Abstract: A lottery type game includes a plurality of indicia which can be exposed to reveal a winning or losing line and has a central indicium covered by scratchable ink and two other indicia covered by an ink which is normally opaque at room temperature but which becomes transparent on heating. The game can be used for the packaging of heatable food products or for other promotions relating to heating equipment.

Abstract: A low cost device which changes rapidly, significantly, irreversibly, and accurately when it is exposed to a predetermined temperature is disclosed. The device of the present invention employs a bimetallic disk which changes its configuration when it is exposed to a predetermined temperature. Before firing, the disk is captured by a recess in the device casing. When the disk is exposed to a predetermined temperature, it changes configuration and escapes its confinement from its orginal location in the recess. A spring propels the disk from its original location to a different location. Additionally, the spring ensures that the disk cannot return to its original location. This device has a minimal number of parts so that it is easily and inexpensively manufactured. It can be configured to sense either high temperature or low temperature. The low temperature device can be used in conjuction with irreversible temperature labels such that the combination records both a high and a low temperature exposure.

Abstract: A color changing device for monitoring the time-temperature storage history, i.e. shelf life, of perishable products. The device is constructed of an activator tape, containing an activator composition matrix, an indicating tape, containing an indicating composition matrix and an optional barrier matrix between the activator tape and the indicating tape. At least one matrix is a pressure sensitive adhesive. The activating composition, e.g. an organic acid such as citric acid, diffuses through the barrier and/or indicating matrix to continuously contact the indicating composition, e.g. an acid-base dye indicator such as 2,2',4,4',4",-pentamethoxy triphenylmethanol, to produce a visually observable color change at the temperature being monitored. The color intensifies with time and temperature, as more activator composition diffuses into the indicating matrix.

Abstract: A device which will indicate whether thawing of a frozen item has occurred. The invention consists of a housing containing an internal cavity which is visible through a transparent section of the outside housing wall. A frozen plug is visible within said cavity. Said plug may consist of pure-water-ice or ice containing additives affecting color and/or freezing temperature. Said housing may also contain a tension-loaded indication apparatus which is held in a fixed position by means of the frozen plug. Should thawing take place, the frozen plug would melt, thus allowing the tension-loaded indication apparatus to vary its position. Subsequent refreezing would not return the device to its initial condition.

Abstract: The cold indicator serves for the controlling of the cooling or freezing condition of foods, medicines and the like in an arrangement in which it is in heat conducting contact with the observed cooling or freezing goods; for the activating of the cold indicator, a mechanical force is utilized, which destroys a separating filament. The cold indicator consists of two opposite lying chambers having different volumes, between whcih a separating filament is arranged and there is a freezable fluid provided in the smaller chamber. Below the observed temperature, the fluid forms a cooling or freezing tablet, and activating the cold indicator is done by destroying the separating filament, and the table is brought into the larger chamber. If the cold indicator is thawed, then the cooling or freezing tablet irreversibly loses its shape and disperses in the larger chamber, which is visible from the outside and indicates that the cold indicator has been thawed.

Abstract: A reusable microwaveable container having a temperature indicator mounted permanently to the side walls of the container. The temperature indicator is a liquid crystal film display device having a plurality of display devices which indicate various temperature levels. The liquid crystal films change color in response to a preset temperature such that each display changes color at incrementally increasing temperatures. The displays are reversible in that they return to their original color as the temperature decreases. Alternately, or additionally, the temperature sensing indicator may be provided on a closure lid which fits over the container, so that the temperature may be detected from steam rising from the food being cooked or heated.

Abstract: A photoactivated time-temperature indicator is based on a leuco base system. A thermally insensitive, white ("inactive") leuco base (or a mixture of such leuco bases) is mixed, preferably in a polymeric matrix, with a material that generates acid upon exposure to light. Photoexcitation, preferably by UV or near UV light, causes the formation of a thermally sensitive, color-forming ("active") product. Following this activation step, a progressive color development occurs at a rate that increases with temperature. The indicator is useful for monitoring the freshness of perishable products, particularly those stored at subambient temperature.

Abstract: A foodstuffs thawing detector device (1) comprised of a water-filled container (2) in which detection or marker means (5, 8 or 10) is maintained in a stable position by the freezing of the water in the said container (2), where the said detection means will reach a position other than the said stable position when the water in the container melts. A preferred embodiment consists in a container (2) having an interior cavity defined by frusto-pyramidal formations (3) oriented in opposed directions and joined at their smaller bases in line with a central transverse plane (4); preferably, the said formations shall have a square base, and even a truncated arrangement (6) or the like, and detection means comprised of a ball member (5 or 8) having a high specific weight, maintained on the said central transverse plane (4) by the freezing of the water.

Abstract: A time-temperature integrator based on color changes produced by the chemical reaction between reducing sugars and amino groups (i.e. amino-acids, peptides, proteins) permits the verification of the thermal history during cooking at 85.degree.-100.degree. C. of a hermetically sealed package for inspection and which can not be removed or substituted without breaking the package.

Abstract: A temperature change indicator is described which is composed of an enzyme and a substrate for that enzyme suspended in a solid organic solvent or mixture of solvents as a support medium. The organic solvent or solvents are chosen so as to melt at a specific temperature or in a specific temperature range. When the temperature of the indicator is elevated above the chosen, or critical temperature, the solid organic solvent support will melt, and the enzymatic reaction will occur, producing a visually detectable product which is stable to further temperature variation.

Abstract: An activatable time-temperature indicator consists of an oxygen-sensitive reaction product of a triarylmethane dye and a decolorant that is coated on a substrate and covered by an oxygen barrier. Optinally, an oxygen-permeable layer is between the coating and the oxygen barrier. The indicator is activated by removing the oxygen barrier. Following this activation step, a progressive color development occurs at a rate that increases with temperature. The indicator is useful for monitoring the freshness of perishable products, particularly those stored at sub-ambient temperature.

Abstract: For determining doneness of a body of food or other material heated in a microwave oven, a device including an indicator that changes appearance at a predetermined temperature, mounted on an outwardly-facing major surface of a thin-gauge metal element which is disposed in the oven so as to receive heat from the body. The metal element may be mounted on the lid or other wall of a container holding the body in the oven; the lid may be microwave-transmissive and may hold the metal element spaced above the body. The indicator may include a substance that melts at the predetemined temperature to reveal an underlying color or pattern on the metal element surface. In use, the device is placed in a microwave oven together with the body and is observed visually, for detection of the change of appearance, which occurs when the indicator reaches a temperature corresponding to adequate doneness of the body.

Abstract: A can container made of soft material such as aluminum having a wall thickness of less than 0.2 mm is used for low acid foods or drinks having pH of more than 5.0. A controlled quantity of liquified nitrogen is introduced into the can filled with the low acid foods or drinks and then the can is hermetically sealed off by double-seaming. The liquid nitrogen is soon gasified in the sealed can to increase internal pressure of the can to a level sufficient to prevent the can from being deformed. Then the can is subjected to retort sterilization treatment at a predetermined high steam temperature for a predetermined period of time for sterilization of any possible bacilli and bacteria in the low acid foods or drinks in the can. Prior to retort sterilization treatment, a thermal sensitive paint is applied to the can, which will change color when exposed to a steam of a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period.

Abstract: A method of monitoring if a stored product has exceeded a predetermined temperature using an assembly, which comprises coated onto a carrier a gelatin layer containing an acidic reactant, color former and an encapsulated non-aqueous solvent.

Abstract: For use in sensing the temperature of a bottle or the like, a device formed of a thin, supple support 1, an element 2 black in color, an element 3 axial with respect to the element 2 constituted by an at least binary mixture of cholesteric liquid crystals, a strip 4 colored from red to violet according to the colors of the white light spectrum, a symbolic mark 5 disposed in the zone of color corresponding to the appropriate temperature of use of the liquid contained in the bottle.

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.

Abstract: An improved steam sterilization indicator is provided. The indicator includes a fusible material, in tablet form, deposited in an embossment in one end of a thin aluminum backing. A wicking strip is attached to the backing with one end of the strip being in close proximity to the fusible tablet. A clear plastic material covers the tablet and the strip and is adhered to the backing. The melting point of the fusible tablet is depressed in the presence of saturated steam. Upon melt, the material in the tablet is absorbed by the wicking strip, producing a color front to provide an indication of the integration of time and temperature in the presence of steam. Various amounts of a binder are used in the tablet to provide a device which may be adjusted to reflect the thermal death curves of various types of microorganisms. The cover and the wick are bonded to the backing by an acrylic adhesive which also affects the rate of the indicator.

Abstract: The disclosure concerns an indicator for providing a time/temperature integrated indication of the temperature history of a deep-frozen product through the diffusion of water along a cellulose wick. The cellulose wick is provided on itself with a water soluble, hydrate forming substance, such as sodium chloride and citric acid. The wick is covered in a plastic covering with an opening in the covering exposing the wick to water at the product, and the advance of the water front along the wick is indicated by a time/temperature indicator adjacent the wick and/or by an acid/base indicator on the wick and spaced from the indicator.

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.

Abstract: An indicator device which comprises a backing member, an indicator chemical, such as sebacic acid, which has the capability of wicking through a wick material, wicking means having one end of said wicking means in physical contact with said indicator chemical, said indicator chemical and wicking means being contained within a polypropylene envelope with the top and bottom interfaces of said envelope being sealed together to mechanically bond the wicking means and indicator chemical at the film envelope interfaces.

Abstract: A recording device is described, useful as an integrated time-temperature or radiation-dosage history indicator. The device contains a substrate having deposited thereon at least two indicating units, one being unreacted and representing zero time of exposure and the other unit being pre-reacted. Each unit is comprised of an acetylenic compound containing at least one --C.tbd.C--C.tbd.C-- group, capable of reacting by 1,4-addition polymerization thereby forming an end-point color after an irreversible, progressive color change upon thermal annealing or exposure to actinic radiation. The end-point color represents an integrated time-temperature history of thermal annealing or radiation-dosage history. Each unit is constructed such that the time required to form the end-point color by thermal annealing at a given temperature or for a known thermal history, or exposure to actinic radiation at a given average radiation dosage rate, is predetermined.

Abstract: The fact that meatballs in a casing have been heated to a predetermined temperature sufficient to inactivate the virus of foot and mouth disease is permanently indicated by using a holder device to position a temperature recorder at the thermal "cold-spot" of the mass of meatballs. The temperature recorder is preferably of the type which permanently changes color when heated to the desired predetermined temperature, and the holder may be an apertured disc to which the temperature recorder is secured by an enveloping netting. An import inspector will then be able to ascertain that the meat has been previously heated to the desired temperature by observing the color of the temperature recorder.

Abstract: An indicator attached to perishable goods to show the remaining useful life are described. The preferred embodiment described includes a material, as for example a mineral jelly, which is in contact with a wick, such as a paper strip, such that the mineral jelly diffuses into the paper in accordance with changes in ambient temperature over a period of time. The amount of diffusion is indicated by an apparent change in color of the paper and is analogous to a change in the useful characteristic of the perishable goods.

Abstract: A thermocouple locator for holding a thermocouple inside a flexible pouch comprises a rigid frame that bears snugly against the pouch to prevent relative movement of the frame and pouch. The frame includes attachment means for securing a thermocouple to the frame.

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.

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.

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.

Abstract: A time temperature indicator in the physical form of a substantially planar label-like member that can be placed on perishable products to give a visual indication of deterioration or spoilage of the product due to its exposure to temperature. The indicator includes a galvanic cell which serves both as power source and, by virtue of a partly consumable electrode, as an indicating coulometer, indicating charge transfer wherein the charge transferred is an electrical analog of the time integral of the deterioration rate of the product as a function of temperature; the analog of the deterioration rate is the current drawn from the cell when a device having a current drain which is an approximate exponential function of temperature is connected to the terminals of the cell. The visual indication is provided by the contrast of the prearranged pattern of a protected part of the consumable electrode against the electrolyte which becomes visible when the unprotected part of the electrode is consumed.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Abstract: A freeze and thaw indicator is provided utilizing the expansion characteristics of water when it undergoes a change from the liquid state to the solid state. An ampul having one side made weaker than its opposite side is substantially filled with water. Indicator paper having ink printed on one side is situated adjacent to the ampul. The indicator paper and ampul are housed in a blister pack plastic container for protecting the ampul from breakage. When the temperature around the indicator reaches the freezing point of water, the ampul breaks. During a subsequent thawing, the water flows on to the indicator paper causing the ink which is printed on one side to wick up, thereby indicating that the freeze or thaw has taken place.

Abstract: A thaw-indicating device that is visibly positioned in a package of frozen food so to warn a consumer if the food item has ever been subjected to being thawed, and thus being spoiled even if refrozen subsequently; the device consisting of a transparent plastic capsule having a sealed singular compartment in one end of which there is a colorless, clear, frozen ice and in the other end of which there is a powdered dye that is soluble in water, so that if the ice melts into water due to thawing temperatures the entire interior of the capsule is visibly colored.

Abstract: Thaw-indicator for frozen articles including a V-shaped transparent elastomeric tube having its inner wall surfaces disposed in liquid tight interfacial engagement at the apex of the V by a removable band and defining a pair of closed liquid containers, adapted to contain freezable contrasting liquid dyes.

Abstract: The thaw indicator is formed from a frangible capsule made of edible wax. A mixture of edible gelatin and colored water is sealed inside the capsule. The wax capsule is surrounded by a non-toxic blotter-like absorbant material which is coextensive with and in contact with the outer surface of the capsule. A time-delay for the thaw indicator is provided by adjusting the concentration of the gelatin and water mixture.

Abstract: Compositions containing at least two conjugated acetylene groups (-C.tbd.C-C.tbd.C-) are suitable as integral time-temperature history indicators. These compositions exhibit sequences of irreversible color changes at combinations of times and temperatures specific to each composition. Thus, when supported on the surface of a product or on a substrate affixed to a product, they are useful for indicating whether a perishable (e.g., foodstuff, pharmaceutical, chemical, etc.) has been exposed to an undesirable time-temperature history that results in substantial degradation of the perishable or whether a product has been exposed to a desirable time-temperature history during processing (e.g., the sterilization of a foodstuff or biomedical material).

Abstract: A pouch for containing the gas generating means in a Time-Temperature Indicator which comprises a rate controlling film formed into a sealed pouch having contained therein a frangible ampule containing the gas generating means, said ampule being enclosed in a porous medium, said medium containing an indicator composition responsive to the gas generated by the gas generating means, so as to indicate a color change thereby making the user aware that the gas ampule has been broken.

Abstract: A time and temperature dependent enzymatic indicator with discontinuable indication comprises a plastic envelope container enclosing an enzyme, an enzymatic substrate and a pH-indicator as active components, the indication being discontinuable in that the enzyme is bound to a carrier and in that the plastic envelope is sealable for dividing the container into two compartments, one of which is free from enzyme and thus cannot provide further indication.

Abstract: A telltale device for perishable products including a layer of temperature sensitive material having a clearly defined melting point and an indicator layer separated by a diffusion barrier formed of natural and synthetic gels which permits diffusion of the temperature sensitive material through the barrier at a controlled rate for contact with the indicator after a prescribed period of time at or above the melting point of the material. The temperature sensitive material and diffusion rate of the barrier are selected so that the device, when affixed to a product, visually indicates if the product has been held at or above its deterioration temperature for sufficient period to affect the quality of the product.

Abstract: A system operable to signal the attainment of a preselected time-temperature integral for monitoring the temperature history of a product utilizes a free-radical sensitive dye and a peroxide on a carrier.

Abstract: A system operable to signal the attainment of one or more preselected time-temperature integrals which monitor the temperature history of a product utilizes an organic compound which is subject to solvolysis with the generation of an acid, at least one base in an amount less than the stoichiometric equivalent of the acid generated, and a pH sensitive indicator.