Smart freshness indicator for freeze-pause shelf-life monitoring

Abstract

An indicator device for monitoring shelf-life of a product after the product is unfrozen, the indicator device includes a top layer and a bottom layer sealed together to form a first indicator zone. A fluid reservoir is configured to store an indicator substance that is liquefied when a temperature exceeds a threshold temperature and is solid below the threshold temperature. The fluid reservoir has a breakable seal the indicator substance. The first indicator zone includes a first fluidic channel formed between the top layer and the bottom layer. The first fluidic channel includes a first transport medium through which the indicator substance travels at a first predefined rate along a length of the first indicator zone when the indicator substance is in a liquid state. The top layer includes one or more consumer-facing visual indicators.

Description

Docket No. 15813091.000003SMART FRESHNESS INDICATOR FOR FREEZE-PAUSE SHELF-LIFE MONITORINGCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.63 / 760,489, filed February 19, 2025, pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 119(e), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates generally to time-temperature indicators for perishable products, and more specifically to indicators that automatically pause shelf-life monitoring when a product is frozen and resume monitoring when the product is unfrozen, providing consumer-facing visual indication of remaining shelf life.BACKGROUND

[0003] Perishable products benefit from indicators that account for cold-chain realities. Conventional migration-based time or time-temperature indicators typically continue to progress once activated regardless of subsequent re-freezing, or require special user actions (e.g.. folding a passage) to defer flow. There remains a need for an indicator that (i) is manufacturable and activatable in standard packaging lines, (ii) automatically pauses while frozen without user manipulation, and (iii) resumes accurately upon thaw to reflect cumulative non-frozen exposure.SUMMARY

[0004] The present disclosure provides technical solutions to the problems of previous approaches to shelf-life monitoring by providing an automated, consumer-facing indicator device for perishable items that are originally frozen before being stored under refrigerated or higher-temperature conditions. The indicator device remains paused during freezing and resumes an accurate countdown under refrigeration or other higher temperature conditions, ensuring reliable and clear shelf-life information without manual intervention. The indicator device may be consumer-facing, offering an intuitive, real-time display of the remaining shelf-life directly on theDocket No. 15813091.000003product packaging. Previous time-temperature indicators continuously count down product life regardless of temperature fluctuations, often resulting in inaccurate shelf-life estimations. In contrast, the indicator device of the present disclosure employs a freeze-pause and thaw-resume mechanism that halts the countdown during freezing and resumes the countdown only when unfrozen, helping to ensure precise shelf-life tracking. This approach decreases human error, reduces mislabeling, and empowers consumers with clear, easily accessible shelf-life and product freshness information.

[0005] A significant advantage of certain embodiments is the provision of multiple indicator zones configured to monitor shelf life on different time scales or in response to different temperature thresholds. For example, a first indicator zone may track cumulative time above a first threshold (e.g., above freezing) while a second indicator zone may track cumulative time above a second, higher threshold (e.g., above safe refrigeration temperatures), providing comprehensive cold-chain breach detection in a single integrated device.

[0006] In some embodiments, an indicator device for monitoring shelf-life of a product after the product is unfrozen includes a top layer and a bottom layer sealed together to form a first indicator zone, wherein at least a portion of the top layer includes an at least partially transparent display window providing a view of at least a portion of the first indicator zone; and a fluid reservoir configured to store an indicator substance, wherein the fluid reservoir includes a breakable seal, wherein the indicator substance is liquefied when a temperature exceeds a threshold temperature and is solid below the threshold temperature. The first indicator zone includes a first fluidic channel formed between the top layer and the bottom layer, the first fluidic channel including a first transport medium through which the indicator substance travels at a first predefined rate along a length of the first indicator zone when the indicator substance is in a liquid state, wherein, after the breakable seal of the fluid reservoir is broken, the first fluidic channel is fluidically coupled to the fluid reservoir. The top layer further includes one or more consumer-facing visual indicators, the one or more consumer-facing visual indicators indicating at least one of (i) a count-down of shelf-life remaining based on a position of the indicator substance along the length of the first indicator zone, (ii) a count of days since the product was unfrozen based on the position of the indicator substance along the length of the first indicator zone, and (iii) a percentage of shelf-lifeDocket No. 15813091.000003remaining for the product based on the position of the indicator substance along the length of the first indicator zone.

[0007] In some embodiments, the indicator device further includes a second indicator zone including a second fluidic channel formed between the top layer and the bottom layer, the second fluidic channel including a second transport medium through which the indicator substance travels at a second predefined rate along a length of the second indicator zone when the indicator substance is in the liquid state, wherein, after the breakable seal of the fluid reservoir is broken, the second fluidic channel is fluidically coupled to the fluid reservoir, wherein the second predefined rate of travel through the second indicator zone is different than the first predefined rate of travel through the first indicator zone. In certain embodiments, the first predefined rate corresponds to a travel time of about 10 to 20 days through the first indicator zone, and the second predefined rate corresponds to a travel time of less than 10 days through the second indicator zone.

[0008] In some embodiments, the indicator device further includes a second fluid reservoir configured to store a second indicator substance, wherein the second fluid reservoir includes a second breakable seal, wherein the second indicator substance is liquefied when a temperature exceeds a second threshold and is solid below a second threshold temperature, wherein the second threshold temperature is associated with a prescribed storage temperature of the product when displayed; and a secondary indicator zone including a second fluidic channel formed between the top layer and the bottom layer, the second fluidic channel including a second transport medium through which the second indicator substance travels at a second predefined rate when the second indicator substance is in the liquid state, wherein, after the breakable seal of the second fluid reservoir is broken, the second fluidic channel is fluidically coupled to the second fluid reservoir.

[0009] In some embodiments, the indicator device further includes a fluid chamber positioned above the fluid reservoir and in fluid communication with the first indicator zone, wherein, after the breakable seal of the fluid reservoir is broken, the indicator substance is allowed to travel into the fluid chamber when the indicator substance is in the liquid state. In certain embodiments, the fluid chamber includes a visual marking that becomes visible after the indicator substance enters the fluid chamber.Docket No. 15813091.000003

[0010] In some embodiments, the one or more visual indicators include an indication of a price reduction to offer on the product based on an amount of expired shelf-life. In certain embodiments, the one or more visual indicators include dynamic pricing indicators positioned alongside the display window, wherein the dynamic pricing indicators indicate progressively increasing price reductions based on the elapsed or remaining shelf life of the product.

[0011] In some embodiments, the indicator device further includes an adhesive material attached to a bottom surface of the bottom layer, wherein the adhesive material allows the indicator device to be affixed to packaging of the product.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first transport medium includes a porous paper-based material or a porous polymeric material. In certain embodiments, the first fluidic channel includes microstructures that provide consistent flow dynamics. In some embodiments, the indicator substance includes a polymer or composite having a predefined phase-change temperature.

[0013] In some embodiments, the indicator device further includes a device-readable code or tag, wherein, in response to the code or tag being scanned by a device, information about the product is automatically presented on the device. In certain embodiments, the information includes at least one of information about the product and its source, information about a company associated with the product, other products related to the product, and social media posts associated with the product.

[0014] In some embodiments, the indicator device further includes a sensor configured to measure temperature; and a communication interface coupled to the sensor and configured to transmit the measured temperature to an external device.

[0015] In some embodiments, the product includes food, a pharmaceutical, a cosmetic, or a chemical reagent.

[0016] In some embodiments, the indicator device automatically pauses shelf-life monitoring when the product is re-frozen and automatically resumes monitoring when the product is again unfrozen. In certain embodiments, breaking the breakable seal does not initiate flow of the indicator substance when the indicator substance is in the solid state.Docket No. 15813091.000003

[0017] In some embodiments, an indicator device includes a first indicator zone configured to monitor shelf life at a first rate corresponding to a first temperature threshold and a second indicator zone configured to monitor shelf life at a second rate corresponding to a second temperature threshold different from the first temperature threshold, wherein both indicator zones are integrated in a single device.

[0018] In some embodiments, a method includes affixing an indicator device to a package storing the product, wherein the indicator device includes: a top layer and a bottom layer sealed together to form a first indicator zone, wherein at least a portion of the top layer includes an at least partially transparent display window providing a view of at least a portion of the first indicator zone; and a fluid reservoir configured to store an indicator substance, wherein the fluid reservoir includes a breakable seal, wherein the indicator substance is liquefied when a temperature exceeds a threshold temperature and is solid below the threshold temperature; wherein the first indicator zone includes a first fluidic channel formed between the top layer and the bottom layer, the first fluidic channel including a first transport medium through which the indicator substance travels at a first predefined rate along a length of the first indicator zone when the indicator substance is in a liquid state, wherein, after the breakable seal of the fluid reservoir is broken, the first fluidic channel is fluidically coupled to the fluid reservoir; and wherein the top layer further includes one or more consumer-facing visual indicators, the one or more consumer-facing visual indicators indicating at least one of (i) a count-down of shelf-life remaining based on a position of the indicator substance along the length of the first indicator zone, (ii) a count of days since the product was unfrozen based on the position of the indicator substance along the length of the first indicator zone, and (iii) a percentage of shelf-life remaining for the product based on the position of the indicator substance along the length of the first indicator zone. The method further includes activating the indicator device by breaking the breakable seal; and moving the package from a first environment at a first temperature to a second environment at a second temperature that is greater than the first temperature.

[0019] In certain embodiments of the method, the indicator substance remains solid and does not flow through the transport medium while the package is in the first environment, and the indicator substance liquefies and begins flowing through the transport medium only upon transition to theDocket No. 15813091.000003second environment, thereby ensuring shelf-life monitoring begins precisely when the product is unfrozen.

[0020] Other devices and methods according to embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to a person skilled in the art upon review of the following drawings and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional devices and methods be included within this description and within the scope of this disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples are described with reference to the following figures.

[0022] FIGS. 1A and IB are a diagrams illustrating an indicator device in an inactivated and activated state, respectively, according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a timelapse of an indicator device during its use, according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a timelapse of another indicator device during its use, according to other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating a timelapse of another indicator device during its use, according to yet other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating an indicator device similar to the indicator device of FIG.4A but with dynamic pricing visual indicators.

[0027] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a timelapse of a multi-channel indicator device during its use, according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a timelapse of another multi-channel indicator device during its use, according to other embodiments of this disclosure.DocketNo. 15813091.000003

[0029] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a device-scannable indicator device, according to other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating device scannable indicator devices, according to other embodiments of this disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustrations specific embodiments or examples. These aspects may be combined, other aspects may be utilized, and structural changes may be made without departing from the present disclosure. Examples may be practiced as methods, systems, or devices. The following detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0032] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a consumer-facing indicator device that monitors the shelf life of products initially stored in a frozen state and later transitioned to refrigeration or higher temperature storage (e.g., on a refrigerated shelf for display). The indicator device indicates the remaining shelf life after the product has been transferred to the warmer environment. The indicator device allows a countdown (or other metric) of the shelf life to be “paused” while the product is frozen and resumed when the product is thawed, providing an accurate, real-time indication of the remaining shelflife directly on the product’s packaging.

[0033] Improvements provided by embodiments of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, more accurate shelf-life monitoring, improved consumer engagement, reduced human error, and enhanced ease of integration. For example, more accurate shelf-life monitoring may be achieved by pausing the countdown when the product is frozen. This allows the indicator device to provide a more accurate measure of shelf life that is solely attributable to exposure to higher temperatures (e.g., when a product is moved to refrigeration). Improved consumer engagement may be achieved through an integrated, consumer-facing display with a display window and visual indicator, enabling untrained end-users to quickly assess product freshness without relying on external tools or manual dating by store personnel. This can enhance consumer trust in a productDocket No. 15813091.000003that includes the indicator device in or on its packaging. The indicator device may reduce human error by eliminating the need for store clerks or others to manually label or date products, thus reducing, or even eliminating, the potential for errors that could lead to expired or unsafe products being sold. Additionally, the indicator device is configured to be easily integrated and incorporated into standard packaging processes, allowing it to be seamlessly incorporated into existing packaging mass production processes for a range of perishable or temperature-sensitive goods, such as food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, chemical reagents, and the like.Example Indicator Device

[0034] FIGs. 1A and IB illustrate an exemplary indicator device 100 of this disclosure. FIG. 1A shows the indicator device 100 before it is activated by breaking seal 114, and FIG. IB shows the indicator device 100 after activation. FIGs. 1A and IB are not drawn to scale. The indicator device 100 includes a top layer 102, a bottom layer 104, a fluid reservoir 106, and an indicator zone 108. The top layer 102 and bottom layer 104 may be sealed together to form a closed structure in which the fluid reservoir 106 and indicator zone 108 are enclosed. The fluid reservoir 106 stores an indicator substance 112 that is solid under long-term storage conditions of a product being monitored with the indicator device 100 (e.g., when the product is frozen) and becomes liquid (i.e., liquifies) when the product is thawed. The shelf life of the product under these warmer storage conditions is monitored by observing the movement of the liquified indicator substance 112 along the indicator zone 108 (see FIG. IB).

[0035] At least a portion of the top layer 102 comprises an at least partially transparent display window 110 that provides a view of at least a portion of the indicator zone 108. The display window 110 may be a clear or semi-transparent overlay through which the movement of the indicator substance 112 within the indicator zone 108 can be observed. The display window 110 may be fabricated from a transparent or at least semi-transparent plastic or polymer. In some embodiments, the material is selected to conform with requirements of the product and / or its packaging. For example, a food-safe material may be used. The top layer 102 may be formed from a film of the transparent or semi-transparent material, with regions other than the display window 110 and secondary display region 122 (described below) being colored or printed toDocketNo. 15813091.000003include visual indicators, logos, etc. The display window 110 may be treated to resist scratches and maintain clarity throughout the product’s life cycle.

[0036] The top layer 102 also includes one or more visual indicators, which may be in the form of a color gradient, a numerical readout, text, and / or graphical representations that provide context for interpreting the remaining shelf-life for a product based on the movement of the indicator substance 112 along the indicator zone 108 (see example visual indicators of FIGS. 2-4). In contrast to generic markings provided in previous technologies, these visual indicators are consumer-facing and designed to provide an intuitive and immediately understandable shelf-life readout. Examples of visual indicators include, for example, a count-down of the shelf-life remaining (e.g., with numbers positioned alongside the display window 110 indicating remaining days of product shelf life), a count of days since product was unfrozen (e.g., with numbers positioned alongside the display window 110 indicating a number of days or other time period elapsed since the product was thawed), and a percentage of shelf life remaining (e.g., with percentages positioned alongside the display window 110 indicating a percentage of remaining shelf life for the product). In some embodiments, the visual indicators facilitate dynamic product pricing and may include, for example, the amount of price reduction to offer on the product based on the amount of expired shelf life (e.g., with possible price reductions to offer positioned alongside the display window 110 based on the amount of shelf life that has expired). The visual indicators may also include other information, such as instructions for interpreting the information provided by the indicator device and / or actions to take based on this information (e.g., to discard or discount a product at or near the end of its shelf life.

[0037] The bottom layer 104 forms a bottom side of the indicator device 100. It may be formed of the same material as the top layer 102 or a different material. In some embodiments, the bottom layer 107 is formed from metal (e.g., aluminum) foil. The bottom layer 104 may be configured to facilitate straightforward and reliable packaging integration. For example, the bottom layer 104 may include an attachment material or adhesive material, allowing the indicator device 100 to be directly incorporated into product packaging, such as labels, wrappers, containers, and the like. For example, an attachment material or adhesive material may be attached to a bottom surface of the bottom layer 104, enabling it to be affixed to a package. Attachment materials and / or adhesive materials used may be selected to comply with food safety and regulatory standards. An adhesiveDocketNo. 15813091.000003may be selected based on the expected temperature other storage conditions to which a product monitored by indicator device 100 will be exposed. For example, the adhesive may be selected to maintain its adhesive properties under both the low temperature of a freezer and the relatively warmer temperature of a refrigerator. While the exemplary indicator device 100 is shown with a single top layer 102 and a single bottom layer 104, this disclosure contemplates the inclusion of additional layers in some embodiments (e.g., to form additional pathways or channels for the flow of indicator substance 112, to provide increased rigidity or support to the device 100, and the like). The various layers of the device 100 may be adhesively bonded or otherwise appropriately connected to form a fluid-tight seal.

[0038] The fluid reservoir 106 is a sealed chamber configured to store the indicator substance 112 and release it into the indicator zone 108 when shelf-life monitoring is desired. While shown as a separate layer of material, in some embodiments, all or a portion of the fluid reservoir 106 is integrated into the bottom layer 104. The fluid reservoir 106 is integrated into or attached to the indicator device 100. To control the release of the indicator substance 112, the fluid reservoir 106 may include a breakable seal 114. The breakable seal 114 serves as an initial activation mechanism that, once broken, permanently enables the indicator substance 112 to flow when in its liquid state. The breakable seal 114 can be broken at any temperature, including while the product is frozen, because the solidified indicator substance 112 will not flow until the product is subsequently unfrozen. The breakable seal 114 can be formed from a thin, optionally partially perforated film that breaks when an adequate force is applied. For example, a user or machine may apply a force or pressure on the fluid reservoir 106 to break the breakable seal 114, allowing the indicator substance 112 to move toward the indicator zone 108 it is in the liquid state (see FIG. IB).

[0039] In the example of FIGS. 1 A and IB, the fluid reservoir 106 is positioned below the indicator zone 108. When the breakable seal 114 is broken, liquid phase indicator substance 112 flows from the fluid reservoir 106 and into a fluid chamber 120 that is in-line or approximately in-line with the indicator zone 108. The fluid chamber 120 is then coupled to the indicator zone 108 via the fluidic channel 116. The top layer 102 may include a secondary display region 122 that is clear or semi-transparent and allows visual observation of the presence of indicator substance 112 in the fluid chamber 120. The secondary display region 122 may include a visual indicator, such as text, that is visible only after the indicator substance 112 enters the fluid chamber 120 (e.g., displayingDocket No. 15813091.000003an “ON” indication, as in the examples of FIGS. 2-4, described below, when the indicator device is activated).

[0040] As described above, the indicator substance 112 liquefies or becomes fluid-like when its temperature exceeds a threshold temperature (e.g., 32 °F) and solidifies below the threshold temperature. The indicator substance 112 is formulated to liquefy in a controlled manner when the temperature exceeds this threshold temperature. The indicator substance 112 may comprise a polymer or composite with a known or predefined phase-change temperature. Examples of indicator substances include polymers, oils, and waxes formulated with a predefined phase-change temperature corresponding to the boundary between frozen and unfrozen storage conditions. The threshold temperature of the indicator substance may correspond to its glass transition temperature or melting temperature. The indicator substance 112 may be colored or include a colorant or dye, or it may be formulated to undergo a color change upon contacting the transport medium 118 in the indicator zone or cause a color change of the transport medium 118 itself, allowing its movement in the indicator device 100 to be readily observed through the display window 110. The formulation of the indicator substance 112 may be adjusted to liquify at a desired threshold temperatures for a given application (see, e.g., the example in FIG. 6 which employs indicator substances 112 with different threshold temperatures). The formulation of the indicator substance 112 may be adjusted (e.g., to adjust its viscosity and / or capillary action) to achieve the desired flow characteristics through the indicator zone 108.

[0041] The indicator zone 108 includes a fluidic channel 116 formed between the top layer 102 and the bottom layer 104. The fluidic channel 116 includes a transport medium 118 through which the indicator substance 112 travels at a predefined rate when the indicator substance 112 is in the liquid state or otherwise able to flow. This predefined rate may be non-linear (e.g., with the indicator substance initially moving at a faster rate and slowing over time) and may be determined through calibration. The predefined rate of travel through the transport medium 118 may be controlled by selecting one or more properties of the transport medium 118, such as porosity, pore size, pore distribution, wettability, and channel dimensions, and / or by selecting one or more properties of the indicator substance 112, such as viscosity and capillary action characteristics. For example, a transport medium 118 with smaller pores and higher wettability for the indicator substance 112 may result in faster capillary flow and a correspondingly faster predefined rate,DocketNo. 15813091.000003while a transport medium 118 with larger pores and lower wettability may result in slower capillary flow and a correspondingly slower predefined rate. During manufacturing, the predefined rate may be verified and adjusted through calibration testing, in which sample indicator devices are subjected to controlled temperature conditions and the migration of the indicator substance 112 is observed over time to confirm that the rate corresponds to the desired shelf-life monitoring period. Before the breakable seal 114 of the fluid reservoir 106 is broken, the fluidic channel 116 is decoupled from the fluid reservoir 106, as shown in FIG. 1A. However, after the breakable seal 114 is broken, the fluidic channel 116 is fluidically coupled to the fluid reservoir 106, as shown in FIG. IB, such that liquid-state indicator substance 112 can enter the channel 116 and move through the transport medium 118 in a controlled manner.

[0042] The transport medium 118 may be a porous or capillary material, such as a porous paperbased or polymeric material. The transport medium 118 may be specifically configured to maintain consistent capillary flow characteristics across the range of temperatures encountered during refrigerated display (e.g., approximately 34°F to 45 °F), such that the flow rate of the indicator substance 112 remains substantially linear and predictable within this temperature range, enabling accurate shelf-life correlation

[0043] The transport medium 118 may include visible markers or color-changing substrates that visually quantify the extent of movement of the indicator substance 112. For example, the transport medium 118 may be treated with or comprise a color-changing material that reacts with the indicator substance 112 as it migrates, producing a visible color change that delineates the boundary between the portion of the transport medium 118 that has been contacted by the indicator substance 112 and the portion that has not yet been contacted. In some embodiments, the colorchanging substrate changes from a first color (e.g., white or light-colored) to a second color (e.g., blue, red, or another contrasting color) upon contact with the indicator substance 112. The visible markers may include printed indicia, such as lines, numbers, or symbols, positioned along the length of the indicator zone 108 to provide reference points for interpreting the position of the indicator substance 112. In some embodiments, the transport medium 118 is a microfluidic channel with microstructures that provide consistent flow dynamics, ensuring that the migration rate of the indicator substance 112 reliably correlates with product shelf-life. As used herein, “consistent flow dynamics” refers to flow characteristics that maintain a substantially uniform orDocketNo. 15813091.000003predictable migration rate of the indicator substance 112 through the transport medium 118, such that the position of the indicator substance 112 along the indicator zone 108 reliably corresponds to a particular elapsed time or remaining shelf-life. Consistent flow dynamics may be achieved by configuring the microstructures to have uniform dimensions, spacing, and surface properties along the length of the fluidic channel 116.

[0044] In an example operation of the indicator device 100, the device 100 is affixed to (e.g., adhered to, embedded in or on, or otherwise attached to) packaging that holds a product. In some embodiments, the breakable seal 114 of the fluid reservoir 106 may be broken before or when the package is placed in the freezer. Since the indicator substance 112 is already or will soon be frozen, and the frozen indicator substance 112 does not flow into or through the transport medium 118, little or no premature flow of the indicator device 100 will occur, even during the brief temperature fluctuations that might occur during handling or transport. In other embodiments, the breakable seal 114 of the fluid reservoir 106 may be broken when the product is transferred from the frozen environment to the refrigeration environment. In either case, once the product is transferred to the refrigeration environment, the temperature increase triggers the liquefaction of the indicator substance 112, causing it to migrate via capillary action through the transport medium 118.

[0045] In some embodiments, the indicator device 100 is configured to be applied as part of an automated or semi- automated product production and / or packaging process. As such, the indicator device 100 may be compatible with mass production processes. In this way. the indicator device 100 enables shelf-life dating to occur at the manufacturing stage rather than at the retail level, eliminating the need for store clerks or other personnel to manually date products when they are placed on display. For example, after a perishable product is produced, an automated system (e.g., with a product conveyer and mechanical packaging components) may be used to automatically package the product and affix the indicator device 100 to the product’s packaging. For instance, a product may be moved through a packaging system that conveys that product to a packaging tool, which then places the product in its package. A sealing tool may seal the package. An automated dispenser or other application tool may be used to affix the indicator device 100 to the package. In some embodiments, the indicator device 100 is affixed to a package containing a product. However, in other embodiments, the indicator device 100 may be affixed to a package before a product is placed in the package. In these latter embodiments, the indicator device 100 may beDocket No. 15813091.000003activated at a later time (e.g., after the product is placed in the package). Because the indicator device 100 remains paused while frozen, manufacturing-stage application and activation does not compromise the accuracy of shelf-life monitoring. The countdown begins only when the product is later thawed at the retail location or by the consumer.

[0046] The dispenser / application tool may be configured to apply the indicator device 100 with a sufficient force or pressure to ensure the indicator device 100 adheres to the packaging (e.g., such that a sufficient surface area of adhesive on the indicator device 100 contacts and sticks to the packaging). This force or pressure may also be sufficient to activate the indicator device 100 (e.g., by breaking the seal 114). In some embodiments, a separate tool may press the affixed indicator device 100 in order to activate the indicator device 100. The indicator device 100 may be activated before, while, or after it is affixed to the packaging. For example, the indicator device 100 may be activated before it is affixed to the packaging. For example, the dispenser / application tool or another tool may squeeze the indicator device 100, or apply a pressure to the fluid reservoir 106, to activate the device 100 before it is affixed to the packaging. In this way, the outer surface of the fluid reservoir 106 may be relatively flush to the bottom surface of the indicator device 100 (e.g., as compared to before the seal 114 is broken), thereby further improving adhesion of the indicator device 100 to the packaging.Example Indicator Displays

[0047] FIGS. 2-4 illustrate consumer-facing displays of various exemplary indicator devices 200, 300, 400 at different stages during their use. FIG. 2 shows an exemplary indicator device 200 with a fluid chamber 202 and an indicator zone 204. The indicator device 200 includes a top panel with a visual indicator 206 that displays the remaining days of shelf life (“DAYS LEFT”) of a product, along with a scale along the length of the indicator zone 204. The top panel of FIG. 2 shows the indicator device 200 before it has been activated (e.g., by breaking the seal of the reservoir to allow the indicator substance to enter the fluid chamber 202). In this initial state, the fluid chamber 202 is empty. The second panel from the top shows the indicator device 200 after it has been activated. The liquid-state indicator substance has moved into the fluid chamber 202, causing an “ON” visual indication to become visible. The third panel from the top shows the indicator device 200 after five days under refrigeration conditions. At this time, the indicator substance has reached positionDocket No. 15813091.000003208 along the length of the indicator zone 204. The fourth panel from the top shows the indicator device 200 after twelve days under refrigeration conditions, corresponding, in this example, to the end of the product’s shelf life. At this time, the indicator substance has reached the end 210 of the indicator zone 204.

[0048] FIG. 3 shows an exemplary indicator device 300 with a fluid chamber 302 and indicator zone 304. The indicator device 300 has a top panel with a visual indicator 306 that shows the elapsed days of shelf-life (“DAYS”) of a product, along with a scale along the length of the indicator zone 304. The top panel of FIG. 3 shows the indicator device 300 before activation (e.g., when the seal of the reservoir has not been broken to allow the indicator substance to enter the fluid chamber 302). In this initial state, the fluid chamber 302 is empty. The second panel from the top shows the indicator device 300 after activation. The liquid-state indicator substance has moved into the fluid chamber 302 causing an “ON” visual indication to become visible. The third panel from the top shows the indicator device 300 after five days under refrigeration conditions. At this time, the indicator substance has reached a position 308 along the length of the indicator zone 304. The fourth panel from the top shows the indicator device 300 after twelve days under refrigeration conditions, which, in this example, corresponds to the end of the product’s shelflife. At this time, the indicator substance has reached the end 310 of the indicator zone 304.

[0049] FIG. 4A shows an exemplary indicator device 400 with a fluid chamber 402 and indicator zone 404. The indicator device 400 includes additional display features that improve usability. For example, the display window defining the visible portion of the indicator zone 404 is separated into two display regions 414a and 414b. The first display region 414a over an initial portion of the indicator zone 404 has a smaller width than the second display region 414b, while the second display region 414b over the remaining portion of the indicator zone 404 has a larger width than the first display region 414a. The larger width of the second display region 414b draw attention to the final days of shelf-life monitored by the indicator device 400.

[0050] The indicator device 400 has a top panel with a visual indicator 406 that shows remaining days of shelf life of a product. The visual indicator 406 may include instructions for interpreting the information provided by the indicator device 100 (e.g., “FULLY BLUE = TIMES UP”) along with a scale along the length of the indicator zone 404. The top layer of the indicator device 400Docket No. 15813091.000003may also include a device-readable code or tag 412. As described further with respect to the examples of FIGS. 7 and 8. when a device scans or “reads” the device-readable code or tag 412, the device automatically accesses a presentation of information about the product. For example, the device may be directed to a website displaying information about the product, such as how it is made, the company that manufactures it. the sourcing of materials, related products, social media posts, news articles, or other media associated with the product.

[0051] The top panel of FIG. 4A shows the indicator device 400 before activation (e.g„ before the seal of the reservoir is broken to allow the indicator substance to enter the fluid chamber 402). In this initial state, the fluid chamber 402 is empty. The second panel from the top shows the indicator device 400 after activation. The liquid-state indicator substance has moved into the fluid chamber 402, causing an “ON” visual indication to become visible. The third panel from the top shows the indicator device 400 after seven days under refrigeration conditions. At this time, the indicator substance has reached a position 408 along the length of the indicator zone 404. The fourth panel from the top shows the indicator device 400 after twelve days under refrigeration conditions, which, in this example, corresponds to the end of the product’s shelf life. At this time, the indicator substance has reached the end 410 of the indicator zone 404.

[0052] FIG. 4B shows an example variation of the indicator device 400 of FIG. 4A, at the same time point shown in the third panel from the top in FIG. 4A. The indicator device 400’ of FIG. 4B includes the same features of indicator device 400 of FIG. 4A but with the addition of dynamic price visual indicators 450. These dynamic price visual indicators 450 provide an indication of a price reduction to offer on the product based on an amount of expired shelf-life. In this example, a price reduction occurs at least once during the shelf life of the product, such as the final day of shelf life, or the price reduction may gradually increase during the shelf-life (e.g., greater reduction as the shelf life decreases). This price reduction can be tailored to different products.Example Multi-Zone Indicator Devices

[0053] In certain scenarios, it may be beneficial to monitor shelf life over different time windows and / or in response to different temperature conditions. To facilitate such operations, some embodiments of this disclosure provide indicator devices with multiple indicator zones.Docket No. 15813091.000003

[0054] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of such a multi-zone indicator device 500. The indicator device 500 is configured to monitor shelf life on different time scales. A single indicator device 500 may be compatible with different products that have different shelf-lives: a short shelf-life product and a longer shelf-life product. Alternatively, the indicator device 500 may monitor the shelf life of a single product on both a coarse and a fine time scale.

[0055] To achieve this, the indicator device 500 includes both a first indicator zone 502a for coarse- scale monitoring of shelf life over a longer time window and a second indicator zone 502b for fine-scale monitoring of shelf life over a shorter time window. The indicator device 500 is similar to indicator device 100, except that indicator device 500 includes two indicator zones 502a and 502b (e.g., which may be coupled to a shared fluid chamber, as shown in this example, or to separate fluid chambers, as shown in FIG. 6). In the example of FIG. 5, the rate of transport through the first indicator zone 502a corresponds to a travel time of 12 days (e.g., a range from about 10 to 20 days), while the rate of transport through the second indicator zone 502b is 3 days (e.g., a value less than 10 days).

[0056] The transport medium and / or fluidic channel may be configured differently in the different indicator zones 502a and 502b to alter the rate at which the indicator substance travels through each zone. For example, the second indicator zone 502b may be modified to increase the rate of capillary flow relative to the rate of flow through the first indicator zone 502a. This can be achieved by modifying the transport medium in the second indicator zone 502b to provide a faster rate of transport. For example, the transport medium in the second indicator zone 502b may be formed of a material with greater wettability for the indicator substance and / or smaller and more numerous pores to facilitate more rapid capillary flow. Additionally, the shape, size, and or material of the fluidic channel of the second indicator zone 502b may be adjusted to further increase the flow rate of the indicator substance. In this way, the indicator substance flows more rapidly through the second indicator zone 502b than through the first indicator zone 502a, enabling shelf life to be evaluated on a shorter time scale during an initial period after thawing the product. In some embodiments, different indicator substances of varying transport properties are used in the different indicator zone 502a and 502b (see FIG. 6 and the corresponding description below).Docket No. 15813091.000003

[0057] The top panel of FIG. 5 shows the indicator device 500 after activation and after approximately 30 minutes of being unfrozen. The shelf life that has elapsed during this initial stage after thawing is more accurately and reliably monitored in the second indicator zone 502b. The bottom panel of FIG. 5 shows the indicator device 500 after being unfrozen for approximately 6 days. At this point, the shelf life that has elapsed during this later stage after thawing can no longer be monitored by the second indicator zone 502b. However, this stage of the shelf life can still be able to be monitored using the first indicator zone 502a.

[0058] FIG. 6 illustrates another example of a multi-zone indicator device 600. The indicator device 600 is configured to monitor shelf-life associated with exposure to different temperatures. For example, the indicator device 600 not only monitors the time the product has been refrigerated after thawing using a first indicator zone 604a but also monitors the time when the product has been at an elevated temperature that might cause product spoilage or other issues using a second indicator zone 604b (e.g., to monitor when a product may have been improperly removed from refrigeration). The indicator device 600 is similar to indicator device 500, except indicator device 600 also includes two fluid chambers 602a and 602b, along with other associated components (e.g., two fluid reservoirs, two display windows, etc.).

[0059] To achieve this, a different indicator substance may be used in each indicator zone 604a and 604b. The indicator substance used in the second indicator zone 604b liquifies when its temperature exceeds a higher threshold temperature than the threshold for the indicator substance used in the first indicator zone 604a. The threshold temperature for the indicator substance used in the second indicator zone 604b may correspond to the prescribed storage temperature of the product when displayed (e.g.. a refrigeration temperature of about 34°F to 40°F). As used herein, “prescribed storage temperature” refers to the recommended or required storage temperature for a product, which may be specified by the product manufacturer, applicable regulatory standards, industry guidelines, or product labeling. For example, a prescribed storage temperature for a refrigerated food product may be a temperature at or below 40°F as recommended by food safety guidelines.

[0060] The top panel of FIG. 6 shows the indicator device 600 after being activated and left both unfrozen and unrefrigerated for about 30 minutes. The indicator substances have moved toDocket No. 15813091.000003positions in the first indicator zone 604a and the second indicator zones 604b, indicating the amount of time that has elapsed under these conditions. The bottom panel of FIG. 6 shows the indicator device 600 after having been returned to refrigeration conditions at 30 minutes and maintained under refrigeration for about 6 hours. While refrigerated, the indicator substance in the first indicator zone 604a remains a liquid, but the indicator substance in the second indicator zone 604b solidifies and no longer flows. Both the initial exposure to unrefrigerated conditions and the subsequent refrigeration time are observable, providing additional information about product freshness.Example “Smart” Indicator Devices

[0061] In some embodiments, indicator devices include device-readable and / or electronic components that provide further benefits and improvements over previous shelf-life monitoring technology. FIG. 7 shows an exemplary smart indicator device 700. The smart indicator device 700 may be configured as any of the indicator devices described above. However, the smart indicator device 700 also includes a device-readable tag or code 702. For example, the tag or code 702 may be a QR code, an RFID tag, a near-field communication (NFC) tag, or another miniature data storage and / or transmission device. In some embodiments, the smart indicator device 700 may include Internet of Things (ToT) connectivity, enabling the device to communicate data over a network for remote monitoring, data logging, and inventory management. The combination of a phase-change freeze-pause indicator with digital connectivity (e.g., QR codes, RFID tags, temperature sensors) enables improved consumer engagement and supply chain visibility. The device-readable code may link to dynamically updated product information, including real-time pricing adjustments based on remaining shelf life.

[0062] A device 706, such as a mobile device or handheld device (e.g., a smartphone or tablet), may scan or otherwise “read” the tag or code 702, and, in response, product information 708 is automatically displayed on the device 708. For example, the device 706 may scan a QR code or an RFID tag and, in response, be automatically directed to a website over a network 710 where a user may view product information 708 related to how the product is made, the company that manufactures the product, the sourcing of materials used in the product, and the like. In some embodiments, the product information 708 may provide an indication of dynamic pricing that mayDocket No. 15813091.000003be available based on remaining shelf-life of the product. For example, the product information 708 may indicate a price reduction associated with the current remaining shelf life. A digital coupon code may be displayed on the device 706 based on this information. In some embodiments, the device 706 may be used to scan the indicator zone (e.g., by taking an image of the indicator zone of the smart indicator device 700). and a coupon code may be generated and presented that reflects a price discount available based on the current amount of elapsed or remaining shelf life.

[0063] In some embodiments, the smart indicator device 700 includes one or more sensors 704, such as to measure temperature or other properties (e.g., humidity, position, etc.) associated with the product. Data from the sensor(s) 704 may be included in the product information 708. For example, in addition to the visual readout of elapsed shelf-life provided by the smart indicator device 700, the sensor(s) may provide a record of the temperature at which the product has been stored. This record may be stored in a database 712 accessible to the device 706 via network 710.

[0064] FIG. 8 shows other exemplary indicator devices 800. The indicator devices 800 may be the same as smart indicator device 700 but optionally include the ability to regularly transmit sensor data for remote storage and access. The device-readable tag or code 802 may be the same as or similar to device-readable tag or code 702, and the one or more sensors 804 may be the same as the one or more sensors 704. In this embodiment, the device-readable tag 802, the one or more sensors 804, or both are configured to transmit sensor data to a communication hub 806.

[0065] The communication hub 806 couples the indicator devices 806 to a network 808, such that data from the sensors 804 is stored in a database 812. For example, the communication hub 806 may include an RFID tag reader or other transceiver / receiver and be placed within the transmission range of the device-readable tag or code 802. The communication hub 806 may include or be connected to a router that connects to the network 808. In this way, a record of sensor data associated with not only individual products but also an overall inventory of these products can be created and accessed by another device 814, such as a computer, mobile device or handheld device. This record may be provided to or accessed by the device 814 as product / inventory information 816 and include a history of product temperatures time, product locations (e.g., GPS coordinates over time), etc. Products with questionable temperature histories (e.g., indicating possible product spoilage or other issues) can be identified automatically and flagged for inspection or removal.Docket No. 15813091.000003Verification of possible issues with product temperature may be facilitated using the visual shelflife monitoring provided on the indicator devices 800 themselves. In some embodiments, the product / inventory information 816 is used to determine and / or offer dynamic pricing, similarly to how it was described above with respect to FIG. 7.

[0066] While described primarily for monitoring the time after the frozen-to-refrigerated transition of perishable foods, the indicator device of this disclosure can be adapted to monitor a wide variety of products that are initially stored frozen and later thawed for display or sale. Examples of food products that may benefit from the indicator device include, but are not limited to: frozen sandwiches (such as submarine sandwiches, breakfast sandwiches, and wraps); frozen prepared meals and entrees; frozen pizzas; frozen baked goods (such as breads, pastries, muffins, croissants, and cakes); frozen meats and poultry (such as steaks, ground beef, chicken breasts, turkey, pork chops, and sausages); frozen seafood (such as fish fillets, shrimp, crab, lobster, and shellfish); frozen fruits and vegetables; frozen dairy products (such as ice cream, frozen yogurt, butter, and cheese); frozen dough products; frozen appetizers (such as egg rolls, spring rolls, and stuffed items); frozen soups and broths; frozen desserts; frozen juices and smoothie mixes; frozen pet food; and frozen baby food and infant formula. Beyond food products, the indicator device may also be adapted for other temperature-sensitive products that undergo a frozen-to-thawed transition or otherwise require accurate shelf-life monitoring, including: pharmaceuticals and medications that require cold chain management; vaccines and biologies; blood products and blood plasma; biological samples and specimens; medical devices and diagnostic reagents; cosmetics and skincare products containing temperature- sensitive active ingredients; chemical reagents and laboratory supplies; vitamins and nutritional supplements; horticultural products such as seeds, bulbs, and plant cuttings; floral products; certain adhesives and sealants; photographic chemicals and films; and other products whose quality, safety, or effectiveness can deteriorate over time or due to exposure to varying temperature conditions.

[0067] The terms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0068] The terms “comprises” and / or “comprising”, when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not precludeDocket No. 15813091.000003the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to.”

[0069] As used herein, the terms “connected,” “coupled,” or any variant thereof means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling or connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,” and words of similar import, when used in this application, refer to this application as a whole and not to any portions of this application. Where the context permits, words in the above Detailed Description using the singular or plural number may also include the plural or singular number respectively. The word “or,” in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

[0070] Several implementations of the disclosed technology are described above in reference to the figures. The computing devices on which the described technology may be implemented can include one or more central processing units, memory, input devices, output devices (e.g., display devices), storage devices, and network devices (e.g., network interfaces). The memory and storage devices are computer-readable storage media that can store instructions that implement at least portions of the described technology. In addition, the data structures and message structures can be stored or transmitted via a data transmission medium, such as a signal on a communications link.

[0071] As used herein, the word “or” refers to any possible permutation of a set of items. For example, the phrase “A, B, or C” refers to at least one of A, B, C, or any combination thereof, such as any of: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B, and C; or multiple of any item, such as A and A; B, B, and C; A, A, B, C, and C: etc.

[0072] The above Detailed Description of examples of the technology is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the technology to the precise form disclosed above. While specific examplesDocket No. 15813091.000003for the technology are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the technology. For example, while processes are presented in a given order, alternative implementations may perform routines having steps in a different order, and some processes may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and / or modified to provide alternative or sub-combinations. Each of these processes may be implemented in a variety of different ways. Also, while processes are at times shown as being performed in series, these processes or blocks may instead be performed or implemented in parallel or may be performed at different times. Further, any specific numbers noted herein are only examples: alternative implementations may employ differing values or ranges.

[0073] The teachings of the technology provided herein can be applied to other systems, not necessarily the system described above. The elements and acts of the various examples described above can be combined to provide further implementations of the technology. Some alternative implementations of the technology may include not only additional elements to those implementations noted above but also may include fewer elements.

[0074] The description and illustration of one or more aspects provided in this application are not intended to limit or restrict the scope of the disclosure as claimed in any way. The aspects, examples, and details provided in this application are considered sufficient to convey possession and enable others to make and use the best mode of claimed disclosure. The claimed disclosure should not be construed as being limited to any aspect, example, or detail provided in this application. Regardless of whether shown and described in combination or separately, the various features are intended to be selectively rearranged, included or omitted to produce an embodiment with a particular set of features. Having been provided with the description and illustration of the present application, one skilled in the art may envision variations, modifications, and alternate aspects falling within the spirit of the broader aspects of the general inventive concept embodied in this application that do not depart from the broader scope of the claimed disclosure.

Claims

Docket No. 15813091.000003CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An indicator device for monitoring shelf-life of a product after the product is unfrozen, the indicator device comprising:a top layer and a bottom layer sealed together to form a first indicator zone, wherein at least a portion of the top layer comprises an at least partially transparent display window providing a view of at least a portion of the first indicator zone; anda fluid reservoir configured to store an indicator substance, wherein the fluid reservoir comprises a breakable seal, wherein the indicator substance is liquefied when a temperature exceeds a threshold temperature and is solid below the threshold temperature;wherein the first indicator zone comprises a first fluidic channel formed between the top layer and the bottom layer, the first fluidic channel comprising a first transport medium through which the indicator substance travels at a first predefined rate along a length of the first indicator zone when the indicator substance is in a liquid state, wherein, after the breakable seal of the fluid reservoir is broken, the first fluidic channel is fluidically coupled to the fluid reservoir; wherein the top layer further comprises one or more consumer-facing visual indicators, the one or more consumer-facing visual indicators indicating at least one of (i) a count-down of shelf-life remaining based on a position of the indicator substance along the length of the first indicator zone, (ii) a count of days since the product was unfrozen based on the position of the indicator substance along the length of the first indicator zone, and (iii) a percentage of shelf-life remaining for the product based on the position of the indicator substance along the length of the first indicator zone.

2. The indicator device of claim 1, further comprising:a second indicator zone comprising a second fluidic channel formed between the top layer and the bottom layer, the second fluidic channel comprising a second transport medium through which the indicator substance travels at a second predefined rate along a length of the second indicator zone when the indicator substance is in the liquid state, wherein, after the breakable seal of the fluid reservoir is broken, the second fluidic channel is fluidically coupled toDocket No. 15813091.000003the fluid reservoir, wherein the second predefined rate of travel through the second indicator zone is different than the first predefined rate of travel through the first indicator zone.

3. The indicator device of claim 2, wherein the first predefined rate corresponds to a travel time of about 10 to 20 days through the first indicator zone, and the second predefined rate corresponds to a travel time of less than 10 days through the second indicator zone.

4. The indicator device of claim 1, further comprising:a second fluid reservoir configured to store a second indicator substance, wherein the second fluid reservoir comprises a second breakable seal, wherein the second indicator substance is liquefied when a temperature exceeds a second threshold and is solid below a second threshold temperature, wherein the second threshold temperature is associated with a prescribed storage temperature of the product when displayed; anda secondary indicator zone comprising a second fluidic channel formed between the top layer and the bottom layer, the second fluidic channel comprising a second transport medium through which the second indicator substance travels at a second predefined rate when the second indicator substance is in the liquid state, wherein, after the breakable seal of the second fluid reservoir is broken, the second fluidic channel is fluidically coupled to the second fluid reservoir.

5. The indicator device of claim 1, further comprising:a fluid chamber positioned above the fluid reservoir and in fluid communication with the first indicator zone, wherein, after the breakable seal of the fluid reservoir is broken, the indicator substance is allowed to travel into the fluid chamber when the indicator substance is in the liquid state.

6. The indicator device of claim 5, wherein the fluid chamber comprises a visual marking that becomes visible after the indicator substance enters the fluid chamber.Docket No. 15813091.0000037. The indicator device of claim 1, wherein the one or more visual indicators comprise an indication of a price reduction to offer on the product based on an amount of expired shelf-life.

8. The indicator device of claim 1, wherein the one or more visual indicators comprise dynamic pricing indicators positioned alongside the display window, wherein the dynamic pricing indicators indicate progressively increasing price reductions based on the elapsed or remaining shelf life of the product.

9. The indicator device of claim 1, further comprising an adhesive material attached to a bottom surface of the bottom layer, wherein the adhesive material allows the indicator device to be affixed to packaging of the product.

10. The indicator device of claim 1, wherein the first transport medium comprises a porous paper-based material or a porous polymeric material.

11. The indicator device of claim 1, wherein the first fluidic channel comprises microstructures that provide consistent flow dynamics.

12. The indicator device of claim 1, wherein the indicator substance comprises a polymer or composite having a predefined phase-change temperature.

13. The indicator device of claim 1, further comprising a device-readable code or tag, wherein, in response to the code or tag being scanned by a device, information about the product is automatically presented on the device.

14. The indicator device of claim 13, wherein the information comprises at least one of information about the product and its source, information about a company associated with the product, other products related to the product, and social media posts associated with the product.Docket No. 15813091.00000315. The indicator device of claim 1, further comprising:a sensor configured to measure temperature; anda communication interface coupled to the sensor and configured to transmit the measured temperature to an external device.

16. The indicator device of claim 1, wherein the product comprises food, a pharmaceutical, a cosmetic, or a chemical reagent.

17. The indicator device of claim 1, wherein the indicator device automatically pauses shelf-life monitoring when the product is re-frozen and automatically resumes monitoring when the product is again unfrozen.

18. The indicator device of claim 1, wherein breaking the breakable seal does not initiate flow of the indicator substance when the indicator substance is in the solid state.

19. An indicator device comprising a first indicator zone configured to monitor shelf life at a first rate corresponding to a first temperature threshold and a second indicator zone configured to monitor shelf life at a second rate corresponding to a second temperature threshold different from the first temperature threshold, wherein both indicator zones are integrated in a single device.

20. A method comprising:affixing an indicator device to a package storing a product, wherein the indicator device comprises:a top layer and a bottom layer sealed together to form a first indicator zone, wherein at least a portion of the top layer comprises an at least partially transparent display window providing a view of at least a portion of the first indicator zone; and a fluid reservoir configured to store an indicator substance, wherein the fluid reservoir comprises a breakable seal, wherein the indicator substance is liquefied when a temperature exceeds a threshold temperature and is solid below the thresholdtemperature;Docket No. 15813091.000003wherein the first indicator zone comprises a first fluidic channel formed between the top layer and the bottom layer, the first fluidic channel comprising a first transport medium through which the indicator substance travels at a first predefined rate along a length of the first indicator zone when the indicator substance is in a liquid state, wherein, after the breakable seal of the fluid reservoir is broken, the first fluidic channel is fluidically coupled to the fluid reservoir;wherein the top layer further comprises one or more consumer-facing visual indicators, the one or more consumer-facing visual indicators indicating at least one of (i) a count-down of shelf-life remaining based on a position of the indicator substance along the length of the first indicator zone, (ii) a count of days since the product was unfrozen based on the position of the indicator substance along the length of the first indicator zone, and (iii) a percentage of shelf-life remaining for the product based on the position of the indicator substance along the length of the first indicator zone;activating the indicator device by breaking the breakable seal; andmoving the package from a first environment at a first temperature to a second environment at a second temperature that is greater than the first temperature.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the indicator substance remains solid and does not flow through the transport medium while the package is in the first environment, and wherein the indicator substance liquefies and begins flowing through the transport medium only upon transition to the second environment, thereby ensuring shelf-life monitoring begins precisely when the product is unfrozen.

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