CN102483770A - Barcoded indicators for quality management - Google Patents

Abstract

A barcoded indicator operative to provide a machine-readable indication of exceedance of at least one threshold by at least one product quality affecting parameter, the barcoded indicator including a first barcode including a first plurality of barcode bars and at least a first colorable area, at least a second barcode including a second plurality of barcode bars and at least a second colorable area, and at least one interposed line extending between the first barcode and the second barcode, the interposed line being capable of preventing a barcode reader from reading parts of the first barcode and of the second barcode as part of a single barcode.

Description

The bar code indicator that is used for quality management

Reference with related application

Be referred to the U.S. Patent number US 7,562,811 that the name of submitting to September 10 in 2007 is called " System And Method For Improved Quality Management In A Product Logistic Chain "; The name of submitting on May 6th, 2007 is called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL07/000547 of " A System And Method For Improved Quality Management In A Product Logistic Chain "; The name of submitting on November 14th, 2007 is called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL07/01411 of " A System And Method For Quality Management Utilizing Barcode Indicators "; The name of submitting on November 13rd, 2008 is called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL2008/001495 of " A System And Method For Quality Management Utilizing Barcode Indicators "; The name of submitting on November 13rd, 2008 is called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL2008/001494 of " A System And Method For Quality Management Utilizing Barcode Indicators "; The name of submitting on May 20th, 2009 is called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL2009/000503 of " A System And Method For Quality Management Utilizing Barcode Indicators "; The name of submitting on May 20th, 2009 is called the U.S. Patent Application Serial Number 12/469,309 of " A System And Method For Quality Management Utilizing Barcode Indicators "; The name of submitting on August 6th, 2009 is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application sequence number 61/231,799 of " Barcoded Indicators For Quality Management "; And the name submitted to is called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL2009/001167 of " Barcode Indicators for Quality Management " on Dec 9th, 2009, and their disclosure is incorporated into this paper with way of reference.

Thus (i) according to 37CFR 1.78 (a) (1) and (2); The name that requires to be called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL2009/000503 of " A System And Method For Quality Management Utilizing Barcode Indicators ", submission on May 20th, 2009 in the name that on May 20th, 2009 submitted to is called the U.S. Patent Application Serial Number 12/469 of " A System And Method For Quality Management Utilizing Barcode Indicators "; The name of submitting on Dec 9th, 309 and 2009 is called the right of priority of the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL2009/001167 of " Barcode Indicators for Quality Management "; And (i) according to 37 CFR 1.78 (a) (4) and (5); Require to be called the right of priority of the U.S. Provisional Patent Application sequence number 61/231,799 of " Barcoded Indicators For Quality Management " in the name that on August 6th, 2009 submitted to.

Technical field

The indicator (indicator) that the present invention relates to quality management (quality management) and can be used for quality management.

Background technology

Following United States Patent (USP) relates in general to the application's theme: 6,758,397,6,009,400,6,685,094,7,157,048,7,156,597 with RE 39,226.

Summary of the invention

The present invention aims to provide the improved indicator that can be used for quality control system and method.

A preferred embodiment of the invention; A kind of bar code indicator (barcoded indicator) is provided; It can be used for (exercisable; Operative) provide and exceed and (exceed standard or surpass; Exceedance) machine readable of at least a threshold value indication (influencing parameter (product quality affecting parameter)) through at least a product quality, this bar code indicator comprises: article one font code, it comprises more than first bar code strip (barcode bar) and at least one first pigmentable zone (colorable area); At least second font code, it comprises more than second bar code strip and at least the second pigmentable zone; And at least one at article one font code and the insertion line (interposed line) that extends between the second font code at least, this at least one insert line can prevent bar code reader (reader) with article one font code and at least the part of second font code be read as the part of single bar code (single barcode).

Preferably; Article one, font code was readable exceeding at least a threshold value in the past; The second font code was unreadable exceeding at least a threshold value in the past, and because at least a portion painted (coloring) (or as its result) at least one first pigmentable zone, and article one font code becomes unreadable later on exceeding at least a threshold value; And general side by side because at least a portion at least the second pigmentable zone is painted, this at least the second font code become readable.

Preferably; At least one first pigmentable zone is initial uncoloured and form uncoloured at first, a part that pigmentable is regional of first group; This uncoloured at first, pigmentable of first group regional when article one font code is in article one font code readable state before exceeding at least a threshold value the position between the bar of article one font code; At least the second pigmentable zone is initial uncoloured and form uncoloured at first, a part that pigmentable is regional of second group; This uncoloured at first, pigmentable of second group is regional only to be positioned at the position that is in the bar of the second font code that just occurs when exceeding the later second font code readable state of at least a threshold value when the second font code; At least the second font code was in not readable state of second font code before exceeding at least a threshold value; And because second group be uncoloured, the single fillet font code bar of (more than) is lost from second font code at least more than one.

Preferably, after exceeding at least a threshold value, continue by painted in first group pigmentable zone.In addition or replacedly, form in first group pigmentable zone and second group the pigmentable zone at least one a part the pigmentable zone sequence by painted.

Preferably, this at least one insert line with same color as at least one appearance in more than first and second bar code strip.

Preferably, this at least one insertion line extends along the whole length of first and second bar codes.

Preferably; This bar code mass indicator further comprises the colorant (coloring agent) at the primary importance place that is positioned at indicator; With colorant path (colorant path; Coloring agent pathway), it can be used for allowing colorant to move to first and second pigmentable zone as the speed of the function of time from primary importance at least in part, with painted to them.

In addition, the colorant path can be used for allowing colorant to move to first and second pigmentable zone through diffusion from primary importance.

Preferably, at least a threshold value comprises at least one time threshold (time threshold).

Preferably, at least a threshold value comprises at least one time and temperature threshold.

Preferably, this mass indicator can be used for providing exceed some (a plurality of, the several) indication of different threshold values.

Preferably; Bar code indicator available domain provides the machine readable indication (influencing parameter through at least a product quality) that exceeds at least a other threshold value; Above-mentioned bar code indicator further comprises: at least the three bar code, and it comprises more than the 3rd bar code strip and at least the three pigmentable zone; And at least one other insertion line; It is extending between second font code and the three bar code at least at least, above-mentioned other insertion line can prevent bar code reader will be at least the part of second font code and at least the three bar code be read as the part of single bar code.

Preferably; At least the three bar code was not readable exceeding at least a other threshold value in the past; And the second font code comprises at least the four pigmentable zone at least, and because at least a portion at least the four pigmentable zone is painted, at least the second font code exceed at least a other threshold value later become unreadable; And general side by side because at least a portion at least the three pigmentable zone is painted, at least the three bar code becomes readable.

Preferably; At least the three pigmentable zone is initial uncoloured and form uncoloured at first, a part that pigmentable is regional of the 3rd group; The 3rd group uncoloured at first, pigmentable is regional is positioned at; Only be in the position of the bar of at least the three bar code that just occurs when exceeding later the 3rd bar code readable state of at least a other threshold value when at least the three bar code; The 3rd bar code is in not readable state of the 3rd bar code before exceeding at least a other threshold value; Because the 3rd group is uncoloured; More than one single fillet font code bar is lost from least the three bar code, and at least the four pigmentable zone is initial uncoloured and form uncoloured at first, a part that pigmentable is regional of the 4th group, and the 4th group uncoloured at first, pigmentable is regional to be in when exceeding before second font code readable state of at least a other threshold value the position between the bar at second font code at least when the second font code.

Description of drawings

According to following detailed description and with reference to accompanying drawing, invention will be more fully understood, wherein:

Figure 1A-1K is that a preferred embodiment of the invention makes up and the structure and the sketch of operation of an instance of the mass indicator of operation together, is used in reference to and is shown in the middle elapsed time of thermal history (temperature history);

Fig. 2 A-2K is according to the structure and the operation of another instance of the mass indicator of another kind of preferred implementation structure according to the present invention and operation together, is used in reference to and is shown in elapsed time in the thermal history.

Embodiment

The invention provides changeable bar code indicator, it can provide machine-readable (the preferred stripe bar code reader is readable) to exceed the indication of at least a threshold value (influencing parameter through at least a product quality)

At U.S. Patent number US 7; 562; Bar code reader (reader) has been described in 811 and in publication WO/2007/129316, WO/2008/135962, WO/2009/063464 and WO/2009/063465; It can be used for reading (reading) bar code indicator and the output indication is provided, and product type response indication interpreter, and it can be used for receiving the output indication and to the people appreciable product quality state output is provided.

Term " bar code (barcode) " is used to refer to machine readable light code in this article.In the instance of this instructions, for example clear linear or one-dimensional bar code.Should understand, the present invention can also be applicable to two-dimensional bar.

Every kind of bar code standards comprises the rule that correctly reads of control strip font code.Typical bar code comprises end mark (stop flag, stop indicia) and the figure notation of the numeral of expression between them of the end of beginning label (start indicia) that the expression bar code begins, expression bar code.Each numeral of bar code by a series of and space (blank or at interval, space) (have preset width separately) and show.For example, in 52 staggered scanning bar code standards (the 2 of 5 Interleaved barcode standard), each numeral is through two wide (wide bar) and three fillets (narrow bar) demonstration.UPC and EAN128 bar code standards comprise central marker (middle indicia), have different rules, are used in reference to the numeral of any side that is shown in this central marker.In addition, some bar code standards adopt inspection and numeral (checksum digit), and it is to calculate according to the mathematical formulae based on the bar code symbol numeral, and is used as the control of the validity of bar code.

Therefore, it is unreadable bar code readable to be become with several kinds of different approaches.For example, can be through adding or deletion bar or space or change the series of the bar that forms beginning or end mark through the width that changes them.Such change can cause that bar code reader can not discern the beginning or the end of bar code symbol, thereby causes bar code not readable.

Another kind possibly be to add or the bar or the space of deletion figure notation or change their width, so that a series of numeral is no longer come designation number according to institute's accepted standard with the space.Another possibly be to make above-mentioned variation become one or more and space of a series of designation numbers; So that the different numeral of indication and the inspection of calculating the numeral that comprises this change cause producing with numeral and are different from the inspection and digital inspection and numeral of in bar code, indicating after this changes, and it is invalid to cause that thus this bar code becomes.Can also form the bar of indication inspection and numeral itself and cause the similar change that this bar code is invalid.

Similarly, can be through adding or deletion bar or space or change their width, making not, bar code readable becomes readable.For example, the bar that forms beginning or end mark in the bar code that begins therein or finish correctly to indicate can be changed as described above, begins or end mark correctly to form.

Similarly, through adding or deletion bar or space or change their width, can make the not readable serial designation number of bar.For example, 2 staggered scanning bar code standards according to 5, each numeral is by two wide and three fillet indications.For example, if that bar code readable is become is unreadable through changing into fillet with wide, then fillet being changed into wide, that bar code is become is readable.Similarly, if because inspection and numeral match other bar code number and bar code is not unreadable, then a kind of bar in designation number or inspection and the numeral can be like top being changed and recovering bar code validity of explaining.

Mass indicator can integrated product code such as EAN (European Article Number (EAN)) or UPC code (Universial Product Code).The instance that illustrates in the following description is the application of clear EAN code for example.Replacedly, mass indicator can be integrated 2 staggered scanning bar codes or any other suitable bar code or readable method of 5.Should understand; The bar of one-dimensional bar code is corresponding to the unit in the data matrix two-dimensional bar; " beginning " with " stops that " mark, two adjacent boundaries that define " search pattern (finder pattern) " are used for the data matrix two-dimensional bar to locate and phasing signal and to replace one-dimensional bar code.

A preferred embodiment of the invention, mass indicator comprise the bar code of observing GSl (general requirements) standard, and it is summarized in www.gsl.org.According to the GSl standard, three leftmost numerals are distributed to a country usually.In Israel, 7,9 or 10 leftmost numerals (comprising country code) expressions vendor code and remaining rightmost numeral is used by each supplier.For example, like what in the illustrational embodiment of the application, see, three leftmost numerals are 729, as the GSl country code of distributing to Israel.10 leftmost numerals (comprising country code) expression vendor code, and three rightmost numerals can be changed by supplier, and their combination is used to indicate exceeding of threshold value in this application.

Mass indicator of the present invention comprises at least two bar codes preferably arranging with the stacked arrangement mode, and each bar code preferably has at least two kinds of visible states.

Preferably, general in any given time, only a kind of visible state of the bar code of the part of formation indicator is machine-readable, and therefore general in any given time, indicator provides the individual machine bar code readable.Replacedly, under one or more states of indicator, all bar codes that form its part can be in and not be machine-readable visible state, and mass indicator does not provide the machine readable barcode that is in these one or more states.

As defined in this application, phrase " general in any given time " is meant in the institute except possible interval in short-term free.Preferably, in normal running, in short-term interval be meant less than 15 minutes the time interval.

Form the bar code preferred alignment of the part of indicator of the present invention, so that their axle is parallel usually.According at the application's instructions and a kind of embodiment of illustrated, the bar of a bar code does not also line up corresponding of another bar code, but departs from a little each other.Replacedly, corresponding of another bar code of the bar of bar code alignment.

A preferred embodiment of the invention, bar code by each other and put (place side by side, juxtapose) so that between the bar of the bar of a bar code and another bar code, do not have the space (blank or at interval, space).

According to illustrational a kind of preferred implementation in the application's instructions and accompanying drawing, indicator comprises the insertion line, and it is formed between the bar code and it prevents that bar code reader is read as single bar code by error with the part of a plurality of bar codes.

Preferably, inserting line occurs with the bar code strip of same color as a part that forms bar code.Replacedly, insert line and occur with such color, it prevents that bar code reader is read as single bar code by error with the part of a plurality of bar codes.Should understand, inserting line must appear and they can occur with light color with dark color.

According to illustrational a kind of embodiment in the application's instructions and accompanying drawing, insert line and extend along the whole length of transformable bar code.Should understand, insert line and need not to extend along the whole length of transformable bar code, and they can be only along for preventing that bar code reader is read as the necessary length of single bar code by error with the part of a plurality of bar codes and extends.

Indicator of the present invention preferably includes at least one group of pigmentable zone, and it can be used for becoming simultaneously painted (colored) or uncoloured (uncolored), and hereinafter is referred to as common pigmentable district (public pigmentable district, common colorable region).Common pigmentable district preferably includes the pigmentable zone of a part that forms an above single bar code.

Common pigmentable district preferably has the width of single fillet font code bar.Replacedly, common pigmentable district is wideer than single fillet font code bar.

According to illustrational a kind of embodiment in the application's instructions and accompanying drawing, each bar code comprises one group of other at least pigmentable zone.One group of pigmentable zone that each is other; Hereinafter referred to as other pigmentable district; Preferably include at least one pigmentable zone, form the part of single bar code, and be configured to when bar code is in readable state not, reduce the bar code readability level of bar code (forming its part).Preferably, other pigmentable district comprises more than one pigmentable zone.Replacedly, other pigmentable district comprises single pigmentable zone.

According to another embodiment of the invention, at least one bar code does not comprise other pigmentable district.

" the readable level of bar code " or " BCR level " that phrase is in the bar code of readable state have not reflected following possibility: when it is in this not during readable state, bar code reader will read bar code by error.Therefore, the not bar code readable that has low BCR level is unlikely read by bar code reader by error.

Existing with reference to Figure 1A-1K, it is a kind of structure and the sketch of operation of embodiment of mass indicator that is used to indicate the combination of elapsed time and temperature together.Mass indicator shown in Figure 1A-1K can be used for being provided at the independent indication that exceeds two various durations (one hour and three and a half hours) under at least 7 degrees centigrade the temperature.。

In each Figure 1A-1K, mass indicator 100 appears at the exploded view of portion in the accompanying drawings and in the plan view of accompanying drawing bottom.

Like what in the exploded view of Figure 1A-1K, seen, mass indicator here by label 100 indications, preferably includes bar code and defines layer (barcode defining layer) 102, and it preferably is printed on the transparent substrates.Printing on transparent substrates preferably limits: background area 103, and it is preferably with the black ink printing and use the white ink chromatography; A plurality of 104, it forms the part of bar code I, II and III, and it preferably prints with black ink; And a plurality of transparent regions 105, it preferably uses light blue ink printing, and like Pantone No.645, it has the visual appearance that is similar to the black ink of white ink chromatography.Replacedly, with such color printing background area 103 with a plurality of 104, to limit high-contrast betwixt.

Bar code I, II and III preferably arrange with the stacked arrangement mode.Preferably through inserting line 106, it preferably is printed on the transparent substrates, separates bar code I and II.Insert the axle that line 106 preferably is parallel to bar code generally.Preferably through inserting line 107, it preferably is printed on the transparent substrates, separates bar code II and III.Insert the axle that line 107 preferably is parallel to bar code generally.

Inserting line 106 preferably extends with black ink printing and the whole length that in illustrated embodiment, runs through bar code with 107.Replacedly, in case of necessity, insert line 106 and 107 and extend to prevent that bar code reader is read as single bar code with the part of bar code I, II and III.Should understand, bar code I, II and III need not to be positioned on the indicator with any particular order.

Concerning the purpose of this instructions and claim, phrase " transparent region " is defined as and in its scope, comprises transparent or semitransparent zone.

Transparent region 105 is preferably formed the part in following six districts: common pigmentable district 110, and it forms the part of bar code I and II; Other pigmentable district 111, it forms the part of bar code I; Other pigmentable district 112, it forms the part of bar code II; Common pigmentable district 113, it forms the part of bar code II and III; Other pigmentable district 114, it forms the part of bar code II; And other pigmentable district 115, it forms the part of bar code III.

Preferably, common pigmentable district 110 comprises two transparent regions: the transparent region 116 of the part of formation bar code I and the transparent region 117 of a part that forms bar code II.

Preferably, common pigmentable district 113 comprises two transparent regions: the transparent region 118 of the part of formation bar code II and the transparent region 119 of a part that forms bar code III.

According to the embodiment shown in Figure 1A-1K, the other pigmentable district 111 that forms the part of bar code I appears at the right of transparent region 116.Transparent region 116 and transparent region 105 (it forms the part in other pigmentable district 111) are preferably placed in the space between the bar code strip of a part of the bar code I that forms the readable state that is in it; In the plan view of Figure 1A, it is by label 140 indications.

For following task of explanation, shown in Figure 1A-1K, the transparent region 105 that forms the part in other pigmentable district 111 is divided into two kinds of a plurality of transparent regions: 121 and 122.

According to the embodiment shown in Figure 1A-1K, the other pigmentable district 112 that forms the part of bar code II appears at the left side of transparent region 117.Transparent region 117 and transparent region 105 (it forms the part in other pigmentable district 112) are positioned at the position of the bar that when bar code II is in its readable state, occurs, and it is by label 163 indications in the plan view of Fig. 1 E.

For following task of explanation, shown in Figure 1A-1K, the transparent region 105 that forms the part in other pigmentable district 112 is divided into two kinds of a plurality of transparent regions: 124 and 125.

According to the embodiment shown in Figure 1A-1K, the other pigmentable district 114 that forms the part of bar code II appears at the right of transparent region 118.Transparent region 118 and transparent region 105 (it forms the part in other pigmentable district 114) are preferably placed in the space between the bar code strip; Above-mentioned bar code strip forms the part of the bar code II that is in readable state, and it is by label 163 indications in the plan view of Fig. 1 E.

According to the embodiment shown in Figure 1A-1K, the other pigmentable district 115 that forms the part of bar code III appears at the left side of transparent region 119.Transparent region 119 and transparent region 105 (it forms the part in other pigmentable district 115) are positioned at the position of the bar that when bar code III is in its readable state, occurs, and it is by label 175 indications in the plan view of Fig. 1 J.

Be arranged on that bar code defines layer 102 back and what preferably adhere to it is pigmentable element (colorable element) 130; Like Whatman No.3 filter paper; Commercially can it typically is white, up to by painted available from Whatman International [CAT#:1003917].Pigmentable element 130 is preferably in common pigmentable district 110 and 113 and other pigmentable district 111,112,114 and 115 back extension.

Be arranged on that bar code defines layer 102 back and be bottoms (backing layer, back layer) 135 in the back of pigmentable element 130.The preferred bottom 135 that adheres to pigmentable element 130 backward be that temperature-responsive color component 136, like liner, for example; Bibulous paper GB003; 0.8mm thick, commercially can be impregnated with colorant available from Whatman international (cat#426890); Like sudan black; A kind of black dyes [CAS:4197-25-5] is dissolved into 0.3% concentration in 80% oleic acid [CAS:112-80-1] and 20% lauryl alcohol [CAS:112-53-8], it freezes under 5 degrees centigrade and 7 degrees centigrade of fusings down.

Forward Figure 1A at present; Like what in plan view, can see; Bar code I is in the readable state by label 140 indication at first, and it can be read by bar code reader usually is 7290003804115, and bar code II is in the not readable state of being indicated by label 141 and 142 respectively with III.

Like what in the exploded view of Figure 1A, can see, transparent region 117 and transparent region 105, it forms the part of other pigmentable district 112 (it forms the part of bar code II), is uncoloured at first.Therefore, like what in plan view, can see, when bar code II is in its readable state, occur a plurality of lose from bar code II.Losing a plurality of bar code strip causes being in the initial not bar code II of readable state 141 and has low BCR level.

Like what in the exploded view of Figure 1A, can also see, transparent region 119 is uncoloured with other pigmentable district 115 (it forms the part of bar code III) at first.Therefore, like what in plan view, can see, when bar code III is in its readable state, occur a plurality of lose from bar code III.Losing a plurality of bar code strip causes being in the initial not bar code III of readable state 142 and has low BCR level.

Should understand; If along a line that extends across more than one bar code; For example along transnational bar code I of extension that indicates by label 144 and the line of II; Or along the line that extends through bar code II and III by label 145 indications; Scan reading pointer through bar code reader, then insert at least one the part in line 106 and 107, for example by the part of the insertion line 106 of label 146 indications or by the part of the insertion line 107 of label 147 indications; Detect and prevent the part (part of the part of bar code I and II or bar code II and III in the example shown) of a plurality of bar codes is read as the part of single bar code by bar code reader.

Forward Figure 1B to; Like what in exploded view, can see; When the temperature of mass indicator surpasses 7 degrees centigrade, when reaching 8 degrees centigrade, begin fusing and from color component 136 releases and begin to diffuse through pigmentable element 130 by the colorant of label 150 indications when temperature.Through a plurality of transparent regions 105, can not see the coloured part of pigmentable element 130, and like what in plan view, can see, bar code I, II and III keep not changing.

Forward Fig. 1 C to, like what in exploded view, can see, after after a while, for example 30 minutes, colorant 150 continued to diffuse through pigmentable element 130 under 8 degree.Therefore, through can see the part of pigmentable element 130 by a plurality of transparent regions of label 124 indication, cause occurring a plurality of by the part that forms bar code II of label 152 indications, like what in plan view, can see.Bar code I still is in readable state 140, and bar code III still is in not readable state 142, and the not readable state of the change of bar code II is by label 153 indications.

The bar code strip that when bar code II is in its readable state (in Fig. 1 E, being indicated by label 163), appears at the position of transparent region 117 and a plurality of transparent regions 125 is still lost from bar code II.Thisly lose a plurality of bar code strip to cause being in the BCR level of the bar code II of readable state 153 not still low.

Like what can see from the plan view of Figure 1B and 1C, and when being in not readable state 141, compare, when bar code II is in not readable state 153, lose less bar code strip.Therefore, should understand, be in not the BCR level of the bar code II of readable state 153 and be higher than it and be in the not BCR level of readable state 141.

Forward Fig. 1 D to, like what in exploded view, can see, through after other a period of time, for example other 25 minutes, colorant 150 continued to diffuse through pigmentable element 130 under 8 degree.Therefore, through can see the several portions of pigmentable element 130 by a plurality of transparent regions of label 125 indication, cause occurring forming other a plurality of 154 an of part of bar code II, like what in plan view, can see.Bar code I still is in readable state 140, and bar code III still is in not readable state 142, and the not readable state of the change of bar code II is by label 155 indications.Only single fillet font code bar; It appears at the position of transparent region 117 when bar code II is in its readable state (in Fig. 1 E, being indicated by label 163); Still lose from bar code II, lose bar code strip and make the bar code II of the state of being in 155 become unreadable.

Should understand, owing to only lose single fillet font code bar for 155 times, so the BCR level of the bar code II of readable state 155 not of being in is higher than the BCR level of the bar code II that is in readable state 141 not and 153 that in Figure 1A-1C, describes in readable state not.

Forward Fig. 1 E to; Like what in exploded view, can see; When surpassing threshold value by the temperature that is at least 7 degrees centigrade indicator place and reach predetermined at least accumulated time; When reaching altogether at least one hour as 8 degrees centigrade, colorant 150 diffuses through pigmentable element 130, so that can see (comprising the transparent region of being indicated by label 116 and 117) some (or a plurality of) part of pigmentable element 130 through common pigmentable district 110.

Because through can see the several portions of pigmentable element 130 by label 116 indication transparent regions; So the space (it is between the bar of the bar code I of the readable state that is in it) by label 160 indications is filled; Thereby cause bar code I to present not readable state 161, like what in plan view, can see.

Because through can see the several portions of pigmentable element 130 by the transparent region of label 117 indications; So the single fillet font code bar by label 162 indications appears among the bar code II; Thereby cause bar code II to present readable state 163; Like what in plan view, can see, it can be read by bar code reader usually is 7290003804139.

Should understand; Because preferably having the space of the width of single fillet font code bar (between the bar of the bar code I that is in readable state) is filled; So be in the not BCR level height of the bar code I of readable state 161, be similar to the not BCR level of in Fig. 1 D, describing of the bar code II of readable state 155 that is in.

Forward Fig. 1 F to; Like what in exploded view, can see; If temperature reaches other a period of time at least 7 degrees centigrade; For example 8 degrees centigrade reach other 30 minutes, and then colorant 150 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 130, so that through can see the several portions of pigmentable element 130 by the transparent region of label 121 indications.Therefore, like what in plan view, can see, a plurality of spaces between the bar of the bar code I that is in readable state of being indicated by label 165 are filled.Bar code II still is in readable state 163, and bar code III still is in not readable state 142, and bar code I presents the further readable state not by label 166 indication.Because a plurality of space 165 is painted, being in not, the BCR level of the bar code I of readable state 166 can reduce.

Like what can see from the plan view of Fig. 1 E and 1F, and be in not readable state 161 and compare, more spaces are filled between the bar of the bar code I of readable state 166 not being in.Therefore, should understand, and be in not readable state 161 and compare, the BCR level that is in the bar code I of readable state 166 not is lower.

Forward Fig. 1 G to; Like what in exploded view, can see; If temperature reaches other a period of time at least 7 degrees centigrade; For example 8 degrees centigrade reach other 30 minutes, and then colorant 150 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 130, so that through can see the several portions of pigmentable element 130 by the transparent region of label 122 indications.Therefore, like what in plan view, can see, be rendered as painted by label 167 other a plurality of spaces indication, between the bar of the bar code I that is in readable state.Bar code II still is in readable state 163, and bar code III still is in not readable state 142, and bar code I presents further not readable state 168.Because other a plurality of spaces 167 are painted, the BCR level of the bar code I of readable state 168 further reduces so be in not.

Like what can see from the plan view of Fig. 1 F and 1G, and be in not readable state 166 and compare, more spaces are filled between the bar code strip of the bar code I of readable state 168 not being in.Therefore, and be in not readable state 166 and compare, the BCR level that is in the bar code I of readable state 168 not is lower.

Forward Fig. 1 H to, like what in exploded view, can see, if temperature reaches other a period of time at least 7 degrees centigrade, for example 8 degrees centigrade reach other one hour, and then colorant 150 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 130.Can not see the other coloured part of pigmentable element 130 through a plurality of transparent regions 105, and like what in plan view, can see, bar code I, II and III remain unchanged.

Like what in the exploded view of Fig. 1 H, can see, transparent region 119 remains uncoloured with other pigmentable district 115 (it forms the part of bar code III).Therefore, like what in plan view, can see, still lose for a plurality of that when bar code III is in its readable state (in Fig. 1 J, being indicated by label 175), occur from bar code III.Lose bar code strip and cause being in not that the bar code III of readable state 142 has low BCR level.

Forward Fig. 1 I to, like what in exploded view, can see, through after other a period of time, for example other 8 minutes, colorant 150 continued to diffuse through pigmentable element 130 under 8 degree.Therefore; Can see the several portions of pigmentable element 130 through a plurality of transparent regions 105 (it forms the part by the other pigmentable district of label 115 indications); Thereby cause occurring forming a plurality of 170 an of part of bar code III, like what in plan view, can see.Bar code I still is in not readable state 168, and bar code II still is in readable state 163, and the not readable state of the change of bar code III is by label 171 indications.Only its part (this part has the width of single fillet font code bar) of bar code strip that appears at the position of transparent region 119 is still lost from bar code III when bar code III is in its readable state, and loses bar code strip and partly make the bar code III of the state of being in 171 become unreadable.

Should understand; Owing to only lose the part of bar code strip for 171 times in readable state not; This part has the width of single fillet font code bar, and the BCR level of the bar code III of readable state 171 is higher than the not BCR level of in Figure 1A-1H, describing of the bar code III of readable state 142 that is in so be in not.

Forward Fig. 1 J to; Like what in exploded view, can see; When the temperature that is at least 7 degrees centigrade indicator surpasses second threshold value and reaches at least the second predetermined accumulated time; Reach at least three and a half hours altogether as 8 degrees centigrade, colorant 150 diffuses through pigmentable element 130, so that can see (comprising the transparent region of being indicated by label 118 and 119) several portions of pigmentable element 130 through common pigmentable district 113.

Because through can see the several portions of pigmentable element 130 by the transparent region of label 118 indications; So the space (between the bar of the bar code II that is in readable state) by label 172 indications is filled; Thereby cause bar code II to present not readable state 173, like what in plan view, can see.

Because through can be seen the several portions of pigmentable element 130 by the transparent region of label 119 indications, so the part of bar code appears among the bar code III, this part is indicated and is had the width of single fillet font code bar by label 174.Therefore, bar code III presents readable state 175, and like what in plan view, can see, it can be read by bar code reader usually is 7290003804122.

Should understand; Because preferably having the width and the space between the bar of the bar code II that is in readable state of single fillet font code bar is filled; So be in the not BCR level height of the bar code II of readable state 173, be similar to the not BCR level of in Fig. 1 I, describing of the bar code III of readable state 171 that is in.

Forward Fig. 1 K to; Like what in exploded view, can see; If temperature reaches other a period of time at least 7 degrees centigrade; For example 8 degrees centigrade reach other 30 minutes, and then colorant 150 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 130, so that can see the several portions of pigmentable element 130 through transparent region 105 (it forms the part by the other pigmentable district of label 114 indications).Therefore, a plurality of spaces 176 (between the bar of the bar code II of the readable state that is in it) is filled, like what in plan view, can see.Bar code I still is in not readable state 168, and bar code III still is in readable state 175, and bar code II presents the further readable state not by label 177 indication.A plurality of spaces 176 are filled and cause that the BCR level that is in the bar code II of readable state 177 not reduces.

Like what can see from the plan view of Fig. 1 J and 1K, and be in not readable state 173 and compare, be between the bar code strip of the bar code II of readable state 177 not, more space is filled.Therefore, should understand, and be in not readable state 173 and compare, the BCR level that is in the bar code II of readable state 177 not is lower.

Should understand, be lower than 7 degrees centigrade if temperature drops to, then colorant 150 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 130.If, reaching after 7 degrees centigrade in temperature, temperature drops to and is lower than 5 degrees centigrade, and the toner 150 of doing that becomes solid and suspends its diffusion through pigmentable element 130, reaches 7 degrees centigrade once more up to temperature.

Existing with reference to Fig. 2 A-2K, it is a kind of structure and the sketch of operation of embodiment of mass indicator that is used to indicate the combination of elapsed time and temperature together.The mass indicator of in Fig. 2 A-2K, describing can be used for providing the independent indication that exceeds two kinds of different temperatures: 7 degrees centigrade and 10 degrees centigrade is at least one hour every kind of following duration of temperature.

In each of Fig. 2 A-2K, mass indicator 200 appears at the exploded view at accompanying drawing middle part and in the plan view of accompanying drawing bottom.

Like what in the exploded view of Fig. 2 A-2K, seen, mass indicator by label 200 indications, preferably includes bar code and defines layer 202 here, and it preferably is printed on the transparent substrates.Printing on transparent substrates preferably limits: background area 203, and it is preferably with the black ink printing and use the white ink chromatography; Form a plurality of 204 an of part of bar code IV, V and VI, it preferably prints with black ink; And a plurality of transparent regions 205, it preferably uses light blue ink printing, and like PantoneNo.645, it has and is similar to the visual appearance that covers the black ink that is printed on white ink.Replacedly, with such color printing background area 203 with a plurality of 204, to limit high-contrast betwixt.

Preferably arrange bar code IV, V and VI with the stacked arrangement mode.Preferably separate bar code IV and V through the insertion line 206 that preferably is printed on the transparent substrates.Insert the axle that line 206 preferably is parallel to bar code generally.Preferably come separately bar code V and VI through the insertion line 207 that preferably is printed on the transparent substrates.Insert the axle that line 207 preferably is parallel to bar code generally.

It is preferred with the black ink printing and in illustrated embodiment, extend through the whole length of bar code with 207 to insert line 206.Replacedly, in case of necessity, insert line 206 and 207 and extend to prevent that bar code reader is read as single bar code with the part of bar code IV, V and VI.

Should understand, bar code IV, V and VI need not to be positioned on the indicator with any particular order.

Transparent region 205 is preferably formed the part in following six districts: common pigmentable district 210, and it forms the part of bar code IV and V; Other pigmentable district 211, it forms the part of bar code IV; Other pigmentable district 212, the part that its bar code V-arrangement becomes; Common pigmentable district 213, it forms the part of bar code V and VI; Other pigmentable district 214, it forms the part of bar code V; And other pigmentable district 215, it forms the part of bar code VI.

Preferably, common pigmentable district 210 comprises two transparent regions: the transparent region 216 of the part of formation bar code IV and the transparent region 217 of a part that forms bar code V.

Preferably, common pigmentable district 213 comprises two transparent regions: the transparent region 218 of the part of formation bar code V and the transparent region 219 of a part that forms bar code VI.

According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 2 A-2K, the other pigmentable district 211 that forms the part of bar code IV appears at the right of transparent region 216.Transparent region 216 and transparent region 205 (it forms the part in other pigmentable district 211) are preferably placed in the space between bar code strip, and above-mentioned bar code strip forms the part of the bar code IV that is in readable state (it is by label 240 indications in the plan view of Fig. 2 A).

For following task of explanation, shown in Fig. 2 A-2K, the transparent region 205 that forms the part in other pigmentable district 211 is divided into two kinds of a plurality of transparent regions: 221 and 222.

According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 2 A-2K, the other pigmentable district 212 that forms the part of bar code V appears at the left side of transparent region 217.Transparent region 217 and transparent region 205 (it forms the part in other pigmentable district 212) be arranged in when bar code V be in readable state (the plan view of Fig. 2 E its by label 263 indications) position of the bar that occurs.

For following task of explanation, shown in Fig. 2 A-2K, the transparent region 205 that forms the part in other pigmentable district 212 is divided into two kinds of a plurality of transparent regions: 224 and 225.

According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 2 A-2K, the other pigmentable district 214 that forms the part of bar code V appears at the left side of transparent region 218.Transparent region 218 and transparent region 205 (it forms the part in other pigmentable district 214) are preferably placed in the space between the bar code strip, and above-mentioned bar code strip forms the part of the bar code V that is in readable state (it is by label 263 indications in the plan view of Fig. 2 E).

According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 2 A-2K, the other pigmentable district 215 that forms the part of bar code VI appears at the right of transparent region 219.Transparent region 219 and transparent region 205 (it forms the part in other pigmentable district 215) be arranged in when bar code VI be in it readable state (the plan view of Fig. 2 J its by label 275 indications) time bar that occurs the position.

Be arranged on that bar code defines layer 202 back and what preferably adhere to it is pigmentable element 230,, commercially can it typically is white, up to by painted available from Whatman International [CAT#:1003917] like Whatman No.3 filter paper.Pigmentable element 230 is preferably in common pigmentable district 210 and other pigmentable district 211 and 212 back extension.

Be arranged on also that bar code defines layer 202 back and what preferably adhere to it is other pigmentable element 232; Like Whatman No.3 filter paper; Commercially can it typically is white, up to by painted available from Whatman International [CAT#:1003917].Pigmentable element 232 is preferably in abutting connection with pigmentable element 230 and preferably in common pigmentable district 213 and other pigmentable district 214 and 215 back extension.

Should understand, replace comprising can comprising the single pigmentable element that is divided into two parts through separator according to indicator of the present invention by two independent pigmentable elements, this separator is processed by impermeable material such as varnish concerning printing ink.

Be arranged on that bar code defines layer 202 back and be bottoms 235 in the back of pigmentable element 230 and 232.

The preferred bottom 235 that adheres to pigmentable element 230 backward be that temperature-responsive color component 236; Like liner, for example, bibulous paper GB003 0.8mm is thick; Commercial can be available from Whatman international (cat#426890); Be impregnated with colorant, like sudan black, a kind of black dyes [CAS:4197-25-5]; In 80% oleic acid [CAS:112-80-1] and 20% lauryl alcohol [CAS:112-53-8], be dissolved into 0.3% concentration, it freezes under 5 degrees centigrade and 7 degrees centigrade of fusings down.

The preferred temperature-responsive that also has that adheres to the bottom 235 of pigmentable element 232 backward color component 238, like liner, for example; Bibulous paper GB003,0.8mm is thick, commercial can be available from Whatman international (cat#426890); Be impregnated with colorant, like sudan black, a kind of black dyes [CAS:4197-25-5]; In 100% decyl decylate [CAS:1654-86-0], be dissolved into 0.3% concentration, it freezes under 9 degrees centigrade and 10 degrees centigrade of fusings down.

Forward Fig. 2 A at present; Like what in plan view, can see; Bar code IV is in the readable state by label 240 indication at first, its usually by bar code reader read be 7290003804115 and bar code V be in the not readable state of indicating respectively with VI by label 241 and 242.

Like what in the exploded view of Fig. 2 A, can see, transparent region 217 and transparent region 205, it forms the part of other pigmentable district 212 (it forms the part of bar code V), is uncoloured at first.Therefore, like what in plan view, can see, when bar code V is in its readable state, occur a plurality of lose from bar code V.Losing a plurality of bar code strip causes being in the initial not bar code V of readable state 241 and has low BCR level.

Like what in the exploded view of Fig. 2 A, can also see, transparent region 219 is uncoloured at first with the other pigmentable district 215 of a part that forms bar code VI.Therefore, like what in plan view, can see, when bar code VI is in its readable state, occur a plurality of lose from bar code VI.Losing a plurality of bar code strip causes being in the initial not bar code VI of readable state 242 and has low BCR level.

Should understand; If extend across a line of more than one bar code along it; For example along the line that extends across bar code IV and V by label 244 indications; Or along the line that extends across bar code V and VI by label 245 indications; Scan reading pointer through bar code reader; Then insert at least one the part in line 206 and 207,, detect and can prevent the part of a plurality of bar codes (in the embodiment shown for bar code IV and the part of V or the part of bar code V and VI) is read as the part of single bar code by bar code reader for example by the part of the insertion line 206 of label 246 indications or by the part of the insertion line 207 of label 247 indications.

Forward Fig. 2 B to; Like what in exploded view, can see; When the temperature of mass indicator surpasses 7 degrees centigrade, when reaching 8 degrees centigrade, begin fusing and from color component 236 releases and begin to diffuse through pigmentable element 230 by the colorant of label 250 indications when temperature.Can not see the coloured part of pigmentable element 230 through a plurality of transparent regions 205, and like what in plan view, can see, bar code IV, V and VI keep not changing.

Forward Fig. 2 C to, like what in exploded view, can see, after after a while, for example 30 minutes, colorant 250 continued to diffuse through pigmentable element 230 under 8 degree.Therefore, through can seeing the several portions of pigmentable element 230, thereby cause occurring a plurality of by the part that forms bar code V of label 252 indications, like what in plan view, can see by a plurality of transparent regions of label 224 indication.Bar code IV still is in readable state 240, and bar code VI still is in not readable state 242, and the not readable state of the change of bar code V is by label 253 indications.

The bar code strip that when bar code V is in its readable state (in Fig. 2 E, being indicated by label 263), appears at the position of transparent region 217 and a plurality of transparent regions 225 is still lost from bar code V.Thisly lose a plurality of bar code strip to cause being in the BCR level of the bar code V of readable state 253 not still low.

Like what can see from the plan view of Fig. 2 B and 2C, and when being in not readable state 241, compare,, loses bar code V bar code strip still less when being in not readable state 253.Therefore, should understand, be in not the BCR level of the bar code V of readable state 253 and be higher than it and be in the not BCR level of readable state 241.

Forward Fig. 2 D to, like what in exploded view, can see, through after other a period of time, for example other 25 minutes, colorant 250 continued to diffuse through pigmentable element 230 under 8 degree.Therefore, through can seeing the several portions of pigmentable element 230 by a plurality of transparent regions of label 225 indication, thus other a plurality of 254 an of part that cause occurring forming bar code V, like what in plan view, can see.Bar code IV still is in readable state 240, and bar code VI still is in not readable state 242, and the not readable state of the change of bar code V is by label 255 indications.Only single fillet font code bar (it appears at the position of transparent region 217 when bar code V is in its readable state (in Fig. 2 E by label 263 indication)) is still lost from bar code V, and loses bar code strip and make the bar code V of the state of being in 255 become unreadable.

Should understand, owing to only lose the single bar code bar 255 times, so the BCR level of the bar code V of readable state 255 not of being in is higher than the BCR level of the bar code V that is in readable state 241 not and 253 that in Fig. 2 A-2C, describes in readable state not.

Forward Fig. 2 E to; Like what in exploded view, can see; When surpassing threshold value by the temperature that is at least 7 degrees centigrade indicator place and reach predetermined at least accumulated time; Reach at least one hour altogether as 8 degrees centigrade, colorant 250 diffuses through pigmentable element 230, so that can see (comprising the transparent region of being indicated by label 216 and 217) several portions of pigmentable element 230 through common pigmentable district 210.

Because through can see the several portions of pigmentable element 230 by the transparent region of label 216 indications; So the space (it is between the bar of the bar code IV that is in readable state) by label 260 indications is filled; Thereby cause bar code IV to present not readable state 261, like what in plan view, can see.

Because through can see the several portions of pigmentable element 230 by the transparent region of label 217 indications; So the single bar code bar by label 262 indications appears among the bar code V; Thereby cause bar code V to present readable state 263; Like what in plan view, can see, it can be read by bar code reader usually is 7290003804139.

Should understand; Because preferably having the width and the space between the bar of the bar code IV that is in readable state of single fillet font code bar is filled; So be in the not BCR level height of the bar code IV of readable state 261, be similar to the not BCR level of in Fig. 2 D, describing of the bar code V of readable state 255 that is in.

Forward Fig. 2 F to; Like what in exploded view, can see; If temperature reaches other a period of time at least 7 degrees centigrade; For example 8 degrees centigrade reach other 30 minutes, and then colorant 250 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 230, so that through can see the several portions of pigmentable element 230 by the transparent region of label 221 indications.Therefore, be filled by label 265 a plurality of spaces indication and between the bar of the bar code IV that is in readable state, like what in plan view, can see.Bar code V still is in readable state 263, and bar code VI still is in not readable state 242, and bar code IV presents the further readable state not by label 266 indication.Because a plurality of spaces 265 are filled, the BCR level of the bar code IV of readable state 266 can reduce so be in not.

Like what can see from the plan view of Fig. 2 E and 2F, and be in not readable state 261 and compare, be filled in the more spaces that are between the bar code strip of the bar code IV of readable state 266 not.Therefore, should understand, and be in not readable state 261 and compare, the BCR level of bar code IV is lower in readable state 266 not.

Forward Fig. 2 G to; Like what in exploded view, can see; If temperature reaches other a period of time at least 7 degrees centigrade; For example 8 degrees centigrade reach other 30 minutes, and then colorant 250 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 230, so that through can see the several portions of pigmentable element 230 by the transparent region of label 222 indications.Therefore, be filled by label 267 other a plurality of spaces indication and between the bar of the bar code IV that is in readable state, like what in plan view, can see.Bar code V still is in readable state 263, and bar code VI still is in not readable state 242, and bar code IV presents further not readable state 268.Because other a plurality of spaces 267 are filled, the BCR level of the bar code IV of readable state 268 further reduces so be in not.

Like what can see from the plan view of Fig. 2 F and 2G, and be in not readable state 266 and compare, readable state not 268 times, between the bar code strip of bar code IV, more spaces are filled.Therefore, and be in not readable state 266 and compare, readable state not 268 times, the BCR level of bar code IV is lower.

Should understand, be lower than 7 degrees centigrade if temperature drops to, then colorant 250 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 230.If, temperature reach 7 degrees centigrade whenever later, temperature drops to and is lower than 5 degrees centigrade, the toner 250 of doing that becomes solid and suspends its diffusion through pigmentable element 230, reaches 7 degrees centigrade once more up to temperature.

Forward Fig. 2 H to; Like what in exploded view, can see; When the temperature of mass indicator surpasses 10 degrees centigrade, when reaching 12 degrees centigrade, begin fusing and from color component 238 releases and begin to diffuse through pigmentable element 232 by the colorant of label 269 indications when temperature.Can not see the coloured part of pigmentable element 232 through a plurality of transparent regions 205, and like what in plan view, can see, bar code IV, V and VI remain unchanged.

Like what in the exploded view of Fig. 2 H, can see, transparent region 219 remains uncoloured with other pigmentable district 215 (it forms the part of bar code VI).Therefore, like what in plan view, can see, still lose for a plurality of that when bar code VI is in its readable state (in Fig. 2 J, being indicated by label 275), occur from bar code VI.Lose bar code strip and cause being in not that the bar code VI of readable state 242 has low BCR level.

Should understand; If exceeding before the first threshold (it is included in first predetermined lasting time under first predetermined temperature); Temperature is higher than second predetermined temperature; Then before common pigmentable district painted (it can be used to indicate exceeding of first threshold), colorant melts in response to second predetermined temperature and begins and discharges from corresponding color component.For example; In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2 A-2K, if before the exceeding of temperature next hour of at least 7 degrees centigrade, temperature is above 10 degrees centigrade; Then in common pigmentable district 210 painted by colorant 250 before, colorant 269 fusings also begin to discharge from color component 238.

Forward Fig. 2 I to, like what in exploded view, can see, after after a while, for example 55 minutes, colorant 269 continued to diffuse through pigmentable element 232 under 12 degree.Therefore; Can see the several portions of pigmentable element 232 through a plurality of transparent regions 205 (it forms the part by the other pigmentable district of label 215 indications); Thereby cause occurring forming a plurality of 270 an of part of bar code VI, like what in plan view, can see.Bar code IV still is in not readable state 268, and bar code V still is in readable state 263, and the not readable state of the change of bar code VI is by label 271 indications.Only single fillet font code bar (when bar code VI is in its readable state, appearing at the position of transparent region 219) is still lost from bar code VI, and loses bar code strip and make the bar code VI of the state of being in 271 become unreadable.

Should understand, owing to only lose single fillet font code bar for 271 times in readable state not, the BCR level of the bar code VI of readable state 271 is higher than the not BCR level of in Fig. 2 A-2H, describing of the bar code VI of readable state 242 that is in so be in not.

Forward Fig. 2 J to; Like what in exploded view, can see; When surpassing second threshold value by temperature and reach predetermined at least accumulated time at least 10 degrees centigrade indicator; Reach at least one hour altogether as 12 degrees centigrade, colorant 269 diffuses through pigmentable element 232, so that can see (comprising the transparent region of being indicated by label 218 and 219) several portions of pigmentable element 232 through common pigmentable district 213.

Because through can see the several portions of pigmentable element 232 by the transparent region of label 218 indications; So the space (it is between the bar of the bar code V of the readable state that is in it) by label 272 indications is filled; Thereby cause bar code V to present not readable state 273, like what in plan view, can see.

Because through can see the several portions of pigmentable element 232 by the transparent region of label 219 indications; So the single fillet font code bar by label 274 indications appears among the bar code VI; Thereby cause bar code VI to present readable state 275; Like what in plan view, can see, it can be read by bar code reader usually is 7290003804122.

Should understand; Because preferably having the width and the space between the bar of the bar code V that is in readable state of single fillet font code bar is filled; So be in the not BCR level height of the bar code V of readable state 273, be similar to the not BCR level of in Fig. 2 I, describing of the bar code VI of readable state 271 that is in.

Should understand; Because common pigmentable district 213 and the distance between the color component 238 equal at least common pigmentable district 210 and the distance between the color component 236, so common pigmentable district 213 will can not become painted before common pigmentable district 210 painted.Replacedly, pigmentable element 230 and 232 is processed by different materials, so that slower along the diffusion of pigmentable element 230 along the diffusion ratio of pigmentable element 232.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, indicator of the present invention can be used to indicate exceeding of threshold value, and it does not always surpass with same sequence.For example, indicator can be used for indicating exceeding of the first threshold and second threshold value, and wherein the temperature that comprises of first threshold is lower than the temperature of second threshold value, but lasts longer than the duration of second threshold value.

In this embodiment; In the indicator shown in Fig. 2 A-2K, in bar code IV, add other pigmentable zone, so that surpass in response to threshold value that (it more possibly be that second quilt indicated; For example above-mentioned second threshold value, it comprises higher temperature) bar code IV and V all become unreadable.

According to this embodiment, if first threshold is exceeded before exceeding second threshold value, then first threshold exceeds by becoming unreadable bar code IV and indicating by becoming readable bar code V.Exceeding of second threshold value by becoming unreadable bar code V and indicating by becoming readable bar code VI.No matter bar code IV (its exceed first threshold become unreadable later on) remains unreadable and other pigmentable district.

Yet if after exceeding second threshold value, first threshold is exceeded, and does not indicate exceeding of first threshold, because bar code IV and V all become unreadable after second threshold value exceeding.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the pigmentable element is not divided into two parts, and the indication that exceeds of second threshold value can also come leisure or be higher than exceeding of second duration under the predetermined temperature of first threshold.

Forward Fig. 2 K to; Like what in exploded view, can see; If temperature reaches other a period of time at least 10 degrees centigrade; For example 12 degrees centigrade reach other 30 minutes, and then colorant 269 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 232, so that can be seen the several portions of pigmentable element 232 by the transparent region 205 of the part in the other pigmentable district of label 214 indications through formation.Therefore, a plurality of spaces 276 (it is between the bar of the bar code V of the readable state that is in it) is filled, like what in plan view, can see.Bar code IV still is in not readable state 268, and bar code VI still is in readable state 275, and bar code V presents the further readable state not by label 277 indication.Because a plurality of spaces 276 are filled, the BCR level of the bar code V of readable state 277 can reduce so be in not.

Like what can see from the plan view of Fig. 2 J and 2K, and be in not readable state 273 and compare, be between the bar code strip of the bar code V of readable state 277 not, more space is filled.Therefore, should understand, and be in not readable state 273 and compare, lower in the BCR level of 277 times bar code V of readable state not.

Should understand, be lower than 10 degrees centigrade if temperature drops to, then colorant 269 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 232.If, reaching after 10 degrees centigrade in temperature, temperature drops to and is lower than 9 degrees centigrade, and the toner 269 of doing that becomes solid and suspends its diffusion through pigmentable element 232, reaches 10 degrees centigrade once more up to temperature.

In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2 A-2K; Colorant 269 moves along color component 232 from right to left; Thereby the other pigmentable district 214 that forms the part of bar code V appears at the left side of transparent region 218, and the other pigmentable district 215 that forms the part of bar code VI appears at the right of transparent region 219.Replacedly, colorant 269 from left to right moves along color component 232, so other pigmentable district 214 appears at the right of transparent region 218, and other pigmentable district 215 appears at the left side of transparent region 219.

Phrase " more than one single fillet font code bar " is meant more than one bar code strip, and this bar code strip is narrow or wide, or one with top, have a wide bar code strip of the width identical with fillet font code bar.

According to the embodiment shown in Figure 1A-2K, pigmentable zone and the common pigmentable district of a part that forms other pigmentable district is sequentially by painted.Replacedly, the pigmentable zone that forms the other pigmentable district and the part in common pigmentable district generally side by side becomes painted.

As defined in this application, phrase " generally side by side " is meant at short notice.

Should understand, replace initial uncoloured with become painted, the pigmentable zone can be initial painted with become uncoloured.

Preferably, along with the pigmentable zone become painted, bar code strip or its part can appearance and bar code or its part between the space be filled.Replacedly, along with the pigmentable zone become painted, bar code strip or its part can disappearance and space or its part can appear between the bar code strip.

Should further understand, mass indicator can only be used to provide the indication that exceeds after it starts.Replacedly, as in the application's description and illustrated, mass indicator can be used to provide the indication that exceeds under situation about being not activated.

A preferred embodiment of the invention, the bar code that forms the part of mass indicator can be indicated any numeral or alphanumeric order separately.In addition or replacedly, the bar code that forms the part of mass indicator can be observed any suitable bar code standards separately, and it includes but not limited to EAN, UPC; 52 staggered scannings, code 39, the code 39 of expansion; Code 93, the code 93 of expansion, code 128; Code 128A, B and C, ISBN, code bar and data matrix.Therefore, the different bar codes that form the part of equal in quality indicator can be observed different bar code standards.For example, the mass indicator second font code that can comprise article one font code of observing EAN 13 standards and observe 52 staggered scanning standards.Therefore, if the bar code reader of inspection scanner can be used to only read EAN 13 bar code standards, so, article one font code become not readable after, indicator no longer presents bar code readable to the inspection scanner.Yet through can be used to read the bar code reader of 52 staggered scanning standards, above-mentioned indicator remains readable.

Should understand; Can comprise the bar code more than three according to indicator of the present invention; Wherein only bar code generally any given time be readable with and because the exceeding of threshold value, bar code readable become unreadable and not in the bar code readable become readable.

Should understand, can define the background of layer with the bar code that dark color is printed indicator, and can come the bar of printed bar code with light color.

Should understand; The variation of environmental parameter that can be through being different from temperature; Like the existence of pH value, humidity or some chemical substance, cause the fusing of colorant, thereby the indicator that makes the present invention describe can be used to indicate exceeding of the threshold value relevant with above-mentioned parameter.

It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the content that preceding text have specifically illustrated and described.On the contrary, scope of the present invention comprise various combination of features of the present invention and son combination with and improve, it can be read above description those skilled in the art and occur and do not belong to prior art later on.

Claims (15)

1. bar code indicator, can be used for influencing parameter through at least a product quality provides the machine readable that exceeds at least a threshold value indication, and said bar code indicator comprises:

Article one, font code, said article one font code comprise more than first bar code strip and at least one first pigmentable zone,

At least second font code, said second font code comprise more than second bar code strip and at least the second pigmentable zone, and

At least one insertion line that between said article one font code and the said font code of second at least, extend, said at least one inserts line can prevent that bar code reader is read as the part of said article one font code and the said font code of second at least the part of single bar code.

2. bar code mass indicator according to claim 1, wherein,

Said article one font code was readable before said at least a threshold value exceeds,

Said second font code was unreadable before said at least a threshold value exceeds, and

After said at least a threshold value exceeds; Because at least a portion in said at least one first pigmentable zone is painted; Said article one font code becomes unreadable; And general side by side because at least a portion in said at least the second pigmentable zone is painted, the said font code of second at least becomes readable.

3. bar code mass indicator according to claim 2, wherein,

Said at least one first pigmentable zone is initial uncoloured and forms first

Uncoloured at first, the part that pigmentable is regional of group; Said first group uncoloured at first, pigmentable regional when said article one font code is in article one font code readable state of said at least a threshold value before exceeding the position between the bar of said article one font code

The said at least the second pigmentable zone is initial uncoloured and form uncoloured at first, a part that pigmentable is regional of second group; Said second group uncoloured at first, pigmentable is regional only to be positioned at the position that is in the bar of the said second font code that just occurs when exceeding the later second font code readable state of said at least a threshold value when said second font code

The said font code of second at least was in not readable state of second font code before exceeding said at least a threshold value, and

Because said second group is uncoloured, more than one single fillet font code bar is lost from the said font code of second at least.

4. bar code mass indicator according to claim 3, wherein, said first group pigmentable zone exceeds with continued by painted in said at least a threshold value.

5. according to claim 3 or the described bar code indicator of claim 4, wherein, form in said first group pigmentable zone and the said second group pigmentable zone at least one a part the pigmentable zone sequence by painted.

6. according to the described bar code mass indicator of any aforementioned claim, wherein, said at least one insert line with same color as said first with said more than second bar code strip at least one appearance.

7. according to each described bar code mass indicator in the aforementioned claim, wherein, said at least one inserts line extends with the whole length of said second font code along said first.

8. according to each described bar code mass indicator in the aforementioned claim, further comprise:

Be positioned at the colorant at the primary importance place of said indicator; And

The colorant path can be used for allowing said colorant to move to said first and second pigmentable zone as the speed of the function of time from said primary importance at least in part, with painted to them.

9. bar code mass indicator according to claim 8, wherein, said colorant path can be used for allowing said colorant through diffusion from said primary importance move to said first with said second pigmentable zone.

10. according to each described bar code indicator in the aforementioned claim, wherein, said at least a threshold value comprises at least one time threshold.

11. according to each described bar code indicator in the aforementioned claim, wherein, said at least a threshold value comprises at least one time and temperature threshold.

12. according to each described bar code mass indicator in the aforementioned claim, wherein, said mass indicator can be used for providing the indication that exceeds a plurality of different threshold values.

13. according to each described bar code indicator in the aforementioned claim, can be used for influencing parameter through at least a product quality provides the machine readable that exceeds at least a other threshold value indication, said bar code indicator further comprises:

At least the three bar code, said the 3rd bar code comprise more than the 3rd bar code strip and at least the three pigmentable zone, and

At least one other insertion line that between the said font code of second at least and said at least the three bar code, extends, said other insertion line can prevent that bar code reader is read as the part of the said font code of second at least and said at least the three bar code part of single bar code.

14. bar code indicator according to claim 13, wherein,

Said at least the three bar code was unreadable before said at least a other threshold value exceeds, and

The said font code of second at least comprises at least the four pigmentable zone, and

Because at least a portion in said at least the four pigmentable zone is painted; The said font code of second at least becomes unreadable after said at least a other threshold value exceeds; And general side by side because at least a portion in said at least the three pigmentable zone is painted, said at least the three bar code becomes readable.

15. bar code indicator according to claim 14, wherein,

The said at least the three pigmentable zone is initial uncoloured and form uncoloured at first, a part that pigmentable is regional of the 3rd group; Said the 3rd group uncoloured at first, the regional position that only is in the bar of said at least the three bar code that occurs when said at least a other threshold value exceeds the 3rd later bar code readable state at least that is positioned at of pigmentable when said 1 three bar code

Said the 3rd bar code was in not readable state of the 3rd bar code before said at least a other threshold value exceeds,

Because said the 3rd group is uncoloured, more than one single fillet font code bar is lost from said 1 three bar code at least, and

The said at least the four pigmentable zone is initial uncoloured and form uncoloured at first, a part that pigmentable is regional of the 4th group, said the 4th group uncoloured at first, pigmentable regional when said second font code is in said at least a other threshold value and exceeds second font code readable state before the position between the bar of the said font code of second at least.

Images