CA2226653C - On demand useful life indicator - Google Patents
On demand useful life indicator Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2226653C CA2226653C CA002226653A CA2226653A CA2226653C CA 2226653 C CA2226653 C CA 2226653C CA 002226653 A CA002226653 A CA 002226653A CA 2226653 A CA2226653 A CA 2226653A CA 2226653 C CA2226653 C CA 2226653C
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- indicator
- layer
- ambient fluid
- adhesive
- recited
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
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Classifications
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
- C12Q—MEASURING OR TESTING PROCESSES INVOLVING ENZYMES, NUCLEIC ACIDS OR MICROORGANISMS; COMPOSITIONS OR TEST PAPERS THEREFOR; PROCESSES OF PREPARING SUCH COMPOSITIONS; CONDITION-RESPONSIVE CONTROL IN MICROBIOLOGICAL OR ENZYMOLOGICAL PROCESSES
- C12Q1/00—Measuring or testing processes involving enzymes, nucleic acids or microorganisms; Compositions therefor; Processes of preparing such compositions
- C12Q1/26—Measuring or testing processes involving enzymes, nucleic acids or microorganisms; Compositions therefor; Processes of preparing such compositions involving oxidoreductase
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N31/00—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods
- G01N31/22—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators
- G01N31/223—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators for investigating presence of specific gases or aerosols
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N31/00—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods
- G01N31/22—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators
- G01N31/223—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators for investigating presence of specific gases or aerosols
- G01N31/225—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators for investigating presence of specific gases or aerosols for oxygen, e.g. including dissolved oxygen
Abstract
An improved indicator (10) includes a base member (12); an indicating material layer (14); an adhesive layer (16); and a layered covering material (18). The indicating material layer (14) provides a visual indication when exposed to a selected component of an ambient fluid and is applied to one side of the impermeable base member (12) in a selected pattern. The adhesive layer (16) is made of an impermeable material and applied in a selected pattern over the indicating material layer (14) leaving one selected portion of the indicating material (14) exposed to the ambient fluid. An inner layer (22) of the colayered cover member (18) is permeable to the ambient fluid. The useful life indicator (10) remains in a selected state of dormancy until an outer layer (20) of the co-layered cover member (18) is removed. The indicator (10) may include a self-contained norm of visual indication.
Description
CA 022266C,3 1998-01-12 ON DEMAND USEFUL LIFE INDICATOR
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
With regard to the classiricalio,- of art, this invention is believed to be found in 5 the general class entitled SIGNALS AND INDICATORS and more particularly to those subclac,ses pertaining to those that are CHEMICALLY ACTIVATED.
DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART
Useful life indicators are known in the prior art. One example in the known prior art is US Patent No, 4,812,053 which issued to Bhattacharjee on 03114/89. This cited 10 patent has advanced the art but accuracy, repeatability and reliability still remain an identified need. The present invention addresses those above identified needs. The present invention provides a structure that allow at least one of its indicating portions to remain dormant from the time of manufacture until the time of activation. After activation, the present invention provides an indication means that is activated by a 15 component of an ambient fluid. This present invention also includes a membrane member which protects the indicator material.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention may be briefly summarized as an on demand usable life indicator comprising: a base member, an indicator material, an adhesive layer, and co-layered 20 cover member. The base member is irnpermeable to a selected ambient fluid. The indicator material is applied to one side of the base member in a predetermined pattern. The indicator material has a selected composition for providing a visual indication when exposed to a predetermined component of an ambient fluid for a CA 022266~3 1998-01-12 W O 97/05481 PCT~US96/12103 predelenllilled period of time. The adhesive layer is appiied with a predetermined pattern over the exposed side of the indicator material. The adhesive layer has impermeable p,upe,lies with respect to said ambient fluid. The predetermined pattern being configured for providing exposure of at least one selected portion of the indicator 5 material to the ambient fluid. The co-layered layered cover member covers the adhesive layer. One of the layers being impermeable to the selected ambient fluid for isolating said indicator material from the ambient fluid. A second layer being permeable to the selected ambient fluid. The second layer is adhered to the adhesive layer for providing a membrane between the ambient fluid and the indicator material. The first 10 layer is selectably removable from said second layer for exposing the selected portion of the indicating layer to the selected ambient fluid In addition to the above summary, the following disclosure is intended to be detailed to insure adequacy and aid in the understanding of the invention. However, this disclosure, showing particular embodiments of the invention, is not intended to 15 describe each new inventive concept which may arise. These specific embodiments have been chosen to show at least one preferred or best mode for the on demand useful life indicator of the present invention. These specific embodiments, as shown in the accompanying drawings, may also include diagrammatic symbols for the purpose of illustration and understanding.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
FIG. 1 represents a cross-sectional view of an on demand useful life indicator of the present invention.
CA 022266~3 1998-01-12 W O 97/05481 PCTrUS96/12103 In the following desc,i,ulion and in the appended claims various details are identified by specific names for convenience. These names are intended to be generic in their applicdlion while clirrer~:"liali"g between the various details. The corresponding reference numbers refer to like members throughout the several figures of the drawing.
The drawing accompanying and forming a part of this speciricalion disclose details of construction for the sole purpose of explanation. It is to be understood that structural details may be modified without departing from the concept and principles of the claimed invention. This invention may be incorporated into other structural forms than those that are shown.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring to the drawing a usable life indicator is generally identified as 10. That usable life indicator 10 includes a base member 12 an indicator material layer 14; an adhesive layer 16; and a co-layered cover member 18.
The base member 12 is preferably made of a material that is impermeable to a 15 selected ambient fluid. The ambient fluid may be either a gas or a liquid. However the base member 12 may be made of a material that is impervious to gas and liquid. This base member 12 may be a flexible thermoplastic material or a metallic foil that is applied as a self-adhesive label.
The indicator material layer 14 is applied onto one side of the base material.
20 Printing the indicator material 14 in a selected pattern is among the methods of application. The indicator material should have a selected composition. This selected composition will provide a visual indication when exposed to a selected component of an ambient fluid for a selected period of time. This indication may be a change of color ~ CA 02226653 1998-01-12 E16/30~1997 14: 33 7~24317662 P PINTO P~TI~ 9 ~PAGE ~3 o Docket No. 96042 ~ ; u i,~ 3~J~ 1997 or a chsnge ~rom a visual color to a lack of color. It may b~ nec~s~ry to apply this indi~tur ",~t~r,al in a coilLI~ d or inert allllos~llere~ such as Nitrogen. The ~e t~
c~l-"~-,ent should be ~3bsent from the conl~ollGI atmosphere for avoidins~ a false inc~;calio-- It may be nece~sAry to cure or dry the inJ;~t~r l~yer to 8 ~.~r~"~d state.
After the indlci~ur ~.~at~.ial layer 14 iS brought to 2 pr~ r~ d cured con~ iu--, the adhl3sive layer 16 is ~ i thereon and therl30ver. The adhesive layer may be ~rplis~l in r~ SfaleCt~d pattem by a p ~ ~ -5 such as ~ i"li"~ g, or la~ lin5,~.
~bly, the adhesive layer is c~s~..po~l of a ,-,ater;al that is i",pe~rne~ble to the L~ ,1~1 component 0~ thQ arnb~nt fluid. Any voids in the adhesive layer will allow th~
10 s~ ""~e"t in the a.";--0 ll fluid to come in c~i~la~l with the indicator layer.
This adhesive layer may t~ pre~sure s~n~itive; heat act~ivsted; or co~ Itacl type.
A co-layered cover ,.-e,l~er 18 is ~r~ ' ov~r the adhesive layer 16 This co-layered cover ~~lu-~lL~t 18 includes at least two layers. The fir~t or outer layer 20 Is impe-r, ~I to the ~eJected c~."pGnent of the ambient fluid. The 5urface of the 15 second c~r inner layer 22, cvnta._tlng the adhe6ive layer, is r~"~i~l~ i,.~p~i~ 7 to the sel.3~d cc.~ one.~l of the d,~ lt fluid due to the imper,-,eabiliLy of the adhesive. The inner layer 22 has a gr~dier adhes;on to the adhe~ive layer 16 than to the outer layer 20 This allows the outer layer to be selectively removed without removal of the inner layer 22. Removal of tho outer layer 20 allows 8 ~3ele~,l~i component of the ~ 3nt 20 fluid to F,e.-"eate through inn~3r layer 22 and any voids in the adhesive layer 16. The rate o~ c~ange of ~he visual i,.~ ,n o~e ,.-~c;Olor ,.,~ 3rlayer 14 may be a~llllo~ by its cor"~c~ilion or by co~tr~" ng the permeability of the inner layer 22. The inner layer 2Z also acts as a membr~ne for ~-vt~_til ,~ the surfaoe of the adl ,~sivc layer ~E~D~D s~EE~
06/30~1997 14: 33 7324317662 P PINTO ~ PAGE 04 PGTlUS 96/ 1210 3 Docket No gBO42 - IP~ 3 0 JUN 1997 16 and the i. ~i - t~ r ~ I ~dle~ ial layer 14 from ~bra~ion One E~, l le of co-layer~
mat~rial is Techr.i l,agicT~ which is producecl ~y rechnicote.
The usable life i~ ~r 10 has a re~atively long shelf life when the outer ~ayar and the base ~e-~ber are not punctured. It is only wh~n the outer 1ayer 20 is removed 5 that the timing of the period for a 5~4~t~d usef~JI life be~ains.
The com,oo~3ition of the adhesive layer 1~i may be formulated to indude the se'eoted ccirnponent of th~ ambient fluid. This type of form~lation w~uld provide a 3rc;epti~le chan~e to the i-.~i~tor "-~le-ial 14 directly in CGnt;~l with the ~dhesive ~, layer 16. Tlli~ arr~n~ment would provide a self~ntDin~d norrn for jud9ing the degree 10 of color or lack of color. This self conl~ ~ norm may be utilized by comp~rin~3 the area of i. ~di~l~r ..-ate- ial 14 interior of the v~id areas in the adhesive layer 16 with the celf cc,..t;;; ,ed norm. Any ~ sual comp~rison is made by viewing any visual ~-c...~es to the indicatin~ t~.ial 14 thr~Llgh the ~Yro~ surface of the inner layer 22 after the out~3r layer ha~i been removed One o~-nr of a ~s-- ~ life i~ li - indudes an in~ dl.r ~.. dler;ial layer 14 that is sen~itive to an acid or a basQ cci,l.pol.ent of the a~ e ~I fluid the i...li~.ator m~sterial 14 may ~e forrnulated with litrnus like ~nO~-lies. Some ~.. ~'es of ~ l~ ials having litmus p. ~- ~;es ~r~ rl .~.OI~JI .tl .ale;n, PhenOl~4l~nell Id~ and the like.
A secG~ e~ la of a use~l I li1e i.. ~ - indude~ an i,~ r ~ e.ial layer 20 14 that is ~ensitive to carbon d'oxicls as the ~ctive cci,--po--ent of the ~ nt fluid. The indlcator ~ lt;rial 14 may b~ formulated with O~ U~ ./Reduction pro~. Iies. One e~ l"le o~ those ~"ate,i~l~ that c;hanç~e f,-c"~e,lies when f-~,osed to cart~on dioxide is Thy. . .olpl .tl .~lein but not limited thereto AMENDcD SH~EFt CA 02226653 1998-01-12 .~
06/30/1~97 14: 33 7324317662 P PINTO PAGE 05 DocketNo.g6042 ~PE~ 3QJUN1997 A third e~cl" r '? of a IJ~sll ' life incJi~tu. in~ludes an indicator ~ ial layer 14 that is sensitive to oxygen a-~ the active c~ll.~nent of the ambient fluid. The indicator maten~l t4 may be formulated with O~;daticn/ ~edl~ on ~i~peilies. One e~rnFI~ oSthose l,-a~erials that ~han~e properties ~hen ~s~ to oxygen is Methyl Orange, but 5 not limited thereto.
A fourth e~,-,~le of a usea~le life indlc;ator indudes an inl;c~cr material layer 14 that i~ sensitive to ozone as the active ~ ~n"~one.,~ of the ambient fluid. ~he indicator .~ material 14 may t~e formulate~ w~th OXi-JdliOI-/ R~uotion ~ ,(ies. One ~af~ of those material~ that chsnge F,r~,~ilies wh~3n '~ ~5.KI to ozone i5 Crystal Violet, but 10 not limited U,~to.
A fi~h ~cdlll, ' of a u5eabl~ life i"~ dtor include~ an i,~ c~r Illd~ al layer 1that is sensitive to ~hlG~ine as the active co""x,n~nl of the ambient fluid. The indicator material 14 may be formulated with O_d~liunl R~IJ~ p~o~ lies. One ~a-n, '~ of those material~ that change p~op~-lies ~hen eY~s~d to chlorine is Metacresol Purple, 15 t:~ut not limited tl ~~
A sixth e~- p'e of a vSF '~'e life ;. ' ~or includes an i~nYiczlLur ~ rial layer 14 that is sensitive to carbon ~"~,~o~ide as the active component of the arnbient fluid. The indi~tor material 1~ rnay be formulated with O,~id~ .../ Reduction p~,lies. One e~ca...FI_ of th~se matenals that change properties when ~Y~ -sed to carbon l,.onoxide 2~ i5 Alizarin YeHo~, but not limited th~ ~to A~ mentioned above, the adhe~ive layer in any or all of the e~"" la~ mentioned above may be fonnulated with the co",pol-ent of the ambient fluid to provide the norm as described above. The c~lor or visual indication of that area of the in~ tor material M~NDcD SHE~
. CA 02226653 1998-01-12 a6~30/1997 14:33 7324317662 P PINTO PAGE 06 Docket No. 96042 PCTlUS 9 6 / 1 ~ 1 0 3 IP~ 3 ~ ~IUN lg97 14 not in cc,n~a~l with the adhesive wovld remain as appliQd until the outer layer 20 is removed. The area of the ind;c~lor ~r~dte~ial 14 in direct contact w~th the adhesive layer 16 would change to the color or visual ir~ . tl~at is to be used as a nonn.
DireGtional terrns such as ~upper~, ~lower"~ "inner", doute~' and the like may have 5 been used in th~ desctiption These terrns arH ~ le to the ~ ~iments shown and described in coniunction with the dra~in~s. These terrns are merely used ~or the purpose of d,2s~ ion in connection with the arawings and do not n~e~sG:~ily apply to the position in which the present invention mny be used.
While thes~ partioular ~",tw.i~ ents of the ~,r~ l inVQntion have be~n shown 10 and d~so-iL,ed, it is to be u,.~er~lood that the invcntion i5 not limit~3d ll.el~to and ,~-~t~ l.on is sou~ht to the b.oc..i~t ext~nt that the prior art allows.
What i~ ~ is:
1~
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
With regard to the classiricalio,- of art, this invention is believed to be found in 5 the general class entitled SIGNALS AND INDICATORS and more particularly to those subclac,ses pertaining to those that are CHEMICALLY ACTIVATED.
DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART
Useful life indicators are known in the prior art. One example in the known prior art is US Patent No, 4,812,053 which issued to Bhattacharjee on 03114/89. This cited 10 patent has advanced the art but accuracy, repeatability and reliability still remain an identified need. The present invention addresses those above identified needs. The present invention provides a structure that allow at least one of its indicating portions to remain dormant from the time of manufacture until the time of activation. After activation, the present invention provides an indication means that is activated by a 15 component of an ambient fluid. This present invention also includes a membrane member which protects the indicator material.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention may be briefly summarized as an on demand usable life indicator comprising: a base member, an indicator material, an adhesive layer, and co-layered 20 cover member. The base member is irnpermeable to a selected ambient fluid. The indicator material is applied to one side of the base member in a predetermined pattern. The indicator material has a selected composition for providing a visual indication when exposed to a predetermined component of an ambient fluid for a CA 022266~3 1998-01-12 W O 97/05481 PCT~US96/12103 predelenllilled period of time. The adhesive layer is appiied with a predetermined pattern over the exposed side of the indicator material. The adhesive layer has impermeable p,upe,lies with respect to said ambient fluid. The predetermined pattern being configured for providing exposure of at least one selected portion of the indicator 5 material to the ambient fluid. The co-layered layered cover member covers the adhesive layer. One of the layers being impermeable to the selected ambient fluid for isolating said indicator material from the ambient fluid. A second layer being permeable to the selected ambient fluid. The second layer is adhered to the adhesive layer for providing a membrane between the ambient fluid and the indicator material. The first 10 layer is selectably removable from said second layer for exposing the selected portion of the indicating layer to the selected ambient fluid In addition to the above summary, the following disclosure is intended to be detailed to insure adequacy and aid in the understanding of the invention. However, this disclosure, showing particular embodiments of the invention, is not intended to 15 describe each new inventive concept which may arise. These specific embodiments have been chosen to show at least one preferred or best mode for the on demand useful life indicator of the present invention. These specific embodiments, as shown in the accompanying drawings, may also include diagrammatic symbols for the purpose of illustration and understanding.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
FIG. 1 represents a cross-sectional view of an on demand useful life indicator of the present invention.
CA 022266~3 1998-01-12 W O 97/05481 PCTrUS96/12103 In the following desc,i,ulion and in the appended claims various details are identified by specific names for convenience. These names are intended to be generic in their applicdlion while clirrer~:"liali"g between the various details. The corresponding reference numbers refer to like members throughout the several figures of the drawing.
The drawing accompanying and forming a part of this speciricalion disclose details of construction for the sole purpose of explanation. It is to be understood that structural details may be modified without departing from the concept and principles of the claimed invention. This invention may be incorporated into other structural forms than those that are shown.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring to the drawing a usable life indicator is generally identified as 10. That usable life indicator 10 includes a base member 12 an indicator material layer 14; an adhesive layer 16; and a co-layered cover member 18.
The base member 12 is preferably made of a material that is impermeable to a 15 selected ambient fluid. The ambient fluid may be either a gas or a liquid. However the base member 12 may be made of a material that is impervious to gas and liquid. This base member 12 may be a flexible thermoplastic material or a metallic foil that is applied as a self-adhesive label.
The indicator material layer 14 is applied onto one side of the base material.
20 Printing the indicator material 14 in a selected pattern is among the methods of application. The indicator material should have a selected composition. This selected composition will provide a visual indication when exposed to a selected component of an ambient fluid for a selected period of time. This indication may be a change of color ~ CA 02226653 1998-01-12 E16/30~1997 14: 33 7~24317662 P PINTO P~TI~ 9 ~PAGE ~3 o Docket No. 96042 ~ ; u i,~ 3~J~ 1997 or a chsnge ~rom a visual color to a lack of color. It may b~ nec~s~ry to apply this indi~tur ",~t~r,al in a coilLI~ d or inert allllos~llere~ such as Nitrogen. The ~e t~
c~l-"~-,ent should be ~3bsent from the conl~ollGI atmosphere for avoidins~ a false inc~;calio-- It may be nece~sAry to cure or dry the inJ;~t~r l~yer to 8 ~.~r~"~d state.
After the indlci~ur ~.~at~.ial layer 14 iS brought to 2 pr~ r~ d cured con~ iu--, the adhl3sive layer 16 is ~ i thereon and therl30ver. The adhesive layer may be ~rplis~l in r~ SfaleCt~d pattem by a p ~ ~ -5 such as ~ i"li"~ g, or la~ lin5,~.
~bly, the adhesive layer is c~s~..po~l of a ,-,ater;al that is i",pe~rne~ble to the L~ ,1~1 component 0~ thQ arnb~nt fluid. Any voids in the adhesive layer will allow th~
10 s~ ""~e"t in the a.";--0 ll fluid to come in c~i~la~l with the indicator layer.
This adhesive layer may t~ pre~sure s~n~itive; heat act~ivsted; or co~ Itacl type.
A co-layered cover ,.-e,l~er 18 is ~r~ ' ov~r the adhesive layer 16 This co-layered cover ~~lu-~lL~t 18 includes at least two layers. The fir~t or outer layer 20 Is impe-r, ~I to the ~eJected c~."pGnent of the ambient fluid. The 5urface of the 15 second c~r inner layer 22, cvnta._tlng the adhe6ive layer, is r~"~i~l~ i,.~p~i~ 7 to the sel.3~d cc.~ one.~l of the d,~ lt fluid due to the imper,-,eabiliLy of the adhesive. The inner layer 22 has a gr~dier adhes;on to the adhe~ive layer 16 than to the outer layer 20 This allows the outer layer to be selectively removed without removal of the inner layer 22. Removal of tho outer layer 20 allows 8 ~3ele~,l~i component of the ~ 3nt 20 fluid to F,e.-"eate through inn~3r layer 22 and any voids in the adhesive layer 16. The rate o~ c~ange of ~he visual i,.~ ,n o~e ,.-~c;Olor ,.,~ 3rlayer 14 may be a~llllo~ by its cor"~c~ilion or by co~tr~" ng the permeability of the inner layer 22. The inner layer 2Z also acts as a membr~ne for ~-vt~_til ,~ the surfaoe of the adl ,~sivc layer ~E~D~D s~EE~
06/30~1997 14: 33 7324317662 P PINTO ~ PAGE 04 PGTlUS 96/ 1210 3 Docket No gBO42 - IP~ 3 0 JUN 1997 16 and the i. ~i - t~ r ~ I ~dle~ ial layer 14 from ~bra~ion One E~, l le of co-layer~
mat~rial is Techr.i l,agicT~ which is producecl ~y rechnicote.
The usable life i~ ~r 10 has a re~atively long shelf life when the outer ~ayar and the base ~e-~ber are not punctured. It is only wh~n the outer 1ayer 20 is removed 5 that the timing of the period for a 5~4~t~d usef~JI life be~ains.
The com,oo~3ition of the adhesive layer 1~i may be formulated to indude the se'eoted ccirnponent of th~ ambient fluid. This type of form~lation w~uld provide a 3rc;epti~le chan~e to the i-.~i~tor "-~le-ial 14 directly in CGnt;~l with the ~dhesive ~, layer 16. Tlli~ arr~n~ment would provide a self~ntDin~d norrn for jud9ing the degree 10 of color or lack of color. This self conl~ ~ norm may be utilized by comp~rin~3 the area of i. ~di~l~r ..-ate- ial 14 interior of the v~id areas in the adhesive layer 16 with the celf cc,..t;;; ,ed norm. Any ~ sual comp~rison is made by viewing any visual ~-c...~es to the indicatin~ t~.ial 14 thr~Llgh the ~Yro~ surface of the inner layer 22 after the out~3r layer ha~i been removed One o~-nr of a ~s-- ~ life i~ li - indudes an in~ dl.r ~.. dler;ial layer 14 that is sen~itive to an acid or a basQ cci,l.pol.ent of the a~ e ~I fluid the i...li~.ator m~sterial 14 may ~e forrnulated with litrnus like ~nO~-lies. Some ~.. ~'es of ~ l~ ials having litmus p. ~- ~;es ~r~ rl .~.OI~JI .tl .ale;n, PhenOl~4l~nell Id~ and the like.
A secG~ e~ la of a use~l I li1e i.. ~ - indude~ an i,~ r ~ e.ial layer 20 14 that is ~ensitive to carbon d'oxicls as the ~ctive cci,--po--ent of the ~ nt fluid. The indlcator ~ lt;rial 14 may b~ formulated with O~ U~ ./Reduction pro~. Iies. One e~ l"le o~ those ~"ate,i~l~ that c;hanç~e f,-c"~e,lies when f-~,osed to cart~on dioxide is Thy. . .olpl .tl .~lein but not limited thereto AMENDcD SH~EFt CA 02226653 1998-01-12 .~
06/30/1~97 14: 33 7324317662 P PINTO PAGE 05 DocketNo.g6042 ~PE~ 3QJUN1997 A third e~cl" r '? of a IJ~sll ' life incJi~tu. in~ludes an indicator ~ ial layer 14 that is sensitive to oxygen a-~ the active c~ll.~nent of the ambient fluid. The indicator maten~l t4 may be formulated with O~;daticn/ ~edl~ on ~i~peilies. One e~rnFI~ oSthose l,-a~erials that ~han~e properties ~hen ~s~ to oxygen is Methyl Orange, but 5 not limited thereto.
A fourth e~,-,~le of a usea~le life indlc;ator indudes an inl;c~cr material layer 14 that i~ sensitive to ozone as the active ~ ~n"~one.,~ of the ambient fluid. ~he indicator .~ material 14 may t~e formulate~ w~th OXi-JdliOI-/ R~uotion ~ ,(ies. One ~af~ of those material~ that chsnge F,r~,~ilies wh~3n '~ ~5.KI to ozone i5 Crystal Violet, but 10 not limited U,~to.
A fi~h ~cdlll, ' of a u5eabl~ life i"~ dtor include~ an i,~ c~r Illd~ al layer 1that is sensitive to ~hlG~ine as the active co""x,n~nl of the ambient fluid. The indicator material 14 may be formulated with O_d~liunl R~IJ~ p~o~ lies. One ~a-n, '~ of those material~ that change p~op~-lies ~hen eY~s~d to chlorine is Metacresol Purple, 15 t:~ut not limited tl ~~
A sixth e~- p'e of a vSF '~'e life ;. ' ~or includes an i~nYiczlLur ~ rial layer 14 that is sensitive to carbon ~"~,~o~ide as the active component of the arnbient fluid. The indi~tor material 1~ rnay be formulated with O,~id~ .../ Reduction p~,lies. One e~ca...FI_ of th~se matenals that change properties when ~Y~ -sed to carbon l,.onoxide 2~ i5 Alizarin YeHo~, but not limited th~ ~to A~ mentioned above, the adhe~ive layer in any or all of the e~"" la~ mentioned above may be fonnulated with the co",pol-ent of the ambient fluid to provide the norm as described above. The c~lor or visual indication of that area of the in~ tor material M~NDcD SHE~
. CA 02226653 1998-01-12 a6~30/1997 14:33 7324317662 P PINTO PAGE 06 Docket No. 96042 PCTlUS 9 6 / 1 ~ 1 0 3 IP~ 3 ~ ~IUN lg97 14 not in cc,n~a~l with the adhesive wovld remain as appliQd until the outer layer 20 is removed. The area of the ind;c~lor ~r~dte~ial 14 in direct contact w~th the adhesive layer 16 would change to the color or visual ir~ . tl~at is to be used as a nonn.
DireGtional terrns such as ~upper~, ~lower"~ "inner", doute~' and the like may have 5 been used in th~ desctiption These terrns arH ~ le to the ~ ~iments shown and described in coniunction with the dra~in~s. These terrns are merely used ~or the purpose of d,2s~ ion in connection with the arawings and do not n~e~sG:~ily apply to the position in which the present invention mny be used.
While thes~ partioular ~",tw.i~ ents of the ~,r~ l inVQntion have be~n shown 10 and d~so-iL,ed, it is to be u,.~er~lood that the invcntion i5 not limit~3d ll.el~to and ,~-~t~ l.on is sou~ht to the b.oc..i~t ext~nt that the prior art allows.
What i~ ~ is:
1~
Claims (10)
1. A useful life indicator comprising:
a) a base member that is impermeable to a selected ambient fluid;
b) an indicator material having a first side and an opposite second side, said first side being applied to one side of the base member in a predetermined pattern, said indicator material having a selected composition providing a visual indication when exposed to a predetermined active component of the ambient fluid;
c) an adhesive applied with a predetermined pattern to a same side of the useful life indicator as the indicator material, said predetermined pattern of adhesive being applied to at least portions of the second side of the indicator material, said adhesive being impermeable with respect to the active component of said ambient fluid;
said predetermined pattern of the adhesive providing at least one void area that is absent adhesive therein, said void area providing exposure of at least one selected portion of the indicator material to the active component of the ambient fluid; and d) a co-layered cover member that fully covers said adhesive and the indicator material, said cover member having at least two layers, a first layer of the the two layers being impermeable to the selected ambient fluid for isolating said indicator material from the ambient fluid, a second layer of the two layers being permeable to the selected ambient fluid and being positioned between the adhesive and the first layer, said second layer having a greater attraction to the adhesive than to the first layer and said greater attraction resulting in said second layer being adhered to the adhesive for providing a membrane between the ambient fluid and the indicator material, the first layer being selectably removable from said second layer for completely exposing said second layer, thus enabling the predetermined active component of the ambient fluid to permeate through the exposed second layer thereby equally and only exposing the selected portion of the indicating material interior of the void areas to the selected ambient fluid to provide said visual indication, said visual indication being observable through the exposed surface of the second layer, the visual indication beginning after removal of said first layer and being completed near the end of a predetermined period of time, said membrane further providing abrasion protection for the adhesive and the indicator material during the predetermined period of time.
a) a base member that is impermeable to a selected ambient fluid;
b) an indicator material having a first side and an opposite second side, said first side being applied to one side of the base member in a predetermined pattern, said indicator material having a selected composition providing a visual indication when exposed to a predetermined active component of the ambient fluid;
c) an adhesive applied with a predetermined pattern to a same side of the useful life indicator as the indicator material, said predetermined pattern of adhesive being applied to at least portions of the second side of the indicator material, said adhesive being impermeable with respect to the active component of said ambient fluid;
said predetermined pattern of the adhesive providing at least one void area that is absent adhesive therein, said void area providing exposure of at least one selected portion of the indicator material to the active component of the ambient fluid; and d) a co-layered cover member that fully covers said adhesive and the indicator material, said cover member having at least two layers, a first layer of the the two layers being impermeable to the selected ambient fluid for isolating said indicator material from the ambient fluid, a second layer of the two layers being permeable to the selected ambient fluid and being positioned between the adhesive and the first layer, said second layer having a greater attraction to the adhesive than to the first layer and said greater attraction resulting in said second layer being adhered to the adhesive for providing a membrane between the ambient fluid and the indicator material, the first layer being selectably removable from said second layer for completely exposing said second layer, thus enabling the predetermined active component of the ambient fluid to permeate through the exposed second layer thereby equally and only exposing the selected portion of the indicating material interior of the void areas to the selected ambient fluid to provide said visual indication, said visual indication being observable through the exposed surface of the second layer, the visual indication beginning after removal of said first layer and being completed near the end of a predetermined period of time, said membrane further providing abrasion protection for the adhesive and the indicator material during the predetermined period of time.
2. An indicator as recited in claim 1 wherein the predetermined active component of the ambient fluid is carbon dioxide.
3. An indicator as recited in claim 1 wherein the selected composition of the indicator material includes litmus properties, and the adhesive further includes a predetermined pH factor for bringing the indicator material in contact with said adhesive to a reference state of indication for providing a visual comparison of the indicator material in contact with the adhesive with the indicator material interior of the at least one void area.
4. An indicator as recited in claim 1 wherein said adhesive further includes pressure sensitive properties.
5. An indicator as recited in claim 1 wherein the base member includes an adhesive coating that is placed on a side of the base member that is opposite to the indicator material.
6. An indicator as recited in claim 1 wherein the base member is a flexible thermoplastic material.
7. An indicator as recited in claim 1 wherein the predetermined active component of the ambient fluid is carbon monoxide.
8. An indicator as recited in claim 1 wherein the predetermined active component of the ambient fluid is oxygen.
9. An indicator as recited in claim 1 wherein the predetermined active component of the ambient fluid is chlorine.
10. An indicator as recited in claim 1 wherein the predetermined active component of the ambient fluid is ozone.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US08/506,334 | 1995-07-25 | ||
| US08/506,334 US5630372A (en) | 1995-07-25 | 1995-07-25 | On demand useful life indicator |
| PCT/US1996/012103 WO1997005481A1 (en) | 1995-07-25 | 1996-07-18 | On demand useful life indicator |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2226653A1 CA2226653A1 (en) | 1997-02-13 |
| CA2226653C true CA2226653C (en) | 1999-12-14 |
Family
ID=24014178
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002226653A Expired - Fee Related CA2226653C (en) | 1995-07-25 | 1996-07-18 | On demand useful life indicator |
Country Status (6)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5630372A (en) |
| AU (1) | AU6593496A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2226653C (en) |
| DE (1) | DE19681506T1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2317695B (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1997005481A1 (en) |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5797344A (en) * | 1997-03-13 | 1998-08-25 | Ramsey; Joseph W. | On-demand useful life indicator and method of making same |
| AU3056197A (en) * | 1997-05-12 | 1998-12-08 | Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company | Time indicator based on carbon dioxide production |
| WO1999030148A1 (en) * | 1997-12-05 | 1999-06-17 | Crown Cork & Seal Technologies Corporation | Shelf life indicator |
| US6536370B2 (en) * | 1998-11-25 | 2003-03-25 | Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. | Elapsed time indicator for controlled environments and method of use |
| GB2347350B (en) * | 1999-02-27 | 2000-11-01 | Reckitt & Colmann Prod Ltd | A method for indicating the useful life of a volatile agent |
| WO2002006904A1 (en) * | 2000-07-19 | 2002-01-24 | Abraham Wien | Expiration date system |
| US7185601B2 (en) * | 2001-03-01 | 2007-03-06 | Micron Technology, Inc. | Chemically sensitive warning apparatus and method |
| US20030235119A1 (en) * | 2001-07-17 | 2003-12-25 | Abraham Wien | Expiration date system |
| US7808861B2 (en) * | 2001-07-17 | 2010-10-05 | Abraham Wien | Expiration date system |
| US7071783B2 (en) * | 2002-07-19 | 2006-07-04 | Micro Mobio Corporation | Temperature-compensated power sensing circuit for power amplifiers |
| US7434535B2 (en) * | 2003-12-31 | 2008-10-14 | Church & Dwight Co., Inc. | Timing device |
| WO2006021953A2 (en) * | 2004-08-24 | 2006-03-02 | Skyrad Ltd. | Indicating device for temperature sensitive products |
| US9182292B2 (en) | 2005-04-29 | 2015-11-10 | Prasidiux, Llc | Stimulus indicating device employing polymer gels |
| US7940605B2 (en) * | 2005-04-29 | 2011-05-10 | Prasidiux, Llc | Stimulus indicating device employing polymer gels |
| EP1877761A4 (en) * | 2005-04-29 | 2010-03-24 | Rel S Ambrozy | Stimulus indication employing polymer gels |
| US8166906B2 (en) | 2005-04-29 | 2012-05-01 | Ambrozy Rel S | Stimulus indicating device employing polymer gels |
| US8077554B2 (en) | 2005-04-29 | 2011-12-13 | Ambrozy Rel S | Stimulus indicating device employing polymer gels |
| US20120032117A1 (en) | 2005-04-29 | 2012-02-09 | Ambrozy Rel S | Stimulus indicating device employing polymer gels |
| US20060260533A1 (en) * | 2005-05-19 | 2006-11-23 | Thomas Parias | Expiration warning patch for gas expiration date management |
| CA2680270C (en) * | 2007-03-09 | 2014-02-04 | S&C Electric Company | Wear indicator for a circuit interrupter exhaust control device |
| JP2010045140A (en) * | 2008-08-11 | 2010-02-25 | Nec Electronics Corp | Lead frame, method of manufacturing the same, and method of manufacturing semiconductor device |
| NL1038939C2 (en) * | 2011-07-12 | 2013-01-15 | Innovation Desk | DEVICE FOR INDICATING AN EXPIRED TIME PERIOD AND ITS USE. |
| DE112013001206T5 (en) * | 2012-02-29 | 2014-11-13 | Firestone Industrial Products Company, Llc | Change indicator, elastomer article and method |
| GB201217720D0 (en) * | 2012-10-03 | 2012-11-14 | Insignia Technologies Ltd | Indicator device |
| GB201303518D0 (en) * | 2013-02-27 | 2013-04-10 | Insignia Technologies Ltd | Indicator device |
| CN106124492A (en) * | 2016-06-17 | 2016-11-16 | 深圳九星印刷包装集团有限公司 | Alkali sensitization time instruction device |
| CN106153620A (en) * | 2016-06-17 | 2016-11-23 | 深圳九星印刷包装集团有限公司 | Acid-sensitive time-indicating arrangement |
| CN105954280B (en) * | 2016-06-17 | 2019-02-22 | 深圳九星印刷包装集团有限公司 | Alkali sensitivity discoloration instruction device |
| CN105911059B (en) * | 2016-06-17 | 2019-02-15 | 深圳九星印刷包装集团有限公司 | Acid-sensitive discoloration instruction device |
| GB2593454B (en) * | 2020-03-18 | 2022-08-24 | Insignia Tech Ltd | Indicator film |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3018611A (en) * | 1962-01-30 | Timer device and method for determination | ||
| US2918893A (en) * | 1955-11-17 | 1959-12-29 | Clyde A Norton | Leakage indicator for liquid fuel systems |
| US2918033A (en) * | 1957-10-10 | 1959-12-22 | Martin J Snyder | Pipe leakage detector |
| US3243303A (en) * | 1962-06-27 | 1966-03-29 | Leighton C Johnson | Temperature monitor employing a flowable aqueous composition containing dispersed polyvinyl acetate as a flow retardant |
| US3952746A (en) * | 1974-07-29 | 1976-04-27 | Summers F Wayne | Humidity indicating diaper cover |
| US4212153A (en) * | 1978-02-07 | 1980-07-15 | Herculite Protective Fabrics Corporation | Time color indicator |
| US4205043A (en) * | 1978-05-04 | 1980-05-27 | Esch Victor H | Hazardous atmosphere badge |
| US4248597A (en) * | 1978-12-12 | 1981-02-03 | Akzona Incorporated | Time watch or depletion indicator for removable substances |
| US4550150A (en) * | 1980-11-19 | 1985-10-29 | Allied Corporation | Coloration of acetylenic monomers by gases |
| US4812053A (en) * | 1986-01-02 | 1989-03-14 | Lifelines Technology, Inc. | Activatable time-temperature indicator |
| US5482000A (en) * | 1994-06-15 | 1996-01-09 | Patent Master, Inc. | Surface mount overheat indicator with projecting fusible disk |
-
1995
- 1995-07-25 US US08/506,334 patent/US5630372A/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1996
- 1996-07-18 GB GB9727286A patent/GB2317695B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1996-07-18 DE DE19681506T patent/DE19681506T1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1996-07-18 CA CA002226653A patent/CA2226653C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1996-07-18 WO PCT/US1996/012103 patent/WO1997005481A1/en active Application Filing
- 1996-07-18 AU AU65934/96A patent/AU6593496A/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU6593496A (en) | 1997-02-26 |
| GB2317695B (en) | 1999-04-14 |
| GB2317695A (en) | 1998-04-01 |
| GB9727286D0 (en) | 1998-02-25 |
| WO1997005481A1 (en) | 1997-02-13 |
| DE19681506T1 (en) | 1999-01-28 |
| CA2226653A1 (en) | 1997-02-13 |
| US5630372A (en) | 1997-05-20 |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |