By Heat Patents (Class 116/207)
  • Patent number: 4629335
    Abstract: An indicating tube for detecting gas type and characteristics comprises a hollow transparent tube having a passage therethrough for the passage of a gas to be detected and with a first material in the passage giving a visual indication of the gas characteristic and a second material in the passage which gives a visual indication of the temperature characteristic of the gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1986
    Assignee: Dragerwerk Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Wolfgang Eckstein
  • Patent number: 4620941
    Abstract: A thermochromic composition comprising:(i) at least one electron-donating organic chromogenic compound,(ii) at least one compound serving as a color developing material and selected from thiourea and derivatives thereof, guanidine and derivatives thereof, benzothiazole, and benzothiazolyl derivatives represented by the formula ##STR1## wherein A is --H, ##STR2## --NR.sub.2, --H.multidot.NR.sub.3 or --CSNR.sub.2 in which R is H, C.sub.1 -C.sub.10 alkyl, benzyl optionally substituted with C.sub.1 -C.sub.6 alkyl or cyclohexyl optionally substituted with C.sub.1 -C.sub.6 alkyl, with the proviso that all of R in --NR.sub.2, --H.multidot.NR.sub.3 and --CSNR.sub.2 can not be H, and M is Cu, Zn, Fe, Ni, Co or Te, and(iii) and at least one compound serving as a desensitizer and selected from the group consisting of alcohols, esters, ketones, ethers, acid amides, carboxylic acids and hydrocarbons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1986
    Assignee: Sakura Color Products Corporation
    Inventors: Kimio Yoshikawa, Hidetoshi Fukuo, Juzo Kuroda
  • Patent number: 4601588
    Abstract: The present invention provides a temperature-indicating sheet which, when exposed to temperatures higher than the prescribed temperature in temperature-control for the common low-temperature preserved goods, changes in color according to the exposure temperature and time. This object is attained by arranging one component which melts at the prescribed temperature and a substance which irreversibly changes in color in contact with said component through a membrane permeable to the component. The sheet of the present invention comprises a component which melts at the prescribed temperature, a substance which changes in color in contact with the component and a membrane permeable to the molten component, said component being included in microcapsules which can be broken by outer pressure at a temperature used, and in which the component and the substance are arranged at the opposite sides with respect to the membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1986
    Assignee: Matsumoto Kosan Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Ichiro Takahara, Tomoyoshi Ono, Makoto Nakai
  • Patent number: 4596696
    Abstract: A disposable sterilizer mechanical air removal test pack comprising an outer container in the form of a box having a definite shape and being formed of a relatively air and steam permeable material coated with a form-stabilizing layer of a relatively air and steam impermeable material, and a body of relatively air and steam permeable material enclosed in the box. An indicator means is arranged in the body of material for indicating when contact with steam has taken place. The box includes a plurality of closure flaps which provide interruptions which control and direct the flow of steam into and air out of the interior of the body of material with the flow of steam and air occurring predominantly in a lateral direction through the body of material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1983
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1986
    Assignee: Sybron Corporation
    Inventor: John R. Scoville, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4566401
    Abstract: An improved dynamic current interruption-type flashover indicator responsive to lightning strikes for releasing from the tip of arc horns located on power transmission towers and for interrupting the resulting dynamic current. The present invention utilizes a uniquely designed propellant having a formed center hole extending the longitudinal length of the propellant and containing therein a fuse wire extending from a separation plate at one end and engaging an inserted pin at the other end. When lightning strikes, the resulting arc is lead into and throughout the formed center hole by the fuse wire, the fuse wire melts and the temperature of the arc causes the propellant to vaporize uniformly into steam and the resulting gaseous force causes the indicator to become rocket-like and to suddenly leave the tip of the arc horn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1986
    Assignee: Kinki Denki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masao Tomita
  • Patent number: 4561300
    Abstract: A temperature recorder suitable for circulation with a well drilling fluid is provided with a spherical casing and/or a plurality of minute samples of known melting point and/or positioning of the samples in the mouth of a capillary structure so that the melting of the sample is unambiguous.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1985
    Assignee: Phillips Petroleum Company
    Inventor: John T. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 4550150
    Abstract: Process of detecting the presence of certain gases, including certain pollutants, in small concentrations; or to cause partial polymerization of certain polyacetylene compositions for use in time/temperature history indicators or radiation dosage indicators. The process involves contacting a reactive gas, such as a nitrogen oxide, a halide or ozone, with a crystalline substituted acetylenic monomer containing at least two conjugated triple bonds and substituents having at least one atom of oxygen or nitrogen. In particular the acetylenic compound is 2,4-hexadiyne-1,6-bis(phenylurethane) crystallized from tetrahydrofuran or acetone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1980
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1985
    Assignee: Allied Corporation
    Inventors: Gordhanbhai N. Patel, Anthony F. Preziosi, Himangshu R. Bhattacharjee, Lester T. C. Lee
  • Patent number: 4533640
    Abstract: An adjustable accumulated thermal exposure indicator device, and method of use, for affixing to and indicating deterioration of perishable goods and the like, comprising (1) a reactant yielding material that reacts via one or more steps at a rate depending on time, temperature, and pH to provide an amine and (2) an indicator that reacts at a time, temperature, concentration and pH dependent rate with the amine to produce a visible reaction that is indicative of the expiration of a predetermined time-temperature history related to the useful life of the goods to which the device is affixed. Also provided is a device or article that is responsive to accumulated thermal exposure for the controlled release of immobilized alcohols and amines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1984
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1985
    Inventor: Jules A. Shafer
  • Patent number: 4526752
    Abstract: A tamper-resistant package containing in an anerobic environment a leuco dye free of reducing agent which dye becomes colored upon reaction with oxygen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1985
    Inventors: Daniel Perlman, Henry Linschitz
  • Patent number: 4480749
    Abstract: A tamper-evident container and a method for making the same. The container includes at least one open end with integral flaps adjacent the open end. A thermoplastic material is applied to one flap with the other flap folded over onto the one flap. The flaps are thus sealed together with a thermoplastic material. A temperature-sensitive indicator is applied to the closed end so that the indicator visually indicates whether an excessive amount of heat has been applied to the seal of thermoplastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1984
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Peter K. Laucis, Robert Terry
  • Patent number: 4469452
    Abstract: System and means for irreversibly recording the incidence of a predetermined temperature comprising a cholesteric liquid crystal system and an activator material capable of interacting with the liquid crystal system to induce a unique irreversible change in the optical properties thereof sustantially at the predetermined temperature. The system preferably includes means for separating the liquid crystal system and activator at temperatures below the activation temperature of the activator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1982
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1984
    Assignee: Whitman Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Edward N. Sharpless, Joseph Lichtenstein
  • Patent number: 4459936
    Abstract: Apparatus for indicating whether the contents of a container have been sterilized during a sterilization process including a first member having a portion for coacting with the sterilization agent to indicate the sterility of the contents of the container. A second member is adapted to extend into the interior of the container to be sterilized and receive and releasably engage the first member so that said first member can be positioned within the interior of the container to be sterilized during the sterilization process and so that the first member can be placed in and withdrawn from the second member without exposing the contents of the container to the surrounding environment or the operator to the contents of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1984
    Assignee: American Sterilizer Company
    Inventor: David A. Karle
  • Patent number: 4459046
    Abstract: A self-adhesive temperature indicator comprises a piece of transparent or translucent foil (10), one side being provided, over at least a region thereof, with a layer (12) of material which changes color at a predetermined temperature, over at least another region thereof with a printed layer (14), for example of a material having a visual characteristic (e.g. its own color) denoting the predetermined temperature, and over at least another region (preferably a peripheral margin) with a coating (18) of adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 10, 1984
    Inventor: Ernst Spirg
  • Patent number: 4450023
    Abstract: A thermochromic composition suitable for coating heat-recoverable materials for cable enclosures. The composition contains an organic material which melts and decomposes at a certain temperature by trapping the decomposition products in the composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: N.V. Raychem S.A.
    Inventor: Francis J. A. M. C. De Blauwe
  • Patent number: 4439346
    Abstract: Polydiacetylene gel compositions, comprised of a polydiacetylene and a gel-forming liquid therefor, are described which undergo a change in color and in physical state to a solution when heated to a predetermined temperature. The gel compositions exhibit hysteresis temperature characteristics which allow the original color change to be maintained and recorded until the solution is cooled below the predetermined temperature. Thus, the gel compositions are useful in temperature-indicating devices for reversibly monitoring a wide range of temperatures. A novel class of polydiacetylene compounds is also described, useful in forming the gel compositions, formed from monomeric diacetylenediol bis(alkoxycarbonylmethylurethanes).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1978
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1984
    Assignee: Allied Corporation
    Inventors: Gordhanbhai N. Patel, Dawn M. Ivory
  • Patent number: 4433637
    Abstract: A temperature measuring device engageable with a surface of any contour to determine the individual temperature of each of the several portions of the surface by providing a thermal map. The map is observable and may be photographed if a record thereof is desired.The temperature measuring device has a portion engageable with the surface and conformable to the surface. The portion which engages the surface includes a coating of cholesteric material, such as microencapsulated liquid crystal material which is temperature-sensitive and light-reflecting. The device also includes a transparent fill material therewithin to transmit the thermal image or map therethrough. Thus, a thermal map or image of the surface is provided. The thermal map is observable and/or recordable through another portion of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1981
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1984
    Assignee: Vectra International Corporation
    Inventors: William L. Buirley, Donald E. Koopman, David B. McQuain, William H. Reeves
  • Patent number: 4428321
    Abstract: Device which visually indicates exposure to a temperature within a predetermined range for a predetermined length of time. An opaque microporous sheet has a colored stratum on the back and a transparent fusible coating on the face. The coating is a solid solution of amorphous rubbery polymer in crystallizable solvent which, upon melting, gradually penetrates and transparentizes the microporous layer, rendering the colored stratum visible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1984
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: Robert P. Arens
  • Patent number: 4424990
    Abstract: This invention provides novel thermochromic compositions which exhibit distinct color changes at temperatures in the range of about 165.degree. C. to about 240.degree. C. The compositions comprise basic copper carbonate and a sulfur compound. Paint formulations containing these novel thermochromic compositions or complexes of copper and sulfur-containing organic acids are also provided. The compositions are useful with heat-recoverable memory metal couplings to prevent overheating of the couplings during installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1984
    Assignee: Raychem Corporation
    Inventors: Lawrence J. White, Tamar G. Gen
  • Patent number: 4407960
    Abstract: An indicator system and device for visually monitoring ethylene oxide sterilization by color changes of the indicating composition of the system upon sufficient and properly conditioned exposure of the composition to ethylene oxide provides a controlled method for indicating the effective sterilization of articles by ethylene oxide. The indicating composition of this invention undergoes color changes that are progressive with the conditions and periods of sterilization, such that a final and complete color change indicates the completion of an effective ethylene oxide sterilization. The indicating composition comprises a leuco precursor of an aryl methane dye selected from the groups herein defined; and an acidic constituent. Acidic organic compounds such as diphenolic acid (4,4-bis [4-hydroxyphenyl] pentanoic acid) are effective acid constituents because they enhance hue, develop color and stabilize the final color change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1980
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1983
    Assignee: American Sterilizer Company
    Inventor: Joseph P. Tratnyek
  • Patent number: 4398183
    Abstract: A method for detecting a condition of permanent waves during a permanent wave hairdressing, by using a chemical liquid which makes permanent waves and which produces a hydrogen sulfide gas at a predetermined temperature, and by exposing a lead acetate test paper to the hydrogen sulfide gas which changes colors to indicate the condition of the permanent wave. An apparatus having a light emitting diode detects the change in color of the test paper and activates a buzzer when a predetermined change of color is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1980
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1983
    Assignee: Kyoritsu Electrical Works, Ltd.
    Inventor: Akitoshi Ando
  • Patent number: 4397570
    Abstract: A new and useful composition of matter, solid at room temperature, is disclosed, comprising: (1) an effective amount of a suitable nucleating agent substantially uniformly dispersed in (2) a suitable pressure-sensitive adhesive for encapsulating a temperature-sensitive solid mixture having a given nucleation efficiency and which melts at a predetermined temperature, whereby the suitable nucleating agent is (a) inert to both the pressure-sensitive adhesive and the temperature-sensitive solid mixture, and (b) capable of raising the nucleation efficiency of said solid mixture. The novel composition of matter overcomes the extreme super-cooling achieved by temperature-indicating compositions of matter in U.S. Pat. No. 4,232,552 (which change color with a change in phase) without the use of classical nucleating agents being employed in such temperature-indicating compositions of matter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1983
    Assignee: PyMaH Corporation
    Inventors: Craig R. Hof, Roy A. Ulin, Dennis Nickoloff
  • Patent number: 4391662
    Abstract: In providing an adhesive connection or a seal using a thermoplastic adhesive for securing materials together, a thermochrome dye is added to the thermoplastic adhesive so that it provides a color change in the temperature range between the temperature where a satisfactory moistening effect is achieved and the temperature where the satisfactory moistening effect is no longer present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1981
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1983
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Peter Mauthe
  • Patent number: 4384980
    Abstract: A composition is described comprising at least two co-crystallized acetylenic compounds, of different chemical structures, each containing at least one --C.tbd.C--C.tbd.C-- group and substituents selected from the group consisting of sulfonate, urethane and alcohol radicals, at least one of the compounds capable of ungergoing a contrasting color change upon exposure to actinic radiation or thermal annealing, wherein the composition exhibits a substantially different thermogram than the sum of thermograms of the individual components as obtained by differential scanning alorimetry.A device is also described useful for measuring the time-temperature or radiation-dosage history of an article comprising a substrate having deposited thereon the described composition.A process is also described for producing the composition of this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1978
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1983
    Assignee: Allied Corporation
    Inventor: Gordhanbhai N. Patel
  • Patent number: 4382830
    Abstract: Method of constructing pneumatic tire where at least one of its elements is comprised of a heat-curable rubber composition, an improvement in which such composition is identified with a releasably attached identification tag containing an information-providing ink composition thereon, wherein the ink composition contains a heat activatable blowing agent. The invention further relates to the heat-curable rubber composition so-identified and also to the identification tag itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1983
    Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventor: Alan E. Cohn
  • Patent number: 4382063
    Abstract: A sterility indicator device comprising a base of steam permeable, absorbent material, e.g. paperboard, having mounted thereon at least one, though preferably three separate indicator ink spots of chromium chloride that change color in response to predetermined combinations of time, temperature and saturated steam, impermeable transparent cover films bonded to the top surface of the base overlaying the indicator ink spots and to the bottom surface of the base thereby preventing the escape of corrosive reactants there through, and an adhesive substance, to be used to bond the impermeable cover films to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1983
    Assignee: Parke-Davis Company
    Inventors: Vincent A. Romito, Loran H. Bruso
  • Patent number: 4362645
    Abstract: Novel and stable compositions of matter are disclosed which change color sharply upon a transition from a liquid state to a solid state or from a solid state to a liquid state, which change of state is at substantially a predetermined temperature corresponding to a temperature to be measured.The constituents of the novel compositions of matter comprise:1. a solvent (I) consisting of a single substance or a mixture of substances and adapted to change from a solid state at substantially a predetermined temperature to a liquid state and2. an indicator system (II) consisting of one or more substances different from (I), characterized in that(a) (II) is soluble in (I) when the latter is in the liquid phase, and(b) (II) changes color visible to the naked eye when (I) passes from the solid to the liquid phase or from the liquid to the solid phase.Thermometers containing said stable compositions of matter are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1980
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1982
    Assignee: Akzona, Inc.
    Inventors: Craig R. Hof, Roy A. Ulin
  • Patent number: 4358015
    Abstract: A sterilizable pouch is provided with first and second opposing webs which are initially sealed together except for a region defining an open mouth. At least one of the webs has a strip of adhesive adjacent the mouth with a peelable release strip superposed upon and adhering to the adhesive strip for masking the adhesive strip from external contact before the pouch is closed and sealed. The peelable release strip includes an indicator means for indicating its exposure to a predetermined sterilization condition. The indicator means has an initial appearance signifying that the indicator means has not been subjected to the predetermined sterilization condition and is adapted to change to a final appearance after exposure to the predetermined sterilization condition for indicating such exposure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1982
    Assignee: Arvey Corporation
    Inventor: Arthur Hirsch
  • Patent number: 4353990
    Abstract: A device for monitoring thermal energy input and displaying the relationship of the thermal energy input to a selected time/temperature relationship. The device employs an indicating material which, when melted, expands and flows into a narrow channel to provide an irreversible, visible indication of the thermal energy to which the device has been exposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1982
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Wendell J. Manske, Paul M. Hawkins
  • Patent number: 4344909
    Abstract: Heat-recoverable articles carrying a "thermochromic" composition comprising organic materials which melt and decompose to provide a color-change indicating that the articles have been heated to a certain temperature, e.g. to melt a sealant carried on the surface of the article which is to contact a substrate around which the article is to be shrunk. Mixtures of relatively simple compounds may be used to graduate the color change, and means are described for preventing reversion to the original color on long-term exposure to moisture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1979
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1982
    Assignee: N.V. Raychem S.A.
    Inventor: Francis J. A. M. C. De Blauwe
  • Patent number: 4339951
    Abstract: Certain polyacetylenes exhibit reversible color changes at transition temperatures in the range -180.degree. to 220.degree. C., wherein the thermochromic cycles can be repeated many times with no apparent degradation and little change in spectroscopic properties.These thermochromic polyacetylenes are useful in temperature-indicator and indicia-display device applications.A process for laser-beam recording of images is described employing a thermochromic polyacetylene, in which the hysteresis properties of the polyacetylene can be suitably altered allowing for selectively storing or erasing the formed image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1979
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1982
    Assignee: Allied Corporation
    Inventors: Kwok C. Yee, Anthony F. Preziosi, Gordhanbhai N. Patel, Ronald R. Chance, Granville G. Miller, Ray H. Baughman
  • Patent number: 4327117
    Abstract: An article of manufacture and a method or process adapted to indicate whether a product which has been kept at or below its freezing temperature has been permitted to thaw at some time subsequent to its initial freezing. The invention consists of two or more reagents being separated by an impermeable but removable or breakable barrier, said reagents being adapted to produce a chemical and/or physical change which is visually ascertainable once said barrier has either been removed or lost its integrity so that said reagents are thereafter permitted to intermix and/or interreact. Said reagents are situated within a translucent or transparent vessel in such a manner that after such reagents enter their solid states as the result of an appropriate reduction in temperature, said barrier loses its integrity as a reagent barrier only upon a subsequent and appropriate increase in the temperature about said article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1980
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1982
    Inventors: Roger D. Lenack, Isidore J. Lenack, deceased
  • Patent number: 4318436
    Abstract: In the combination of detachable addition members with rubber articles, particularly tire sidewalls, wherein each article has a circumferentially discontinuous first coupling portion adapted to operatively interact with a second coupling portion on the addition member for securing the member to the article, the improvement being characterized in that either the coupling portions or addition members are adapted to produce a perceptive physical change during abnormal operating conditions of the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1980
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1982
    Assignee: The Firestone Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventor: Louis W. Shurman
  • Patent number: 4299727
    Abstract: A new and useful composition of matter is disclosed, having one utility for use in a disposable, reversible thermometer. The novel composition of matter comprises (1) a suitable heat-sensitive composition (for example, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,232,552); (2) a suitable matrix-forming amorphous material; and (3) a suitable film-forming material that is more crystalline than the matrix-forming amorphous compound. Preferably, the composition also contains a solubilizing compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1981
    Assignee: Akzona Incorporated
    Inventors: Craig R. Hof, Concepcion Osio, Roy A. Ulin
  • Patent number: 4298348
    Abstract: An improved recording device is described, useful for measuring the integrated time-temperature or integrated radiation-dosage history of an article, comprising a substrate onto which 2,4-hexadiyn-1,6-diol-bis-(p-chlorobenzenesulfonate) is deposited. The inactive form is capable of being converted by melt recrystallization to an active form, which undergoes 1,4-addition polymerization resulting in an irreversible, progressive color change. The color change produced at any given point in time represents an integrated time-temperature history of thermal annealing or integrated radiation-dosage history of exposure to actinic radiation to which an article has been exposed.Also described is a process for converting an inactive form of 2,4-hexadiyn-1,6-diol-bis(p-chlorobenzenesulfonate) to its active form by thermal recrystallization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1981
    Assignee: Allied Corporation
    Inventor: Dawn M. Ivory
  • Patent number: 4292916
    Abstract: A disposable timer and product storage condition indicator in which components of a carrier mixture react physically and/or chemically with one or more receptive layers. The carrier mixture and receptive layers are so comprised as to react during a given time interval, the interval being dependent upon and constantly modified by such external physical conditions as temperature, moisture, light, radiation, or pressure. During the timing period the device can either give a changing color display which is matched in rate to the declining freshness of a food or medicine in a container to which the device is attached or can cause the appearance or disappearance of words or symbols or sticky areas or odors. A variety of means for activating the timer are possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1979
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1981
    Assignee: Micro-Circuits Company
    Inventors: Robert F. Bradley, Lindell P. Bradley
  • Patent number: 4278561
    Abstract: New fluorinated benzenesulfonate diacetylene compositions are described which are useful in time-temperature devices for monitoring the shelf-lives of perishable articles. The compositions are solid-state polymerizable by thermal annealing or exposure to actinic or high energy ionizing radiation. Some of the compositions, in addition, exhibit relatively longer polymerization induction periods, compared to other known diacetylene compositions, and an "autocatalytic" effect upon polymerization during which a rapid color change occurs. These characteristics are extremely useful in monitoring situations which require a striking color change as an indication that a particular time-temperature history profile, e.g. shelf-life, has expired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1981
    Assignee: Allied Chemical Corporation
    Inventor: Kwok C. Yee
  • Patent number: 4276190
    Abstract: An improved process and device are described, for monitoring time-temperature histories of perishable articles, utilizing an inactive form of a diacetylene compound, incapable of undergoing a color change upon thermal annealing, but capable of conversion to an active form upon contacting an activating vapor. The active form is capable of undergoing a color change upon thermal annealing, as a result of solid state polymerization wherein the resulting color change is representative of the time-temperature history of thermal annealing. Specific active and inactive forms of diacetylenes useful in the improved process and device are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1979
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1981
    Assignee: Allied Chemical Corporation
    Inventor: Gordhanbhai N. Patel
  • Patent number: 4268413
    Abstract: In order, in the case of bodies with reversibly-variable absorbence, to adjust the zone of transition from transparent to opaque or vice versa at desired goal temperatures and to give the bodies a preferred form, such as sheet form, they consist of a substantially optically transparent polymeric and/or resinous matrix material (A) and an organic substance (B) which is embedded therein as a dispersed second phase and which is at least partially insoluble therein, and which melts or congeals at the goal temperature of light-absorbence variation, and the refractive index of which, either above or below the goal temperature of the light-absorbence variation, substantially agrees with the refractive index of the matrix material.Such bodies are usable in sheet (or film) form, for example, for temperature-measuring devices, temperature-indicating devices, and slippery-ice warning devices, as well as for devices on glass windows for protection against solar irradiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1978
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1981
    Inventor: Wolfgang Dabisch
  • Patent number: 4253701
    Abstract: A removable and disposable back and head sheet attachable by an edge to the top of a chair or seat back and draping over the front of the seat back for engagement with the back of the head of a person sitting in the chair or seat of a mass transportation vehicle. The head and back sheet of the invention is provided with an arrangement indicating clearly whether the sheet has been placed in use by or for a person having sat in the chair or seat such that another person intending to sit in the chair or seat is informed whether the back and head sheet is fresh or used, and the personnel in charge of cleaning the vehicle is enabled to change and replace only the sheets which have been used. The use or non-use of the back and head sheet is indicated by unfolding a fold, breaking a seal and unfolding a fold, or by any other indicator such as a detector of body heat, perspiration or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1979
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1981
    Inventor: Harry P. Kifferstein
  • Patent number: 4240926
    Abstract: A novel composition is disclosed which is useful as a sterilization indicator that can distinguish clearly between the types of sterilization employed, e.g., that indicates whether sterilization was accomplished by steam or dry heat. The novel composition comprises (1) thiobarbituric acid and (2) at least one suitable reacting moiety being capable of reacting with said acid under temperature and humidity conditions of steam and dry heat sterilization to form a colored product. Suitable reacting moieties disclosed are (a) parabanic acid and (b) dimethyl oxalate and urea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1979
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1980
    Assignee: Akzona Incorporated
    Inventor: Gerald W. McNeely
  • Patent number: 4235108
    Abstract: A composition is described comprising at least two co-crystallized acetylenic compounds, of different chemical structures, each containing at least one --C.tbd.C--C.tbd.C-- group and substituents selected from the group consisting of sulfonate, urethane and alcohol radicals, at least one of the compounds capable of undergoing a contrasting color change upon exposure to actinic radiation or thermal annealing, wherein the composition exhibits a substantially different thermogram than the sum of thermograms of the individual components as obtained by differential scanning calorimetry.A device is also described useful for measuring the time-temperature or radiation-dosage history of an article comprising a substrate having deposited thereon the described composition.A process is also described for producing the composition of this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1978
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1980
    Assignee: Allied Chemical Corporation
    Inventor: Gordhanbhai N. Patel
  • Patent number: 4232552
    Abstract: Novel and stable compositions of matter are disclosed which change color sharply upon a transition from a liquid state to a solid state or from a solid state to a liquid state, which change of state is at substantially a predetermined temperature corresponding to a temperature to be measured.The constituents of the novel compositions of matter comprise:1. a solvent (I) consisting of a single substance or a mixture of substances and adapted to change from a solid state at substantially a predetermined temperature to a liquid state and2. an indicator system (II) consisting of one or more substances different from (I), characterized in that(a) (II) is soluble in (I) when the latter is in the liquid phase, and(b) (II) changes color visible to the naked eye when (I) passes from the solid to the liquid phase or from the liquid to the solid phase.Thermometers containing said stable compositions of matter are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1978
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1980
    Assignee: Akzona Incorporated
    Inventors: Craig R. Hof, Roy A. Ulin
  • Patent number: 4228761
    Abstract: An improved method for indicating the temperature to which a heat-deformable polymeric material coated with a thermochromic paint has been heated is disclosed. The improvement comprises the addition to the thermochromic paint of a non-thermochromic compound selected from the group consisting of the sulfates, hydrated sulfates and nitrides of boron, aluminum, tin, lead, arsenic, antimony, bismuth, zinc and phosphorus; the sulfides and hydrated sulfides of boron, aluminum, bismuth and phosphorus; the oxides and hydrated oxides of boron, arsenic, antimony and phosphorus and the salts, organic derivatives and free acids of the oxyanions of boron, arsenic, antimony and phosphorus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1978
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1980
    Assignee: Raychem Corporation
    Inventors: Leon C. Glover, Eugene F. Lopez
  • Patent number: 4215208
    Abstract: Certain polyacetylenes exhibit reversible color changes at transition temperatures in the range -180.degree. to 220.degree. C., wherein the thermochromic cycles can be repeated many times with no apparent degradation and little change in spectroscopic properties.These thermochromic polyacetylenes are useful in temperature-indicator and indicia-display device applications.A process for laser-beam recording of images is described employing a thermochromic polyacetylene, in which the hysteresis properties of the polyacetylene can be suitably altered allowing for selectively storing or erasing the formed image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1977
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1980
    Assignee: Allied Chemical Corporation
    Inventors: Kwok C. Yee, Anthony F. Preziosi, Gordhanbhai N. Patel, Ronald R. Chance, Granville G. Miller, Ray H. Baughman
  • Patent number: 4212153
    Abstract: A laminated indicator which changes in a visually perceptible mode with the passage of time and a method for making such an indicator. At least two layers are provided whereby the molecular migration of an agent in an interior layer to the outermost surface of the exterior layer causes a change which can be visually percepted, e.g., a change in color or shade. Preferred embodiments include the migration of a dye or the migration of an acid or base wherein the outermost layer has the other member of an acid-base pair and a pH indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1980
    Assignee: Herculite Protective Fabrics Corporation
    Inventors: Agis F. Kydonieus, Inja K. Smith, Reid A. Conroy, Ernest A. Pedicano
  • Patent number: 4208186
    Abstract: An improved process and device are described, for monitoring time-temperature histories of perishable articles, utilizing an inactive form of a diacetylene compound, incapable of undergoing a color change upon thermal annealing, but capable of conversion to an active form upon contacting an activating vapor. The active form is capable of undergoing a color change upon thermal annealing, as a result of solid state polymerization wherein the resulting color change is representative of the time-temperature history of thermal annealing. Specific active and inactive forms of diacetylenes useful in the improved process and device are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1978
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1980
    Assignee: Allied Chemical Corporation
    Inventor: Gordhanbhai N. Patel
  • Patent number: 4189399
    Abstract: A composition is described comprising at least two co-crystallized acetylenic compounds, of different chemical structures, each containing at least one --C.tbd.C--C.tbd.C-- group and substituents selected from the group consisting of sulfonate, urethane and alcohol radicals, at least one of the compounds capable of undergoing a contrasting color change upon exposure to actinic radiation or thermal annealing, wherein the composition exhibits a substantially different thermogram than the sum of thermograms of the individual components as obtained by differential scanning calorimetry.A device is also described useful for measuring the time-temperature or radiation-dosage history of an article comprising a substrate having deposited thereon the described composition.A process is also described for producing the composition of this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1977
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1980
    Assignee: Allied Chemical Corporation
    Inventor: Gordhanbhai N. Patel
  • Patent number: 4188437
    Abstract: Adhesive tapes which change color in the presence of water or steam at elevated temperature are provided which are useful as sterilization indicators. The tapes comprise an adhesive layer and a polymeric base film containing on one surface thereof a coating of a thermotropic ink comprising a binder resin, a colorant which undergoes a color change in the presence of water or steam at elevated temperature, and a solvent for said binder resin and colorant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1978
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1980
    Assignee: American Can Company
    Inventor: Stanley E. Rohowetz
  • Patent number: 4179397
    Abstract: An ink composition is provided which is suitable for use on plastic, bare metal, for example, tinplate or aluminum as well as on such metals having organic coatings applied to surfaces thereof. The inks are suitable for use in contact printers or in jet ink printing techniques and apparatus. The ink compositions are thermotropic, i.e. they change color in the presence of water or steam at elevated temperature and are useful as sterilization or pasteurization indicators. The inks comprise essentially a binder resin component, or mixture of such resin components, an alcohol solvent and a combination of dyes which produce a visible and permanent color change in the presence of water or steam at elevated temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1978
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1979
    Assignee: American Can Company
    Inventors: Stanley E. Rohowetz, Eric Schoenfisch
  • Patent number: 4163427
    Abstract: Apparatus in which melting ice is used to activate a dye formation in producing a color indication of thawing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1977
    Date of Patent: August 7, 1979
    Inventors: Isadore Cooperman, Morton Salkind