Be referred to the U.S. Patent number US 7,562,811 that the name submitted to September 10 in 2007 is called " System And Method ForImproved Quality Management In A Product Logistic Chain "; The name submitted on May 6th, 2007 is called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL07/000547 of " A System And Method ForImproved Quality Management In A Product Logistic Chain "; The name submitted on November 14th, 2007 is called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL07/01411 of " A System AndMethod For Quality Management Utilizing Barcode Indicators "; The name submitted on November 13rd, 2008 is called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL2008/001495 of " A System AndMethod For Quality Management Utilizing Barcode Indicators "; The name submitted on November 13rd, 2008 is called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL2008/001494 of " A System AndMethod For Quality Management Utilizing Barcode Indicators "; The name submitted on May 20th, 2009 is called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL2009/000503 of " A System AndMethod For Quality Management Utilizing Barcode Indicators "; The name submitted on May 20th, 2009 is called the U.S. Patent Application Serial Number 12/469,309 of " A System AndMethod For Quality Management Utilizing Barcode Indicators "; The name submitted on August 6th, 2009 is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application sequence number 61/231,799 of " Barcoded IndicatorsFor Quality Management "; And the name of submission on Dec 9th, 2009 is called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL2009/001167 of " Barcode Indicators for QualityManagement ", their disclosure is incorporated into herein with way of reference.
Thus according to 37CFR 1.78 (a) (1) and (2) (i), require that the name submitted on May 20th, 2009 is called the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL2009/000503 of " A System And Method For Quality Management Utilizing BarcodeIndicators ", the name submitted on May 20th, 2009 is called the U.S. Patent Application Serial Number 12/469 of " A System And Method For Quality Management Utilizing BarcodeIndicators ", 309, the right of priority of the PCT number of patent application PCT/IL2009/001167 of " Barcode Indicators for Quality Management " is called with the name submitted on Dec 9th, 2009, and according to 37 CFR 1.78 (a) (4) and (5) (i), require that the name submitted on August 6th, 2009 is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application sequence number 61/231 of " Barcoded Indicators For QualityManagement ", the right of priority of 799.
Embodiment
The invention provides changeable bar coded indicator, it can provide machine-readable (preferred stripe code reader is readable) to exceed the instruction of at least one threshold value (by least one product quality affecting parameters)
At U.S. Patent number US 7,562, bar code reader (reader) is 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 coded indicator and providing exporting instruction, and product type response instruction interpreter, it can be used for receiving output instruction and providing appreciable product quality State-output to people.
Term " bar code (barcode) " is used to refer to machine readable light code in this article.In the example of this instructions, illustrate linear or one-dimensional bar code.Should understand, the present invention can also be applicable to two-dimensional bar.
Often kind of bar code standards comprises the rule of the correct reading of control strip shape code.Typical bar code comprises the beginning label (start indicia) representing bar code and start, the end mark (stop flag, stop indicia) of the end representing bar code and the figure notation of the numeral of expression between them.Each numeral of bar code is shown by a series of bar and space (blank or interval, space) (having preset width separately).Such as, in the staggered scanning bar code standards (the 2 of 5Interleaved barcode standard) 52, each numeral is by two wide bars (wide bar) and three fillet (narrow bar) displays.UPC and EAN128 bar code standards comprises central marker (middle indicia), has different rules, is used to indicate the numeral of any side in this central marker.In addition, some bar code standards adopt and check and numeral (checksum digit), and it is calculated according to the mathematical formulae based on bar code symbol numeral, and is used as the control of the validity of bar code.
Therefore, bar code readable can be made to become unreadable by several different approaches.Such as, can start or the series of bar of end mark by adding or deleting bar or space or change to be formed by the width changing them.Such change can cause bar code reader can not identify beginning or the end of bar code symbol, thus causes bar code not readable.
Another kind may be the width adding or delete the bar of figure notation or space or change them, so that designation number is no longer carried out according to institute's accepted standard in a series of numeral bar and space.Another may be one or more and space making above-mentioned change become a series of designation number, so that after this change, indicate different numerals and calculate the inspection and digital inspection and the numeral causing producing inspection and the numeral being different from and indicating in bar code that comprise the numeral of this change, causing this bar code to become thus invalid.The similar change causing this bar code invalid can also be formed to the bar of instruction inspection and numeral itself.
Similarly, can, by adding or deleting bar or space or change their width, not bar code readable be made to become readable.Such as, the bar starting or terminate to be formed in the bar code of correct instruction beginning or end mark wherein can be changed, as described above correctly to form beginning or end mark.
Similarly, by adding or deleting bar or space or change their width, the not readable serial designation number of bar can be made.Such as, according to the 2 staggered scanning bar code standards of 5, each numeral is indicated by two wide bars and three fillets.Such as, if make bar code readable become unreadable by wide bar is changed into fillet, then fillet is changed into wide bar and bar code can be made to become readable.Similarly, if owing to check and numeral does not mate other bar code number and bar code is unreadable, then a kind of bar in designation number or inspection and numeral can be changed as explained above and recover bar code validity.
Mass indicator can integrated product code as EAN (European Article Number (EAN)) or UPC code (Universial Product Code).The example illustrated in the following description illustrates the application of EAN code.Alternatively, mass indicator can integrate the 2 staggered scanning bar codes of 5 or any other suitable bar code or readable method.Should understand, the bar of one-dimensional bar code corresponds to the unit in data matrix two-dimensional bar, and replace " beginning " and " stopping " of one-dimensional bar code to mark, two adjacent boundaries defining " search pattern (finder pattern) " are used in data matrix two-dimensional bar with locating and orienting symbol.
A preferred embodiment of the invention, mass indicator comprises the bar code in accordance with GSl (general requirements) standard, and it is summarized in www.gsl.org.According to GSl standard, three leftmost numerals distribute to a country usually.In Israel, 7,9 or 10 leftmost numerals (comprising country code) represent vendor code and remaining rightmost numeral is used by each supplier.Such as, as seen in the illustrational embodiment of the application, three leftmost numerals are 729, as the GSl country code distributing to Israel.10 leftmost numerals (comprising country code) represent 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 arranged in stacked arrangement mode, and each bar code preferably has at least two kinds of visible states.
Preferably, generally in any given time, the only a kind of visible state forming the bar code of a part for indicator is machine-readable, and therefore general in any given time, indicator provides individual machine bar code readable.Alternatively, under one or more states of indicator, it is not machine-readable visible state that all bar codes forming its part can be in, and mass indicator does not provide the machine readable barcode being in these one or more states.
As in this application define, phrase " general in any given time " refers in the institute except possible interval in short-term free.Preferably, in normal running, in short-term interval refer to be less than 15 minutes time interval.
Form the bar code preferred alignment of a part for indicator of the present invention, so that their axle is usually parallel to each other.According to a kind of embodiment illustrational in the instructions and accompanying drawing of the application, the bar of a bar code does not also line up the corresponding bar of another bar code, but departs from a little each other.Alternatively, the bar of a bar code aligns the corresponding bar of another bar code.
A preferred embodiment of the invention, bar code by (placing side by side, juxtapose) juxtaposed with one another, so that does not have space (blank or interval, space) between the bar and the bar of another bar code of a bar code.
According to illustrational a kind of preferred implementation in the instructions and accompanying drawing of the application, indicator comprises insertion line, and it is formed between bar code and it prevents bar code reader that the partial error of multiple bar code is read as single bar code.
Preferably, insert the bar code strip of line using same color as the part forming bar code to occur.Alternatively, insert line and occur with such color, it prevents bar code reader that the partial error of multiple bar code is read as single bar code.Should understand, insertion line must present with dark color and they can occur with light color.
According to illustrational a kind of embodiment in the instructions and accompanying drawing of the application, insert the whole length extension of line along transformable bar code.Should understand, insert line and extend without the need to the whole length along transformable bar code, and they can only along for preventing bar code reader that the partial error of multiple bar code is read as the necessary length of single bar code and extends.
Indicator of the present invention preferably includes at least one group of pigmentable region, it can be used for becoming painted (colored) or uncoloured (uncolored) simultaneously, hereafter be referred to as common pigmentable district (public pigmentable district, common colorable region).Common pigmentable district preferably includes the pigmentable region of a part for formation more than one single bar code.
Common pigmentable district preferably has the width of single narrow bar code strip.Alternatively, common pigmentable district is wider than single narrow bar code strip.
According to illustrational a kind of embodiment in the instructions and accompanying drawing of the application, each bar code comprises one group of at least other pigmentable region.Each one group of pigmentable region in addition, hereinafter referred to as other pigmentable district, preferably include at least one pigmentable region, form the part of single bar code, and be configured to the bar code readability level reducing bar code (forming its part) when bar code is in not readable state.Preferably, other pigmentable district comprises more than one pigmentable region.Alternatively, other pigmentable district comprises single pigmentable region.
According to another embodiment of the invention, at least one bar code does not comprise other pigmentable district.
" bar code readable level " or " BCR level " that phrase is in the bar code of not readable state reflects following possibility: when it be in this not readable state time, bar code reader will read bar code mistakenly.Therefore, the not bar code readable having low BCR level is unlikely read mistakenly by bar code reader.
Referring now to Figure 1A-1K, it is a kind of structure of embodiment and the sketch of operation of the mass indicator of the combination being used to indicate elapsed time and temperature together.Mass indicator shown in Figure 1A-1K exceeds the independent instruction of two various durations (one hour and three and a half hours) under can be used for being provided in the temperature of at least 7 degrees Celsius.。
In each Figure 1A-1K, in the exploded view that mass indicator 100 appears at portion in the accompanying drawings and plan view bottom accompanying drawing.
As in the exploded view of Figure 1A-1K see, mass indicator, is here indicated by label 100, preferably include bar code and define layer (barcode defining layer) 102, its preferably printed on a transparent substrate.Printing on a transparent substrate preferably limits: background area 103, and it preferably uses white ink chromatography with black ink printing; Multiple 104, it forms a part of bar code I, II and III, and it preferably prints with black ink; And multiple transparent region 105, it preferably uses light blue ink printing, and as Pantone No.645, it has the visual appearance of the black ink be similar to white ink chromatography.Alternatively, with such color printing background area 103 and multiple 104, to limit high-contrast betwixt.
Bar code I, II and III preferably arrange in stacked arrangement mode.Preferably by insertion line 106, it preferably prints on a transparent substrate, separates bar code I and II.Insert the axle that line 106 is preferably parallel to bar code generally.Preferably by insertion line 107, it preferably prints on a transparent substrate, separates bar code II and III.Insert the axle that line 107 is preferably parallel to bar code generally.
Insert line 106 and 107 preferably to extend by the whole length that black ink printing also runs through bar code in the illustrated embodiment.Alternatively, if desired, insert line 106 and 107 to extend to prevent bar code reader that the part of bar code I, II and III is read as single bar code.Should understand, bar code I, II and III are without the need to locating on the indicator with any particular order.
Concerning the object of this instructions and claim, phrase " transparent region " is defined as and comprises transparent or semitransparent region within the scope of it.
Transparent region 105 is preferably formed the part in following six districts: common pigmentable district 110, and it forms a part of bar code I and II; Other pigmentable district 111, it forms a part of bar code I; Other pigmentable district 112, it forms a part of bar code II; Common pigmentable district 113, it forms a part of bar code II and III; Other pigmentable district 114, it forms a part of bar code II; And other pigmentable district 115, it forms a part of bar code III.
Preferably, common pigmentable district 110 comprises two transparent regions: the transparent region 117 of the transparent region 116 forming a part of bar code I and the part forming bar code II.
Preferably, common pigmentable district 113 comprises two transparent regions: the transparent region 119 of the transparent region 118 forming a part of bar code II and the part forming bar code III.
Embodiment according to Figure 1A-1K, the other pigmentable district 111 forming a 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 formed between the bar code strip being in a part of the bar code I of its readable state, in the plan view of Figure 1A, it is indicated by label 140.
In order to following task of explanation, as shown in Figure 1A-1K, the transparent region 105 forming the part in other pigmentable district 111 is divided into two kinds of multiple transparent regions: 121 and 122.
Embodiment according to Figure 1A-1K, the other pigmentable district 112 forming a 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 occurred when bar code II is in its readable state, and in the plan view of Fig. 1 E, it is indicated by label 163.
In order to following task of explanation, as shown in Figure 1A-1K, the transparent region 105 forming the part in other pigmentable district 112 is divided into two kinds of multiple transparent regions: 124 and 125.
Embodiment according to Figure 1A-1K, the other pigmentable district 114 forming a 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 bar code strip, above-mentioned bar code strip forms the part being in the bar code II of readable state, and in the plan view of Fig. 1 E, it is indicated by label 163.
Embodiment according to Figure 1A-1K, the other pigmentable district 115 forming a 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 occurred when bar code III is in its readable state, and in the plan view of Fig. 1 J, it is indicated by label 175.
Be arranged on bar code define layer 102 below and preferably and its attachment be pigmentable element (colorable element) 130, as Whatman No.3 filter paper, commercial can available from WhatmanInternational [CAT#:1003917], it typically is white, until be colored.Pigmentable element 130 extending below preferably in common pigmentable district 110 and 113 and other pigmentable district 111,112,114 and 115.
What be arranged on that bar code defines layer 102 is bottom (backing layer, back layer) 135 below and after pigmentable element 130.What preferably adhere to the bottom 135 of pigmentable element 130 backward is temperature-responsive coloring element 136, as liner, such as, bibulous paper GB003,0.8mm is thick, commercial can available from Whatman international (cat#426890), be impregnated with colorant, as 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 the concentration of 0.3%, it freezes at 5 c and melts under 7 degrees Celsius.
Now forward Figure 1A to, as seen in plan view, bar code I is in the readable state indicated by label 140 at first, and it can be read to be 7290003804115 by bar code reader usually, and bar code II and III is in the not readable state indicated by label 141 and 142 respectively.
As what can see in the exploded view of Figure 1A, transparent region 117 and transparent region 105, it forms the part in other pigmentable district 112 (it forms a part of bar code II), is uncoloured at first.Therefore, as seen in plan view, lose from bar code II for multiple that occur when bar code II is in its readable state.Losing multiple bar code strip causes the bar code II being in initial not readable state 141 to have low BCR level.
As what can also see in the exploded view of Figure 1A, transparent region 119 and other pigmentable district 115 (it forms a part of bar code III) are uncoloured at first.Therefore, as seen in plan view, lose from bar code III for multiple that occur when bar code III is in its readable state.Losing multiple bar code strip causes the bar code III being in initial not readable state 142 to have low BCR level.
Should understand, if along the line extending across more than one bar code, such as along the line of transnational bar code I and II of the extension indicated by label 144, or along the line extending through bar code II and III indicated by label 145, scan reading pointer by bar code reader, then insert the part of at least one in line 106 and 107, the part of the insertion line 106 such as indicated by label 146 or the part of insertion line 107 indicated by label 147, detected by bar code reader and prevent by the part of multiple bar code (in the example shown, the part of bar code I and II or the part of bar code II and III) be read as the part of single bar code.
Forward Figure 1B to, as seen in an exploded view, when the temperature of mass indicator is more than 7 degrees Celsius, during as reached 8 degrees Celsius when temperature, the colorant indicated by label 150 fusing and from coloring element 136 discharge and diffuse through pigmentable element 130.By multiple transparent region 105, the coloured part of pigmentable element 130 can not be seen, and as seen in plan view, bar code I, II and III keep not changing.
Forward Fig. 1 C to, as seen in an exploded view, under 8 degree after after a while, such as 30 minutes, colorant 150 continued to diffuse through pigmentable element 130.Therefore, the part of pigmentable element 130 can be seen by the multiple transparent regions indicated by label 124, cause multiple that form a part of bar code II that occur being indicated by label 152, as seen in plan view.Bar code I is still in readable state 140, and bar code III is still in not readable state 142, and the not readable state of the change of bar code II is indicated by label 153.
The bar code strip appearing at the position of transparent region 117 and multiple transparent region 125 when bar code II is in its readable state (being indicated by label 163 in fig. ie) is still lost from bar code II.The BCR level that the multiple bar code strip of this loss causes being in the bar code II of not readable state 153 is still low.
As what can see from the plan view of Figure 1B and 1C, with when be in not readable state 141 time compare, when bar code II be in not readable state 153 time, lose less bar code strip.Therefore, should understand, the BCR level being in the bar code II of not readable state 153 is in the BCR level of not readable state 141 higher than it.
Forward Fig. 1 D to, as seen in an exploded view, under 8 degree after other a period of time, such as other 25 minutes, colorant 150 continued to diffuse through pigmentable element 130.Therefore, some parts of pigmentable element 130 can be seen by the multiple transparent regions indicated by label 125, cause other multiple 154 of the part occurring forming bar code II, as seen in plan view.Bar code I is still in readable state 140, and bar code III is still in not readable state 142, and the not readable state of the change of bar code II is indicated by label 155.Only single narrow bar code strip, when bar code II is in its readable state (being indicated by label 163 in fig. ie), it appears at the position of transparent region 117, still lose from bar code II, lose bar code strip and make the bar code II of the state that is in 155 become unreadable.
Should understand, owing to only losing single narrow bar code strip for 155 times in not readable state, so the BCR level being in the bar code II of not readable state 155 is higher than the BCR level being in the bar code II of not readable state 141 and 153 described in Figures IA-1 C.
Forward Fig. 1 E to, as seen in an exploded view, when the temperature by the indicator being at least 7 degrees Celsius exceed threshold value reach at least predetermined accumulated time time, as 8 degrees Celsius reach altogether at least one constantly little, colorant 150 diffuses through pigmentable element 130, so that can see (comprising the transparent region indicated by label 116 and 117) some (or multiple) part of pigmentable element 130 by common pigmentable district 110.
Owing to passing through to indicate transparent region can see some parts of pigmentable element 130 by label 116, so the space indicated by label 160 (its be in it readable state bar code I bar between) be filled, thus cause bar code I to present not readable state 161, as seen in plan view.
Because the transparent region by being indicated by label 117 can see some parts of pigmentable element 130, so the single narrow bar code strip indicated by label 162 appears in bar code II, thus cause bar code II to present readable state 163, as seen in plan view, it can be read to be 7290003804139 by bar code reader usually.
Should understand, because the space of the width preferably with single narrow bar code strip (between the bar of bar code I being in readable state) is filled, so the BCR level being in the bar code I of not readable state 161 is high, be similar to the BCR level being in the bar code II of not readable state 155 described in Fig. 1 D.
Forward Fig. 1 F to, as seen in an exploded view, if temperature is at least 7 degrees Celsius of a period of times reaching other, such as 8 degrees Celsius reach other 30 minutes, then colorant 150 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 130, so that can see some parts of pigmentable element 130 by the transparent region indicated by label 121.Therefore, as seen in plan view, the multiple spaces between the bar of bar code I being in readable state indicated by label 165 are filled.Bar code II is still in readable state 163, and bar code III is still in not readable state 142, and bar code I presents the not readable state further indicated by label 166.Because multiple space 165 is painted, the BCR level being in the bar code I of not readable state 166 can reduce.
As what can see from the plan view of Fig. 1 E and 1F, and be in not readable state 161 and compare, between the bar of bar code I being in not readable state 166, more spaces are filled.Therefore, should understand, and be in not readable state 161 and compare, the BCR level being in the bar code I of not readable state 166 is lower.
Forward Fig. 1 G to, as seen in an exploded view, if temperature is at least 7 degrees Celsius of a period of times reaching other, such as 8 degrees Celsius reach other 30 minutes, then colorant 150 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 130, so that can see some parts of pigmentable element 130 by the transparent region indicated by label 122.Therefore, as seen in plan view, that indicated by label 167, between the bar of bar code I being in readable state other multiple spaces are rendered as painted.Bar code II is still in readable state 163, and bar code III is still in not readable state 142, and bar code I presents further not readable state 168.Because other multiple spaces 167 are painted, so the BCR level being in the bar code I of not readable state 168 reduces further.
As what can see from the plan view of Fig. 1 F and 1G, and be in not readable state 166 and compare, between the bar code strip of bar code I being in not readable state 168, more spaces are filled.Therefore, and be in not readable state 166 and compare, the BCR level being in the bar code I of not readable state 168 is lower.
Forward Fig. 1 H to, as seen in an exploded view, if temperature is at least 7 degrees Celsius of a period of times reaching other, such as 8 degrees Celsius reach other one hour, then colorant 150 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 130.Can not be seen the other coloured part of pigmentable element 130 by multiple transparent region 105, and as seen in plan view, bar code I, II and III remain unchanged.
As what can see in the exploded view of Fig. 1 H, transparent region 119 and other pigmentable district 115 (it forms a part of bar code III) remain uncoloured.Therefore, as seen in plan view, still lose from bar code III for multiple that occur when bar code III is in its readable state (being indicated by label 175 in Fig. 1 J).The bar code III that loss bar code strip causes being in not readable state 142 has low BCR level.
Forward Fig. 1 I to, as seen in an exploded view, under 8 degree after other a period of time, such as other 8 minutes, colorant 150 continued to diffuse through pigmentable element 130.Therefore, some parts of pigmentable element 130 can be seen by multiple transparent region 105 (it forms the part in the other pigmentable district indicated by label 115), thus cause multiple 170 that occur the part forming bar code III, as seen in plan view.Bar code I is still in not readable state 168, and bar code II is still in readable state 163, and the not readable state of the change of bar code III is indicated by label 171.The part (this part has the width of single narrow bar code strip) that only it appears at the bar code strip of the position of transparent region 119 when bar code III is in its readable state is still lost from bar code III, and loses bar code strip part and make the bar code III of the state that is in 171 become unreadable.
Should understand, owing to only losing a part for bar code strip for 171 times in not readable state, this part has the width of single narrow bar code strip, so the BCR level being in the bar code III of not readable state 171 is higher than the BCR level being in the bar code III of not readable state 142 described in Figure 1A-1H.
Forward Fig. 1 J to, as seen in an exploded view, when the temperature of the indicator being at least 7 degrees Celsius exceed Second Threshold reach at least the second predetermined accumulated time time, as 8 degrees Celsius reach at least three and a half hours altogether, colorant 150 diffuses through pigmentable element 130, so that can see (comprising the transparent region indicated by label 118 and 119) some parts of pigmentable element 130 by common pigmentable district 113.
Because the transparent region by being indicated by label 118 can see some parts of pigmentable element 130, so the space indicated by label 172 (between the bar of bar code II being in readable state) is filled, thus cause bar code II to present not readable state 173, as seen in plan view.
Because the transparent region by being indicated by label 119 can see some parts of pigmentable element 130, so a part for bar code appears in bar code III, this part is indicated by label 174 and has the width of single narrow bar code strip.Therefore, bar code III presents readable state 175, and as seen in plan view, it can be read to be 7290003804122 by bar code reader usually.
Should understand, owing to preferably there is the width of single narrow bar code strip and the space between the bar of bar code II being in readable state is filled, so the BCR level being in the bar code II of not readable state 173 is high, be similar to the BCR level being in the bar code III of not readable state 171 described in Fig. 1 I.
Forward Fig. 1 K to, as seen in an exploded view, if temperature is at least 7 degrees Celsius of a period of times reaching other, such as 8 degrees Celsius reach other 30 minutes, then colorant 150 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 130, so that can see some parts of pigmentable element 130 by transparent region 105 (it forms the part in the other pigmentable district indicated by label 114).Therefore, multiple space 176 (be in it readable state bar code II bar between) be filled, as seen in plan view.Bar code I is still in not readable state 168, and bar code III is still in readable state 175, and bar code II presents the not readable state further indicated by label 177.Multiple space 176 is filled and causes the BCR level of the bar code II being in not readable state 177 to reduce.
As what can see from the plan view of Fig. 1 J and 1K, and be in not readable state 173 and compare, between the bar code strip of bar code II being in not readable state 177, more space is filled.Therefore, should understand, and be in not readable state 173 and compare, the BCR level being in the bar code II of not readable state 177 is lower.
Should understand, if temperature drops to lower than 7 degrees Celsius, then colorant 150 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 130.If reach after 7 degrees Celsius in temperature, temperature drops to lower than 5 degrees Celsius, toner 150 of doing that becomes solid and suspends its diffusion by pigmentable element 130, until temperature reaches 7 degrees Celsius again.
Referring now to Fig. 2 A-2K, it is a kind of structure of embodiment and the sketch of operation of the mass indicator of the combination being used to indicate elapsed time and temperature together.The mass indicator described in Fig. 2 A-2K can be used for providing the independent instruction exceeding two kinds of different temperatures: 7 degrees Celsius and 10 degrees Celsius, and at often kind of temperature, the duration is at least one hour.
Fig. 2 A-2K each in, mass indicator 200 appears in the exploded view in the middle part of accompanying drawing and the plan view bottom accompanying drawing.
As in the exploded view of Fig. 2 A-2K see, mass indicator, is indicated by label 200 here, preferably include bar code and define layer 202, it preferably prints on a transparent substrate.Printing on a transparent substrate preferably limits: background area 203, and it preferably uses white ink chromatography with black ink printing; Form multiple 204 of a part of bar code IV, V and VI, it preferably prints with black ink; And multiple transparent region 205, it preferably uses light blue ink printing, and as PantoneNo.645, it has the visual appearance of the black ink being similar to duplication adularescent ink.Alternatively, with such color printing background area 203 and multiple 204, to limit high-contrast betwixt.
Preferably arrange bar code IV, V and VI in stacked arrangement mode.Bar code IV and V is separated preferably by preferred printing insertion line 206 on a transparent substrate.Insert the axle that line 206 is preferably parallel to bar code generally.Preferably by the insertion line 207 preferably printed on a transparent substrate separately bar code V and VI.Insert the axle that line 207 is preferably parallel to bar code generally.
Insert line 206 and 207 preferably also extends through bar code in the illustrated embodiment whole length with black ink printing.Alternatively, if desired, insert line 206 and 207 to carry out extending to prevent bar code reader that the part of bar code IV, V and VI is read as single bar code.
Should understand, bar code IV, V and VI are without the need to locating 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 a part of bar code IV and V; Other pigmentable district 211, it forms a part of bar code IV; Other pigmentable district 212, the part that its bar code V-arrangement becomes; Common pigmentable district 213, it forms a part of bar code V and VI; Other pigmentable district 214, it forms a part of bar code V; And other pigmentable district 215, it forms a part of bar code VI.
Preferably, common pigmentable district 210 comprises two transparent regions: the transparent region 217 of the transparent region 216 forming a part of bar code IV and the part forming bar code V.
Preferably, common pigmentable district 213 comprises two transparent regions: the transparent region 219 of the transparent region 218 forming a part of bar code V and the part forming bar code VI.
Embodiment according to Fig. 2 A-2K, the other pigmentable district 211 forming a 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 located in the space between bar code strip, and above-mentioned bar code strip forms the part being in the bar code IV of readable state (it is indicated by label 240 in the plan view of Fig. 2 A).
In order to following task of explanation, as shown in Fig. 2 A-2K, the transparent region 205 forming the part in other pigmentable district 211 is divided into two kinds of multiple transparent regions: 221 and 222.
Embodiment according to Fig. 2 A-2K, the other pigmentable district 212 forming a 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 (Fig. 2 E plan view its indicated by label 263) position of bar that occurs.
In order to following task of explanation, as shown in Fig. 2 A-2K, the transparent region 205 forming the part in other pigmentable district 212 is divided into two kinds of multiple transparent regions: 224 and 225.
Embodiment according to Fig. 2 A-2K, the other pigmentable district 214 forming a 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 bar code strip, and above-mentioned bar code strip forms the part being in the bar code V of readable state (it is indicated by label 263 in the plan view of Fig. 2 E).
Embodiment according to Fig. 2 A-2K, the other pigmentable district 215 forming a 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 (Fig. 2 J plan view its indicated by label 275) time the position of bar that occurs.
Be arranged on bar code define layer 202 below and preferably and its attachment be pigmentable element 230, as Whatman No.3 filter paper, commercially available from Whatman International [CAT#:1003917], white can be it typically is, until be colored.Pigmentable element 230 extending below preferably in common pigmentable district 210 and other pigmentable district 211 and 212.
Also be arranged on bar code define layer 202 below and preferably and its attachment be other pigmentable element 232, as Whatman No.3 filter paper, commercially available from WhatmanInternational [CAT#:1003917], white can be it typically is, until be colored.Pigmentable element 232 preferably adjacent pigmentable element 230 and extending below preferably in common pigmentable district 213 and other pigmentable district 214 and 215.
Should understand, replacement comprises two independent pigmentable elements, and can comprise the single pigmentable element being divided into two parts by separator according to indicator of the present invention, this separator is made up of material such as varnish impermeable concerning ink.
What be arranged on that bar code defines layer 202 is bottom 235 below and after pigmentable element 230 and 232.
What preferably adhere to the bottom 235 of pigmentable element 230 backward is temperature-responsive coloring element 236, as liner, such as, bibulous paper GB003 0.8mm is thick, commercial can available from Whatmaninternational (cat#426890), be impregnated with colorant, as 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 the concentration of 0.3%, it freezes at 5 c and melts under 7 degrees Celsius.
What preferably adhere to the bottom 235 of pigmentable element 232 backward also has temperature-responsive coloring element 238, as liner, such as, bibulous paper GB003,0.8mm is thick, commercial can available from Whatmaninternational (cat#426890), be impregnated with colorant, as sudan black, a kind of black dyes [CAS:4197-25-5], in 100% decyl decylate [CAS:1654-86-0], be dissolved into the concentration of 0.3%, it freezes and melts under 10 degrees Celsius under 9 degrees Celsius.
Now forward Fig. 2 A to, as seen in plan view, bar code IV is in the readable state indicated by label 240 at first, its usually by bar code reader read be 7290003804115 and bar code V and VI be in respectively by label 241 and 242 indicate not readable state.
As what can see in the exploded view of Fig. 2 A, transparent region 217 and transparent region 205, it forms the part in other pigmentable district 212 (it forms a part of bar code V), is uncoloured at first.Therefore, as seen in plan view, lose from bar code V for multiple that occur when bar code V is in its readable state.Losing multiple bar code strip causes the bar code V being in initial not readable state 241 to have low BCR level.
As what can also see in the exploded view of Fig. 2 A, the other pigmentable district 215 of a part of transparent region 219 and formation bar code VI is uncoloured at first.Therefore, as seen in plan view, lose from bar code VI for multiple that occur when bar code VI is in its readable state.Losing multiple bar code strip causes the bar code VI being in initial not readable state 242 to have low BCR level.
Should understand, if extend across a line of more than one bar code along it, such as along the line extending across bar code IV and V indicated by label 244, or along the line extending across bar code V and VI indicated by label 245, scan reading pointer by bar code reader, then insert the part of at least one in line 206 and 207, the part of the insertion line 206 such as indicated by label 246 or the part of insertion line 207 indicated by label 247, the part that also can prevent from the part of multiple bar code (being the part of bar code IV and V or the part of bar code V and VI in the embodiment shown) being read as single bar code is detected by bar code reader.
Forward Fig. 2 B to, as seen in an exploded view, when the temperature of mass indicator is more than 7 degrees Celsius, during as reached 8 degrees Celsius when temperature, the colorant indicated by label 250 fusing and from coloring element 236 discharge and diffuse through pigmentable element 230.Can not be seen the coloured part of pigmentable element 230 by multiple transparent region 205, and as seen in plan view, bar code IV, V and VI keep not changing.
Forward Fig. 2 C to, as seen in an exploded view, under 8 degree after after a while, such as 30 minutes, colorant 250 continued to diffuse through pigmentable element 230.Therefore, some parts of pigmentable element 230 can be seen by the multiple transparent regions indicated by label 224, thus multiple that form a part of bar code V that cause appearance to be indicated by label 252, as seen in plan view.Bar code IV is still in readable state 240, and bar code VI is still in not readable state 242, and the not readable state of the change of bar code V is indicated by label 253.
The bar code strip appearing at the position of transparent region 217 and multiple transparent region 225 when bar code V is in its readable state (being indicated by label 263 in Fig. 2 E) is still lost from bar code V.The BCR level that the multiple bar code strip of this loss causes being in the bar code V of not readable state 253 is still low.
As what can see from the plan view of Fig. 2 B and 2C, with when be in not readable state 241 time compare, when bar code V be in not readable state 253 time lose less bar code strip.Therefore, should understand, the BCR level being in the bar code V of not readable state 253 is in the BCR level of not readable state 241 higher than it.
Forward Fig. 2 D to, as seen in an exploded view, under 8 degree after other a period of time, such as other 25 minutes, colorant 250 continued to diffuse through pigmentable element 230.Therefore, some parts of pigmentable element 230 can be seen by the multiple transparent regions indicated by label 225, thus cause other multiple 254 of the part occurring forming bar code V, as seen in plan view.Bar code IV is still in readable state 240, and bar code VI is still in not readable state 242, and the not readable state of the change of bar code V is indicated by label 255.Only single narrow bar code strip (it appears at the position of transparent region 217 when bar code V is in its readable state (being indicated by label 263 in Fig. 2 E)) is still lost from bar code V, and loses bar code strip and make the bar code V of the state that is in 255 become unreadable.
Should understand, owing to only losing single bar code bar 255 times in not readable state, so the BCR level being in the bar code V of not readable state 255 is higher than the BCR level being in the bar code V of not readable state 241 and 253 described in figs. 2 a-2 c.
Forward Fig. 2 E to, as seen in an exploded view, when the temperature by the indicator being at least 7 degrees Celsius exceed threshold value reach at least predetermined accumulated time time, as 8 degrees Celsius reach at least one hour altogether, colorant 250 diffuses through pigmentable element 230, so that can see (comprising the transparent region indicated by label 216 and 217) some parts of pigmentable element 230 by common pigmentable district 210.
Because the transparent region by being indicated by label 216 can see some parts of pigmentable element 230, so the space indicated by label 260 (it is between the bar of bar code IV being in readable state) is filled, thus cause bar code IV to present not readable state 261, as seen in plan view.
Because the transparent region by being indicated by label 217 can see some parts of pigmentable element 230, so the single bar code bar indicated by label 262 appears in bar code V, thus cause bar code V to present readable state 263, as seen in plan view, it can be read to be 7290003804139 by bar code reader usually.
Should understand, owing to preferably there is the width of single narrow bar code strip and the space between the bar of bar code IV being in readable state is filled, so the BCR level being in the bar code IV of not readable state 261 is high, be similar to the BCR level being in the bar code V of not readable state 255 described in figure 2d.
Forward Fig. 2 F to, as seen in an exploded view, if temperature is at least 7 degrees Celsius of a period of times reaching other, such as 8 degrees Celsius reach other 30 minutes, then colorant 250 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 230, so that can see some parts of pigmentable element 230 by the transparent region indicated by label 221.Therefore, by label 265 indicate and multiple spaces between the bar of bar code IV being in readable state be filled, as seen in plan view.Bar code V is still in readable state 263, and bar code VI is still in not readable state 242, and bar code IV presents the not readable state further indicated by label 266.Because multiple space 265 is filled, so the BCR level being in the bar code IV of not readable state 266 can reduce.
As what can see from the plan view of Fig. 2 E and 2F, and be in not readable state 261 and compare, the more spaces between the bar code strip of bar code IV being in not readable state 266 are filled.Therefore, should understand, and be in not readable state 261 and compare, in not readable state 266, the BCR level of bar code IV is lower.
Forward Fig. 2 G to, as seen in an exploded view, if temperature is at least 7 degrees Celsius of a period of times reaching other, such as 8 degrees Celsius reach other 30 minutes, then colorant 250 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 230, so that can see some parts of pigmentable element 230 by the transparent region indicated by label 222.Therefore, by label 267 indicate and other multiple spaces between the bar of bar code IV being in readable state be filled, as seen in plan view.Bar code V is still in readable state 263, and bar code VI is still in not readable state 242, and bar code IV presents further not readable state 268.Because other multiple spaces 267 are filled, so the BCR level being in the bar code IV of not readable state 268 reduces further.
As what can see from the plan view of Fig. 2 F and 2G, and be in not readable state 266 and compare, not readable state 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, not readable state 268 times, the BCR level of bar code IV is lower.
Should understand, if temperature drops to lower than 7 degrees Celsius, then colorant 250 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 230.If, temperature reach 7 degrees Celsius whenever later, temperature drops to lower than 5 degrees Celsius, and toner 250 of doing that becomes solid and suspends its diffusion by pigmentable element 230, until temperature reaches 7 degrees Celsius again.
Forward Fig. 2 H to, as seen in an exploded view, when the temperature of mass indicator is more than 10 degrees Celsius, during as reached 12 degrees Celsius when temperature, the colorant indicated by label 269 fusing and from coloring element 238 discharge and diffuse through pigmentable element 232.Can not be seen the coloured part of pigmentable element 232 by multiple transparent region 205, and as seen in plan view, bar code IV, V and VI remain unchanged.
As what can see in the exploded view of Fig. 2 H, transparent region 219 and other pigmentable district 215 (it forms a part of bar code VI) remain uncoloured.Therefore, as seen in plan view, still lose from bar code VI for multiple that occur when bar code VI is in its readable state (being indicated by label 275 in Fig. 2 J).The bar code VI that loss bar code strip causes being in not readable state 242 has low BCR level.
Should understand, if exceeding first threshold (it is included in the first predetermined lasting time under the first predetermined temperature) in the past, temperature raises higher than the second predetermined temperature, then painted in common pigmentable district (it can be used to indicate the exceeding of first threshold) in the past, colorant melted in response to the second predetermined temperature and starts to discharge from corresponding coloring element.Such as, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 2 A-2K, if before the exceeding of next hour of temperature of at least 7 degrees Celsius, temperature is more than 10 degrees Celsius, then common pigmentable district 210 be colored agent 250 painted before, colorant 269 melts and starts to discharge from coloring element 238.
Forward Fig. 2 I to, as seen in an exploded view, under 12 degree after after a while, such as 55 minutes, colorant 269 continued to diffuse through pigmentable element 232.Therefore, some parts of pigmentable element 232 can be seen by multiple transparent region 205 (it forms the part in the other pigmentable district indicated by label 215), thus cause multiple 270 that occur the part forming bar code VI, as seen in plan view.Bar code IV is still in not readable state 268, and bar code V is still in readable state 263, and the not readable state of the change of bar code VI is indicated by label 271.Only single narrow bar code strip (appearing at the position of transparent region 219 when bar code VI is in its readable state) is still lost from bar code VI, and loses bar code strip and make the bar code VI of the state that is in 271 become unreadable.
Should understand, owing to only losing single narrow bar code strip for 271 times in not readable state, so the BCR level being in the bar code VI of not readable state 271 is higher than the BCR level being in the bar code VI of not readable state 242 described in Fig. 2 A-2H.
Forward Fig. 2 J to, as seen in an exploded view, when exceeded by the temperature for the indicator of at least 10 degrees Celsius Second Threshold reach at least predetermined accumulated time time, as 12 degrees Celsius reach at least one hour altogether, colorant 269 diffuses through pigmentable element 232, so that can see (comprising the transparent region indicated by label 218 and 219) some parts of pigmentable element 232 by common pigmentable district 213.
Because the transparent region by being indicated by label 218 can see some parts of pigmentable element 232, so the space indicated by label 272 (its be in it readable state bar code V bar between) be filled, thus cause bar code V to present not readable state 273, as seen in plan view.
Because the transparent region by being indicated by label 219 can see some parts of pigmentable element 232, so the single narrow bar code strip indicated by label 274 appears in bar code VI, thus cause bar code VI to present readable state 275, as seen in plan view, it can be read to be 7290003804122 by bar code reader usually.
Should understand, owing to preferably there is the width of single narrow bar code strip and the space between the bar of bar code V being in readable state is filled, so the BCR level being in the bar code V of not readable state 273 is high, be similar to the BCR level being in the bar code VI of not readable state 271 described in Fig. 2 I.
Should understand, because common distance between pigmentable district 213 and coloring element 238 at least equals the distance between common pigmentable district 210 and coloring element 236, thus common pigmentable district 210 painted before common pigmentable district 213 can not become painted.Alternatively, pigmentable element 230 and 232 is made up of 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 exceed with same sequence.Such as, indicator can be used to refer to exceeding of first threshold and Second Threshold, and wherein the temperature that comprises of first threshold is lower than the temperature of Second Threshold, but lasts longer than the duration of Second Threshold.
In this embodiment, in the indicator shown in Fig. 2 A-2K, other pigmentable region is added in bar code IV, so that exceed that (it may be more second and be instructed in response to threshold value, such as above-mentioned Second Threshold, 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, then the exceeding by becoming unreadable bar code IV and indicating by becoming readable bar code V of first threshold.Exceeding by becoming unreadable bar code V and indicating by becoming readable bar code VI of Second Threshold.No matter other bar code IV (it becomes unreadable after exceeding first threshold) remain unreadable and pigmentable district.
But if after exceeding Second Threshold, first threshold is exceeded, then do not indicate exceeding of first threshold, because bar code IV and V all becomes unreadable after exceeding Second Threshold.
According to another embodiment of the invention, pigmentable element is not divided into two parts, and the instruction exceeded of Second Threshold can also carry out comfortable or exceeding higher than the second duration under the predetermined temperature of first threshold.
Forward Fig. 2 K to, as seen in an exploded view, if temperature is at least 10 degrees Celsius of a period of times reaching other, such as 12 degrees Celsius reach other 30 minutes, then colorant 269 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 232, so that can see some parts of pigmentable element 232 by the transparent region 205 of the part forming the other pigmentable district indicated by label 214.Therefore, multiple space 276 (its be in it readable state bar code V bar between) be filled, as seen in plan view.Bar code IV is still in not readable state 268, and bar code VI is still in readable state 275, and bar code V presents the not readable state further indicated by label 277.Because multiple space 276 is filled, so the BCR level being in the bar code V of not readable state 277 can reduce.
As what can see from the plan view of Fig. 2 J and 2K, and be in not readable state 273 and compare, between the bar code strip of bar code V being in not readable state 277, more space is filled.Therefore, should understand, and be in not readable state 273 and compare, lower in the BCR level of not readable state 277 times bar code V.
Should understand, if temperature drops to lower than 10 degrees Celsius, then colorant 269 continues to diffuse through pigmentable element 232.If reach after 10 degrees Celsius in temperature, temperature drops to lower than 9 degrees Celsius, toner 269 of doing that becomes solid and suspends its diffusion by pigmentable element 232, until temperature reaches 10 degrees Celsius again.
In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2 A-2K, colorant 269 moves from right to left along coloring element 232, thus the other pigmentable district 214 forming a part of bar code V appears at the left side of transparent region 218, and the other pigmentable district 215 of a part of formation bar code VI appears at the right of transparent region 219.Alternatively, colorant 269 from left to right moves along coloring element 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 narrow bar code strip " refers to more than one bar code strip, and this bar code strip is narrow or wide, or one with upper part, the wide bar code strip with the width identical with narrow bar code strip.
Embodiment according to Figure 1A-2K, the pigmentable region and the common pigmentable district that form the part in other pigmentable district are sequentially colored.Alternatively, the pigmentable region forming the part in other pigmentable district and common pigmentable district generally side by side becomes painted.
As in this application define, phrase " general side by side " refers at short notice.
Should understand, replace uncoloured and become painted at first, pigmentable region can be painted and become uncoloured at first.
Preferably, along with pigmentable region becomes painted, bar code strip or its part there will be and space between bar code or its part is filled.Alternatively, along with pigmentable region becomes painted, bar code strip or its part can disappear and space or its part appear between bar code strip.
Should understand further, mass indicator only can be used to provide the instruction exceeded after it starts.Alternatively, as illustrational in the description and accompanying drawing of the application, mass indicator can be used to provide the instruction exceeded when being not activated.
A preferred embodiment of the invention, the bar code forming a part for mass indicator can indicate any numeral or alpha-numeric identifiers separately.In addition or alternatively, the bar code forming a part for mass indicator can observe any suitable bar code standards separately, and it includes but not limited to EAN, UPC, 2 staggered scannings of 5, 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 forming a part for equal in quality indicator can observe different bar code standards.Such as, mass indicator can comprise the Article 2 shape code of the Article 1 shape code in accordance with EAN 13 standard and the 2 staggered scanning standards in accordance with 5.Therefore, if the bar code reader of inspection scanner can be used to only read EAN 13 bar code standards, so, Article 1 shape code become not readable after, indicator no longer presents bar code readable to inspection scanner.But by can be used to the bar code reader of 2 staggered scanning standards of reading 5, above-mentioned indicator remains readable.
Should understand, the bar code of more than three can be comprised according to indicator of the present invention, wherein only bar code generally any given time be readable and and exceeding due to threshold value, bar code readable becomes unreadable and not in bar code readable one becomes readable.
Should understand, the background of layer can be defined with the bar code that dark color prints indicator, and the bar of printed bar code can be carried out with light color.
Should understand, can by being different from the change of the environmental parameter of temperature, as the existence of pH value, humidity or some chemical substance, cause the fusing of colorant, thus the indicator that the present invention is described may be used for indicating 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 having specifically illustrated and described above.On the contrary, scope of the present invention comprises the combination of various feature of the present invention and sub-portfolio and its and improves, and it can occur and not belong to prior art after those skilled in the art read above description.