Color-changing device

Abstract

The present invention provides a color-changing device that allows users to easily identify the discoloration location. According to an embodiment, the color-changing device comprises: a housing equipped with a power supply; a transparent heater mounted on the housing and comprising a transparent film that generates heat when a voltage is applied thereto, and a transparent substrate that is heated by the heat generated by the transparent film; a heating button that instructs heating the transparent substrate to a temperature at which a thermochromic colorant changes color; and a controller that applies a voltage from the power supply to the transparent film when the heating button is pressed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to color changing devices. Background Art

[0002] Thermochromic colorants are decolorized by heating to a temperature above a predetermined decolorization temperature. For example, some decolorizing devices heat the entire recording medium to decolorize the thermochromic colorant on the recording medium. However, decolorizing devices that heat the entire recording medium cannot selectively decolorize a portion of the recording medium.

[0003] There are also decolorizing devices that use a dedicated component, such as rubber, attached to the back end of a pen or the end of a pen cap to erase thermochromic colorants on recording media. The dedicated component erases the thermochromic colorant through frictional heat generated by rubbing against the recording medium. Because the dedicated component must rub against the recording medium, precise heating (pinpoint) is difficult, making it difficult to accurately determine the location and perform decolorization simultaneously. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, a color changing device is provided which allows a user to easily identify a color changing portion.

[0005] According to an embodiment, the color-changing device comprises: a housing having a power supply; a transparent heater mounted on the housing and having a transparent film that generates heat by an applied voltage and a transparent substrate that is heated by the heat generated in the transparent film; a heating button that instructs heating the transparent substrate to a temperature at which a thermochromic colorant changes color; and a controller that applies a voltage from the power supply to the transparent film when the heating button is pressed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 This is an external view showing a configuration example of a color erasing device as a color changing device according to the first embodiment.

[0007] Figure 2 This is an external view showing a configuration example of a color erasing device as a color changing device according to the first embodiment.

[0008] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing the structure of a transparent heater in the decolorizing device according to the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing an example of components constituting the transparent heater in the decolorizing device according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 5 This is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control system in the decolorizing apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of temperature change when a voltage is applied to the transparent heater of the decolorizing device according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 7 This is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of the decolorizing apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 8 This is an external view simply showing a configuration example of a color erasing device as a color changing device according to the second embodiment.

[0014] Figure 9 It is a diagram showing a first configuration example of a transparent heater in the decolorizing device according to the second embodiment.

[0015] Figure 10 It is a diagram showing a second configuration example of the transparent heater in the decolorizing device according to the second embodiment.

[0016] Description of Reference Numerals

[0017] 1. 201… decolorizing device (color changing device), 11. 211. 311… transparent heater, 12. support (housing), 13. power button, 14. temperature switching button, 15. 151. 152. 153. heating button, 21. transparent substrate, 22. transparent film, 30. controller, 31. processor, 34. sensor circuit, 35. interface, 40. battery, 121. supporting mechanism, 221. 222. 223. 321. 322. 323. transparent film, 251. 252. 351. 352. marking. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0019] The color changing devices according to the first and second embodiments change the color of a thermochromic colorant on a recording medium. In the first and second embodiments, a decolorizing device that decolorizes a thermochromic colorant on a recording medium is described as an example of a color changing device. Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments, decolorization refers to applying heat to the thermochromic colorant to change it from a human-readable color to a transparent color that is indiscernible to humans.

[0020] (First embodiment)

[0021] First, the configuration of the color erasing device 1 as the color changing device according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0022] Figure 1 and Figure 2 It is an external view showing the configuration of the decolorizing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0023] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrated configuration example, the decolorizing device 1 includes a transparent heater 11 , a support 12 , a power button 13 , a temperature switching button 14 , a heating button 15 , and the like.

[0024] The transparent heater 11 is a transparent device that decolorizes the thermochromic colorant. The transparent heater 11 is configured so that when pressed against a recording medium, the recording medium can be seen through. In other words, the transparent heater 11 is configured so that a user can directly visually confirm the portion of the recording medium on which the thermochromic colorant is decolorized. For example, the transparent heater 11 includes a transparent substrate 21 (see FIG. 1 ) that is heated by heat from a heat source. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The transparent substrate 21 of the transparent heater 11 is heated to a temperature (decolorization temperature) at which the thermochromic colorant is decolorized by heat from the heat source. The thermochromic colorant in the area on the recording medium that is in contact with the transparent substrate 21 at the decolorization temperature is decolorized.

[0025] The support 12 is a housing for mounting the transparent heater 11, the power button 13, the temperature switching button 14, the heating button 15 and other parts. In addition, the support 12 has a built-in controller 30 (see Figure 5 ) and battery 40 (refer to Figure 5 ). The support 12 is a handle that the user holds. For example, the support 12 is configured in a stick shape like a pen so that the user can hold it easily. Figure 1 In the illustrated configuration example, the support 12 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape with a long side of approximately 15 cm. However, the shape of the support 12 is not limited to a rectangular parallelepiped. The shape of the support 12 can be any shape as long as it is grippable by the user.

[0026] A support mechanism 121 that supports the transparent heater 11 is provided on the support column 12. The support mechanism 121 supports the transparent heater 11 so as to be movable between a decoloring position (color changing position) and a storage position. Figure 1 An example of the decolorization position of the transparent heater 11 is shown. Figure 2 An example of the storage position of the transparent heater 11 is shown. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the example of the structure shown, the transparent heater 11 is as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown by arrow a in FIG, the transparent heater 11 rotates relative to the support 12 about the fulcrum of the support mechanism 121. Furthermore, the support mechanism 121 includes a locking mechanism for locking the transparent heater 11 in the decolorizing position or the storage position. Any locking mechanism can be used as long as it can be locked and unlocked by a user. When unlocked, the transparent heater 11 can rotate about the fulcrum of the support mechanism 121.

[0027] Furthermore, the support mechanism 121 only needs to be able to hold the transparent heater 11 in the decolorizing position and the storage position. For example, the support mechanism 121 may be a mechanism that slides the transparent heater 11 and stores it in the storage position within the support 12. Furthermore, the support mechanism 121 may be a mechanism that allows the transparent heater 11 to be removed.

[0028] The transparent heater 11 is configured such that the surface of the transparent substrate 21 contacts the recording medium while the transparent heater 11 is held at the decolorizing position. Figure 1 In the example shown, the transparent heater 11 is held in a position (decolorizing position) where the surface (decolorizing surface) of the transparent substrate 21 is perpendicular to the long sides of the support 12. For example, the transparent heater 11 locked in the decolorizing position decolorizes the thermochromic colorant in the area in contact with the surface of the transparent substrate 21 heated to the decolorizing temperature.

[0029] In addition, Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the transparent heater 11 is held in a position (stored position) where the surface (decolorization surface) of the transparent substrate 21 is parallel to the long side of the support 12. For example, when a user moves the transparent heater 11 in the decolorization position so that it folds toward the support 12, the transparent heater 11 rotates about the fulcrum of the support mechanism 121 and is held in the stored position. By maintaining the transparent heater 11 in the stored position, the decolorization device 1 can prevent the transparent heater 11 from increasing in size, thereby facilitating portability by allowing it to be placed in a case, for example.

[0030] In addition, the decolorizing device 1 is configured such that power can be supplied to the transparent heater 11 in the decolorizing position, but power cannot be supplied to the transparent heater 11 in the storage position. Figure 1 The achromatic position shown is in the same position as the controller 30 located in the support 12 (refer to Figure 5 ) and other electrical connections. The transparent heater 11 is Figure 2 The stowed position shown is with the controller 30 located within the support 12 (see Figure 5 ) etc. is disconnected. Thus, the decolorizing device 1 does not supply power to the transparent heater 11 located in the storage position, and can be safely carried and stored.

[0031] The power button 13, the temperature switching button 14, and the heating button 15 are arranged side by side on the surface of the support 12. Each button 13 to 15 may be provided at any position as long as it is provided at a position where the user can operate it.

[0032] The power button 13 is a button for switching the power on and off. For example, the color erasing device 1 switches the power on and off according to the state of the power button 13. For example, each time the power button 13 is pressed, the color erasing device 1 switches the power on and off. In addition, the color erasing device 1 may also switch the power on and off when the power button 13 is pressed for more than a specified time. In addition, the power button 13 may also have a mechanism for maintaining the pressed state. In this case, the color erasing device 1 may also turn on the power when the power button 13 is pressed, and turn off the power when the power button 13 is not pressed.

[0033] The temperature switch button 14 is a button for specifying the temperature of the achromatic surface of the transparent heater 11. For example, the temperature setting of the transparent heater 11 is specified by the state of the temperature switch button. For example, when the temperature switch button 14 is pressed, the transparent heater 11 is set to the first temperature. On the other hand, when the temperature switch button is not pressed, the transparent heater 11 is set to the second temperature.

[0034] The heating button 15 switches the transparent heater 11 on and off. For example, while the heating button 15 is pressed, the transparent heater 11 is turned on and heats the transparent substrate 21 to a set temperature. When the heating button 15 is not pressed, the transparent heater 11 is turned off. Alternatively, the heating button 15 may include a mechanism to maintain its pressed state.

[0035] Next, a configuration example of the transparent heater 11 included in the decolorizing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0036] Figure 3 : is a diagram showing a configuration example of the transparent heater 11 included in the decolorizing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 It means composition Figure 3 A diagram of the components of the transparent heater 11 is shown.

[0037] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the transparent heater 11 includes a transparent substrate 21 , a transparent film 22 , electrodes 23 (a first electrode 231 , a second electrode 232 ), and an insulating layer (insulating film) 24 .

[0038] The transparent substrate 21 is a transparent substrate such as a glass substrate or a PET film. The transparent film 22 is a conductive transparent film such as an ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) film. The transparent film 22 has a resistance (sheet resistance). The transparent film 22 is formed on the transparent substrate 21 by, for example, vapor deposition.

[0039] The electrodes 23 include a first electrode 231 and a second electrode 232. The electrodes 23 are connected to the transparent film 22. A transparent insulating layer 24, such as a glass cover, is formed on the transparent film 22 to which the electrodes 23 are connected. Furthermore, multiple pairs of electrodes 23 may be provided. For example, multiple second electrodes 232 may be provided for each first electrode.

[0040] The first electrode 231 and the second electrode 232 are connected to the sensor circuit 34 (see Figure 5 ) is connected. For example, the first electrode 231 is grounded. A potential is applied to the second electrode 232 from the sensor circuit 34. Due to the potential difference between the first electrode 231 and the second electrode 232, a current flows in the conductive transparent film 22.

[0041] When current flows between the first electrode 231 and the second electrode 232, the transparent film 22 located between the first and second electrodes 231 and 232 generates Joule heat due to sheet resistance. The Joule heat generated in the transparent film 22 heats the transparent substrate 21. Far-infrared rays are radiated from the surface of the transparent substrate 21. The heated transparent substrate 21 warms an object in contact with its surface.

[0042] Next, the configuration of the control system in the decolorizing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0043] Figure 5 It is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control system in the decolorizing apparatus 1 .

[0044] like Figure 5 As shown, the decolorizing device 1 includes a transparent heater 11, a controller 30, and a battery 40. The controller 30 and the battery 40 are built into a support 12 as a housing. The controller 30 is connected to the transparent heater 11, a power button 13, a temperature switching button 14, and a heating button 15.

[0045] The controller 30 controls the operation of the transparent heater 11 based on the status of the power button 13, the temperature switch button 14, and the heating button 15. The battery 40 provides energy for the heat source of the transparent heater 11 to generate heat. The battery 40 is a rechargeable secondary battery built into the support 12. Alternatively, the support 12 may include a battery compartment that allows for the removal of batteries serving as the battery 40.

[0046] The controller 30 includes a processor 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, a sensor circuit 34, and an interface 35. The controller 30 is connected to the transparent heater 11 and the battery 40. The controller 30 operates with power supplied from the battery 40.

[0047] In the controller 30, the processor 31 is connected to the ROM 32, RAM 33, sensor circuit 34, and interface 35 via a bus. The processor 31 controls various components. For example, the processor 31 is a CPU. The processor 31 executes programs for controlling various components. The ROM 32 is a nonvolatile memory that stores programs. The RAM 33 is a working memory that temporarily stores data.

[0048] The sensor circuit 34 includes a circuit for driving the transparent heater 11. The sensor circuit 34 controls the driving of the transparent heater 11 according to a control signal from the processor 31.

[0049] The buttons 13 to 15 are connected to the interface 35 . The processor 31 acquires a signal indicating the state of each button 13 to 15 via the interface 35 .

[0050] The controller 30 may also include an interface for inputting signals from an external device. The battery 40 may also be provided with an interface for obtaining charging power from an external power source.

[0051] Next, the relationship between the voltage applied to the transparent heater 11 and the temperature generated on the surface of the transparent substrate 21 of the transparent heater 11 will be described.

[0052] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the relationship between temperature and time when two voltages are applied to the electrodes 23 ( 231 , 232 ) of the transparent heater 11 .

[0053] Figure 6 1 and 2 show temperature changes when voltage A is applied to the electrodes 231 and 232 of the transparent heater 11 and temperature changes when voltage B, which is larger than voltage A, is applied to the electrodes 231 and 232. Figure 6 As shown, when a voltage is applied to the electrodes 231 and 232 of the transparent heater 11, Joule heat is generated in the transparent film 22, and the temperature of the transparent substrate 21 is increased by the heat generated by the transparent film 22. The temperature of the transparent substrate 21 reaches a predetermined temperature after a few seconds of voltage application. Figure 6 In the example shown, when voltage A is applied, the temperature of transparent substrate 21 reaches approximately 70° C. after 6 to 7 seconds. When voltage B is applied, the temperature of transparent substrate 21 reaches approximately 90° C. after 5 to 6 seconds.

[0054] The decolorizing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment can set two temperatures as the temperature of the transparent substrate 21. The processor 31 of the controller 30 sets the temperature of the transparent substrate 21 according to the state of the temperature switching button 14. Figure 6As shown, the temperature of the transparent substrate 21 depends on the voltage value applied to the electrode 23 of the transparent heater 11. Therefore, the processor 31 of the controller 30 sets the voltage value applied to the transparent heater 11 by the sensor circuit 34 according to the state of the temperature switch button 14.

[0055] For example, the temperature set by the temperature switching button 14 is switched according to the decolorization object. The decolorization temperature of the thermochromic colorant is different. As a specific example, it is assumed that the first colorant is decolorized at a temperature above the first decolorization temperature, and the second colorant is decolorized at a second decolorization temperature higher than the first decolorization temperature. In this case, at a temperature above the first decolorization temperature and lower than the second decolorization temperature, the second colorant is not decolorized, while the first colorant is decolorized. In addition, at a temperature above the second decolorization temperature, both the second colorant and the first colorant are decolorized. The user can specify any one of a setting of decolorizing the first colorant without decolorizing the second colorant and a setting of decolorizing both the first colorant and the second colorant through the temperature switching button 14.

[0056] Furthermore, the heat applied from the surface of the transparent substrate 21 to the recording medium causes the thermochromic colorant on the recording medium to decolorize. Therefore, the user can also switch the temperature setting of the temperature switch button 14 according to the usage situation. For example, if the user wants to activate the transparent heater 11 quickly to decolorize the thermochromic colorant on the recording medium, the user can increase the temperature setting using the temperature switch button 14. Alternatively, if the user wants to minimize the application of high temperatures to the recording medium, the user can decrease the temperature setting using the temperature switch button 14 to activate the transparent heater 11 slowly.

[0057] Next, the operation of the decolorizing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0058] Figure 7 This is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of the decolorizing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0059] The processor 31 of the controller 30 detects the state of the power button 13 (ACT 11). For example, if the power button 13 is pressed while the power is off, the processor 31 turns the power on based on a signal supplied from the power button 13. If the power button 13 is not pressed (ACT 11, No), the processor 31 maintains the power off state.

[0060] When the processor 31 receives a signal indicating that the power button 13 is pressed while the power is on (ACT11, yes), it determines whether the transparent heater 11 is in a usable state (ACT12). Figure 1 When the transparent heater 11 is in the decolorization position as shown, the processor 31 determines that the transparent heater 11 is in a usable state. Figure 2 When the transparent heater 11 is in the storage position as shown, the processor 31 determines that the transparent heater 11 is in an unusable state. In addition, the processor 31 can also determine whether the transparent heater 11 is in an available state based on whether the transparent heater 11 is electrically connected to the controller 30.

[0061] If the transparent heater 11 is in an unusable state (ACT 12, No), the processor 31 waits for the transparent heater 11 to become usable. Alternatively, the decolorizing apparatus 1 may include a display, such as an LED, on the support 12 to indicate whether the transparent heater 11 is in an unusable state. Upon determining that the transparent heater 11 is in an unusable state, the processor 31 may cause the display to indicate that the transparent heater 11 is in an unusable state.

[0062] When the transparent heater 11 is in an operational state (ACT 12, YES), the processor 31 sets the temperature of the transparent substrate 21 according to the state of the temperature switch button 14 (ACT 13). For example, the processor 31 detects the state of the temperature switch button 14. When the temperature switch button 14 is in a state that specifies a first temperature, the processor 31 sets the voltage value corresponding to the first temperature as the voltage value applied to the transparent heater 11 in the sensor circuit 34. When the temperature switch button 14 is in a state that specifies a second temperature, the processor 31 sets the voltage value corresponding to the second temperature as the voltage value applied to the transparent heater 11 in the sensor circuit 34.

[0063] After setting the temperature corresponding to the state of the temperature switching button 14, the processor 31 determines whether to heat the transparent substrate 21 of the transparent heater 11 (ACT 14). For example, the processor 31 determines that heating is to be performed when the heating button 15 is pressed, and determines that heating is not to be performed when the heating button 15 is not pressed. In this case, the processor 31 detects the state of the heating button 15 and determines whether to heat the transparent substrate 21 based on the state of the heating button 15.

[0064] When it is determined that the transparent substrate 21 is to be heated (ACT 14, YES), the processor 31 applies a voltage of a value set according to the state of the temperature switching button 14 to the electrode 23 of the transparent heater 11 (ACT 15). For example, the processor 31 applies a voltage to the electrodes 231 and 232 from the sensor circuit 34, which has set the voltage value to be applied according to the state of the temperature switching button 14.

[0065] If the processor 31 determines that the transparent substrate 21 is not being heated (ACT 14 , No), the processor 31 cuts off the voltage applied to the electrode 23 of the transparent heater 11 (ACT 16 ). For example, the processor 31 stops the voltage applied from the sensor circuit 34 to the electrode 23 of the transparent heater 11 .

[0066] After the power is turned on, the processor 31 continuously detects the state of the power button 13. The processor 31 repeatedly executes the processes of ACT 12 to 16 until the power button 13 is turned off (ACT 17). If the power button 13 is turned off (ACT 17, YES), the processor 31 ends the series of processes.

[0067] As described above, the decolorizing device according to the first embodiment includes a transparent heater and a controller. The transparent heater is composed of a transparent member that allows the pressed portion to be seen through. The transparent heater includes a transparent substrate and a conductive transparent film. The controller applies a voltage corresponding to a set temperature to the transparent film of the transparent heater. The transparent heater utilizes the heat generated by the applied voltage on the transparent film to heat the transparent substrate. The heated transparent substrate can decolorize the thermochromic colorant formed on the recording medium.

[0068] According to the decolorizing device of the first embodiment described above, since the transparent heater is transparent, the user can directly visually confirm the portion being pressed for decolorization. In other words, in the decolorizing device of the first embodiment, the user can operate the device while directly confirming the portion being pressed for decolorization. This provides a decolorizing device that can reliably press the decolorizing surface onto the desired decolorization area and accurately decolorize the thermochromic colorant on the recording medium.

[0069] (Second embodiment)

[0070] Next, a second embodiment will be described.

[0071] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing a first configuration example of the transparent heater 211 used in the decolorizing apparatus according to the second embodiment.

[0072] The transparent heater 211 according to the second embodiment and Figure 3 The transparent heater 11 shown in FIG. 1 also has a structure in which a transparent substrate, a transparent film, an electrode, and an insulating layer are stacked. However, the transparent film and the electrode of the transparent heater 211 are different from those of FIG. Figure 3 The transparent heater 11 shown is different.

[0073] exist Figure 8 In the illustrated configuration example, the transparent film serving as the heat source in the transparent heater 211 is formed of three transparent films 221, 222, and 223 having different shapes. The three transparent films 221, 222, and 223 are arranged at the same Figure 3The transparent heater 11 shown in FIG. A transparent film 221 is disposed on a first region of the transparent substrate 21. A transparent film 222 is disposed on the transparent substrate 21 to match the transparent film 221. The transparent films 221 and 222 are disposed on a second region of the transparent substrate 21. A transparent film 223 is disposed on the transparent substrate 21 to match the transparent films 221 and 222. The transparent films 221, 222, and 223 are disposed so as to cover the entire achromatic surface of the transparent substrate 21.

[0074] Each transparent film 221, 222, and 223 is connected to a pair of electrodes and is covered by a transparent insulating layer 24. Transparent film 221 is connected to electrodes 231 and 2321. Transparent film 222 is connected to electrodes 231 and 2322. Transparent film 223 is connected to electrodes 231 and 2323.

[0075] The electrodes 231, 2321, 2322, and 2323 connected to the transparent films 221, 222, and 223 are connected to the controller 30 built into the support column 12. The controller 30 has Figure 5 The structure is the same as that of the decolorizing device 1 shown in FIG. Each of the electrodes 231, 2321, 2322, and 2333 is connected to the sensor circuit 34 in the controller 30. Here, the electrode 231 is grounded.

[0076] The transparent film 221 is connected to the electrodes 231 and 2321. When a potential is applied to the electrodes 2321 (when a voltage is applied to the electrodes 231 and 2321), a current flows through the transparent film 221, generating heat due to the sheet resistance. The sensor circuit 34 of the controller 30 generates heat in the transparent film 221 by applying a voltage to the electrodes 231 and 2321 (applying a voltage to the transparent film 221). Therefore, when the sensor circuit 34 applies a voltage to the transparent film 221, the region of the transparent substrate 21 corresponding to the transparent film 221 (the first region) is heated by the heat from the transparent film 221. When the first region of the transparent substrate 21 reaches the decolorization temperature due to the heat from the transparent film 221, it becomes a region capable of decolorizing the thermochromic colorant.

[0077] The transparent film 222 is connected to the electrodes 231 and 2322. When a potential is applied to the electrodes 2322 (when a voltage is applied to the electrodes 231 and 2322), a current flows through the transparent film 222, generating heat due to the sheet resistance. The sensor circuit 34 generates heat in the transparent film 222 by applying a voltage to the electrodes 231 and 2322 (applying a voltage to the transparent film 222).

[0078] The transparent films 222 and 221 form a rectangular region (second region) that is larger than the transparent film 221. Therefore, when the sensor circuit 34 applies a voltage to the transparent films 222 and 221, the second region of the transparent substrate 21 corresponding to the transparent films 221 and 222 is heated. When the second region of the transparent substrate 21 reaches the decolorization temperature due to the heat from the transparent films 221 and 222, it becomes a region capable of decolorizing the thermochromic colorant.

[0079] The transparent film 223 is connected to the electrodes 231 and 2323. When a potential is applied to the electrodes 2323 (when a voltage is applied to the electrodes 231 and 2323), a current flows through the transparent film 223, generating heat due to the sheet resistance. The sensor circuit 34 generates heat in the transparent film 223 by applying a voltage to the electrodes 231 and 2323 (applying a voltage to the transparent film 223).

[0080] The transparent films 223, 222, and 221 form a rectangular region covering the entire color-eliminating surface of the transparent substrate 21. Therefore, when the sensor circuit 34 applies a voltage to the transparent films 223, 222, and 221, the entire color-eliminating surface (third region) of the transparent substrate 21 is heated. When the third region of the transparent substrate 21 reaches the color-eliminating temperature due to the heat from the transparent film 221, it becomes a region capable of decolorizing the thermochromic colorant.

[0081] Furthermore, transparent heater 211 displays a mark 251 indicating the area corresponding to transparent film 221 (first area) and a mark 252 indicating the area corresponding to transparent films 221 and 222 (second area). Marks 251 and 252 may be any mark that allows the user to identify the heated area (decolorizable area). For example, marks 251 and 252 may be printed on either transparent substrate 21 or insulating layer 24.

[0082] Figure 9 It is an external view showing a configuration example of a decolorizing apparatus 201 according to the second embodiment.

[0083] Figure 9 The color erasing device 201 shown in FIG. Figure 1 The transparent heater 11 in the decolorizing device 1 shown is replaced by Figure 8 The transparent heater 211 shown is different in this respect. Figure 9 The color erasing device 201 shown in FIG. Figure 1 The decolorizing device 1 shown is also different in that the heating button 15 is replaced by three heating buttons 151, 152, and 153. Figure 9 In the decolorizing device 201 shown, Figure 1The same components as those of the decolorizing apparatus 1 shown are denoted by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0084] Transparent heater 211 and Figure 1 and Figure 2 The transparent heater 11 of the decolorizing device 1 shown is similarly supported by the support 121 on the support column 12. The transparent heater 211 is configured to move between the decolorizing position and the storage position by rotating relative to the support column 12 around the fulcrum of the support 121. Figure 9 The thermochromic toner on the recording medium is decolorized in the locked state at the decolorizing position. Similarly to the transparent heater 11, the transparent heater 211 is held on the support 12 in the stored position in a state electrically disconnected from the controller 30.

[0085] Figure 9 As described above, the transparent heater 211 shown heats any one of the first region (the region corresponding to the transparent film 221), the second region (the region corresponding to the transparent films 221 and 222), or the third region (the region corresponding to the transparent films 221, 222, and 223). A mark 251 indicating the first region and a mark 252 indicating the second region are formed on the transparent heater 211.

[0086] The three heating buttons 151 , 152 , and 153 are buttons for selecting a region to be heated to a color-reducing temperature.

[0087] The heating button 151 is a button for instructing heating the first region to a decolorizing temperature. When the heating button 151 is pressed, the first region in the transparent substrate 21 of the transparent heater 211 is heated and becomes a decolorizable region.

[0088] The heating button 152 is a button for instructing heating the second region to a color-decoloring temperature. When the heating button 152 is pressed, the second region in the transparent substrate 21 of the transparent heater 211 is heated and becomes a color-decolorable region.

[0089] The heating button 153 is a button for instructing heating the third region (the entire color-erasing surface of the transparent substrate 21) to the color-erasing temperature. When the heating button 153 is pressed, the third region of the transparent substrate 21 is heated and becomes a color-erasable region.

[0090] Figure 9 The color erasing device 201 shown is similar to the one described in the first embodiment. Figure 7The color erasing device 201 operates in the same manner as the flowchart shown in FIG. However, the color erasing device 201 differs from the color erasing device 1 in that it heats the area corresponding to the pressed heating button among the three heating buttons 151, 152, and 153. In the color erasing device 201, the processor 31 of the controller 30 detects the status of each heating button 151, 152, and 153. The processor 31 controls the sensor circuit 34 to heat the area corresponding to the pressed heating button.

[0091] For example, when the heating button 151 is pressed, the processor 31 of the controller 30 applies a voltage corresponding to the set decolorization temperature to the transparent film 221 via the sensor circuit 34. When the voltage is applied to the transparent film 221, the first region of the transparent substrate 21 is heated by the heat from the transparent film 221. When the first region of the transparent substrate 21 reaches the decolorization temperature due to the heat from the transparent film 221, it becomes a decolorizable region.

[0092] When the heating button 152 is pressed, the processor 31 of the controller 30 applies a voltage corresponding to a set temperature to the transparent films 221 and 222 via the sensor circuit 34. When the voltage is applied to the transparent films 221 and 222, the second region of the transparent substrate 21 is heated. When the second region of the transparent substrate 21 reaches the decolorization temperature due to the heat from the transparent films 221 and 222, it becomes a decolorizable region.

[0093] When the heating button 153 is pressed, the processor 31 of the controller 30 applies a voltage corresponding to the set temperature to the transparent films 221, 222, and 223 via the sensor circuit 34. When the voltage is applied to the transparent films 221, 222, and 223, the third region of the transparent substrate 21 is heated. When the third region (the entire color-eliminating surface) of the transparent substrate 21 reaches the color-eliminating temperature due to the heat from the transparent films 221, 222, and 223, it becomes a color-eliminating region.

[0094] Next, a second configuration example of the transparent heater mounted in the decolorizing apparatus 201 according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0095] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing a second configuration example of the transparent heater 311 mounted in the decolorizing apparatus 201 according to the second embodiment.

[0096] The transparent heater 311 has a structure in which a transparent substrate, a transparent film, an electrode and an insulating layer are stacked in the same manner as the transparent heater 11. However, the transparent film and the electrode of the transparent heater 311 are different from those of the transparent heater 11. Figure 3 The transparent heater 11 shown is different. In addition, the transparent substrate 21 of the transparent heater 311 is different from the transparent substrate 21 of the transparent heater 311. Figure 3The transparent substrate 21 shown in the figure can also be made of a transparent member such as a glass substrate or a PET film. However, the shape of the transparent substrate 21 of the transparent heater 311 is different from that of the transparent substrate 21 of the figure. Figure 3 The transparent substrate 21 shown is different.

[0097] exist Figure 10 In the illustrated configuration example, the transparent film serving as the heat source in the transparent heater 311 is formed of three transparent films 321, 322, and 323 having different shapes. The three transparent films 321, 322, and 323 are formed into shapes having acute angles when disposed on the transparent substrate 21. The transparent substrate 21 of the transparent heater 311 is formed into a shape corresponding to the shape of the combined arrangement of the three transparent films 321, 322, and 323.

[0098] The transparent film 321 is formed into a shape having an acute angle. The transparent film 321 is disposed in a first region on the transparent substrate 21. The transparent film 322 is disposed on the transparent substrate 21 in combination with the transparent film 321, while retaining the acute angle of the transparent film 321. The transparent films 321 and 322 are disposed in a second region on the transparent substrate 21. The transparent film 323 is disposed on the transparent substrate 21 in combination with the transparent films 321 and 322, while retaining the acute angle of the transparent film 321. The transparent films 321, 322, and 323 are disposed so as to cover the entire achromatic surface (third region) of the transparent substrate 21.

[0099] Each transparent film 321, 322, and 323 is connected to a pair of electrodes and is covered by a transparent insulating layer 24. Transparent film 321 is connected to electrodes 231 and 2321. Transparent film 322 is connected to electrodes 231 and 2322. Transparent film 323 is connected to electrodes 231 and 2323.

[0100] The electrodes 231, 2321, 2322, 2323 connected to the transparent films 321, 322, 323 are connected to the controller 30 built into the support 12. The controller 30 may have Figure 5 The structure is the same as that of the decolorizing device 1 shown in FIG. Each of the electrodes 231, 2321, 2322, and 2333 is connected to the sensor circuit 34 in the controller 30. Here, the electrode 231 is grounded.

[0101] Furthermore, the electrode 2321 is connected to the controller 30 in a state insulated from the transparent films 322 and 323. For example, the wiring connecting the electrode 2321 and the controller 30 is insulated from the transparent films 322 and 323 by an insulating layer. Furthermore, the electrode 2322 is connected to the controller 30 in a state insulated from the transparent film 323. For example, the wiring connecting the electrode 2322 and the controller 30 is insulated from the transparent film 323 by an insulating layer.

[0102] In the transparent heater 311, when a potential is applied to the electrode 2321 (when a voltage is applied to the electrodes 231 and 2321), a current flows through the transparent film 321, generating heat due to the sheet resistance. The sensor circuit 34 of the controller 30 generates heat in the transparent film 321 by applying a voltage to the electrodes 231 and 2321 (applying a voltage to the transparent film 321). Therefore, when the sensor circuit 34 applies a voltage to the transparent film 321, the region of the transparent substrate 21 corresponding to the transparent film 321 (the first region) is heated by the heat from the transparent film 321. When the first region of the transparent substrate 21 reaches the decolorization temperature due to the heat from the transparent film 321, it becomes a region capable of decolorizing the thermochromic colorant.

[0103] In the transparent heater 311, when a potential is applied to the electrode 2322 (when a voltage is applied to the electrodes 231 and 2322), a current flows through the transparent film 322, generating heat due to the sheet resistance. The sensor circuit 34 generates heat in the transparent film 322 by applying a voltage to the electrodes 231 and 2322 (applying a voltage to the transparent film 322).

[0104] Transparent film 322 and transparent film 321 form a rectangular region (second region) larger than the first region. When sensor circuit 34 applies a voltage to transparent film 322 and transparent film 321, the second region of transparent substrate 21 corresponding to transparent film 321 and transparent film 322 is heated. When the second region of transparent substrate 21 reaches the decolorization temperature due to the heat from transparent film 321 and transparent film 322, it becomes a region capable of decolorizing the thermochromic colorant.

[0105] In the transparent heater 311, when a potential is applied to the electrode 2323 (when a voltage is applied to the electrodes 231 and 2323), a current flows through the transparent film 323, generating heat due to the sheet resistance. The sensor circuit 34 generates heat in the transparent film 323 by applying a voltage to the electrodes 231 and 2323 (applying a voltage to the transparent film 323).

[0106] The transparent films 323, 322, and 321 form a rectangular region (third region) that covers the entire color-eliminating surface of the transparent substrate 21. Therefore, when the sensor circuit 34 applies a voltage to the transparent films 323, 322, and 321, the entire color-eliminating surface (third region) of the transparent substrate 21 is heated. When the third region of the transparent substrate 21 reaches the color-eliminating temperature due to the heat from the transparent films 321, 322, and 323, it becomes a region capable of decolorizing the thermochromic colorant.

[0107] Furthermore, transparent heater 311 displays a mark 351 indicating the area corresponding to transparent film 321 (first area) and a mark 352 indicating the area corresponding to transparent films 321 and 322 (second area). Marks 351 and 352 may be any mark that allows the user to identify the heated area (decolorizable area). For example, marks 351 and 352 may be printed on either transparent substrate 21 or insulating layer 24.

[0108] The transparent heater 311 as the second configuration example is mounted on the decolorizing device 201 according to the second embodiment in the same manner as the transparent heater 211 as the first configuration example. For example, the transparent heater 311 may be mounted on the decolorizing device 201 in place of the transparent heater 211. Figure 9 The color erasing device 201 shown in FIG. The color erasing device 201 equipped with the transparent heater 311 can perform the same operation as the color erasing device 201 equipped with the transparent heater 211 described above.

[0109] As described above, the decolorizing device according to the second embodiment includes a transparent heater formed of a transparent component and a controller. The transparent heater includes a transparent substrate and a plurality of conductive transparent films. The controller applies a voltage to the transparent films corresponding to designated areas. The areas of the transparent substrate of the transparent heater corresponding to the transparent films to which the voltage is applied are heated, and these heated areas can decolorize the thermochromic colorant.

[0110] In the color erasing device according to the second embodiment, the user can not only directly visually confirm the portion pressed by the transparent heater, but also specify the color erasable area. In the color erasing device according to the second embodiment, the user can specify the size of the color erasable area and operate the device while directly confirming the portion corresponding to the specified area. Thus, a color erasing device can be provided in which the user can specify the size of the color erasable area according to the portion to be erased and operate the device while confirming the portion corresponding to the specified area.

[0111] Furthermore, the decolorizing device according to the second embodiment is configured such that each area formed by the combination of multiple transparent films includes a corner that can be precisely pressed against the recording medium. This provides a decolorizing device that can easily and precisely decolorize the thermochromic colorant on the recording medium, regardless of which area the user designates as the decolorizable area.

[0112] In addition, the decolorizing apparatus according to the second embodiment has marks indicating the regions formed by the combination of the plurality of transparent films provided on the transparent heater, thereby providing a decolorizing apparatus that allows the user to easily visually confirm the region designated as the decolorizable region.

[0113] Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other ways and can be omitted, replaced, or modified without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are intended to be included within the scope and spirit of the invention and are also intended to be included within the scope of the invention set forth in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A color changing device, characterized in that: have: The housing is the handle held by the user and has a power source; a transparent heater mounted on the housing and having a transparent film that generates heat by an applied voltage and a transparent substrate that is heated by the heat generated in the transparent film; A heating button for instructing to heat the transparent substrate to a temperature at which the thermochromic colorant changes color; a controller for applying a voltage from the power supply to the transparent film in a state where the heating button is pressed; as well as A supporting mechanism supports the transparent heater on the housing so as to be movable between a storage position and a color changing position. The transparent film is a transparent film having conductivity and is formed on the transparent substrate by vapor deposition. The transparent heater is electrically connected to the controller located in the housing when in the color-changing position, and is electrically disconnected from the controller located in the housing when in the storage position.

2. The color changing device according to claim 1, characterized in that The color changing device has a temperature switching button for specifying a temperature. The controller controls a value of a voltage applied to the transparent film according to a temperature specified by a state of the temperature switching button.

3. The color changing device according to claim 1, characterized in that The transparent heater includes a plurality of transparent films, and the plurality of transparent films are located at positions corresponding to respective regions dividing the surface of the transparent substrate into a plurality of regions. The controller applies a voltage to the transparent film disposed at a position corresponding to the designated area.

4. The color changing device according to claim 1, characterized in that The supporting mechanism includes a locking mechanism for locking the transparent heater at the color changing position or the storage position.

5. The color changing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The transparent heater is rotatable around a fulcrum of the support mechanism.

6. The color changing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The transparent heater further comprises a first electrode and a second electrode, The potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode causes current to flow in the conductive transparent film.

7. The color changing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The controller operates with power supplied from a battery.

8. The color changing device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The plurality of regions include a first region divided based on a corner in the surface of the transparent substrate and a second region larger than the first region.

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