Having Illuminating Means Patents (Class 40/124.02)
  • Patent number: 11829560
    Abstract: An interactive input system with bezel light around an input area provided by optical fiber is described. Two or more cameras have a field of view of at least a portion of the bezel. The optical fiber provides continuous backlight illumination to at least one input object. The optical fiber has at least one nanostructure therein for diffusing light. At least one light source provides a directional light to an end of the optical fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2023
    Assignee: SMART TECHNOLOGIES ULC
    Inventor: Sergiy Dets
  • Patent number: 11412122
    Abstract: A card holder system is provided comprising a holder body, a card holder component, a sensing means, a light source and a power source. The holder body generally provides the structural framework to which the other elements are coupled. The card holder component generally provides the ability for an element, like a card, to be removably retained in the holder body. The sensing means generally provides the ability for the card holder to automatically recognize an element such as an ID card being place in the card holder component. The light source generally provides the light to illuminate the card held in the card holder element. The power source generally provides the power for the sensing means and the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: Advanced Electronic Design, Inc.
    Inventor: David Swithers
  • Patent number: 10040307
    Abstract: Interactive greeting card and gift card holders with a hinged mechanism which provide fun user interaction and triggers audio playback. Each greeting card and gift card holder includes portion thereof which hinges or pivots about an axis. When the greeting card or gift card holder is hinged, or pivoted about the hinge, one or more special effects are triggered. Special effects may include audio, emergence or ejection of a gift card holder (w/gift card) or gift card, the appearance of a thought or word bubble, or any other special effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Jason Dove, Sean Higgins
  • Patent number: 9837600
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein involve methods of forming an interactive card with indicators on a substrate. A plurality of indicators are formed on the substrate by way of a printed electronics process. A plurality of displaceable regions of piezoelectric material are formed on the substrate by way of a printed electronics process. Electrical interconnections are formed on the substrate by way of a printed electronics process, the electrical interconnections connecting an indicator and an associated displaceable region of piezoelectric material such that displacement of the associated displaceable region of piezoelectric material generates a voltage therein that is provided to the indicator in order to actuate the indicator and thereby indicate displacement of the associated displaceable region of piezoelectric material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: PALO ALTO RESEARCH CENTER INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Jurgen Daniel, Tse Nga Ng
  • Patent number: 9053878
    Abstract: There is provided a mobile terminal a case having a hollow portion provided therein, a circuit board positioned in the hollow portion of the case to mount electronic components therein, the circuit board including a securing hole, a side button having an exposed front side at a lateral side of the case, a reinforcing frame positioned between the side button and the circuit board, the reinforcing frame being coupled to a lateral portion of the circuit board by a securing hook that projects from a backside of the reinforcing frame, the securing hook being received in the securing hole and a switch module coupled to a front side of the reinforcing frame so as to be located between the reinforcing frame and the side button, the switch module being configured to generate an electric signal when the side button is pressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Jaehoon Kim
  • Publication number: 20140259817
    Abstract: A greeting card has a card body comprising at least a front panel and electrical components. The front panel contains an opening that acts as a track. A spinner including two wheels spaced apart and coupled together with an axle rotatably engages the track are positioned on opposite sides of the front panel. The spinner moves along the track by virtue of gravity when the greeting card is being tilted. The electrical components may include a power source, a sound module having an audio file stored therein, a speaker, and a switch located adjacent to the track. The spinner activates the switch when the spinner moves adjacent to the location of the switch which in turn initiates playback of the audio file through the speaker.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: DAVID LYNN REYNOLDS, KAITLYN JEROME, MICHAEL ROBERT ADAIR, ORLANDA DOMINIC LACY, DOUGLAS M. BOWEN
  • Patent number: 8789301
    Abstract: An achievement award assembly includes a first panel having a semi-transparent area, a second panel having an award indicia that is visible through the semi-transparent area and a mount. The semi-transparent area may be configured such that the award indicia, when viewed through the semi-transparent area, appears as an engraved metallic plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Inventor: James J. O'Neill
  • Patent number: 8752313
    Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: America Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Nicole Wilson, Gary Nelson, Anthony Begin
  • Patent number: 8739438
    Abstract: The present disclosure and related inventions are directed to a greeting card in the shape of a wine bottle. A clear vacuum form is placed onto the front surface of a two-panel greeting card, creating a cavity therebetween. An intricate paper scene is disposed within the cavity, concealing various electronic components. A faux cork is attached to the greeting card at a pivot point wherein the faux cork can move between a first position where it is partially contained within the cavity and a second position where it is substantially outside of the cavity. Movement of the faux cork about the pivot point causes playback of pre-recorded audio and illumination of one or more LED lights and/or fiber optics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Annie Deckerd, Carol Miller
  • Patent number: 8683721
    Abstract: The present disclosure and related inventions are directed to a greeting card or other social expression product which is combined with a simple game with sound and light effects. The greeting card combines a traditional paper greeting card, a plastic-molded game encasement and game board, lever, and game pieces with various electronic components to create an interactive greeting card with playable game that causes sound and light effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Sharon Bogdanski, Melissa Flesher, Mike Gali, Karen Rowlett, Annie Deckerd
  • Patent number: 8661719
    Abstract: The interactive greeting card of the present invention contains a multi-panel greeting card body with various electronic components contained and concealed therein. Upon opening the greeting card, spoken instructions may instruct the user to move an attached magnet from one area of the greeting card to another to initiate a surprise or various special effects such as sound and light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Terry Hughes, Carol Miller, John Talbot, Gary Nelson, Lauren Budzar
  • Patent number: 8591055
    Abstract: An illuminated clipboard (100) includes a clipboard base (102), a license receiving/viewing device (106) located on the clipboard base, and an illumination source (150, 156) adapted to selectively illuminate the license receiving/viewing device. An illumination source (194) illuminates a ticket-holding area (104). Displays (180, 182) provide current date and time information and a future court date information. An auxiliary license holding slot (196) is provided having an auxiliary illumination source (210).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Anthony S. Leanza
  • Publication number: 20130305572
    Abstract: The greeting card of the present invention includes a three-panel pocket with an internal cavity which contains a fiber optic bundle, various electronic components, fabric layer and a removable panel. A front face of the three-panel pocket contains a substantial opening thereon through which the fabric layer is visible. The fiber optic bundle contains various fiber optic strands. Each of the fiber optic strands is inserted through the fabric layer and is visible through the front face of the greeting card. A contact arm switch controls illumination of the fiber optic strands along with the insertion and removal of the removable panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Cindi POCHATEK, Lynne Shlonsky, Erin Dennis
  • Publication number: 20130305573
    Abstract: An interactive greeting card is described herein having a protective housing within which the electronic components are contained and concealed. The protective housing is covered in a multiple panel construct or enclosure which forms a greeting card around the housing. A small compartment in a center portion of the protective housing contains an expandable banner which can be unfolded or pulled away from the greeting card to trigger initiation of a sound clip and illumination of one or more lights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: April Nemeth, Gary Nelson, Seth Larson
  • Publication number: 20130283650
    Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: AMERICAN GREETINGS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Nicole WILSON, Gary NELSON, Anthony BEGIN
  • Publication number: 20130255115
    Abstract: The interactive greeting card of the present invention contains a multi-panel greeting card body with various electronic components contained and concealed therein. Upon opening the greeting card, spoken instructions may instruct the user to move an attached magnet from one area of the greeting card to another to initiate a surprise or various special effects such as sound and light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Terry HUGHES, Carol MILLER, John TALBOT, Gary NELSON, Lauren BUDZAR
  • Patent number: 8438763
    Abstract: A three-dimensional illuminated greeting card which combines a unique card construction having a 3D pop-out structure with one or more lights contained therein. The 3D pop-out structure forms an internal cavity in which illumination means and other electronic components are contained. One or more sides of the 3D structure are made of translucent or semi-translucent material, creating a screen that can be illuminated from behind by one or more miniature lights, such as LED lights. The light or lights may be connected to an integrated circuit chip that can be programmed with various lighting effects. The greeting card may optionally include other electronic components which are configured to play sound or music or perform other electronic effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Anastasia Taylor, Allison Marsh, Johnathan Talbot, Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo, Eva Jin, David Sapp, Seth Larson
  • Patent number: 8418384
    Abstract: An interactive greeting card operative to move between a first position wherein several interconnected panels are folded into a substantially flat position and a second position wherein the several interconnected panels are unfolded into a three-dimensional pop-up structure. Movement between the first and second positions may also control playback of digital audio, activation of one or more LED lights, or various other special effects. An inner sentiment panel is substantially contained within an outer greeting card body and is revealed when the greeting card is moved from the first to the second position. Various openings on the greeting card panels accommodate movement and visibility of the inner sentiment panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Eva Jin, Beth Laverdiere, David Sapp, Seth Larson, Johnathan Talbot
  • Publication number: 20130025173
    Abstract: Provided are a three-dimensional greeting card which presents a variety of visualizing changes and a card stand which is suitable for holding and displaying a thick three-dimensional greeting card. The three-dimensional greeting card includes: a back plate part including a light source; a shadow picture projecting sheet part; and an original image sheet part in which a shadow picture forming image is formed, the original image sheet part being interposed between the back plate part and the shadow picture projecting sheet part. The card stand for the three-dimensional greeting card includes a flat card mount body including a cut for forming a pair of bent protruding pieces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Hiromichi Takenaka, Norio Adachi
  • Publication number: 20130000164
    Abstract: A greeting card is provided. The greeting card has a back cover, a front cover, a control module, a movable component, and a protective cover. The back cover is configured as the base of the greeting card. The front cover is coupled to the back cover and contains a window. The front cover can be folded over the back cover. The control module is mounted within or on the back cover. The movable component is mounted within or on the back cover and is driven by the control module The window is located on a location on the front cover corresponding to the movable component. The protective cover is mounted within the window and configured to protect the movable component and provide moving space for the movable component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Harshad Jayantilal Shah, Man Dong Ho
  • Publication number: 20120311897
    Abstract: A three-dimensional illuminated greeting card which combines a unique card construction having a 3D pop-out structure with one or more lights contained therein. The 3D pop-out structure forms an internal cavity in which illumination means and other electronic components are contained. One or more sides of the 3D structure are made of translucent or semi-translucent material, creating a screen that can be illuminated from behind by one or more miniature lights, such as LED lights. The light or lights may be connected to an integrated circuit chip that can be programmed with various lighting effects. The greeting card may optionally include other electronic components which are configured to play sound or music or perform other electronic effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventors: Anastasia TAYLOR, Allison Marsh, Johnathan Talbot, Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo, Eva Jin, David Sapp, Seth Larson
  • Patent number: 8281507
    Abstract: A three-dimensional illuminated greeting card which combines a unique card construction having a 3D pop-out structure with one or more lights contained therein. The 3D pop-out structure forms an internal cavity in which illumination means and other electronic components are contained. One or more sides of the 3D structure are made of translucent or semi-translucent material, creating a screen that can be illuminated from behind by one or more miniature lights, such as LED lights. The light or lights may be connected to an integrated circuit chip that can be programmed with various lighting effects. The greeting card may optionally include other electronic components which are configured to play sound or music or perform other electronic effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Anastasia Taylor, Allison Marsh, Johnathan Talbot, Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo, Eva Jin, David Sapp, Seth Larson
  • Patent number: 8250790
    Abstract: A printing product that may revolve and illuminate to form a 3-D vision comprises a main body (1), a revolver (2) arranged on the main body, a circuit device (3) for driving the revolver to rotate, and a trigger switch (4) for controlling disconnection or connection of the circuit device. The circuit device drives the revolver to rotate via a motor (31). The revolver is located in a segmental orifice (10) provided in the main body. A set of luminous elements (20) connecting with the circuit device is arranged on the revolver. The present invention provides an electrical driving apparatus for a greeting card, a book and so on. The revolver is made rotate by the electrical driving apparatus, thus forming a 3-D vision when the luminous elements on the revolver are rotating. Furthermore, the revolver of the present invention is arranged in the horizontal direction, and a rotating space is left for the revolver beforehand by providing the segmental orifice in the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Inventor: KiKin Wong
  • Publication number: 20120117834
    Abstract: Compact powered devices are provided. The powered devices include a substrate, a battery, an activation element and an output device in electrical or optical communication. The compact powered device can be a card that, when subjected to an outside influence or stimulus, displays a message or illumination. The illumination can be circumscribed within a graphical design of the card. The card can be a gift card, a loyalty card, a novelty card, a financial card, an identification card or a smart card. The output device can be a light guide film that distributes light from an illumination device such as an LED which, when activated, illuminates a side of the light guide film. The output device is configured to display a number, a graphic, a logo, or another pattern or message in response to the stimulus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicant: SOLICORE, INC.
    Inventors: Daniel J. TILLWICK, David B. COREY, David EAGLESON
  • Publication number: 20120000100
    Abstract: An interactive greeting card operative to move between a first position wherein several interconnected panels are folded into a substantially flat position and a second position wherein the several interconnected panels are unfolded into a three-dimensional pop-up structure. Movement between the first and second positions may also control playback of digital audio, activation of one or more LED lights, or various other special effects. An inner sentiment panel is substantially contained within an outer greeting card body and is revealed when the greeting card is moved from the first to the second position. Various openings on the greeting card panels accommodate movement and visibility of the inner sentiment panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventors: Eva Jin, Beth Laverdiere, David Sapp, Seth Larson, Johnathan Talbot
  • Publication number: 20110265356
    Abstract: An audio card having a microprocessor, a power supply, a speaker and LED lights enclosed in a pocket that is attached to the inside wall of the front panel of the card. The card produces an audio signal and an illuminated LED display when the card is opened. The speaker and LED lights are placed in a pocket directly behind an aperture located in the front panel of the card. When a person opens the card, a master switch causes the audio signal and LED lights to activate. When a person blows into the aperture, the air pressure of the person's blowing breath causes a change in the output of the electromagnetic coil of the speaker. This change in output is registered in the microprocessor which in turn directs the audio signal and LED lights to turn off.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventor: Ki Kin Wong
  • Publication number: 20110258892
    Abstract: A three-dimensional illuminated greeting card which combines a unique card construction having a 3D pop-out structure with one or more lights contained therein. The 3D pop-out structure forms an internal cavity in which illumination means and other electronic components are contained. One or more sides of the 3D structure are made of translucent or semi-translucent material, creating a screen that can be illuminated from behind by one or more miniature lights, such as LED lights. The light or lights may be connected to an integrated circuit chip that can be programmed with various lighting effects. The greeting card may optionally include other electronic components which are configured to play sound or music or perform other electronic effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventors: Anastasia Taylor, Allison Marsh, Johnathan Talbot, Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo, Eva Jin, David Sapp, Seth Larson
  • Publication number: 20110088292
    Abstract: The invention relates to the provision of a toy and/or packaging and/or another item which includes a light illumination system to allow one or more features provided on at least one sheet of material provided as part of the item, to be rendered more viewable when the light sources are illuminated. The feature is formed on a surface of the sheet material and into the same, typically by etching or another material removal operation. Animated effects can be created by the sequential illumination of the light sources. Audio means can also be provided to be operated in conjunction with the light sources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventors: Robert Kay, Ross Worthington
  • Patent number: 7918577
    Abstract: A device for use in a restaurant as a source of light for the table area comprising a housing, a power circuit and at least one light source. The housing has an integral base that is configured to support the housing on a table. The power circuit has a power source positioned therein the housing and a pressure switch. The at least one light source is positioned therein the housing proximate an aperture in the base and is electrically coupled to the power circuit. The pressure switch is configured to selectively open and close the power circuit such that the at least one light source can be selectively energized by either placing the housing on the table, such that the at least one light source is in a de-energized position, or lifting the housing upwardly away from the table, which energizes the at least one light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Inventor: Robert Marshall Barker
  • Publication number: 20100287799
    Abstract: A microphone air sensor card has a microphone, a circuit having an integrated circuit, a memory, a first transistor and a second transistor. The microphone is biased by a VDD so that the first transistor and the second transistor activate as switches to relay a microphone signal to a microphone input on the integrated circuit. A light element is also included. The integrated circuit turns off the light element when the microphone hears airflow. A primary page and a secondary page house the circuit. The secondary page has an inside portion and an outside portion. The circuit and light element are both disposed within the secondary page between the inside portion and the outside portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventor: Timothy Clegg
  • Publication number: 20100281719
    Abstract: An electrically-powered, dynamic light-emitting gift artifact is disclosed having a light emitting component adapted switchably to emit light between two or more different colors, and a translucent substrate window on which two or more superimposed layers of artwork are disposed. The light emitting component is located for projection through the translucent substrate, and the visibility of each layer of artwork in the window changes responsive to emissions by the light emitting component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicants: Quiham BV, F.A. Driessen BV
    Inventor: Franciscus August Aaron Driessen
  • Publication number: 20100263242
    Abstract: A card for presenting visual information while being waved. The card is flexible and has a sensor detecting or quantifying the bending of the card. The card has, preferably at an edge thereof, light emitters for presenting the information. A controller determines the position of the edge and forwards information so that a user watching the edge sees an emulated 2D information provider.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: CARDLAB APS
    Inventors: Finn Nielsen, Rune Domsten
  • Patent number: 7697200
    Abstract: A reflective display screen comprises a first component surface responsive to absorb low level ambient light from above the screen and a second surrounding component surface responsive to light of high intensity from an image source. The first component surface is graphically formed to represent a fixed permanent image within the screen viewable only in ambient overhead lighting and without incidence of the high intensity light from the image source. Other embodiments include a method of displaying a permanent, fixed image and a method of making a display screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Gregory J. May
  • Publication number: 20100000133
    Abstract: An article of manufacture for motivating users and method for using same with a frame, a digital or fixed media insert, an image on the insert, one aperture anchored to the backing extending backwards from the rear side of the backing near one of the long edges of the backing, and another aperture anchored to the backing extending backwards from the rear side of the backing near one of the short edges of the backing. A clip assembly can be use either as stand for the frame when sifting on a horizontal surface or a clip to clip the frame to a non-horizontal surface such as a vehicle air conditioning vent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventors: Madeleine Kent, Donald Beall MacElwee, JR.
  • Patent number: 7559665
    Abstract: A low cost document holder automatically illuminates a document under low light conditions. An energy-saving system having a switch that turns on a lamp when a front cover is at an angle to a rear cover of between 45 and 135 degrees. The lamp is turned off when the angle is less than 45 degrees or greater than 135 degrees to prevent battery drain when the holder is left open or cannot completely close. Optimized lamp positioning places a centerline of a cone of illumination at a maximum of thirty degrees from the front cover to enable use of a low wattage lamp. The resultant low battery drain enables the components to be permanently enclosed in a document holder cover that has the appearance, dimensions and thickness of standard document holders. Advantages of components enclosed within a cover are reliability, ease of cleaning, market entry and low cost manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Inventor: John Pfanstiehl
  • Publication number: 20090040878
    Abstract: A tangible invitation card extends an invitation by displaying information with regard to the invitation. A settable real-time clock sets a predetermined time which is displayed on a screen on the invitation card of time remaining to a selected target date for an event or earlier RSVP date related thereto. The card is programmed such that as the target date is approached, one or more visual displays and/or sounds count down and announce the time left to the target date for the RSVP or event. The invitation card is programmed with the necessary information to enable it to perform its reminder mission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventors: Joseph Domes, John Mizzi
  • Publication number: 20090015001
    Abstract: A postcard combined with a puzzle to furnish the recipient with a diversion beyond merely reading the card. Preferred embodiments of the puzzle postcard, besides having the usual space for placing postage and a recipient's address and a space adorned with a symbolic representation and/or for writing a message to the recipient, also have at least one puzzle suited to be solved on a two-dimensional board. The contemplated puzzles may be not only ordinary crossword puzzles, but also Sudoku puzzles, code puzzles (relating numbers to words), and any other word- or number-related type puzzles suited to be solved on a two-dimensional board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: Hans Arne Haldorsen
  • Patent number: 7365640
    Abstract: A transportable police vehicle decoy having a life-like, life-size visual image of a police vehicle mounted onto a trailer for transportability, the wheels of the trailing appearing to be the wheels of the police vehicle shown in the image. Operational emergency lights are positioned in the proper location on the visual image and can be activated by speed detection devices when a speeding vehicle approaches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Inventor: Teddy Garcia
  • Patent number: 7356950
    Abstract: The device includes a body with monolithically and pivotally conjoined first and second sections. The second section includes front and rear portions. The front and rear portions include a finger protruding orthogonally thereof. The fingers interlock to maintain the body at a unitary position. Such front and rear portions define a cavity. The front portion has a notch formed therein. The notch penetrates through the front portion and is in fluid communication with the cavity. The rear portion has a slot formed therein which is aligned with the notch and situated rearward of the cavity. A mechanism is included for playing a song when the first and second sections are articulated to an open position. A mechanism is included for illuminating a selected portion of the cavity while the song playing mechanism is activated. The illuminating mechanism lights up the lyrics of the song as the song is played.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Inventor: Najiyyah Avery
  • Publication number: 20080052090
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for the individual, location-independent design of pictures, cards and similar items, especially postcards. In contrast to conventional methods, systems and appliances for creating cards, photos and similar items, the invention creates the possibility of viewing and selecting the virtually finished product created individually by the user; only after this is the payment and output function activated. The method according to the invention is furthermore characterized by the integrated method for portrait recording by means of a video stream.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2004
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Inventors: Jens Heinemann, Birgit Dolde
  • Patent number: 7300178
    Abstract: A greeting card device which enables, by blowing, an LED to be switched off or a sound module (music, voice or noise) to be activated or deactivated, or a combination of a light and a sound to be activated or deactivated simultaneously. The device is composed of a bimetallic strip system, which the user blows on as if blowing out a candle, and which is connected to the integrated circuit of the LED or the sound module or both, as well as to a resistor and a capacitor which, by charging and discharging, allows switching on-switching off cycles to be repeated. The device according to the invention is particularly suited to the animation of greeting cards (birthdays, Christmas, etc.).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: Nicolas Helou
  • Patent number: 7257914
    Abstract: A point-of-purchase display having a display board with a front surface and a rear surface. A graphical element, having an illuminated element, is disposed on the front surface, and an optical waveguide is positioned to be visible through an opening in the board to provide an illuminated pattern corresponding with the illuminated element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Hitachi Koki USA Ltd.
    Inventor: Jason Sauer
  • Patent number: 7167103
    Abstract: A transit center apparatus is provided having one or more modules attachable to a transit stop pole to provide one or more of the following conveniences to a transit stop patron: information in an optionally illuminated modular display apparatus, overhead illumination, video camera surveillance, and wireless communication. These conveniences are preferably provided through an overhead assembly and a rugged information display case. The overhead assembly houses one or more of the group consisting of solar cells, a rechargeable battery pack, overhead lights, a cell phone antenna, camera, and related circuitry. The information display case provides backlighting and houses a switch assembly. The display case is preferably constructed from extruded, interlocking aluminum frame members and is easily installable on existing support poles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Inventors: Bradford S. Warren, Martin R. Soetaert, Alan L. Bartlett
  • Patent number: 6865831
    Abstract: A page for a memory album or a scrapbook has an illumination assembly secured on the back surface of the page. The illumination assembly has a power source and one or more light emitting members powered by the power source. The light emitting member(s) are mounted opposite one or more openings formed in the page to allow light emitted by the light emitting member to be visible on the front surface of the page. An on/off switch is mounted opposite another opening formed in the page to allow a user to selectively activate the light emitting member. One or more fiber optic bundles may be detachably secured to the light emitting members in light transferring relationship by mounting bases of the fiber optic bundles over the light emitting members and securing them by a detachable sleeve placed over the base of the bundle and the light emitting member. The illumination assembly allows personalization of the design on the page of the scrapbook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Inventor: Kurt C. Launey
  • Patent number: 6827472
    Abstract: Combination light fixture/HVAC duct/ad card holder for transit vehicle has roof mounted light fixture having a housing extending inboard to receive roof fasteners readily accessible through a cover strip. A single panel provides ad display serves as air duct with air vents and is supported by a detachable hinge at the light housing. In another embodiment the lamp housing is below the card panel. Combination outboard extrusions form a wiring trough and attachment for duct lower wall, and inboard extrusions form detachable hinge, supporting display panel and card holder. Upper bracket extrusion receives panel and card. Extrusions are attached to display panel by double-sided adhesive tape. Light fixture has ballast member accessible from inside lamp housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Herman Myburgh
  • Patent number: 6817122
    Abstract: A combined greeting card/candle arrangement (10) including a greeting card member (20) having a front face (21) adapted to releasably receive a candle unit (12) including a plurality of different colored wax sheets (30) (30′) (30″) having different sizes wherein the largest of the wax sheets (30) has a wick element (36) embedded therein; and, a plurality of decorative members (40) releasably associated with selected portions of the wax sheets (30) (30′) (30″) which may be rolled together to form a tapered candle (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: Peter Bokis
  • Publication number: 20040205988
    Abstract: In a light card comprising a base and at least one light emitting element disposed on the base, a cover layer is provided which consists of a light permeable foil which, except for a light permeable area, is imprinted by a light impermeable coloring agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2004
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventors: Karsten Kohler, Kurt Kohler
  • Publication number: 20040194357
    Abstract: The present invention refers to an information-displaying unit (1) which has a body of a determined geometrical shape internally with an illumination system having in the narrower portions thereof (12) an arrangement for installation of water atomizing nozzles of a body climatization system, and a pedestal (14) to house the components of said system. The right side portion (10) and the left side portion (10′) of the information-displaying unit (1) have an arrangement for installation of an information-displaying device (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Gilles Francois Dominique d'Ornano
  • Patent number: 6748681
    Abstract: An illuminated badge system has plastic top and bottom plates limited flexibility. The top plate has a front face and a side wall extending inwardly and with a lip extending radially outward from the wall. The bottom plate has a rectilinear rear face and a peripheral wall extending inwardly from the rear face with a lip extending radially from the peripheral wall thereby forming a recessed back portion whereby when the front plate and the bottom plate are coupled together a top chamber and a peripheral space with a dam portion are formed. Upon breaking of an ampule located within the top chamber, a first chemiluminescent liquid located within the peripheral space intermixes with a second chemiluminescent liquid located within the ampule and the intermixed liquids fill the peripheral space, excluding the dam portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Peter Dorney
  • Publication number: 20040074117
    Abstract: A page for a memory album or a scrapbook has an illumination assembly secured on the back surface of the page. The illumination assembly has a power source and one or more light emitting members powered by the power source. The light emitting member(s) are mounted opposite one or more openings formed in the page to allow light emitted by the light emitting member to be visible on the front surface of the page. An on/off switch is mounted opposite another opening formed in the page to allow a user to selectively activate the light emitting member. One or more fiber optic bundles may be detachably secured to the light emitting members in light transferring relationship by mounting bases of the fiber optic bundles over the light emitting members and securing them by a detachable sleeve placed over the base of the bundle and the light emitting member. The illumination assembly allows personalization of the design on the page of the scrapbook.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Kurt C. Launey