Heat-sensitive chromogenic system

Abstract

A document capable of providing information under the application of heat, which comprises a first support having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface bearing an information area including a visible principal image, and at least one of said first support or second support bearing at least one localized coating comprising a substantially colorless, non-pressure sensitive, heat-activatable chromogenic composition capable of producing a first color under the application of heat, the chromogenic composition comprising a chromogenic compound and a color developer. The chromogenic compound and the color developer are substantially colorless solids in physical contact prior to reaction, but which can chemically react to produce a visible colored image by application of heat at temperatures above room temperature. The information area is substantially free of chromogenic compounds, and free of color developers capable of reacting with chromogenic compounds to produce a visible colored image by application of heat.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a heat-sensitive chromogenic system which is heat-activatable at relatively low temperatures. More particularly, this invention relates to documents having a localized, non-pressure sensitive chromogenic coating that can be activated by heat to produce a visible colored marking for providing information.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various methods of imparting information to documents have been proposed. For example, negotiable instruments have been provided with tamper evident systems to indicate when alteration is attempted. Such systems are described in the "Background of the Invention" section of U.S. Pat. No. 5,427,415.

Likewise, hidden entry systems have been proposed for imparting information as described in the "Background of the Invention" section of U.S. Pat. No. 5,344,191.

Many of the prior systems involve use of extraneous fluids, including chemicals or inks to impart information. Accordingly, a need exists for a simple and efficient system which is able to impart information to documents.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A heat sensitive system for displaying information has now been discovered which can be used with a heated element, for example, to impart information along with preprinted information on localized areas of documents whether, for example, imparting verification information on bank checks or price information on pressure sensitive labels for goods, or the like.

The system of the present invention involves a document capable of providing information in color under the application of heat, comprising a first support having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface bearing an information area including a visible principal image, and at least one of the first or second surfaces bearing at least one localized coating comprising a substantially colorless, non-pressure sensitive, heat-activatable chromogenic composition capable of producing a first color under the application of heat. The chromogenic composition of the present invention comprises a chromogenic compound or color former and a color developer, in which the chromogenic compound and the color developer are substantially colorless solids in physical contact prior to reaction, but which can chemically react to produce a visible colored image by application of heat at temperatures above room temperature. The information area is substantially free of chromogenic compounds, and substantially free of color developers capable of reacting with chromogenic compounds to produce a visible colored image by application of heat.

It has been found that by using a localized coating of a non-pressure sensitive, heat-activatable chromogenic composition, information can be imparted to the heat sensitive chromogenic coating as desired, for example, using an electrically heated element or the like. Moreover, since the present system is heat sensitive and not pressure sensitive, premature activation by ordinary writing and handling pressures is avoided. Thus, while the heat-activatable coating of the present invention may be subjected to ordinary writing pressures without producing the desired visible colored image before it is required, application of heat by any suitable means, such as a thermal printer, frictional heat, or the like, to the coating will result in the desired visible colored image.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a document is provided comprising a first support having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface bearing an information area including a visible principal image and at least one localized coating comprising a substantially colorless, non-pressure sensitive, heat-activatable chromogenic composition capable of producing a first color under the application of heat. Additionally, a second support is provided having a third surface and a fourth surface opposite the third surface. At least one of the localized coatings is coated on the third surface of the second support and is coextensive with the second support. The second support is then adhered on the first support in the form of a heat sensitive color-forming patch.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the coated second support or patch is adhered and substantially completely recessed in a complementary, localized recessed portion of the first surface of the first support such that the third surface of the second support and the non-recessed portion of the first surface of the first support are at substantially the same level and cooperate to provide a smooth surface. The fourth surface of the second support is adhered to the recessed first surface of the first support. The second support and the localized coating is substantially co-extensive. This embodiment of the invention avoids difficulties encountered with laser printers when the surface of the document to be printed is not smooth.

According to still another embodiment of the invention, a printing system for producing a visible image. A printing system for producing printed documents on demand comprising a thermally heated printing stylus for producing a visible image upon application of heat, a document capable of providing information under the application of heat, which comprises a first support having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface bearing an information area including a visible principal image and at least one localized coating comprising a substantially colorless, non-pressure sensitive, heat-activatable chromogenic composition capable of producing a first color under the application of heat, the chromogenic composition comprising a chromogenic compound and a color developer, the chromogenic compound and the color developer being substantially colorless solids in physical contact prior to reaction, but which can chemically react to produce a visible colored image by application of heat at temperatures above room temperature. The information area is substantially free of chromogenic compounds, and free of color developers capable of reacting with chromogenic compounds to produce a visible colored image by application of heat. The thermal printing stylus forms a visible, colored image upon contact with the localized coating.

According to a further embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided for thermally activating a document capable of providing multiple colors under the application of heat utilizing a heated metal element, which document comprises a first support having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface bearing an information area including a visible principal image, and at least one of said first and second surfaces having at least one localized coating comprising a substantially colorless, non-pressure sensitive, heat-activatable chromogenic composition capable of producing a first color under the application of heat. The chromogenic composition comprises a chromogenic compound and a color developer, the chromogenic compound and the color developer being substantially colorless solids in physical contact prior to reaction, but which can chemically react to produce a visible colored image by application of heat at temperatures above room temperature. The information area is substantially free of chromogenic compounds, and free of color developers capable of reacting with chromogenic compounds to produce a visible colored image by application of heat.

As used in the present application, the term "principal image" is defined as a visible image which is applied or present on the document in the information area in printed or written form. For example, when the document is a negotiable instrument, such as a check, money order, etc., the principal image can be a monetary amount in numerical or written form, name of the financial institution, name of the payor or the payee. Likewise, the principal image can be all or a portion of the printed material on a label or award. Likewise, the principal image can be both preprinted matter and handwritten information, such as a medical prescription.

Other objects, advantages and salient features of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring now to the drawings which form a part of this original disclosure:

FIG. 1 is a front view of a negotiable instrument showing the verification area on the front face of the instrument;

FIG. 2 is a schematic and perspective view of the negotiable instrument in the form of a check showing the endorsement area on the reverse side of the instrument with the verification area contained therein;

FIG. 3 is a schematic and perspective view of the check of FIG. 2 for imparting a multicolor image in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 4 is a partial, schematic and perspective view of the check of FIG. 2 modified according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a partial, schematic and perspective view of the check of FIG. 2 in which a latent image has been imparted to the verification area;

FIG. 6 is a partial, schematic and perspective view of the check of FIG. 5 after applying frictional heat to a portion of the verification area to impart a visible image;

FIG. 7 is a partial, schematic and perspective view of the check of FIG. 5 having the colored image completely displayed to provide verification of the authenticity of the check;

FIG. 8 is a front view of a prescription blank showing the verification area under printed matter in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a front partially sectioned view of a cash register receipt having thermally printed highlighted matter imparted to the receipt;

FIG. 10 is a front partially sectioned view of a cash register receipt having thermally printed highlighted matter imparted to the receipt in multiple colors;

FIG. 11 is a partial, schematic and side elevational view of a continuous form cash register receipt form being contacted with the stylus of a computer controlled thermal printer imprinting data on the face of the receipt form;

FIG. 12 is a schematic and perspective view of a discount coupon having thermally printed discount information highlighted in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a schematic and perspective view of a pressure sensitive label having thermally printed purchase order information;

FIG. 14 is a front view of a label for canned goods having bar code information thermally imparted to the label in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a fragmented side elevational view of the heat-sensitive patch on the label of FIG. 14 taken along line 15--15 of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a front view of a label for canned goods having bar code information thermally imparted in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a fragmented side elevational view of the recessed heat-sensitive patch of the label of FIG. 16 taken along line 17--17 of FIG. 16; and

FIG. 18 is a schematic view of the equipment used to make the recessed substrate shown in FIG. 17.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the drawings, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a verification system in combination with a document 10, which in this embodiment is a bank check. The document 10 includes an information area 12 bearing a principal image and a verification area 14.

The term "document" as used herein is intended to include any type of document or paper which can be reproduced by a photocopier or other reproduction equipment. The document may be a negotiable instrument such as a money order or check including personal checks, cashier's checks and traveler's checks. In further embodiments, the document may include, for example, pharmaceutical prescriptions, contracts, letters, deeds, wills, bills of exchange, certificates of deposit, warrants, stocks, bonds, identification cards, lottery tickets, sweepstakes, raffles, prizes, awards or labels. As used herein, the expression "negotiable instrument" refers to any instrument which can be exchanged for or represents a monetary amount or its equivalent value.

The information area 12 on the check of the embodiment of FIG. 1 is filled in with specific information at the time the check is issued in a manner similar to conventional check writing procedures. The information area will include such information as the date, the amount of the check, the name of the bank, the payee, the signature of the payor and the endorsement of the payee. The printed information contained in the information area comprises a principal image of the document.

The verification area 14 in the embodiment of FIG. 1 is positioned in the lower left hand corner of the front face of the check in the area typically identified as "memo" for entering a personal reference by the person drawing the check. It is to be understood that the verification area may be located in any position or area on the check and that multiple verification areas may be present, such as on both the front and rear faces of the document. A localized coating of a heat activated, non-pressure sensitive chromogenic composition is applied to the verification area. Multiple localized heat-activatable coatings may be provided on the document at spaced positions to provide multiple verification areas or within a single verification area to provide multiple colors within a single verification area.

The chromogenic compound in preferred embodiments is colorless or substantially colorless before reacting with the color developer to produce the colored image. Suitable types of chromogenic compounds include diarylmethanes, triarylmethanes, indolylphthalides, azaphthalides, fluorans, and spiropyrans. Exemplary diarylmethanes include 4,4'-bis(dimethylaminobenzhydrylbenzyl)ether, N-halophenyl leuco auramine, and N-2,4,5-trichlorophenyl leuco auramine. Examples of triarylmethanes include 3,3-bis(p-dimethylaminophenyl)-6-dimethylaminophthalide and 3,3-bis(p-dimethylaminophenyl)phthalide. Examples of indolylphthalides include 3-(p-dimethylaminophenyl)-3-(1,2-dimethylindole-3-yl)phthalide, 3,3-bis(1-octyl-2-methylindol-3-yl)phthalide and 3-(p-dimethylaminophenyl)-3-(2-methylindole-3-yl)phthalide. Examples of azaphthalides include 3-(2-ethoxy-4-diethylaminophenyl)-3-(1-octyl-2-methylindole-3-yl)-4-azaphthalide and 3-(2-ethoxy-4-diethylaminophenyl)-3-(1-ethyl-2-methylindole-3-yl)-4-azaphthalide. Examples of fluorans include 2-dibenzylamino-6-diethylaminofluoran, 2-anilino-6-diethylaminofluoran, 3-methyl-2-anilino-6-diethylaminofluoran, 2-anilino-3-methyl-6-(ethyl-isopentylamino)fluoran, 2-anilino-3-methyl-6-dibutylaminofluoran, 2-chloro-3-methyl-6-diethylaminofluoran, 3,6-dimethoxyfluoran, and 7,7'-bis(3-diethylaminofluoran). Examples of spiropyrans include 3-methylspirodinaphthopyran, 3-ethylspirodinaphthopyran, 3,3'-dichlorospirodinaphthopyran, 3-benzylspirodinaphthopyran, and 3-methylnaphtho-(3-methoxybenzo)spiropyran.

The preferred color developers are acidic compounds which have melting or softening points of about 40.degree. C. to about 200.degree. C. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the lower melting point developers having melting or softening points preferably from about 40.degree. C. or 50.degree. C. to about 110.degree. C. or about 140.degree. C., with from about 50.degree. C. to about 80.degree. C. being especially preferred so that the colored image is easily formed by applying frictional heat or similar low temperatures. The developer melting point should, however, be sufficiently high to avoid melting and thus premature activation and formation of the colored image during drying of the coating, shipping and handling of the document. Examples of useful color developers include: 4,4'-isopropylidenediphenol, 4,4'-isopropylidene-bis(2-tert-butylphenol), 4,4'-secbutylidenediphenol, 2,2'-methylene-bis(4-chlorophenol), phenol-formaldehyde novolak resin, alpha-naphthol, beta-naphthol, p-hydroxybenzyl benzoate, 3,5-dimethyl-4-hydroxybenzoic acid, 3-isopropylsalicylic acid, 3-benzylsalicylic acid, 3,5-di-tert-butylsalicylic acid, 1,5-di(4-hydroxyphenylthio)-3-oxapentane, 4-hydroxyphenyl-4'-isopropoxyphenylsulfone, bis(3-allyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)sulfone, 4,4'thiodiphenol, and 3,3'-dimethyl-4,4'thiodiphenol.

The proportions of chromogenic compound and color developer in the coating varies according to the required color density of the image. Generally, about 1 to 50 parts by weight, and preferably about 1 to 10 parts by weight, of color developer is used per part by weight of chromogenic compound to produce a colored image with sufficiently sharp contrast to readily distinguish the colored image from the principal image. If desired, however, the colored image may be the same as the principal image.

When the color developers have a high melting point, a heat-fusible material may be used in the chromogenic composition to lower the activation point or temperature of the color developer to facilitate the color development. Exemplary heat-fusible materials include stearic acid amide, stearic acid methylene bisamide, oleic acid amide, palmitic acid amide, coconut fatty acid amide, monoethanolamide of fatty acid, dibenzyl terephthalate, p-benzyl biphenyl, beta-naphthol benzyl ether, ethylene glycol-m-tolyl ether, di(p-chlorobenzyl) oxalate, dibenzyl oxalate and di(p-methylbenzyl) oxalate.

The chromogenic coating composition may also contain one or more inorganic or organic fillers, such as kaolin, talc, titanium dioxide, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, barium carbonate, aluminum hydroxide, zinc oxide, silicone oxide, urea-formaldehyde resin, styrene-methacrylic acid copolymer, polystyrene resin, polycarbonate resin, polypropylene resin. The amount of filler used may vary depending on the chromogenic compound, developer and support material. The filler material is included as an extender material to reduce the amount of chromogenic compound and developer used and may be used to enhance the film-forming qualities of the chromogenic coating. The amount of filler material incorporated into the chromogenic coating composition should not substantially interfere with the development of the colored image.

A suitable binder material is needed to adhere the chromogenic compound and the color developer onto the substrate. The amount of binder generally used is about 10% to about 50% by weight, and preferably about 15% to about 35% by weight, based on the total weight of the solids of the coating composition. Examples of useful binders include starch, hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, gelatin, casein, gum arabic, polyvinyl alcohol, styrene-maleic anhydride copolymers, ethylene-acrylic acid copolymers, styrene-butadiene copolymers, acrylonitrile-butadiene copolymers, vinyl acetate emulsions, ethylene-vinyl acetate emulsions and polyvinylpyrrolidone.

The heat-activatable chromogenic composition of the present invention may optionally additionally contain a color suppressant to prevent premature coloration. The color suppressant must be so chosen that it will not inhibit or adversely affect the color formation in the final product. Examples are ammonium hydroxide, alkanolamines, such as monoethanol amine, diethanolamine, N,N-dimethylethanolamine, and the like, condensates of amine-formaldehyde, such as urea-formaldehyde, melamine-formaldehyde, and the like. Suitable amounts of such color suppressants include from about 0.1 to about 10, preferably from about 0.5 to about 4 percent by weight based on the total dry weight of the coating composition. Other suitable color suppressants are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,010,292 and 4,170,483, which are hereby incorporated by reference.

The chromogenic coating composition may be prepared by a number of methods as known in the art. A preferred method of preparing the coating composition is to disperse one or more of the reactants into a volume of water as a dispersing medium. The reactants are generally ground for about one hour to a particle size of about 1 to 10 microns in diameter. The reactants may be ground in the presence of dispersants or binders. Examples of suitable dispersants include sodium dioctylsulfosuccinate, sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate, alginates and fatty acid metal salts. The binder material may also function as a protective colloid to disperse the reactants. The chromogenic compound and the color developer may be mixed together and applied as one coating or prepared as separate coating compositions and applied in layers as discussed hereinafter in greater detail. The reactants are then ground or pulverized in a suitable device such as, for example, a ball mill, sand mill or attritor.

If a latent image is used in the verification area, the localized coating of a chromogenic composition may be treated so as to conceal location of the latent image message, since light reflection can reveal location of the message of the verification system. Thus, the latent image message can be coated with a thin coating comprising pigment in binder which conceals the latent image message without substantially reducing heat activated color development or heat activation characteristics of the chromogenic coating. A suitable coating may comprise, for example, inorganic fillers, such as calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide, talc, clay, or the like, in a polyvinyl alcohol solution. The thin coating provides the same texture to the support as the coating forming the latent image message and, thus, effectively conceals the message. Alternatively, concealment of the latent image message of the chromogenic coating may be accomplished by dot printing the latent image message or the entire surface of the document including the verification area using conventional printing inks in any color other than that of the latent image. Since the chromogenic coating is colorless, the pigmented coating or dot printing may be applied either prior to or after application of the chromogenic coating to the substrate.

The chromogenic coating composition is applied to the substrate, for example, paper, plastic, or the like, which forms the document by any suitable technique as known in the art. The entire substrate may be coated although in preferred embodiments a localized, spot or band coating is used. The coating may be coextensive with the information area and the principal image since the coating is non-pressure sensitive and not affected by the pressure applied when the document is printed or written on such as by a pen to supply additional information. In one embodiment of the invention, the chromogenic coating composition is prepared as a slurry comprising the chromogenic compound and the color developer. A preferred method of coating is by off-set gravure coating as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,425,386 to Chang which is hereby incorporated by reference. Alternative preferred coating methods include flexographic, screen printing, nozzle extrusion and ink jet printing.

The chromogenic coating material may be activated by any suitable means which provides heat to the coating, such as the heated stylus of a thermal printer. Verification that the document, such as a cash register receipt, discount coupon, or the like is authentic may be achieved by activating portions of the chromogenic coating by any desired means, such as by quickly rubbing a blunt implement across the verification area to generate sufficient frictional heat to produce a colored image. For convenience, a suitable implement may be a fingernail rubbed quickly across the verification area to generate frictional heat and produce a colored line. Other implements which may be used include a non-writing end of a pen, a stylus, paper clip, coin and the like. Generally, metal objects are not as effective in producing a colored image since the metal conducts the frictional heat quickly away from the point of contact and has a lower friction coefficient than many other objects. Thus, a fingernail or plastic object is generally preferred.

However, any suitable means for applying sufficient heat, whether frictional or otherwise, can be used to heat the chromogenic composition and produce a visible colored image. The heat providing means should be capable of heating the chromogenic composition to a temperature of between about 40.degree. C. to 200.degree. C., preferably between about 40.degree. C. or 50.degree. C. to about 110.degree. C. or 140.degree. C., with between about 50.degree. C. and about 80.degree. C. being especially preferred for certain applications. Thus, suitable heat sources include ordinary electric light bulbs, for example, 80-150 watt bulbs, hand-held electric hair dryers, coffee mugs containing a hot liquid, or like devices which generate such temperatures. Similarly, a heated metal element, such as a flat plate-like element for direct application of heat to the chromogenic composition, may be used.

In a further embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, a document in the form of a check 16 comprises an information area 18 having a principal image. The principal image in the information area 18 contains a conventional printed image as in the embodiment of FIG. 1. Also included on the check of this embodiment is a designated endorsement area 20 on the back face of the check opposite the principal image. The endorsement area 20 defines the area at one end of the check for the payee's endorsement. As shown in FIG. 3, the endorsement area includes a pre-printed principal image providing instructions for the person endorsing the check according to standard banking procedures. In the left portion of the endorsement area as shown in FIG. 3 is a verification area 22 comprises a coating of a mixture of the chromogenic compound and the color developer to form an autogenous chromogenic coating. In this manner, the verification area is in a handy position next to the endorsement area of the check. Thus, if the check is submitted for payment, the person receiving the check can verify the authenticity of the check by quickly rubbing their fingernail or other hard object across the verification area adjacent the signature to produce the colored image. Since the chromogenic coating is not pressure sensitive, endorsement, alone, will not activate the coating and produce a visible color.

Verification area 22 can be, for example, a solid, regular shaped coating in the form of a rectangle, as shown, which may be formed of multiple chromogenic coatings, for example, three rectangular-shaped chromogenic coatings 22a, 22b and 22c, each rectangular coating providing a different color when frictional heat is applied. Thus, when the fingernail or other stylus is quickly drawn across and in contact with area 22, a line composed of, for example, blue, green and red segments results.

The verification system of the invention provides an effective and simple way of preventing fraudulent passing off of a reproduction of an original document. The chromogenic coating of the present invention is colorless until activated and, thus, it would not be apparent to the would-be forger that the original contains the chromogenic coating forming the verification system. Although advanced copiers are able to make copies which are virtually indistinguishable to the naked eye, the photocopier cannot reproduce the chromogenic coating. Thus, when the lawbreaker presents the photocopied document, authenticity of the document can be quickly verified by application of heat, such as by rubbing a frictional heat generating implement, such as a fingernail or stylus, in the verification area to produce a colored or multicolored image. In this manner, a document such as a check, money order or prescription, which is suspected of being a fraudulent copy, can be authenticated by a store clerk or bank teller without the need for specialized equipment or training. When a colored or multicolored image appears in the area, the authenticity of the document is verified. Failure to produce a colored image indicates that the document is a copy and not the original.

The chromogenic coating is colorless as well as being non-pressure sensitive, and non-reactive at room temperature without heat. The chromogenic coating can therefore be located in any position on the document both without being noticeable and without premature activation with normal handling of the document. For example, the chromogenic coating of the present invention can be in an area of the document which is subjected to pressure by writing or endorsement without being conspicuous and without premature activation.

The chromogenic coating in the verification area in preferred embodiments is formed from at least one chromogenic compound and a color developer. The chromogenic compound and the color developer are activated by added heat to interact and react to produce the colored image. In the embodiments of FIGS. 1-3, the chromogenic compound and the color developer are intimately mixed and applied to the information area as a uniform coating. In this manner, frictional heat applied by an object to any portion of the information area will produce a colored image in that portion only.

In the present invention, each chromogenic coating is a self-contained coating comprising a solid acidic color developer compound co-reactant and a colorless or substantially colorless solid chromogenic reactant. In preferred embodiments, the color developer has a melting or softening point of about 40.degree. C. to about 200.degree. C., preferably from about 40.degree. C. or 50.degree. C. to about 110.degree. C. or 140.degree. C., especially 50.degree. C to about 80.degree. C., so as not to react. with the chromogenic reactant at room temperature. Application of heat at temperatures in the range of 40.degree. C. to about 200.degree. C. softens or melts the developer rendering it sufficiently mobile to mix and react with the chromogenic compound and produce the distinct visible colored image in situ. Since the reactants are solids at room temperature, no physical separation of the reactants is necessary in the coating. The reactants can be mixed together as a slurry and coated on the document to form an autogenous layer. The chromogenic coating is activated by heat and the coating is non-pressure sensitive.

To have an eye catching result to verify authenticity of the document, for example, it is desirable for the autogenous chromogenic coating to present a striking color contrast to that of the principal image. For example, the dollar amount of a check or the printed information on the check may be in black ink and the color developed by the autogenous coating can be red, violet, orange, green, blue, or yellow to obtain a high degree of contrast. Alternatively, the developed color can be coordinated with the requirements of the financial institution in the case of a check or money order, and may be, for example, the same color as the principal image. Of course, highly contrasting colors can be used, and multiple chromogenic coatings each producing a different colored visible image can be used in the verification area. Thus, for example, a red dot on a black rectangular background could be provided upon activation of the verification area.

In a further embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the chromogenic composition is coated onto the document 24 within the verification area 26. The verification area 26 is shown adjacent the endorsement area 28 on the rear face of the check in a manner similar to the embodiment of FIG. 2. The endorsement area 28 includes indicia such as instructions to endorse within the endorsement area. In this embodiment, the chromogenic coating composition in the verification area is applied as a multi-layer coating within the localized area. In this embodiment, the chromogenic compound is applied to the substrate of the document as a first layer 30. A second layer 32 comprising the color developer is coated over the first layer to provide the colored image forming coating system.

Verification area 26 may also include pre-printed indicia to provide instructions for use and operation of the verification system. For example, such instructions can read "Scratch here to have color appear--if no color appears, do not accept this document." The chromogenic coating in the verification area can be heat activated in a manner similar to the embodiment of FIG. 2, for example, by rubbing or striking the coating with a blunt object to provide frictional heat and produce the colored image, thereby verifying the document as an original. Likewise, any source of heat may be used to provide the desired activation temperature resulting in a colored image.

Alternatively, the color developer can be applied first onto the substrate, according to the process described in the above-mentioned U.S. Pat. No. 4,425,386. The chromogenic compound is then coated onto or printed over the first coating. The color reactants may be dissolved or dispersed in a vehicle such as a printing ink base, and the resulting solution printed onto the substrate.

In a further embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5, 6 and 7, a document 34 is a check including an endorsement area 36 having a verification area 38 comprising chromogenic composition coating 40. The chromogenic compound is formed into a colorless ink and printed to form the word "ORIGINAL" or other alerting message 42 as a latent image on the verification area 38. A layer comprising the color developer 44 is then coated over the chromogenic compound-printed alerting message to form the image-forming chromogenic coating 40. In alternative embodiments, the color developer may be applied as the printed latent image message 42 followed by the chromogenic compound as the coating 44. Although color developer may be spot printed to form the latent image, it is generally preferred to produce the latent image from the chromogenic compound. Alternatively, the latent image may be formed from a mixture of the chromogenic compound and color developer and printed onto the endorsement area 36 to provide the latent image message of FIG. 5 as an autogenous, heat sensitive message.

In use, authenticity of the check can be distinguished from a photocopy or other form of reproduction without the need for specialized equipment. The verification system is activated by applying heat, such as by quickly rubbing the verification area with a fingernail or other blunt object. A single stroke across the verification area 38 to apply sufficient frictional heat will cause the chromogenic compound to react with the color developer and to partially produce the colored image in the form of colored segments as shown in FIG. 6. Applying repetitive strokes across the verification area will cause the entire image 42 to develop as shown in FIG. 7.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 5-7, the latent image 42 is in the form of a word. In alternative embodiments, the latent image can be, for example, a business logo, design, diagram, serial number, combinations of numbers and letters, or other indicia capable of identifying the document.

The latent image is formed of a chromogenic composition which provides a different color from the background on which it is coated when activated. Thus, for example, the latent image word "ORIGINAL" in FIG. 5 could be formed by printing an autogenous chromogenic composition which forms a red visible image onto a background coating of a chromogenic composition which forms a black visible image. Thus, when a fingernail is quickly drawn across the coating in the manner of FIG. 6, the visible portions of the word would appear red, and the visible portions of the background would appear black, yielding a visible line with red and black segments. Also, if desired, the latent image may merely be a circular red image providing background. In other words, any desired configuration may be utilized.

In the embodiment of FIG. 8, prescription form 50 is provided with printed matter 52 including the prescribing doctor's office hours and telephone number in verification area 54 which comprises a black color-producing autogenous chromogenic composition in the form of a solid rectangle. Within the rectangular-shaped coating 54 is a red-color producing autogenous chromogenic composition 56 in the form of a solid circle. Form 50 is coated with dot printing 58 of a printing ink solution which may be a white pigment coating applied to the entire surface of form 50 prior to printing of information, such as 52, to conceal the location of entire verification area 54. After prescription 50 is completed by the physician and presented at the drug store to be filled, the pharmacist or clerk may easily verify that it is an original rather than a reproduction, by applying heat locally to the verification area. Thus, if the clerk rubs or strikes a fingernail quickly across the center of the entire verification area 54, a multicolored line, which is black, red, black in sequence, will result from the frictional heat, signifying that it is an original.

Alternatively, the clerk or pharmacist may subject verification area 54 to heat generated by an ordinary electric light bulb used for reading, e.g., a 100 watt bulb, or a hand held hair dryer, and the chromogenic compositions in area 54 will reveal a solid red dot or circle in a black rectangle background.

In the embodiment of FIG. 9 a cash register receipt form 100 has been coated with a substantially colorless, localized coating of a heat-activatable chromogenic composition in the form of a continuous, longitudinal stripe 110 along the length of receipt 100. Coated stripe 110 can be heated to provide, for example, a red image. Adjacent coatings 112 and 114 are second and third localized coatings, respectively, of substantially colorless, heat-activatable chromogenic compositions in the form of continuous, longitudinal stripes, which are heat-activatable to provide, for example, blue and black colors, respectively, along the length of receipt 100. When receipt for 100 is imprinted by means of the thermal printer of a grocery store cash register, the price of each of the grocery items, for example "1.29" will appear in red, the quantity, for example "1 doz." in blue and the name of the item, for example, the word "milk" will appear in black.

By highlighting the various items in this manner, the resulting receipt 100 enables the customer to immediate locate the item, and its price, if desired. Later, if the customer presents receipt 100 to a store employee with one or more of the listed items for return and a cash refund, the store employee can verify that the receipt is authentic by running a fingernail across the width of the receipt. If the receipt is authentic the employee will see a line composed of red, blue and black segments. If the receipt is an unauthorized photocopy, no such multicolored line will appear. This will prevent dishonest persons from shoplifting grocery items along with purchased items, and returning the illicit items for cash.

FIG. 10 is a cash register receipt illustrating another embodiment of the invention in which receipt 120 is provided with a fully coated surface of coating of a substantially colorless, heat-activatable chromogenic composition, which upon heating provides a black color. Coating 122 is, in turn, coated with a series of rectangularly shaped, localized coatings of a heat-activatable chromogenic composition which alternatively vary in color produced upon heating and form a continuous, longitudinal stripe along the length of receipt 120. Thus, localized coatings 124 will produce a red color image upon contact by the thermal printer, while localized coatings 126 will produce a blue color upon contact by the thermal printer. This alternating color-producing sequence continues for the length of the stripe. Obviously, more than two different colors may be used, if desired, to provide alternating colors in a repetitive fashion. Similarly, all or a portion of the entire surface of receipt 120 could be coated with alternating localized coatings of heat-activatable chromogenic compositions, if desired, in place of full coating 122 and enable use of uncoated base or substrate paper a support for only localized coatings.

Verification of receipt 120 can be accomplished in the same manner as described for receipt 100, since application of heat, such as by applying the frictional heat of a fingernail across receipt 120 will provide one or more colors if the receipt is authentic and not an unauthorized copy.

FIG. 11 is a schematic in which a continuous cash register receipt in the form of roll is being fed such that receipt form 132 is contacted with the stylus of a computer controlled thermal printer 134 to imprint data on the face of the receipt form, illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10. The visible, colored images appearing on the receipt paper are formed by contact of the heated stylus of the thermal printer on the receipt paper. The information provided to the receipt paper can vary depending on use of the paper, for example, receipt for a cash register or an ATM machine, so that the placement of the localized coatings and their shape can be tailored to highlight the information desired for a particular application or customer.

FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention in which a coupon 140 comprising paper substrate 142 is provided with a coating 144 of a substantially colorless, heat-activatable chromogenic composition, which upon heating by a thermal printer or the like provides a black color. A localized coating 146 of a substantially colorless, heat-activatable chromogenic composition which produces a red color on heating is coated as a spot coating on coating 142 at a predetermined location to highlight the coupon discount, which as illustrated in FIG. 12, is "25%". Since the information remains the same on each discount coupon 140, the same data can be highlighted on each coupon, if desired. Thus, coating 144 produces a red color upon contact by a thermal printer to yield the "25%" in red while the remaining lettering shown outside coating 146, such as "ABC COLA CO.", is thermally activated to a black color.

FIG. 13 illustrates a further embodiment of the present invention in which pressure sensitive label, for example, mailing label 150 comprises substrate 152 having a coating 154 of a substantially colorless, heat-activatable chromogenic composition on the front surface of substrate 152, which upon heating provides, for example, a black color. Label 150 has a pressure sensitive coating 156 on the back of substrate 152 to adhere the label to an article to be shipped. If desired, label 150 can be provided with a release liner backing for the pressure sensitive coating. In such event, the combination of a pressure sensitive coating layer and a release liner backing layer is represented schematically by layer 156. Localized coatings 158 and 160 of a substantially colorless, heat-activatable chromogenic composition are coated as spot coatings on coating 154 at predetermined locations. Coating 158 can, for example, provide a red color upon heating and, thus, when the stylus of a thermal printer is applied, the purchase order number "878785579" will appear in red and thus be highlighted to contrast information such as the addressee, the carrier, etc., which will appear in black. Localized coating 160 may be used by the addresser, for example, to highlight information of choice, such as instructions, on the surface 162 of coating 160 in red or some other color. By highlighting the purchase order and other selected information of choice, the recipient can focus on the highlighted information and facilitate confirmation of receipt of the order.

FIG. 14 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention in which a label 200 for canned fruit, for example, has been provided with a principal image 210 in the form of "XYZ FRUIT Cocktail" and the weight information, which may be provided, for example, by offset printing. A heat-sensitive patch 212 is adhered to the front surface of label 200 bearing bar code 214 formed by applying a heated stylus of a thermal printer in the form of a bar code to the substantially colorless, black-imaging, heat-activatable chromogenic composition on the front surface of the patch to provide the bar code in, for example, a black color.

FIG. 15 illustrates the configuration of patch 212 as it is adhered to label 200. Patch 212 may be formed from a sheet that is fully coated with the heat-activatable chromogenic composition and is die cut into patches of the desired size which may be adhered as shown in FIG. 15. Label 200 comprises substrate 216 that is provided with a pressure-sensitive adhesive coating 218 on the back of substrate 216 to adhere the label to the canned fruit (not shown). Suitable pressure-sensitive adhesives include, for example, water-based emulsions, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate co-polymer and styrene-butadiene latex. Examples are Nacor 33-6079 commercially available from National Starch and Chemical Company and Adhesive 3993-C commercially available from H. B. Fuller Company. Likewise, hot-melt adhesives, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate co-polymer adhesives may be employed as permanent laminating adhesive 30, for example, Nacor 34-2925 commercially available from National Starch and Chemical Company. Polyurethane may also be used, such as Nacor 70-9860, commercially available from National Starch and Chemical Company.

Patch 212 comprises substrate 220, which may be formed, for example, of paper, plastic film or metal foil. A coextensive coating 222 of a black-imaging, substantially colorless, heat-activatable chromogenic composition is provided on the front of substrate 220 and a pressure-sensitive adhesive coating 224 is provided on the back of substrate 220. Preferably, black-imaging chromogenic coating 222 is covered with a co-extensive coating of a transparent, heat-resistant topcoat 226 as supplied by the manufacturer. The dry topcoat may be water-soluble, and yet heat-resistant, such as topcoats used on facsimile paper, or it may be water-insoluble. Heat-resistant topcoats are typically provided by manufacturers of fully coated papers having heat-sensitive chromogenic coatings, and thus, such materials are commercially available. Topcoat materials include, for example, TPEXBOO1, which is an acrylic emulsion commercially available from Werneke Ink of Plymouth, Minn. Topcoat material MSEXBOO5 also from Werneke Ink, AWMI-1 from Arcar Graphics, West Chicago, Ill., and WVH 10624 from Water Ink Technologies, Lincolnton, N.C. are also available.

FIG. 16 illustrates a label 230 for canned goods having a principal image 232 and a patch 234. However, in order to provide the front of label 230 including die cut patch 234 with a smooth surface, patch 234 is adhered into a recess provided in label 230 as shown in FIG. 17.

Referring to FIG. 17, label 230 comprising substrate 236 and adhesive coating 238 is provided with a recessed or indented portion 240 provided as an embossment of substrate 236 sufficiently deep to receive patch 234, which comprises substrate 242, substantially colorless, heat-activatable chromogenic composition 244, heat-resistant topcoat 245 and pressure-sensitive adhesive 246. The depth of the embossment or recess 240 in substrate 236 is predetermined such that patch 234 can be adhered and seated in recess 240 with the front surface 248 of patch 234 and the front surface 250 of substrate 236 at substantially the same level to provide the front surface of label 230 as a smooth, even surface surrounding and including patch 234.

Recessed substrate 236 may be provided with patch 234 prior to application of the principal image 232. If principal image 232 is applied to patched label 230 using a printer, successful use of the printer may depend upon providing label 230 with a smooth, even surface. If label 230 has a rough surface, for example, caused by an external patch of the type shown in FIG. 14, where patch 212 extends beyond the surface of substrate 216, such roughness may be sufficient to cause disruption of the printer.

Referring to FIG. 18, a schematic depiction of an apparatus useful to provide substrate 236 with recess 240 is shown. Thus, a paper support web 260 is passed in the direction shown between male cylinder 262, which moves in a counter-clockwise direction, and female cylinder 264, which moves in a clockwise direction. As web 260 passes between male member 266 and female cavity 268, web 260 is provided with an embossed cavity or recess 270. Web 260 with recess 270 is coated with a pressure-sensitive adhesive to form the recessed substrate used to form label 230.

The invention will be further illustrated by the following examples. All percentages are by weight unless otherwise specified. It should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of this invention.

EXAMPLE 1

A chromogenic composition is prepared from a mixture of 25 grams of 7,7'-bis(3-diethylaminofluoran) and 85 grams of calcium carbonate in 275 grams of a 10 weight percent aqueous polyvinyl alcohol solution. The mixture is ground in an attritor for one hour to reduce the size of the particles and produce a dispersion.

A color developer is produced by mixing 80 grams of 4-hydroxy-4'-isopropoxyphenylsulfone and 20 grams of dibenzyl oxalate in 250 grams of 10 weight percent polyvinyl alcohol aqueous solution. The mixture is ground in an attritor for one hour to reduce the particle size of the components and produce a dispersion.

The chromogenic coating composition is prepared by mixing equal parts by weight of the chromogenic dispersion and the color developer dispersion. A spot is then coated on the back side of a check proximate the endorsement area and allowed to dry. Striking the coating with a fingernail immediately produces a red-colored line.

EXAMPLE 2

A heat-sensitive chromogenic material was prepared by mixing 3 parts of 2-anilino-3-methyl-6-dibutylaminofluoran, 6.6 parts of 4-hydroxy-4'-isopropoxyphenylsulfone, 16 parts of 15 percent polyvinyl alcohol solution, 1.2 parts of silicone defoamer at 40 weight percent solids and 2.4 parts of water. The resulting mixture was spot-coated on a pressure-sensitive label having printed principal images and free of heat-sensitive chromogenic material. A heat resistant topcoat material commercially available as TP Extender/Overprint, SSW-4910, TPEXB 0001 from Werneke Ink was applied over the heat-sensitive spot coating.

A black bar code was generated by a thermal printer within the heat-sensitive spot coating.

EXAMPLE 3

A heat-sensitive chromogenic material was formulated by mixing 3 parts of crystal violet lactone, 6.6 parts of 4-hydroxy-4'-isopropoxyphenylsulfone, 16 parts of polyvinyl alcohol solution at 15 percent, 1.2 parts of silicone defoamer at 40 weight percent solids and 2.4 parts of water. The resulting mixture was locally coated on pressure-sensitive labels having printed principal images and free of heat-sensitive chromogenic material. Heat resistant topcoat material from Werneke Ink (TP Extender/Overprint, SSW-4910, TPEXB 0001) was coated over the heat-sensitive spot coating.

Alphabets and numerals were developed in a blue color by a thermal printer within the heat-sensitive spot coating.

EXAMPLE 4

A heat-sensitive chromogenic material was prepared by mixing 3 parts of 3,3-bis(1-octyl-2-methylindol-3-yl)phthalide, 6.6 parts of 4-hydroxy-4'-isopropoxyphenylsulfone, 16 parts of 15 percent polyvinyl alcohol solution, 1.2 parts of silicone defoamer at 40 weight percent solids and 2.4 parts of water. The resulting mixture was spot-coated on pressure-sensitive labels having printed principal images and free of heat-sensitive chromogenic material. Heat resistant topcoat material from Werneke Ink (TP Extender/Overprint, SSW-4910, TPEXB 0001) was coated over the heat-sensitive spot coating.

An entry of alphabets and numerals in a red color was generated within the heat-sensitive spot coating by a thermal printer.

EXAMPLE 5

A thermal paper having a heat-sensitive coating containing an orange-red color-former on its top surface from Appleton Papers Inc. was cut to size of 1 inch by 2 inches. The thickness of the thermal paper was 0.0033 inch. Its backside was than coated with a pressure-sensitive adhesive. The overall thickness was 0.006 inch.

A plain pressure-sensitive label assembly was embossed or indented from the top for an area of 1 inch by 2 inches. The piece of thermal paper coated with the heat-sensitive chromogenic material was glued in the recessed area and maintained at the same surface level as that of the rest of the label.

The patched label assembly was fed into a thermal printer to generate white alphabets and numerals in solid red background within the patch.

EXAMPLE 6

The procedure of Example 5 was repeated, except that Appleton Papers 2062 thermal paper containing a black color-former was used for the thermal patch. The overall thickness of the coated paper and adhesive was 0.0062 inch.

The patched label assembly was fed into a thermal printer to generate black bar code on the patch.

EXAMPLE 7

The procedure of Example 5 was again repeated, except that thermal paper containing crystal violet lactone, a blue color former, and having a thickness of 0.0021 inch was used. The overall thickness of the coated paper and adhesive was 0.005 inch.

White alphabets and numerals in sold blue background within the patch were generated by a thermal printer.

Although the invention has been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is understood that the present disclosure has been made only by way of example and that numerous changes in the details of construction and the combination and arrangement of parts may be resorted to without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the scope of the invention should not be limited by the foregoing specification, but rather, only by the scope of the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1. A document capable of providing information under the application of heat, which comprises:

a first support having a first surface and a second surface, said first surface bearing an information area including a visible principal image, and at least one of said first or second surfaces bearing at least one localized coating comprising a substantially colorless, non-pressure sensitive, heat-activatable chromogenic composition capable of producing a first color under the application of heat,

said chromogenic composition comprising a chromogenic compound and a color developer,

said chromogenic compound and said color developer being substantially colorless solids in physical contact prior to reaction, but which can chemically react to produce a visible colored image by application of heat at temperatures above room temperature,

said information area being substantially free of chromogenic compounds, and free of color developers capable of reacting with chromogenic compounds to produce a visible colored image by application of heat.

2. The document of claim 1, wherein said first surface of said first support bears a single localized coating of said heat-activatable chromogenic composition.

3. The document of claim 2, wherein said second surface of first substrate is provided with a localized coating of a substantially colorless, non-pressure sensitive, heat-activatable chromogenic composition capable of producing a second color under the application of heat.

4. The document of claim 3, wherein said first color and said second color are the same colors.

5. The document of claim 3, wherein said first color and said second color are different colors.

6. The document of claim 3, in which said first color is black and said second color is red.

7. The document of claim 2, wherein said second surface of said first support is provided with a coating of a pressure sensitive adhesive.

8. The document of claim 1, wherein said second surface of said first support bears a localized coating of said heat-activatable chromogenic composition.

9. The document of claim 1, wherein said localized coating of a substantially colorless, non-pressure sensitive, heat-activatable chromogenic composition is heat-activatable at a temperature in the range of between about 40.degree. C. and about 200.degree. C.

10. The document of claim 1, wherein a second support is provided having a third surface and a fourth surface, which is opposite said third surface, said at least one localized coating of said heat-activatable chromogenic composition being coated on said third surface of said second support, said fourth surface being adhered to said first substrate, said localized coating and said second support being coextensive.

11. The document of claim 10, wherein said second support is substantially completely recessed in a complementary, localized recessed portion of the first surface of said first substrate such that said third surface of said second support and the non-recessed portions of said first surface of said first support are at substantially the same level, such that said coated third surface of said recessed second support and said non-recessed portions of said first support cooperate to provide a substantially smooth surface, said fourth surface of said second support being adhered to the recessed portion of said first surface of said first support, said second support and said at least one of said localized coatings being substantially co-extensive.

12. The document of claim 11, wherein said localized coating of said heat-activatable chromogenic composition is heat-activatable at a temperature in the range of between about 40.degree. C. and about 200.degree. C.

13. The document of claim 11, wherein said at least one coating of said heat-activatable chromogenic coating is coated with a substantially transparent heat-resistant topcoat.

14. The document of claim 11, wherein said first surface of said first support bears a single localized coating and said second surface of said first support is provided with a coating of a pressure sensitive adhesive.

15. The document of claim 11, wherein said second surface of said first support is provided with a coating of a pressure sensitive adhesive.

16. The document of claim 11, wherein said second surface is provided with at least one localized coating comprising a substantially colorless, heat-activatable chromogenic composition capable of producing a second color under the application of heat.

17. The document of claim 10, wherein said at least one coating of said heat-activatable chromogenic coating is coated with a substantially transparent heat-resistant topcoat.

18. The document of claim 1, wherein said first substrate is a in the form of a continuous roll.

19. The document of claim 1, wherein said heat-activatable coating includes a temperature suppressant material.

20. A printing system for producing printed documents on demand comprising

a heated metal element for producing a visible image upon application of heat,

a document capable of providing information under the application of heat, which comprises a first support having a first surface and a second surface, said first surface bearing an information area including a visible principal image and at least one localized coating comprising a substantially colorless, non-pressure sensitive, heat-activatable chromogenic composition capable of producing a first color under the application of heat,

said chromogenic composition comprising a chromogenic compound and a color developer,

said chromogenic compound and said color developer being substantially colorless solids in physical contact prior to reaction, but which can chemically react to produce a visible colored image by application of heat at temperatures above room temperature,

said information area being substantially free of chromogenic compounds, and free of color developers capable of reacting with chromogenic compounds to produce a visible colored image by application of heat;

said heated metal element forming a visible, colored image upon contact with said localized coating.

21. The printing system of claim 20, wherein said heated metal element is a printing stylus.

22. A method of printing a document, said document comprising

thermally activating a document capable of providing multiple colors under the application of heat utilizing a heated printing stylus, said document comprising

a first support having a first surface and a second surface, said first surface bearing an information area including a visible principal image, and at least one of said first and second surfaces having at least one localized coating comprising a substantially colorless, non-pressure sensitive, heat-activatable chromogenic composition capable of producing a first color under the application of heat,

said chromogenic composition comprising a chromogenic compound and a color developer,

said chromogenic compound and said color developer being substantially colorless solids in physical contact prior to reaction, but which can chemically react to produce a visible colored image by application of heat at temperatures above room temperature,

said information area being substantially free of chromogenic compounds, and free of color developers capable of reacting with chromogenic compounds to produce a visible colored image by application of heat;

thereafter applying heat to at least one of said first or second coatings of said heat-activatable chromogenic composition to form a visible colored image.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein heat is applied by a heated metal element.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein said heated metal element is a printing stylus.

25. The method of claim 23, wherein heat is applied to said localized heat-activatable coating in the form of a bar code.