Device to recognize thermochrome marking on returned cans for deposit return and prevention of fraudulent can return

摘要

Returnable deposit can has marking of thermochrome substance. When can is returned to vending machine for deposit return, color video camera checks for presence of marking, checks marking is original color, marking is cancelled by heat or laser, so color change occurs, color change is checked. If color is correct, can is accepted and deposit returned. INDEPENDENT CLAIM included for 1) Use of device to accept return deposit products 2) Procedure to recognize marking 3) Procedure for direct printing of marking on product 4) Procedure to alter color of marking.