Abstract: A safety label for use with chafing fuel cans capable of providing the user with information about the current physical characteristics of the can, including as they relate to temperature, employing the use of thermochromic materials dispersed within a media such as ink or paint. The thermochromic materials are capable of undergoing a sharp, reversible visible metachromism between the temperatures of −40° C. and 80° C. The method of manufacturing safety labels according to the invention include the steps of applying informational indicia on the safety label, and then covering such indicia with the media containing the thermochromic materials dispersed therein. When the chafing fuel can is ignited, the media with the thermochromic materials visually undergoes a metachromism, rendering the media invisible, thereby revealing the informational indicia applied with the non-thermochromic ink.

Abstract: A machine case alarming mark has a plurality of color states that are alterable according to the level of thermal energy on the machine case to achieve an alarm effect. The mark is attached to the exterior of a computer casing and is visibly noticeable from the outside. The mark may be an irregular geometric pattern or a logo, and may be formed by a coating material or sticker.

Abstract: An irreversible temperature indicating paint comprises 25 wt % to 50 wt % cobalt silicate, 0 wt % to 20 wt % alumino silicate, 0.5 wt % to 5 wt % toluidine red, 25 wt % to 40 wt % acrylic resin and 10 wt % to 20 wt % silicone resin excluding solvent. The solvent comprises a mixture of 80% 1-methoxy-2-propanol and 20% dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether. The irreversible temperature indicating paint has at least five colour changes in the temperature range 1050° C. to 1350° C. A particular irreversible temperature indicating paint comprises 33.8 wt % cobalt silicate, 16.9 wt % alumino silicate, 2 wt % toluidine red, 30.8 wt % acrylic resin and 16.5 wt % silicone resin excluding solvent. The irreversible temperature indicating paint is used to determine the temperatures to which various parts of turbine blades, turbine vanes or other components are subjected in operation of the gas turbine engine.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides a metallic closure, which includes: a metallic shell; and a thermochromic ink layer on a surface of the shell.

Abstract: A shape memory material activated device of the present invention uses a shape memory material activator to create a path through a shell wall of the device. The path through the shell wall may release a substance contained in the shell or allow a substance to enter the shell. The path may be created by fracturing, puncturing, exploding, imploding, peeling, tearing, stretching, separating, debonding or otherwise opening the shell. The devices according to the present invention may be used as temperature sensors or warning devices, drug delivery devices, and the like.

Abstract: A device for indicating the formation of ice in refrigeration appliances, such as the refrigerators of domestic use, comprising a display, which is mounted inside the refrigeration cabinet and formed by a demarcated region, defined by a heat sensitive element, whose color is enhanced and distinguished when submitted to a determined temperature condition that is reached when said demarcated region is contacted by the layer of ice accumulated on the evaporator.

Abstract: A sensor of a parameter such as temperature includes an indicator encapsulated within a rigid enclosure, wherein the sensor has a characteristic that varies with the parameter that is detectable upon illumination with electromagnetic radiation through a window of the enclosure that is transparent to the radiation. In a specific example, the indicator changes an optical characteristic such as its color as a function of its temperature, and may be of an irreversible type in order to indicate the peak temperature reached. The sensor may include a pattern of such indicators that have different peak temperatures to which they respond, so that the sensor gives a unique visual pattern at each temperature within its measurement range. This pattern may be viewed directly or processed by computer to compare the pattern with those which indicate known temperatures.

Abstract: A thin film thermometer has multiple temperature sensors that individually appear within certain concealing features of the decal under different temperature ranges, otherwise blending into the concealing features and thereby disappearing into the design. Among other uses, this thermometer may be implemented as an adhesive bandage or refrigerator magnet, and may include special features such as a hologram, heat blocking backing, and ink-preserving adhesive tie coat. Also, enhanced visual effects are achieved through the coordinated multiple activation of temperature sensors.

Abstract: A temperature measuring device and method of using it are disclosed herein. A temperature sensing strip is disposed within a housing used for agitating a material, the temperature of which is to be measured. The strip has a series of sensor dots containing liquid crystal material.

Abstract: The invention provides an temperature exposure indication accessory (10) which consists of an enclosure (12) having a transparent cover face (14). The enclosure (12) is fixed to packaging (18) of a frozen article. The enclosure (12) contains a substance that is transformable when exposed to any temperature below freezing point for a predetermined period of time such as parts (16, 20) formed of differently coloured iced water. The environmental conditions under which the parts (16, 20) will melt, mix and, accordingly change overall colour are approximately equivalent to the conditions under which the quality of the frozen article will be compromised.

Abstract: A temperature indicator for a motor vehicle arranged to indicate, to the driver of the vehicle, the ambient temperature either inside or outside the vehicle. The temperature indicator comprises thermochromic material (36-46) applied to the reflective member (30) of a rear view mirror (10) and arranged in a line, locations along which are arranged to change colour at successively increasing temperatures. The line of thermochromic material (36-46) may be positioned to separate zones (32, 34) of the reflective member which differ in curvature.

Abstract: A liquid crystal temperature indicator, and aerosol dispensers equipped with a properly placed indicator, to facilitate using aerosols within preferred temperature ranges or at optimum temperatures. The temperature indicator uses different colors to graphically illustrate temperatures and/or temperature ranges, as well as temperatures above and below optimal temperatures or preferred temperature ranges. Temperature indicators are reusable; they may be self-adhesive and may optionally be transferred from one dispenser to another.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring local heat transfer distribution of an object surface. The apparatus includes a heater element for providing heat flux, a member disposed on a surface of the heater element for receiving impinging cooling air. A liquid crystal element is provided on a side of the heater element remote from the surface, and an insulating material is disposed adjacent to the liquid crystal element and remote from the heater element. The apparatus further includes means for determining heat transfer distribution coefficients from the liquid crystal element.

Abstract: A thermochromic device for use relative to a product container for providing a thermochromic indication of a temperature of a volume of product that is retained within an open inner volume of the container comprising a first image display and a second image display. The second image display and, possibly, the first image display could incorporate a layer of thermochromic material with an active temperature range. The active temperature range for the second image display could be above or below room temperature. The first image display can be thermochromic or non-thermochromic, and a thermochromic third image display could be provided. Where first, second, and third image displays are included, the second and third image displays could have active temperature ranges that are both above, both below, or to each side of room temperature. The image displays could be coupled to a side wall or to an upper surface of a product container.

Abstract: Unique transparent polypropylene articles that can be tailored to become opaque when exposed to a sufficiently high temperature and which returns to substantially the same transparency level upon cooling. Such formulations include non-polypropylene polymeric constituents that exhibit refractive index measurements similar to the base clarified polypropylene at lower temperatures, as well as melting temperatures well below that for the base clarified polypropylene. Upon exposure to temperatures in close proximity to the melting temperature of the non-polypropylene polymeric constituents, the refractive index for such constituents will then become modified to the extent that the overall article appears at least partially opaque. In particular, the non-polypropylene polymeric constituents should exhibit melting temperatures well below that for the base clarified polypropylene, from about 60 to about 100° C. (well below the typical polypropylene melting temperatures of roughly about 160-190° C.

Abstract: A liquid crystal temperature indicator, and aerosol dispensers equipped with a properly placed indicator, to facilitate using aerosols within preferred temperature ranges or at optimum temperatures. The temperature indicator uses different colors to graphically illustrate temperatures and/or temperature ranges, as well as temperatures above and below optimal temperatures or preferred temperature ranges. Temperature indicators are reusable; they may be self-adhesive and may optionally be transferred from one dispenser to another.

Abstract: A thermally sensitive indicia releaseably incorporated into a multi-ply label is defined. The thermally sensitive indicia is incorporated between plies on a removable portion of the label. A pressure sensitive adhesive attached thereto. The thermally sensitive indicia on the removable portion can be the releaseably secured to another container to serve as a temperature sensing element.

Abstract: An apparatus and method to monitor temperature variation in electrical system generator components is provided. A temperature probe comprising temperature information conveyor that directly transfers temperature variation information to a temperature-sensitive light window is utilized. A pair of light guides can be employed, wherein the first conveys light to the light window from a light source, and light passing from the window is captured by the second light guide and conveyed to a light sensor. Within pre-selected temperature ranges light passes through the window, but pre-specified temperature variations will close the window thereby blocking the light so as to signal a critical temperature variation has occurred. The temperature information conveyor is chosen so as to have definite properties in terms of a heat conductivity coefficient to promote rapid, direct conveyance of temperature variation information.

Abstract: A cleaning implement for damp cleaning of surfaces using mopping water includes a first plastic element which indicates the temperature of the mopping water by a reversible change in its color upon contact with the mopping water.

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: An x-ray system 20 includes an x-ray tube insert (24) that has an evacuated envelope (34), an anode assembly (38) and a cathode assembly (40). The anode assembly (38) and the cathode assembly (40) are located in operative relationship to one another within the evacuated envelope (34). A temperature indicating member (100) is located in thermally conductive contact with at least one assembly (38, 40, 66) located in the x-ray tube insert (24). The temperature indicating member (100) has a temperature sensitive characteristic which changes in response to adequate thermal exposure to at least one temperature threshold value.

Abstract: Disclosed is a thermochromic microencapsulated pigment which comprises as four essential components (a) an electron-donating chromatic organic compound, (b) an electron-accepting compound, (c) a reaction medium determining the temperatures at which the color reactions of component (a) with component (b) take place, and (d) a color change temperature regulator, the color change temperature regulator (d) comprising one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of esters, alcohols, ketones, acid amides, hydrocarbons, and fatty acids and having a melting point Y (° C.) satisfying the relationship (X+30)° C.≦Y≦200° C., wherein X (° C.) is the melting point of component (c), and the four essential components being microencapsulated.

Abstract: A coffee cup contains a temperature indicating device which informs the user as to whether the liquid within is too hot to comfortably drink, too cold, or otherwise. The temperature-indicating device is thermochromic, changing color as a function of temperature. In one embodiment, three segments are printed onto the cup lid using thermochromic ink. One of these segments changes color to indicate the liquid is cool, another when the liquid is warm, and a third when hot. In another embodiment, the cup itself is printed with the thermochromic ink, and changes color to indicate the temperature of the liquid. In yet another embodiment the material of which the cup and lid are made is itself thermochromic.

Abstract: An intravenous solution bag includes a temperature sensing device in the form of a temperature sensing strip. The strip includes a temperature scale and corresponding temperature sensitive substances that change color or illuminate the scale indicators to visually indicate solution temperature. The strip may be formed integral with the bag, may be attached to the bag exterior surface, may be laminated to the bag exterior surface or may be encased with the bag within a solution bag liner. Further, the temperature sensing strip may be affixed to bottles containing intravenous or other solutions, where the strip is attached to the bottle exterior surface or to a label affixed to the bottle to measure and indicate temperature of fluid contained therein as described above. Moreover, the temperature sensing strip may be employed by a receptacle or delivery tube of an infusion apparatus to measure and indicate solution temperature prior to or during infusion.

Abstract: A time-temperature indicator device provides a visually observable indication of the cumulative thermal exposure of an object. The device includes a substrate having a diffusely light-reflective porous matrix and a backing. The backing includes on its surface a viscoelastic indicator material for contacting the substrate and a barrier material for substantially inhibiting the lateral and longitudinal flow of viscoelastic indicator material between the substrate and the backing.

Abstract: Temperature Indicating Beverage Cup comprising: a ceramic beverage holding cup, an integral, applied thermochromatic display fixedly printed on the outside wall of said ceramic cup, said thermochromatic display having a plurality of printed segments, each said segment correlating to a temperature range, and said segments revealing a written or numeric display as the temperature causes said thermochromatic to transition from opaque to transparent.

Abstract: A thermo-sensitive label construction (10) adapted to be adhesively secured to a conventional beverage container (100) wherein the label construction (10) includes a label member (20) having a front face (21) provided with two distinct types of visual indicators (30) and (40) wherein the first visual indicator (30) is an enlarged contoured area (31) having the silhouette of a beverage container and provided with one or more thermo-sensitive coatings (50) and the second type of visual indicator (40) includes printed legends in the form of a cautionary admonishment (41) and a salutation (42) which correspond in color to the respective thermo-sensitive coatings (50).

Abstract: A composition of matter suitable for use in a reversible thermometer is disclosed which comprises a thermally responsive material capable of being supercooled at least for several minutes, and subject to a change in state from a solid to a liquid substantially at a predetermined temperature; means for visually observing the change in state; and a matrix forming material comprising an amorphous organic compound, the matrix forming material being insoluble in the thermally responsive material; whereby the thermally responsive material is dispersed within the matrix forcing material, the composition of matter being reversibly responsive to changes in temperature, and remaining in the liquid state for a time sufficient to permit a user of the composition to observe the change in state. The preferred matrix forming material is polyisobutylene, and the preferred thermally responsive material is a solid solution of ortho-chloronitrobenzene and ortho-bromonitrobenzene.

Abstract: A protection device and a method of protecting an electrical component. The protection device has a protective housing and a terminal cap. The protective housing has a base with a contact hole therethrough for receiving an electrical terminal pin, and has a projecting shoulder extending from the base to a first distance from the base. The protective housing also has a retaining clip extending from the base to a second distance from the base, the second distance being greater than the first distance. The terminal cap has a first side and a second side, and in use, at least part of the first side of the terminal cap contacts the projecting shoulder and at least part of the second side of the terminal cap contacts the retaining clip. A method according to the present invention includes steps for determining the temperature to which the protective housing was exposed.

Abstract: A cup for indicating temperature of contents thereof and a method of making. The cup includes a body that is cup-shaped and a temperature sensitive strip that is disposed on the body and indicates the temperature of the contents thereof. The body includes an outer cup and an inner cup that is disposed in, and is in intimate contact with, the outer cup. The temperature sensitive strip has a shape and is removably adhered on the longitudinal wall of the inner cup, just above the base thereof. The outer cup has a bore that has a shape, a pair of vertical edges, and extends through the longitudinal wall thereof, just above the base thereof. The shape of the bore matches the shape of the temperature sensitive strip so as to allow the temperature sensitive strip to be viewed through the bore.

Abstract: Temperature control is carried out with a temperature control material comprising a temperature indicator whose developed color density differs according to temperature, which is irreversible at environmental temperature, which changes its color according to crystal or non-crystal, or phase separation or non-phase separation, and whose glass transition temperature is set to a temperature higher than control temperature, by irradiating the temperature indicator with light having a wavelength absorbed by a color developed by the temperature indicator and detecting the intensity of the reflected light or transmitted light. Accordingly, even when the temperature becomes higher than control temperature temporarily, temperature control can be carried out smoothly thereafter.

Abstract: An intravenous solution bag includes a temperature sensing device in the form of a temperature sensing strip. The strip includes a temperature scale and corresponding temperature sensitive substances that change color or illuminate the scale indicators to visually indicate solution temperature. The strip may be formed integral with the bag, may be attached to the bag exterior surface, may be laminated to the bag exterior surface or may be encased with the bag within a solution bag liner. Further, the temperature sensing strip may be affixed to bottles containing intravenous or other solutions, where the strip is attached to the bottle exterior surface or to a label affixed to the bottle to measure and indicate temperature of fluid contained therein as described above. Moreover, the temperature sensing strip may be employed by a receptacle or delivery tube of an infusion apparatus to measure and indicate solution temperature prior to or during infusion.

Abstract: An intravenous solution bag includes a temperature sensing device in the form of a temperature sensing strip. The strip includes a temperature scale and corresponding temperature sensitive substances that change color or illuminate the scale indicators to visually indicate solution temperature. The strip may be formed integral with the bag, may be attached to the bag exterior surface, may be laminated to the bag exterior surface or may be encased with the bag within a solution bag liner. Further, the temperature sensing strip may be affixed to bottles containing intravenous or other solutions, where the strip is attached to the bottle exterior surface or to a label affixed to the bottle to measure and indicate temperature of fluid contained therein as described above. Moreover, the temperature sensing strip may be employed by a receptacle or delivery tube of an infusion apparatus to measure and indicate solution temperature prior to or during infusion.

Abstract: An intravenous solution bag includes a temperature sensing device in the form of a temperature sensing strip. The strip includes a temperature scale and corresponding temperature sensitive substances that change color or illuminate the scale indicators to visually indicate solution temperature. The strip may be formed integral with the bag, may be attached to the bag exterior surface, may be laminated to the bag exterior surface or may be encased with the bag within a solution bag liner. Further, the temperature sensing strip may be affixed to bottles containing intravenous or other solutions, where the strip is attached to the bottle exterior surface or to a label affixed to the bottle to measure and indicate temperature of fluid contained therein as described above. Moreover, the temperature sensing strip may be employed by a receptacle or delivery tube of an infusion apparatus to measure and indicate solution temperature prior to or during infusion.

Abstract: A barrier for halogenated aromatic compounds is provided, especially fluorinated hydrocarbon films useful for containing precise quantities of halogenated aromatic compounds used as thermally sensitive materials in reversible chemical thermometers. A new shape of chemical thermometer is also disclosed.

Abstract: A thermometer includes an elongated strip-like member and an elongated enclosed tube affixed thereto. Either the strip or the tube has temperature-indicating indicia therealong. The tube contains a composition having expansion and contraction properties within a desired temperature range sufficient to enable a measurement of a temperature therewith, using the indicia having been calibrated with a known standard. Alternatively, the thermometer may include a temperature-measuring device that does not require a tube, such as a solid-state element. In a first embodiment the thermometer is floatable in a liquid, such as bath water. In a second embodiment the thermometer is affixable to a vessel, such as a baby bottle.

Abstract: A solder paste product includes solder paste in a container with a time-temperature indicator positioned to measure the solder paste's cumulative exposure to heat.

Abstract: Disclosed are cyanoacrylate compositions comprising a cyanoacrylate prepolymer and an encapsulated temperature sensitive indicator. These compositions provide for in situ formation of an polymeric cyanoacrylate film on mammalian skin which can be used to monitor the surface skin temperature of the mammal.

Abstract: A steaming pitcher for preparing hot beverages with a liquid crystal thermometer attached to an exterior surface of the pitcher for detecting the temperature of any liquid contained therein. The liquid crystal thermometer eliminates the need for conventional food service thermometers that are placed in the liquid being heated.

Abstract: A time-temperature indicator device provides a visually observable indication of the cumulative thermal exposure of an object. The device includes a substrate having a diffusely light-reflective porous matrix and a backing. The backing includes on its surface a viscoelastic indicator material for contacting the substrate and a barrier material for substantially inhibiting the lateral and longitudinal flow of viscoelastic indicator material between the substrate and the backing.

Abstract: A device and a method are disclosed for indicating the reaching of a temperature within a predetermined temperature range by heated food. The device includes a transparent sealed container including a first compartment containing a first substance and a second compartment containing a second substance. The first compartment is separated from the second compartment by a meltable sealant having a melting point within the determined temperature range. The device is partially or fully immersed in the heated food and on reaching a temperature within the predetermined temperature range, the meltable sealant melts enabling the first substance to contact the second substance. The contact between the first substance and the second substance results in a detectable change such as a color change of at least one the first substance and the second substance. The color change is visibly detectable through the transparent sealed container.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for improving the signal retention of a liquid crystal sensing element comprising an embossed cavity containing the liquid crystal and a cover layer sealing the liquid crystal in the cavity by heat treating at about 95° C. to about 120° C. for a time sufficient to cause the embossed cavity to shrink to substantially its original form thereby forcing the liquid crystal to be forced up against the cover layer to form a domed structure. Essential to the success of the process is incorporation in the cavity of about 10 to about 50% by volume of air based on the volume of the cavity.

Abstract: A self-updating temperature thermometer is disclosed that is capable of generating a real-time signal of core body temperature. The thermometer comprises a double-sided flexible substrate, having a first side and a second side. The first side has a plurality of cavities, and a liquid crystal composition in these cavities to define a plurality of sensor dots. A cover layer is disposed on the first side, and a pressure-sensitive adhesive is disposed on the second side of the substrate. The sensor surface area to substrate thickness is maximized using the structural features of this invention, thereby providing a thermometer exhibiting unexpectedly good results in that it is capable of generating a continuous temperature measurement that is automatically updated with changes in body temperature.

Abstract: A time-temperature indicator device provides a visually observable indication of the cumulative thermal exposure of an object. The device includes a substrate having a diffusely light-reflective porous matrix and a backing. The backing includes on its surface a viscoelastic indicator material for contacting the substrate and a barrier material for substantially inhibiting the lateral flow of viscoelastic indicator material between the substrate and the backing.

Abstract: A decal has multiple temperature sensors that individually appear within certain concealing features of the decal in accordance with different prescribed temperatures, otherwise blending into the concealing features and thereby disappearing into the design. The decal may depict an image of an animal, fish, flower, abstract form, or another design, such as a photograph, cartoon, sketch, or other representation. The image includes multiple separate concealing features, such as spots, fins, flower petals, abstract shapes, or other components of the decal's image. These features may have one color in common, or different concealing features may have different colors. The feature color(s) contrasts with one or more background colors in the design, which serve to visually separate the concealing features. The temperature sensors are scattered throughout the design in a visually pleasing manner.

Abstract: A composition of matter suitable for use in a reversible thermometer is disclosed which comprises a thermally responsive material capable of being supercooled at least for several minutes, and subject to a change in state from a solid to a liquid substantially at a predetermined temperature; means for visually observing the change in state; and a matrix forming material comprising an amorphous organic compound, the matrix forming material being insoluble in the thermally responsive material; whereby the thermally responsive material is dispersed within the matrix forming material, the composition of matter being reversibly responsive to changes in temperature, and remaining in the liquid state for a time sufficient to permit a user of the composition to observe the change in state. The preferred matrix forming material is polyisobutylene, and the preferred thermally responsive material is a solid solution of ortho-chloronitrobenzene and ortho-bromonitrobenzene.

Abstract: A temperature indicator (10) including an elongated piece of tubing (12), a top cap (14), a bottom tip (16), a first media (22) with a first melting point, and a second solid media (24) with a second melting point. Mixing of the first and second media (22, 24) produces a color change within the tubing, which is noticeable at the top end of the indicator, which in use is sticking out of the food product.

Abstract: A microwaveable confection mold for use in a conventional microwave oven. The mold permits solid confection capable of melting when exposed to microwave energy to be introduced into the mold. The mold comprises a clear microwave transparent plastic material to facilitate observation of the confection melting process with subsequent settling in the mold sections. A pigment in the mold changes the colour to indicate to the user when the liquified confection has hardened and the mold cooled.

Abstract: A method to prepare thermal reactors for operation after installation, modification, upgrade and routine preventive maintenance operations. Variations in reaction rate across a wafer surface are used to determine corresponding variations in surface temperature across the wafer surface. Surface temperature variations results in thickness variations of a chemically deposited layer. For selected thicknesses, a chemically deposited layer is transparent and exhibits color variations corresponding to the thickness variations that result from the surface temperature variations. These color variations are then correlated to surface temperature variations to enable wafer heating adjustments to reduce surface temperature variations.

Abstract: A dual display temperature/pressure gauge (10) for a container (8) of compressed liquefied gas includes a planar strip of material having a display side (12) which is visible when the strip is placed in contact with a container (8) of compressed liquefied gas; a temperature display region (14) on the display side (12) which includes a first set of numerals representing a range of measured temperature readings; a pressure display region (16) on the display side (12) which includes a second set of numerals representing a range of internal vapor pressure readings calculated to correspond to the the temperature numerals; and thermochromic liquid crystal means for displaying the appropriate numerals corresponding to the measured temperature and calculated internal vapor pressure within the container. The gauge is useful for many gases, such as nitrous oxide.