments include a humidity sensitive timer treated with a cobalt salt which changes colors after a certain exposure time within the controlled environment. Elapsed time is measured by exposing the timer to a humidity controlled environment and monitoring the timer for a change in color.

Abstract: Composition containing two components, which together show an elevated freezing point and bring about a color change at selected temperatures and method of making the same. Use of the composition to prepare a temperature indicating device by filling the same in a suitable transparent container and with a background in the form of a color, a number or a letter, which facilitates to visually observe the difference in color change.

Abstract: There is provided a plasma sterilization indicator enabling an accurate detection of the end-point of plasma sterilization. This invention relates to a plasma sterilization indicator comprising a support and, as formed thereon, a color-change layer comprised of a variable color ink composition containing an anthraquinone dye having at least one kind of amino groups, primary and/or secondary.

Abstract: Package (1) for decayable foodstuffs (2), consisting of a package material (3) and forming a mainly closed package space (4) and a mainly closed indicator space (5) for an indicator (6).

Abstract: A metal layer cleared by contact with a chemical clearing agent to reveal an underlying graphics layer is at least partially covered by a buffer material that delays contact with the clearing agent. The buffer material can be applied in a pattern that forms a temporary image in the metal layer prior to more completely revealing the underlying graphics layer.

Abstract: A device use indicator (16), which is designed to signal a predetermined amount of use of a device as a function of the amount of vibration of the device is provided. The indicator is adapted to be coupled or attached to a device (10). The indicator includes a first disk (18), a second disk (20), and an intermediate layer (22) separating the first disk from the second disk. The first disk retains a chemical therein. In operation, when the device to which the use indicator is attached is used, vibration of the device and the indicator triggers release of the chemical from the first disk. The chemical then travels through the intermediate layer to be received by the second disk. The chemical, when received by the second disk in excess of a predetermined amount, creates a detectable indication. The detectable indication, for example, a color or shade change produced in the second disk, signals a user that the device has been used for a predetermined amount of time as a function of the amount of its vibration.

Abstract: A method of developing a new coating having a desired performance characteristic with regard to a property of a coating is provided.

Abstract: A migrating dye indicator that includes a display layer and a base substrate layer. An adhesive layer is on one surface of the display layer for adhesively attaching the display layer to the base layer. The base layer includes a migrating dye capable of migrating through the adhesive layer to the display layer when the adhesive layer is placed in contact therewith. The adhesive layer contains an accelerator for enhancing the migration of the dye through the adhesive layer. The base layer contains a means for absorbing the accelerator into the base layer.

Abstract: A sterilization monitor includes a substrate and an monitor composition. The monitor composition contains a colorant and a halogen source and undergoes a distinct color change when exposed to a peracid. The sterilization monitor can be used to monitor a sterilization process involving a peracid. A sterilization monitoring device, including a sterilization monitor enclosed in a housing having a vapor permeable barrier, can also be used to monitor a sterilization process.

Abstract: A timing device for visually determining the passage of a preselected period of time including an inverted U-shaped tube having opposed ends with at least one of the opposed ends having a reservoir for storing a reactant or an indicator, transport means extending from the reservoir to the other of the opposed ends of the tube for transporting at least one of the reactant or the indicator until they contact each other, a reactant, and an indicator which when in contact with the reactant via the transport means emits an observable change in a property wherein the minimum length of the period of time corresponds to the time it takes for the reactant and indicator to contact each other.

Abstract: Display information is revealed from behind a metal film that can be cleared upon effective contact with a clearing agent. The metal film, while opaque, is generally less than 1000 Angstroms thick and can be cleared by exposure to innocuous agents including food or other household products.

Abstract: A novel label may be used in a novel sterilization tracking system. The label preferably has first and second portions and a first and second liners. Perforations may preferably attach the first portion to the second portion. The label is particularly suitable for use in monitoring and/or tracking hydrogen peroxide sterilization procedures.

Abstract: A tire with worn tread indicator for providing a visual indication that a tire's tread is worn below a predetermined level. The tire with worn tread indicator includes a tire with a treaded outer surface having a plurality of alternating tread channels and tread ridges. A plurality of spaced apart elongate gel tubes are embedded in the tire and positioned adjacent the treaded outer surface. In the lumen of each gel tube is a visibly detectable colored liquid therein.

Abstract: An electrochemical timer is described that is compact, lightweight, inexpensive to manufacture, and simple to use in which the consumption of reactive materials in an electrochemical reaction provides a visual indication of the passage of time. In one embodiment, the electrochemical timer includes a first electrode, an electrolyte, and a second electrode. The electrodes and electrolyte are chosen such that the first electrode is consumed at a predetermined rate upon electrochemical contact of the electrodes and electrolyte. The electrodes and electrolyte are further configured such that the consumption of the first electrode can be monitored to provide an indication of the passage of time. In one embodiment, the electrochemical timers provided herein are used to monitor the shelf-life of perishables.

Abstract: A food contamination detector. The food contamination detector comprises a first bar code symbol coded to identify a food product by a bar code reader, a second bar code symbol coded to identify contaminated food by a bar code reader, and an indicator printed onto a substrate which changes color when food is contaminated and causes the first bar code symbol to be unreadable by a bar code reader and causes the second bar code symbol to become readable by a bar code reader.

Abstract: A method for determining silver concentration in a solution is disclosed. This method generally comprises immersing a substantially pure, elemental, copper strip in a sample of the solution to be tested, agitating the strip in the sample, removing the strip from the sample, and observing the color change, if any, of the strip. These strips are generally greater than 99% pure copper, and have been coated with a metal ion layer. An alternative embodiment provides for removal of the metal ion layer immediately before testing the silver concentration of the solution. A test kit comprising the active copper strips is also disclosed.

Abstract: A swimmer's safety device including a casing having a top surface with a plurality of perforations to allow water to enter once submerged, and having a deflectable membrane along with a plunger to penetrate a dye material and puncture a rupturable bottom surface to release the dye into the water, once the casing is submerged to a depth predetermined aforehand, and for a time interval set in accordance with the skills of the swimmer, as well. The casing, in accordance with the invention, could be incorporated as part of a swimsuit construction, could be temporarily secured to the swimsuit of a wearer, or could be worn as a swimsuit accessory as a wristband, armband, headband, or necklace.

Abstract: A temperature sensitive indicator 24 in the form of a label or decal is affixed to the outside of a thermal switch 20. The temperature sensitive label provides a permanent record of the temperature limits exposed to the thermal switch. The temperature sensitive material changes colors when the thermal switch is exposed to its predetermined temperature limit. The changed color provides a quick and clear indication of an event that caused switch activation. The color indication on the outside surface of the switch also provides a visual indication that is easy to acquire and inspect without the need to have physical access to the switch itself.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for obtaining, in the manufacture of a high-strength composite, an indication the reinforcement layer of the composite has been wetted throughout by the matrix material of the composite. The reinforcement layer is of the type which mainly consists of fibers or fiber bundles which do not become translucent or transparent when wetted by the matrix material, such as carbon or aramide fibers or fiber bundles. The matrix material of thermosetting plastic is applied in a liquid state in the manufacture according to, for instance, the technique of hand lay-up. The reinforcement layer includes indicating fibers which become translucent or transparent when wetted by the matrix material. A good indication is obtained if the indicating fibers have such properties that they become translucent only when the adjoining reinforcing material has been completely wetted throughout.

Abstract: A critical temperature indicating device is provided. It includes a microporous membrane, an indicating composition containing less than about 10 wt-% water, and means for containing the microporous membrane and the indicating composition. The indicating composition includes: a primary organic component comprising at least one compound that has a freezing point above the critical temperature and does not spontaneously wet out the microporous membrane at a temperature at least about 30.degree. C. above the critical temperature; a modifying component comprising at least one compound that has a freezing point below the critical temperature; and a wetting component comprising at least one compound that has a freezing point below the critical temperature and is capable of spontaneously wetting out the microporous membrane at about the critical temperature.

Abstract: Provided is a system for indicating exposure to a chemical vapor sterilization process. This system comprises a composition applied to a suitable support, which composition comprises a component which is chromatically transformed by the action of a vapor phase sterilant. In particular, the present invention is applicable to a system for indicating exposure to a hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization process, with the component which is chemically transformed being so transformed in the presence of vaporous hydrogen peroxide. The composition comprises at least the component which is chemically transformed by the action of the hydrogen peroxide, but may also contain additional ingredients or components. For example, the composition also generally comprises a binder to aid in applying the composition to a suitable support or substrate.

Abstract: A packaging container including a humidity indicator system specifically designed for use in packaging electronic circuits, such as integrated circuits. The packaging container is prepared from a water and water vapor proof, anti-static packaging material and contains an opening therein. The humidity indicator system includes a humidity indicator element, a humidity comparison element and a securing system for securing the humidity indicator element to the packaging container, wherein the opening in the packaging material is closed by the humidity indicator system.

Abstract: A food contamination detector. The food contamination detector comprises a first bar code symbol coded to identify a food product by a bar code reader, a second bar code symbol coded to identify contaminated food by a bar code reader, and an indicator printed onto a substrate which changes color when food is contaminated and causes the first bar code symbol to be unreadable by a bar code reader and causes the second bar code symbol to become readable by a bar code reader.

Abstract: A field test kit for determining quantity of hydrogen sulfide in a liquid st sample. The test kit includes a test container with an opening for a liquid test sample containing hydrogen sulfide gas and a cap provided over the opening. The cap has calorimetric particulate indicator on its top inside surface. A silicone barrier disposed over the indicator protects the indicator from contact with the test sample.

Abstract: A method and device for the detection of allergenic substances in food products. The device comprises a dining mat, such as a doily, formed of an absorbent material and small spots of reagents are applied to isolated zones on the mat. Each reagent is characterized by the ability to change its characteristics when contacted by an allergenic substance. A label can be applied to the mat adjacent each reagent indicating the respective allergenic substance. In use, a small amount of a food product is applied to a reagent and if the food product contains the allergenic substance, the reagent will change its appearance indicating the presence of the allergenic substance in the food product.

Abstract: An on demand useful life indicator (10) and method providing a uniform visual change. The indicator (10) attachable to goods or worn. This indicator includes a base (12); indicator material (14), impermeable adhesive (16), and a co-layered covering (18). The indicator material (14) provides a visual indication when exposed to a selected component of an ambient fluid.. The indicator material (14) is intimately fixed to one side of a second layer (22) of the covering (18) in a selected pattern. The adhesive layer (16) is applied in a selected pattern between the base member (12) and the covering material (18). A permeable second layer (22) of the covering (18) is adhered to the adhesive layer (16) allowing an impermeable first layer (20) to be selectively removed therefrom. The useful life indicator remains in a selected state of dormancy until removal of the first layer (2).

Abstract: A method of indicating a time or a temperature-time accumulated value as a color change (degree of color development), which comprises providing an oxidation-polymerizable dyestuff and the oxidizing agent in a non-contact state and bringing the oxidation-polymerizable dyestuff and the oxidizing agent into contact with each other to polymerize the oxidation-polymerizable dyestuff with the passage of time, and an indicator material therefor.

Abstract: A tape seal for containers is provided. The tape seal comprises a strap mountable to locking bars of a shipping container, a tensioning device connected to the strap for applying tension to the straps after the straps are mounted to the locking bars, and an indicator affixed to the strap. The indicator has a first indicia coacting with the strap for indicating that the strap is at an initial tension and the container is secured. The indicator also has a second indicia also coacting with the strap for indicating that the strap is at a second tension less than the initial tension after the initial tension has been applied. The first indicia indicates that the strap is securely mounted to the locking bars and the second indicia indicates that the strap is not securely mounted to the locking bars thus indicating that there may have been tampering with the seal.