Patent ID: 6022648
Filing Date: 2000-02-08
Classification: B41J,B41M,Y10S

Abstract:
A method of printing an image onto a thermochromic recording sheet, the image being represented by an array of encoded image points each having a color, the method comprising the steps of:a. providing a recording member comprising a layer having uniformly dispersed therein a plurality of reversible, colored thermochromic compositions, each composition entering a transparent state upon heating to a decoloration temperature greater than room temperature and entering a colored state upon cooling to a coloration temperature below room temperature, the compositions persisting in a pre-existing state at room temperature and collectively forming an additive color gamut;b. providing a heating source for selectably heating the compositions according to color;c. causing relative movement between the heating source and the recording member to effect a scan of the recording member by the heating source; andd. actuating the heating source in an imagewise pattern during the course of the scan so as to record the image onto the recording member, the heating source, when actuated, causing at least one of the compositions to enter the transparent state, thereby creating an array of colored points corresponding to the image-point array.