Gift Token Packaging and Processes

Abstract

A method includes forming a card having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a decal removably attached to the bottom surface, the decal including a first unique identifier. The method also includes removably attaching a bottom surface of a token to the top surface of the card, the bottom surface of the token including a second unique identifier operable to provide access to a digital gift. The method further includes removing the decal from the card, attaching the decal to a base of packaging configured to retain the token and the card, and disposing the card and the token within the packaging such that at least the token is removably retained by the packaging and the second unique identifier is inaccessible.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a non-provisional of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/438,915, filed Dec. 23, 2016, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to social expression products, and more specifically, to methods of manufacturing gift assemblies (e.g., a token and corresponding packaging) useful in providing access to an electronic or physical gift item.

BACKGROUND

Gift cards have become common birthday gifts, holiday gifts, or gifts during other occasions. Such gift cards typically include a magnetic strip, a redemption code, or other means for redeeming a gift (e.g., monetary value, a subscription, a digital gift item, etc.) corresponding to the gift card. As a result, once such gift cards are activated, the recipient of such gift cards may redeem the gift corresponding to the gift card with relative ease. While this may be an advantage of such gift cards, the ease with which such gifts may be redeemed by those in possession of such gift cards once the cards are activated can also lead to fraud, theft, and other issues.

In order to combat these issues, it is possible to provide gift cards that are not active until they are brought to a cash register or other point-of-sale. Such gift cards can be activated at the register once the gift cards are purchased. However, gift cards of this type typically lack aesthetic appeal. In particular, while such gift cards may be easily purchased and activated, such gift cards generally are not accompanied by decorative packaging or other components that enhance the gifting experience. While, in some instances, a greeting card or other additional items may be purchased to accompany the gift card, the greeting card typically will not share the same decorations, themes, layout, color scheme, or general appearance as the gift card. As a result, such a gift combination is less than desirable. Additionally, while some gift combinations may enclose an inactive gift card within a case, housing, or other structure, such structures make it difficult to access the gift card for activation purposes at the point-of-sale.

Thus, there is a need for cost-effective and efficient methods of manufacturing tokens, gift cards, packaging, and other materials associated with presenting such gifts to recipients. Such methods should enable manufacturers to produce these materials in a secure manner such that fraud associated with the misappropriation of redemption codes and other information can be avoided. Finally, these methods should also provide an efficient means for activating tokens associated with such gifts without providing access to the token at the point-of-sale.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to addressing at least some of the deficiencies described above.

SUMMARY

The example tokens, packaging, and other materials of the present disclosure provide a unique and more personal way to gift virtual, digital or later-arriving physical gift items to a recipient. The tokens described herein are a representation of the actual gift and also provide information required to unlock, redeem or otherwise provide access to the gifted product or content. The tokens may be packaged in a fun, entertaining way which greatly improves the unwrapping process and provides a meaningful gift giving and receiving experience. The processes described below also provide cost-effective and secure methods of manufacturing such tokens, and presenting them in fanciful packaging to enhance the gifting experience. Additionally, packaging and/or other components manufactured according to such methods may enable the token to be activated at the point-of-sale without providing access to redemption codes or other codes located within the packaging and/or on the token itself. As a result, misappropriation of these redemption codes can be avoided.

In an example embodiment of the present disclosure, a method includes forming a card having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a decal removably attached to the bottom surface, the decal including a first unique identifier. The method also includes removably attaching a bottom surface of a token to the top surface of the card, the bottom surface of the token including a second unique identifier operable to provide access to a digital gift. The method further includes removing the decal from the card, attaching the decal to a base of packaging configured to retain the token and the card, and disposing the card and the token within the packaging such that at least the token is removably retained by the packaging and the second unique identifier is inaccessible.

In another example embodiment of the present disclosure, a method includes forming a card having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface. The method also includes removably attaching a bottom surface of a token to the top surface of the card. The method further includes forming a label sheet having a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, a first decal removably attached to one of the first surface or the second surface, and a second decal removably attached to one of the first surface or the second surface. In such a method, the first decal includes a first unique identifier, and the second decal includes a second unique identifier corresponding to the first unique identifier, the second unique identifier being operable to provide access to a digital gift. Such a method also includes removing the first decal from the label sheet, attaching the first decal to a base of packaging configured to retain the token and the card, removing the second decal from the label sheet, and attaching the second decal to the bottom surface of the card or the bottom surface of the token. Such a method further includes disposing the card and the token within the packaging such that at least the token is removably retained by the packaging and the second unique identifier is inaccessible.

In still another example embodiment of the present disclosure, a method includes forming a token having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a decal removably attached to the bottom surface. In such a method, the decal includes a first unique identifier, and the token includes a second unique identifier corresponding to the first unique identifier. Further, in such a method the second unique identifier is at least partially obscured by the decal, and is operable to provide access to a digital gift. Such a method also includes removing the decal from the token such that the second unique identifier is at least temporarily exposed. Such a method further includes attaching the decal to a base of packaging configured to retain the token. Additionally, such a method includes disposing the token within the packaging such that the token is removably retained by the packaging and the second unique identifier is inaccessible.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

This detailed description makes reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same reference numbers in different figures indicate similar or identical items.

FIG. 1 is a top view of a token within gift packaging.

FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the gift packaging of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example gift assembly of the present disclosure. The gift assembly includes the packaging and token illustrated in at least FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of an environment associated with activating a token and/or redeeming a digital gift associated with the token.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example card and token corresponding to the example method of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 illustrates a bottom surface of the example card shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating another example method of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example card and token corresponding to the example method of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 illustrates a bottom surface of the example card shown in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example label sheet corresponding to the example method of FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating still another example method of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates top and bottom surfaces of a token corresponding to the example method of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 further illustrates the bottom surface of the token shown in FIG. 13.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Form Factor

As shown in FIG. 1, an example embodiment of the present disclosure is directed to a gift assembly including a token 10 and/or associated gift packaging 12. In example embodiments, a token 10 of the present disclosure may be used to unlock, redeem or otherwise provide access to an electronic, a virtual or physical gift item. Alternatively, the token 10 may be used as a physical carrier of an electronic or virtual gift item or content. As used herein the term “token” refers to a physical item such as a coin, a figurine, game piece, a chip, a badge, a ring, a fob, a key, or the like. The token 10 may be shaped like a circle, a square, a triangle, or any other conceivable shape, or it may take the form of a figurine, such as a character or doll, or it may be shaped like a game piece, such as those used in board games. The token 10 may be made of paper, foam, metal, plastic, cardboard, paperboard, chipboard, fiberboard, wood, or any other conceivable material or a combination thereof. The token 10 may contain printing thereon which includes but is not limited to: a picture, a drawing, a photograph, a logo, printed text, instructions for redeeming the token, and a code for redeeming or unlocking a gift (e.g., a digital gift) corresponding to the token 10. In an example embodiment, the token 10 is a circular-shaped coin which contains a code (e.g., a redemption code) printed thereon for unlocking or otherwise providing access to an electronic, virtual or physical gift. As will be described in greater detail below, any of the tokens 10 described herein may have a first (e.g., a top) surface, and a second (e.g., a bottom) surface opposite the first surface. In some examples, the token 10 may also include a unique identifier disposed on one of the first surface and the second surface. The unique identifier (e.g., an alphanumeric code, a QR code, a password, an image, or other indicia uniquely to the token 10) may comprise a redemption code operative to provide access to a digital gift separate from the token 10. Additionally, any of the tokens 10 described herein may include visual indicia disposed on at least one of the first surface and the second surface thereof, and the visual indicia may be indicative of the gift, the provider of the gift, and/or of a fanciful theme corresponding to, associated with, and/or indicative of the gift.

The token 10 provides an alternate avenue for the presentation of a gift that is not otherwise “in-hand” at the time of gifting. For example, in order to gift someone a subscription to a subscription-based service, purchasers or the subscription service may send the gift recipient an email or text message informing the recipient of the gift. Alternately, the purchaser must print out a sheet of paper with the subscription information printed thereon and present that to the recipient at the time of gifting. This method of gifting lacks sentiment and entertainment value. It gives the perception that the email or printed paper is an IOU instead of an actual gift. Gifting a token 10 of the present disclosure, on the other hand, provides the purchaser with a fun, unique and physical way to gift such items to a recipient.

In an example embodiment, the token 10 may be pre-packaged at least partially within and/or may otherwise be at least temporarily retained by gift packaging 12 which gives the gift recipient a feeling of actually receiving a physical gift even though the actual gift item (such as a gift subscription) is not physically present at the time of gifting. The token 10 packaged within the gift packaging 12 provides a far more fun and entertaining gift presentation than a simple printed sheet of paper, greeting card, gift card, or electronic message. As used herein the term “gift packaging” or “packaging” is intended to include items such as a gift box, a pop-up gift box, a three-dimensional gift presentation box, a gift bag, a gift pouch or other container typically used for gifting physical gifts. As used herein, the term “gift packaging” or “packaging” is not intended to include greeting cards.

Token Content

In an example embodiment, the token 10 may be operable to unlock, redeem or otherwise provide access to of one or more of the many gift subscription services or memberships which deliver virtual, electronic or physical goods on a recurring basis (e.g., monthly, quarterly, annually) such as magazine or newspaper subscriptions (e.g., People, Sports Illustrated, Time, Vogue, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal), makeup or lifestyle subscriptions (e.g., BirchBox, Pop Sugar, Barkbox, Fitbox), a food subscription (e.g., Graze, HelloFresh, various food/drink of the month clubs including, but not limited to: beer, wine, tea, coffee, fruit, candy, etc.), a novelty/gaming item subscription (e.g., Gamefly, LootCrate, Nerd Block), a clothing subscription (e.g., Stitchbox, Bombfell), or any other subscription-based service. These subscriptions ultimately provide the gift recipient with physical goods, however, at the time of gifting or notification of the gift, the gift giver does not typically have any meaningful way to present the later-to-arrive gift to the recipient. The token 10, which represents the gift subscription and which provides access to the recipient for redeeming the subscription, provides a fun and entertaining way to give the recipient a physical object (e.g., the token 10) which can be unwrapped to reveal a later arriving physical gift via the subscription. As noted above, in some example embodiments, the token 10 includes a unique identifier (e.g., a redemption code) that may be used by the recipient to unlock or redeem the gift associated with the token 10.

In another embodiment, the token 10 may be operative to unlock, redeem or otherwise provide access to one or more electronic items including, but not limited to: a game; a movie; a movie clip; a video; an animated greeting; a personalized greeting; a digital book; a digital magazine; a digital magazine subscription; an audio file or audio clip; a ringtone; a music file; or a gift card. In still further embodiments, the token 10 may be operative to unlock, redeem or otherwise provide access to one or more virtual gift items or content. “Virtual gift items” are non-physical objects and/or currency for use in online communities and social media or online games. For example, characters or avatars in virtual worlds can own things within the virtual world. Virtual currency may be used to purchase items within a virtual world, such as, for example, land, supplies, weapons, and clothing, to name a few. These virtual gift items are typically available as in-app purchases (extra content and subscriptions that you can buy within an app on a mobile device or computer). In still further embodiments, the token 10 is operative to unlock, redeem or otherwise provide access to augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) environments.

In any of the example embodiments described herein, the tokens 10, packaging 12, and/or the gift assemblies generally, may be available as “themed” gifts or gift assemblies which may contain content related to a particular theme, such as, for example, 40 Starbucks lattes for a 40th birthday, a 16-month subscription to Gamefly for a 16th Birthday, a 25-month wine subscription from Winc for a 25th wedding anniversary, a digital content subscription (e.g., Spotify, Apple Music, Netflix, HBO, etc.), or a subscription to Evernote or Lumosity for a particular work anniversary.

Further, in any of the examples described herein, the token 10 may be a gift card having a component storing an amount of monetary value. For example, the token 10 may include a magnetic strip, an RFID chip, and/or other component on which any desired monetary value may be loaded before the gift is given to the recipient. Such a monetary value (e.g., $25, $50, or any other dollar value) may be loaded onto the component of the token 10 prior to purchasing the token 10, at the point-of-sale, or after the purchase of the token 10.

Gift Packaging

As noted above, the token 10 may be packaged within gift packaging 12. In such examples, a gift assembly of the present disclosure may include, among other things, a token 10, associated packaging 12, and/or one or more components of the token 10 and the packaging 12. As can be seen in the example gift assembly shown in FIG. 3, example packaging 12 may comprise a platform, envelope, disc, box, container, or other such structure configured to at least temporarily retain one or more tokens 10. Example packaging 12 may include, for example, a cover or lid 14 that is moveable relative to and/or detachable from a base 16. For example, the packaging 12 may include a hinge, a fold, an additional flap of material, and/or other structure movably connecting the lid 14 and the base 16. In some examples, the lid 14 may include an opening 18 through which at least part of the token 10 (e.g., at least part of a top surface of the token 10) may be visible. In such examples, the opening 18 may be covered by one or more substantially transparent layers of material (e.g., plastic, polymeric material, etc.) to protect the token 10 during storage and/or transport of the packaging 12. Such a layer of material may also assist in retaining the token 10 within the packaging 12 while the lid 14 is substantially closed. Additionally, the opening 18 may be disposed substantially centrally on the lid 14 (e.g., proximate an approximate center of the lid 14).

The base 16 of the packaging 12 may be made of foam, plastic, cardboard, cardstock, paper, or other lightweight material. In such examples, the base 16 may include and/or may form one or more cavities or other like inner compartments within which the token 10 and/or components of the packaging 12 may be disposed. In some examples, the base 16 may contain a top surface 20, a bottom surface 22 opposite the top surface 20, and a sidewall 24 spacing the top surface 20 from the bottom surface 22. In some examples, the sidewall 24 may surround and/or otherwise form at least a portion of the inner compartment of the packaging 12. In such examples, the inner compartment of the packaging 12 may be formed by a substantially cylindrical and/or otherwise substantially continuous sidewall 24. In other embodiments, on the other hand, two or more opposing sidewalls may form at least part of the inner compartment. It is understood that the lid 14 and/or the base 16 of the packaging 12 may also form at least part of the inner compartment. Any of the sidewalls 24 of the packaging 12 described herein may extend substantially perpendicularly from the base 16 and/or the lid 14 of the packaging 12.

The top and bottom surfaces 20, 22 of the base 16 may be at least partially covered by one or more sheets of material. The sheets of material may be paper, paperboard, cardboard, or any other printable material. In such examples, at least part of the material which is attached to the top surface 20 of the base 16 may also be partially attached to the lid 14. In such examples, the material that is attached to both the lid 14 and the base 16 may assist in connecting the lid 14 with the base 16. In any of the examples described herein, the lid 14 may be made from any of the materials described above with respect to the base 16, and the lid 14 may have a shape, diameter, thickness, size, and/or any other configuration that is substantially similar to and/or the same as the base 16.

In some examples, the packaging 12 of the gift assembly may include a three-dimensional pop-up structure 26. As shown in FIG. 3, the pop-up structure 26 may be located between the top surface 20 of the base 16 and, for example, a bottom surface 32 of the lid 14. The pop-up structure 26 may be configured to at least partially retain a token 10, card, blister pack, and/or other component of the gift assembly. In some examples, the pop-up structure 26 may include one or more moveable components 42 configured to assist in retaining such the token 10, card, blister pack, and/or other component of the gift assembly. For instance, the pop-up structure 26 may include a shelf 44 on which at least part of the token 10, card, blister pack, and/or other component of the gift assembly may be disposed and/or otherwise removably attached. The pop-up structure 26 may also include one or more panels 46 moveably attached to the lid 14. One or more such panels 46 may form at least part of the shelf 44 and/or a recess, channel, cavity, and/or other structure within which at least part of the token 10, card, blister pack, and/or other component of the gift assembly may be disposed while the lid 14 is substantially closed. Additionally or alternatively, the pop-up structure 26 may include an adhesive, a clip, a latch, Velcro®, and or other component to assist in temporarily retaining the token 10, card, blister pack, and/or other component of the gift assembly.

In example embodiments, the lid 14 may be rotatable, pivotable, and/or otherwise moveable relative to the base 16 between a first position (e.g., substantially closed) in which the bottom surface 32 of the lid 14 extends substantially parallel to the top surface 20 of the base 16, and a second position (e.g., substantially open) in which the bottom surface 32 of the lid 14 extends at any desired included angle (e.g., an included angle between approximately 1 degree and approximately 180 degrees) relative to the top surface 20 of the base 16. In such examples, the pop-up structure 26 may be configured such that movement of the lid 14 causes commensurate movement of the one or more panels 46, the moveable component 42, and/or other components of the pop-up structure 26. For example, at least one panel 46 of the pop-up structure 26 may be at least partially connected to at least one of the lid 14 and the base 16, such that movement of the lid 14 between the first and second positions causes movement of the pop-up structure 26. Additionally, it is understood that when the lid 14 is in the first position described above (e.g., substantially closed), at least part of the pop-up structure 26 may lie flat between the top surface 20 of the base 16 and the bottom surface 32 of the lid 14. In such examples, a substantially planar surface of the pop-up structure 26 may extend substantially parallel to, may be disposed adjacent, may extend along, and/or may contact at least part of the top surface 20 of the base 16 or the bottom surface 32 of the lid 14. Further, when the lid 14 is transitioned from the first position to the second position (e.g., substantially open), such movement of the lid 14 may cause the substantially planar surface of the pop-up structure 26 to be spaced from at least the top surface 20 of the base 16. For example, when the lid 14 is disposed in the second position, the substantially planar surface of the pop-up structure 26 may extend substantially parallel to the top surface 20 of the base 16. In such examples, the substantially planar portion of the pop-up structure 26 may comprise a top surface or a bottom surface of at least one of the panels 46.

The lid 14 may also include a tab 28 and/or other like extension attached to a surface thereof, such as a top surface 30 of the lid 14 or the bottom surface 32. In such examples, the tab 28 may be configured such that it can be grasped by a user, such as, for example, between a thumb and forefinger, and lifted to reveal the pop-up structure 26. As mentioned above, the lid 14 may include an opening 18 at the approximate center thereof through which the token 10 may be visible.

Additionally, the top surface 30 and/or the bottom surface 32 of the lid 14 may include printing thereon, such as a product logo, trademark, brand, image, text, name, slogan, and/or other visual indicia which identifies the source (e.g., a provider) of a gift associated with the token 10, the gift itself, the manufacturer (e.g., a provider) of the token 10 and/or of the packaging 12, or other aspects associated with the token 10. Such visual indicia is illustrated at least on the bottom surface 32 of the lid 14 shown in FIG. 3, and on the top surface of the lid 14 shown in FIG. 1. It is understood that such visual indicia may also be included on the top surface 20 of the base 16, the bottom surface 22 of the base 16, one or more panels 46 of the pop-up structure 26, the top surface and/or the bottom surface of the token 10, and/or at other locations associated with either the token 10 or the packaging 12.

The base 16 and/or the pop-up structure 26 may additionally contain printing thereon (in words and/or pictures) which illustrates what the token 10 “unlocks”. As illustrated by the example bottom surface 22 of the base 16 shown in FIG. 2, it is understood that one or more portions of the packaging 12 may also include redemption instructions 34 and may contain a gift message, information 36 related to the gift corresponding to the token 10, and/or other information (e.g., redemption codes, activation codes, bar codes, QR codes, etc.) 38 as well. The base 16 may also include one or more tabs which can be grasped, for example between a user's thumb and forefinger and lifted to assist in opening and/or otherwise revealing the inside of the packaging 12. In such examples, the tabs of the base 16 and of the lid 14 may be grasped by the user and separated (e.g., moved away from each other) in order to transition the packaging 12 between a closed position in which the base 16 is disposed substantially parallel to the lid 14, and a substantially open position at which the base 16 is disposed at an included angle of between approximately 1 degree and approximately 180 degrees relative to the lid 14. Additionally, it is understood that in an additional embodiment, one or more components of the packaging 12 described herein may be modified and/or omitted in order to reduce the overall cost of manufacturing the packaging 12 and/or to simplify the process of manufacturing the packaging 12 and/or the gift assembly. For example, in such embodiments, the opening 18 and/or the material covering the opening 18 may be omitted. Additionally or alternatively, in such examples one or more of the lid 14, the base 16, and the pop-up structure 26 may be omitted from the gift assembly.

In any of the examples described herein, the packaging 12 may also contain a sound module contained within, for example, one or more cavities or inner compartments of the base 16. The sound module (not shown) may be operative to store and playback at least one audio file. The sound module may contain a printed circuit board, an integrated circuit, a memory device having at least one audio file stored thereon, a speaker, a power source, related wiring and circuitry and/or any other component configured to facilitate the storage and/or emission of at least one audio file. In some examples, transitioning the packaging 12 from the closed position to the substantially open position may activate the sound module such that the at least one audio file is played through a speaker during the opening or unwrapping experience. In some examples, each different token 10 may correspond to a unique audio clip stored within and/or otherwise playable by the sound module.

With continued reference to FIG. 3, in some examples the pop-up structure 26 of the gift assembly may be moveable between a first position, wherein it is folded substantially flat between the base 16 and the lid 14 (e.g., between the top surface 20 and the bottom surface 32) and a second position, wherein the pop-up structure 26 is unfolded into a three dimensional structure having the token 10 contained upon a pedestal thereof. The design of the pop-up structure 26 may correspond to the token 10 disposed thereon. For example, as shown in FIG. 3 and as discussed above, if the token 10 provides the gift recipient with a subscription and/or membership to Gamefly (e.g., a provider of the gift), the pop-up structure 26, the token 10, and/or other portions of the packaging 12 may include text, images, content, or other visual indicia corresponding to and/or associated with Gamefly. Further, if the token 10 provides the gift recipient with a BirchBox subscription (e.g., a provider of the gift), the pop-up structure 26, the token 10, and/or other portions of the packaging 12 may contain visual indicia representing makeup, haircare items or other items corresponding to and/or associated with BirchBox. In such examples, the pop-up structure 26, the token 10, and/or other portions of the packaging 12 may also contain text, such as “looking good” or other appropriate language not specifically representative of BirchBox, but related to the category, theme, or genre (e.g., beauty products) with which the gift is associated. In another example, if the token 10 provides the gift recipient with a Graze subscription, the pop-up structure 26, the token 10, and/or other portions of the packaging 12 may contain elements representing various food items or snacks and text such as “yum” or other appropriate content. Each unique token 10 may also feature corresponding audio and/or decorative effects which enhance the opening or unwrapping experience. The gift packaging 12 enhances the value proposition by providing meaningful, fun and surprising vehicle for digital gift giving.

While the gift packaging 12 has been described herein as having a circular shape with circular opening, other shapes have been contemplated and are considered to fall within the scope of the present application. Also, while certain materials have been mentioned and certain packaging configurations have been set forth herein, such example embodiments are not meant to limit the present disclosure in any way. Other materials and packaging configuration can be used.

Purchasing and Activating the Token

FIG. 4 illustrates an example environment 100 in which a purchaser 102 may purchase a token 10 and corresponding packaging 12. Such an example environment 100 may also enable activation of the token 10 and redemption of a gift corresponding to the token 10. As shown in FIG. 4, such an example environment 100 may include, among other things, a network 104 to which one or more servers or other computing devices of a processing center 106 is connected. Additionally or alternatively, one or more servers or other computing devices of a gift provider 108 may be connected to the network 104. In such an example environment, the purchaser 102 may purchase an example token 10, packaging 12, and/or other components of the present disclosure, either separately or in combination, from a physical retail store or online from an online retailer. In such examples, one or more cash registers, servers, and/or other computing devices of the physical retail store may be connected to the one or more computing devices of the processing center 106 and/or of the provider 108 via the network 104. Alternatively, in such examples the purchaser 102 may purchase the token 10 and/or packaging 12 online using a mobile device, tablet, laptop computer, or other electronic device connected to the one or more computing devices of the retailer, token/packaging manufacturer, processing center 106, and/or of the provider 108 via the network 104.

The network 104 may be a local area network (“LAN”), a larger network such as a wide area network (“WAN”), or a collection of networks, such as the Internet. Protocols for network communication, such as TCP/IP, may be used to implement the network 104. Although embodiments are described herein as using a network 104 such as the Internet, other distribution techniques may be implemented that transmit information via memory cards, flash memory, or other portable memory devices.

The processing center 112 may, among other things, validate the authenticity of the user 102, process the payment information provided by the user 102, and/or provide unique value code information to the value code engines 108, 116 at least partly in response to receiving the information from the value code engines 108, 116. Additionally, the processing center 112 may provide such information, at least in part, to the one or more providers 114 corresponding to the gift item, and may activate the unique value code. In some examples, the value code engines 108, 116 described herein may also be configured to assist in causing the received value code to be printed on the greeting card or on the separate giftable item.

The processing centers 106 described herein may comprise a validation/activation service, information databases, websites, business research companies, one or more human users, and/or any other information sources. Any of the example processing centers 106 described herein may be disposed at a location remote from the retail outlet at which the token 10 and/or the packaging 12 is purchased. Such processing centers 106 may be configured to receive information, such as payment information, from the electronic device of the purchaser 102 and/or from the retail outlet. At least partly in response to receiving such information, the processing centers 106 may validate the authenticity of the purchaser 102, process the received payment information, and/or provide activation information to the retail outlet and/or the purchaser 102 via the network 104. Additionally, the processing center 106 may provide such information, at least in part, to the one or more providers 108 corresponding to the token 10, and may activate the token 10. Further, the processing center 106 may facilitate redemption of the gift item corresponding to the token 10 when such redemption is attempted by a gift 110.

Similar to the processing centers 106, the gift item providers 108 described herein may include one or more human users, information databases, websites, and the like. Any of the example gift item providers 106 described herein may be communicatively connected to the processing centers 106 and/or a retail outlet via the network 104, and such providers 108 may be disposed at a location remote from the retail outlet at which the token 10 and/or the packaging 12 is purchased. The gift item providers 108 may comprise any merchant, seller, manufacturer, service provider, and/or other entity offering a gift item for purchase.

In some examples, at a physical retailer, there may exist a “token mall” or area in which tokens 10 representing various pre-determined gifts are displayed. Such tokens 10 may be displayed separately from corresponding packaging 12. Alternatively, such tokens 10 may be pre-packaged within corresponding packaging 12 at the retailer. The tokens 10 and/or the packaging 12 may be presented to purchasers 102 in a similar manner via one or more websites, mobile applications, or other portals of an online retailer. In the example environment 100 described herein, a purchaser 102 may select from the variety of tokens 10 and/or packaging 12 corresponding to the specific gift which he/she wishes to gift to a recipient. For example, if the purchaser 102 wishes to gift a BirchBox subscription to a gift recipient, then he/she would select the token 10 and/or packaging 12 which corresponds to the BirchBox subscription. As mentioned above, the token 10 itself may contain a unique identifier (e.g., a redemption code) which is pre-linked to the BirchBox subscription or other such gift. The token 10 and/or the packaging 12 may also include visual indicia disposed thereon, such as a company or product logo, or other information which identifies the particular gift item represented by the token 10.

The tokens 10 described herein may be “live” or “active” prior to the purchaser 102 purchasing said token 10. Alternatively, the tokens 10 may be activated at the point-of-sale by, for example scanning a bar code, QR code, RFID tag, digital watermark, or other unique identifier (e.g., an activation code) on the token 10 or on the gift packaging 12. As noted above, an example activation code (e.g., a barcode) and/or other information 38 is illustrated in FIG. 2. In some examples, a single code may be used to purchase the token 10 and also to activate the token 10. Alternatively, in other examples separate codes may be used to purchase and activate the token 10. Additionally, such codes may be disposed on the token 10 and/or on the packaging 12.

Redeeming a Gift

Once the token 10 and corresponding packaging 12 have been gifted to the recipient 110, the recipient 110 must follow the instructions 34 included on the packaging 12 in order to receive his/her gift. The redemption process includes authentication activities by the processing center 106 to determine whether the redemption code and/or other unique identifier contained on the token 10 is a valid code. The redemption process may also include authorization activities by the processing center 106 and/or the provider 108 which provides the recipient 110 with access to the particular content and/or gift linked to the token 10.

In an example embodiment, in order to redeem a gift corresponding to the token 10, the recipient 110 may manually enter the redemption code or other unique identifier included on the token 10 into a specified webpage, mobile application, or other portal associated with the provider 106. As will be described below, such a redemption code or other unique identifier may initially be concealed within the packaging 12 and/or may be otherwise inaccessible, and accessing the redemption code may require action by the recipient 110 to reveal the redemption code. For example, the redemption code or other unique identifier may be covered by UV Ink (similar to scratch-off lottery tickets or pre-paid cards) or other material which must be scratched off (or otherwise removed) by the recipient 110 to reveal the redemption code printed therebeneath. The redemption code may alternatively be concealed by a pull-tab or other user-removable material or by may be hidden beneath a portion of the packaging 12. Once the redemption code printed on the token 10 is revealed (if it is initially concealed), the recipient 110 may go to a specific website of the provider 108 by entering a specified uniform resource locator (URL) into an internet browser operable on the electronic device 112. The URL may be printed directly onto the token 10 or it may be contained on an insert which is packaged with the token 10 or it may be contained on a portion of the packaging 12. Once the recipient 110 has reached the website indicated by the URL, the recipient 110 may view a welcome experience and obtain additional information regarding the token 10, the method for redeeming a gift corresponding to the token 10, and other facts about the token 10 or the redemption process. The recipient 110 may then enter the redemption code printed on the token 10 in an area of the website indicated for accepting redemption codes. Alternatively, in examples in which the redemption code or other unique identifier comprises a QR code or other format, the recipient 110 may scan or otherwise enter the redemption code using functionality of the electronic device 112. The web site receives the redemption code and verifies that the code is authentic. In some examples, the provider 108 may direct such information to the processing center 106 to confirm authenticity of the redemption code. If the redemption code is deemed authentic, the website may permit the recipient 110 to redeem the gift. For example, if the gift is a subscription-based physical gift, the recipient 110 may be required to enter his/her name and delivery address and may be asked for additional information. If the gift is a subscription-based digital gift, the recipient 110 will be required to enter his/her name, email address and phone number and may be asked to provide additional information and to download an app which provides the recipient 110 access to or which facilitates use of the gift by the recipient 110.

Methods

As noted above, various embodiments of the present disclosure are also directed toward methods and/or or processes of manufacturing tokens 10, packaging 12, and/or other gift assembly components in a secure and efficient manner. For example, the fanciful tokens 12, packaging, cards, and/or other gift assembly components manufactured in accordance with the example methods described herein may enhance the gifting experience. Such components and may also be configured to enable activation of the token 10 at the point-of-sale without providing access to redemption codes or other unique identifiers located within the packaging 12 and/or on the token 12 itself. As a result, such methods may reduce the risk of fraud and misappropriation associated with manufacturing such tokens 10, and thus, may provide significant cost savings and other advantages to manufacturers, providers, and/or other entities associated with the sale of such items.

The various methods described herein are illustrated as a collection of steps in a logical flowcharts or flow diagrams. As will be described below, such flowcharts represent a sequence of operations that can be implemented in hardware, software, by human operators, or a combination thereof. In the context of software, the steps represent computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, perform the recited operations. Generally, computer-executable instructions include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and the like that perform particular functions or implement particular abstract data types. The order in which the operations are described herein is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described steps can be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the disclosed methods.

FIG. 5 provides a flowchart illustrating an example method 200 of the present disclosure. In such an example method 200 (e.g., a method of manufacturing packaging 12, a token 10, and/or other components), an operator may, at 202, form a card having a token 10 removably attached thereto. In example embodiments, forming such a card with a token 10 at 202 may include a number of steps or processes, and the steps or processes performed at 202 may result in the formation of a blister pack or other such article having a token 10 of the present disclosure removably attached to a card or other like carrier.

FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate a card 208 formed with a token 10 (e.g., a blister pack) according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 6, an example card 208 may include a first portion 210, and a second portion 212 extending from the first portion 210. The card 208 may be made from and/or may otherwise comprise any of the materials described above with respect to the token 10 and/or the packaging 12. For example, the card 208 may comprise a single or multi-layer piece of paper, cardboard, plastic, cardstock, or the like. In such examples, the first portion 210 may be shaped, sized, and/or otherwise configured to retain one or more decals of the present disclosure. For example, the first portion 210 may comprise a substantially rectangular portion of the card 208, while the second portion 212 may comprise a substantially circular and/or substantially semicircular portion of the card 208. In such embodiments, the second portion 212 may be shaped, sized, and/or otherwise configured to retain at least part of a token 10. For example, the card 208 may include a top surface 214, and a bottom surface 216 opposite the top surface 214. In such examples, at 202 the token 10 may be removably attached to the top surface 214 of the card 208. In particular, the token 10 may include a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface. In such examples, at 202 the bottom surface of the token 10 may be removably attached to the top surface 214 of the card 208. As noted above, in any of the example embodiments described herein the token 10 (e.g., the top surface of the token 10) may include various images, pictures, text, logos, and/or other visual indicia associated with a digital gift corresponding to the token 10. In such examples, at least the top surface 214 of the card 208 may also include visual indicia that corresponds to and/or that is otherwise associated with the digital gift redeemable using the token 10. In such examples, first visual indicia disposed on at least the top surface 214 of the card 208 may be associated with such a digital gift, and second visual indicia disposed on at least the top surface of the token 10 may be associated with the digital gift. It is understood that such first visual indicia may be similar to, the same as, and/or may otherwise match or correspond to such second visual indicia. Further, in some examples, forming the card 208 with the token 10 at 202 may include covering the token 10 and at least a portion of the card 208 with a layer of substantially transparent material (e.g., plastic, polymeric material, etc.) configured to assist in removably attaching the token 10 to the card 208. In some examples, such a layer of substantially transparent material may comprise a laminate material assisting in the formation of a blister pack at 202. Additionally or alternatively, at 202 the bottom surface of the token 10 may be at least temporarily adhered to the top surface 214 of the card 208. In any such examples, the card 208 may be at least partially perforated to assist a recipient 110 in detaching the token 10 from the card 208.

In some examples, at 202, forming the card 208 with the token 10 may include removably attaching at least one decal 218 to the bottom surface 216 of the card 208. For example, such a decal 218 may comprise one or more strips of paper, plastic, polymers, and/or other material that is adhered, and/or otherwise at least temporarily (e.g., removably) attached to the bottom surface 216. In some examples, the decal 218 may comprise a sticker, label, and/or other such component of the card 208. In some examples, the decal 218 may include one or more unique identifiers. In the example illustrated in FIG. 7, the decal 218 may include a unique identifier 220 comprising a barcode, QR code, RFID tag, magnetic strip, and/or other computer-readable code or component. In such examples, the unique identifier 220 may be, for example, scanned, detected, and/or otherwise observed at the point-of-sale. In such examples, the unique identifier 220 may comprise an activation code associated with the particular token 10 removably attached to the card 208, and the token 10 may be configured such that scanning the unique identifier 220 at the point-of-sale may activate the token 10. In such embodiments, a gift corresponding to the token 10 may only be redeemed once such activation has occurred. Alternatively, in the embodiment of FIGS. 6 and 7, the token 10 may be active and/or “live” at the point-of-sale, and in such examples, scanning the unique identifier 220 at the point-of-sale may provide an indication to a manufacturer of the token 10, a processing center 106, and/or to a provider 108 of the digital gift associated with the token 10 that the token 10 has been validly purchased.

It is understood that the decal 218 may also include one or more additional unique identifiers 222. In such examples, the unique identifier 222 may comprise a series of letters, numerals, an alpha-numeric code, and/or other human-readable code. In such examples, the unique identifier 222 may be indicative of and/or may correspond to the unique identifier 220. For example, the unique identifier 222 may comprise a SKU number and/or item number that can is matched with and/or stored in association with the unique identifier 220 in a database and/or other memory of the card manufacturer, processing center 106, and/or provider 108. In such examples, the unique identifier 222 may be used for inventory processes, accounting, and/or other retail-related tracking processes. In some examples, the unique identifier 222 may also be indicative of and/or may correspond to the particular token 10 removably attached to the card 208.

Additionally, it is understood that the bottom surface of the token 10 may include a unique identifier (not shown) that is operable to provide access to and/or to otherwise redeem a digital gift corresponding to the token 10. In any of the examples described herein, the unique identifier at the bottom surface of the token 10 may comprise a series of letters, numerals, an alpha-numeric code, and/or other human-readable code. Additionally or alternatively, the unique identifier at the bottom surface of the token 10 may comprise a barcode, QR code, RFID tag, magnetic strip, digital watermark, and/or other computer-readable code or component. In such examples, the unique identifier included at the bottom surface of the token 10 may be the same as, or may be different from, unique identifiers 220, 222 associated with the decal 218. For example, upon receiving the token 10 disposed within the packaging 12, a recipient 110 may enter the unique identifier at the bottom surface of the token 10 (in examples in which the unique identifier comprises a human-readable code) into a website, a mobile device application, or other redemption portal in order to redeem the gift corresponding to the token 10. Alternatively, in examples in which the unique identifier comprises a computer-readable code, the recipient 110 may scan the unique identifier with an electronic device 112, or may have the unique identifier scanned at a brick-and-mortar store, kiosk, or other redemption portal in order to redeem the gift corresponding to the token 10.

In any of the examples described herein, the bottom surface 216 of the card 208 may further include an additional unique identifier 226 disposed within a die cut area or other such region 224 of the card 208. In such examples, the unique identifier 226 may comprise a series of letters, numerals, an alpha-numeric code, and/or other human-readable code. In such examples, the unique identifier 226 may be indicative of and/or may correspond to the unique identifier (not shown) included on the bottom surface of the token 10. For example, the unique identifier 226 may comprise a SKU number and/or item number that is matched with and/or stored in association with the unique identifier on the bottom surface of the token 10 in a database and/or other memory of the card manufacturer, processing center 106, and/or provider 108. In such examples, the unique identifier 226 may be used for inventory processes, accounting, and/or other retail-related tracking processes.

For example, once the token 10 is removably attached to the top surface 214 of the card 208, the unique identifier (e.g., the redemption code) on the bottom surface of the token 10 may be inaccessible and/or otherwise shielded from view. Accordingly, the unique identifier 226 disposed on the bottom surface 216 of the card 208 may enable an operator to uniquely identify the particular token 10 removably attached to the card 208, and in particular, to uniquely identify the redemption code printed on the bottom surface of the particular token 10, without needing to remove the token 10 from the card 208. Additionally, it is understood that the unique identifier 226 may be different from the unique identifier (e.g., the redemption code) included on the bottom surface of the token 10, and the correlation between such unique identifiers may be kept confidential for security purposes and/or to reduce fraud. Accordingly, while the unique identifier 226 may be visible once the token 10 has been removably attached to the card 208, the unique identifier 226 may not be operable, by itself, to provide access to the digital gift to which the token 10 corresponds.

At 204, an operator may remove the decal 218 from the card 208, and may attach the decal 218 to the base 16 of packaging 12 configured to retain the token 10 and the card 208 (i.e., the blister pack). As noted above, example packaging 12 may include a base 16, and a lid 14 moveable relative to the base 16 between an open positon and a closed position. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the bottom surface 22 of the base 16 may include a region 40 configured to include information 38 associated with a gift assembly of the present disclosure. In some examples, the region 40 may include a shape, size, perimeter, and/or other configuration corresponding to a shape, size, perimeter, and/or other configuration of the decal 218. In such examples, the decal 218 may be attached to the base 16 substantially within the region 40 of the bottom surface 22.

At 206, an operator may dispose the card 208 and the token 10 (e.g., the blister pack) within the packaging 12 such that at least the token 10 is removably retained by the packaging 12. In such examples, it is understood that the bottom surface of the token 10 may be removably attached to the top surface 214 of the card 208. Thus, the unique identifier included on the bottom surface of the token 10 may be inaccessible while the token 10 is removably retained by the packaging 12. Additionally, in some examples, disposing the card 208 and the token 10 within the packaging 12 at 206 may include disposing the card 208 and the token 10 (e.g., the blister pack) between the lid 14 and the base 16.

As noted above, the packaging 12 may also include a pop-up structure 26 disposed between the top surface 20 of the base 16 and, for example, a bottom surface 32 of the lid 14. The pop-up structure 26 may be configured such that movement of the lid 14 causes commensurate movement of the pop-up structure 26. The pop-up structure 26 may also be configured to at least partially retain the token 10, card 208, and/or other components of a gift assembly. For example, the pop-up structure 26 may include a shelf 44 on which at least part of the token 10, card 208, and/or other component of a gift assembly may be disposed. Further, the unique identifier 226 disposed on the bottom surface 216 of the card 208 may be inaccessible when the card 208 and the token 10 are disposed on the shelf 44. Nevertheless, in some examples the lid 14 of the packaging 12 may include an opening 18 at the approximate center thereof. In such examples, disposing the card 208 and the token 10 within the packaging 12 at 206 may include disposing the card 208 and the token 10 (e.g., the blister pack) within the packaging 12 such that at least part of the token 10 (e.g., at least part of the top surface of the token 10) is visible from a location external to the packaging 12, via the opening 18 in the lid 14, at least while the lid 14 is in the closed position.

FIG. 8 includes a flowchart illustrating another example method 300 of the present disclosure. In such an example method 300 (e.g., a method of manufacturing packaging 12, a token 10, and/or other components), an operator may, at 302, form a card having a token removably attached thereto. In example embodiments, forming such a card with a token at 302 may include a number of steps or processes, and the steps or processes performed at 302 may result in the formation of a blister pack or other such article having a token of the present disclosure removably attached to a card or other like carrier. Further, one or more steps or processes performed at 302 may be similar and/or identical to corresponding steps or processes described above with respect to step 202 of the method 200.

FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate an example card 312 formed with an example token 320 (e.g., a blister pack) at 302. As shown in FIG. 9, an example card 312 may include a first portion 314, and a second portion 316 extending from the first portion 314. In such examples, the first portion 314 may be shaped, sized, and/or otherwise configured to retain one or more decals of the present disclosure, if desired. For example, the first portion 314 may comprise a substantially rectangular portion of the card 312, while the second portion 316 may comprise a substantially circular and/or substantially semicircular portion of the card 312. In such embodiments, the second portion 316 may be shaped, sized, and/or otherwise configured to retain at least part of the token 320. For example, the card 312 may include a top surface 318, and a bottom surface 322 opposite the top surface 318. In such examples, at 302 the token 320 may be removably attached to the top surface 318 of the card 312. In particular, the token 320 may include a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface. In such examples, at 302 the bottom surface of the token 320 may be removably attached to the top surface 318 of the card 312. As noted above, in any of the example embodiments described herein the token 320 (e.g., the top surface of the token 320) may include various images, pictures, text, logos, and/or other visual indicia associated with a digital gift corresponding to the token 320. In such examples, at least the top surface 318 of the card 312 may also include visual indicia that corresponds to and/or that is otherwise associated with the digital gift redeemable using the token 320 and/or with the provider 108 of such a digital gift (e.g., a name of the provider 108). In such examples, first visual indicia disposed on at least the top surface 318 of the card 312 may be associated with such a digital gift, and second visual indicia disposed on at least the top surface of the token 320 may be associated with the digital gift. It is understood that such first visual indicia may be similar to, the same as, and/or may otherwise match or correspond to such second visual indicia.

Further, in some examples, forming the card 312 with the token 320 at 302 may include covering the token 320 and at least a portion of the card 312 with a layer of substantially transparent material (e.g., plastic, polymeric material, etc.) configured to assist in removably attaching the token 320 to the card 312. In some examples, such a layer of substantially transparent material may comprise a laminate material assisting in the formation of a blister pack at 302. Additionally or alternatively, at 302 the bottom surface of the token 320 may be at least temporarily adhered to the top surface 318 of the card 312. In any such examples, the card 312 may be at least partially perforated to assist a recipient 110 in detaching the token 320 from the card 312.

At 304, the method 300 may include forming a label sheet. An example label sheet 326 is illustrated in FIG. 11. As shown in FIG. 11, an example label sheet 326 formed at 304 may include a first surface 328 (e.g., a top surface). Such an example label sheet 326 may also include a second surface (e.g., a bottom surface) (not shown) opposite the first surface 328. An example label sheet 326 may further include one or more decals removably attached to the first surface 328 and/or to the second surface. For example, the label sheet 326 may include a decal 336 removably attached to one of the first surface 328 or the second surface of the label sheet 326. The label sheet 326 may also include one or more additional decals 330 removably attached to one of the first surface 328 or the second surface of the label sheet 326. As shown in FIG. 11, the decal 336 may include at least one unique identifier. For example, the decal 336 may include unique identifiers 338, 340, and the decal 330 may include a unique identifier 332. In such examples, the unique identifier 332 of the decal 330 may correspond to and/or may be indicative of at least one of the unique identifiers 338, 340 of the decal 336. Further, in any of the examples described herein, the unique identifier 332 of the decal 330 may be operable to provide access to a digital gift corresponding to and/or associated with the token 320. In some examples, at 302, forming the card 312 with the token 320 may include removably attaching at least one of the decals 336, 330 to the first surface 328 of the label sheet 326. Alternatively, at 302, forming the card 312 with the token 320 may include printing the unique identifiers 338, 340, 332 on the first surface 328, and scoring the first surface 328 such that the respective decals 336, 330 may be easily removed from the label sheet 326.

Similar to the decal 218 described above with respect to FIG. 7, the decal 336 may comprise one or more strips of paper, plastic, polymers, and/or other material that is adhered, and/or otherwise at least temporarily (e.g., removably) attached to the label sheet 326. In some examples, the decal 336 may comprise a sticker, label, and/or other such component. In some examples, the unique identifier 338 may comprise a barcode, QR code, RFID tag, magnetic strip, and/or other computer-readable code or component. In such examples, the unique identifier 338 may be, for example, scanned, detected, and/or otherwise observed at the point-of-sale. In such examples, the unique identifier 338 may comprise an activation code associated with the particular token 320 removably attached to the card 312, and the token 320 may be configured such that scanning the unique identifier 338 at the point-of-sale may activate the token 320. In such embodiments, a gift corresponding to the token 320 may only be redeemed once such activation has occurred. Alternatively, in the embodiment of FIGS. 9-11, the token 320 may be active and/or “live” at the point-of-sale, and in such examples, scanning the unique identifier 338 at the point-of-sale may provide an indication to a manufacturer of the token 320, a processing center 106, and/or a provider 108 of the digital gift associated with the token 320 that the token 320 has been validly purchased.

Further, similar to the unique identifier 222 described above, the unique identifier 340 of the decal 336 may comprise a series of letters, numerals, an alpha-numeric code, and/or other human-readable code. In such examples, the unique identifier 340 may be indicative of and/or may correspond to the unique identifier 338. For example, the unique identifier 340 may comprise a SKU number and/or item number that can is matched with and/or stored in association with the unique identifier 338 in a database and/or other memory of the card manufacturer, the processing center 106, and/or the provider 108. In such examples, the unique identifier 340 may be used for inventory processes, accounting, and/or other retail-related tracking processes. In some examples, the unique identifier 340 may also be indicative of and/or may correspond to the particular token 320 removably attached to the card 312.

Additionally, as noted above, the unique identifier 332 may be operable to provide access to and/or to otherwise redeem a digital gift corresponding to the token 320. In any of the examples described herein, the unique identifier 332 may comprise a series of letters, numerals, an alpha-numeric code, and/or other human-readable code. Additionally or alternatively, the unique identifier 332 may comprise a barcode, QR code, RFID tag, magnetic strip, a digital watermark, and/or other computer-readable code or component. In such examples, the unique identifier 332 may be the same as, or may be different from, at least the unique identifier 340 associated with the decal 336. In some examples, upon receiving the token 320 disposed within the packaging 12, a recipient 110 may enter the unique identifier 332 (in examples in which the unique identifier comprises a human-readable redemption code) into a website, a mobile device application, or other redemption portal in order to redeem the gift corresponding to the token 320. Alternatively, in examples in which the unique identifier 332 comprises a computer-readable redemption code, the recipient 110 may scan the unique identifier 332 with an electronic device 112, or may have the unique identifier 332 scanned at a brick-and-mortar store, kiosk, or other redemption portal in order to redeem the gift corresponding to the token 320. As shown in at least FIG. 11, in some examples at least part of the unique identifier 332 may be obscured from view while the decal 330 is removably attached to either the first (e.g., top) surface 328 or the second (e.g., bottom) surface of the label sheet 326. For example, the decal 330 may include a removable portion 334 covering at least part of the unique identifier 332. In such examples, the removable portion 334 may comprise scratch-off material, an additional sticker, label, or decal, and/or any other such component.

At 306, the method 300 may include removing the decal 330 from the label sheet 326, and attaching the decal 330 to the bottom surface 322 of the card 312 or to the bottom surface of the token 320 removably attached to the card 312. For example, in some embodiments, an operator may remove the decal 330, and may adhere and/or otherwise attach the removed decal 330 directly to the bottom surface 322 of the card 312, such as at the second portion 316. Alternatively, in some examples the card 312 may include a die cut area and/or other region 324. In such examples, the region 324 may be removed from the card 312 such that the operator may have access to the bottom surface of the token 320, via the region 324, while the token 320 is removably attached to the top surface 318 of the card 312. In such examples, at 306 the operator may attach the decal 330 to the bottom surface of the token 320 via the region 324. In any of the examples described herein, the region 324 of the card 312 may have a shape, size, perimeter and/or other configuration that corresponds to the decal 330.

At 308, the method 300 may include removing the decal 336 from the label sheet 326, and attaching the decal 336 to a base 16 of packaging 12 configured to retain the token 320 and the card 312 (e.g., the blister pack). For example, as described above with respect to step 204 of the method 200, example packaging 12 may include a base 16, and a lid 14 moveable relative to the base 16 between an open positon and a closed position. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the bottom surface 22 of the base 16 may include a region 40 configured to include information 38 associated with a gift assembly of the present disclosure. In some examples, the region 40 may include a shape, size, perimeter, and/or other configuration corresponding to a shape, size, perimeter, and/or other configuration of the decal 336. In such examples, at 308 an operator may remove the decal 336 from the label sheet 326, and may attach the decal 336 to the base 16 substantially within the region 40 of the bottom surface 22.

At 310, the method 300 may include disposing the card 312 and the token 320 (e.g., the blister pack) within the packaging 12 such that at least the token 320 is removably retained by the packaging 12, and the unique identifier 332 of the decal 330 is inaccessible. In such examples, the bottom surface of the token 320 may be removably attached to the top surface 318 of the card 312. Thus, the unique identifier 332 of the decal 330 may be inaccessible while the token 320 and/or the card 312 is removably retained by the packaging 12. Additionally, in some examples, disposing the card 312 and the token 320 within the packaging 12 at 310 may include disposing the card 312 and the token 320 (e.g., the blister pack) between the lid 14 and the base 16. As noted above, the packaging 12 may include at least one sidewall 24 spacing the top surface 20 of the base 16 from the bottom surface 22 of the base 16. In such examples, the sidewall 24 may extend upwardly from the base 16 toward the lid 14. Additionally, the base 16, the lid 14, and the at least one sidewall 24 may form at least part of an inner compartment of the packaging 12. In such examples, the pop-up structure 26, the card 312, the token 320, and/or other components of an example gift assembly may be disposed at least partly within the inner compartment of the packaging 12. For example, disposing the card 312 and the token 320 within the packaging 12 at 310 may include disposing at least the token 320 within the inner compartment. In some examples, the base 16, the lid 14, and the at least one sidewall 24 may form at least part of such an inner compartment of the packaging 12 when the lid 14 is in the closed position. As noted above, the packaging 12 may also include a pop-up structure 26 disposed between the top surface 20 of the base 16 and, for example, a bottom surface 32 of the lid 14. It is understood that the pop-up structure 26 may be configured to at least partially retain the token 320, card 312, and/or other components of a gift assembly at 310.

Moreover, in any of the examples described herein the label sheet 326, the token 320, and/or the packaging 12 may include various images, pictures, text, logos, and/or other visual indicia associated with a digital gift corresponding to the token 10. For example, such visual indicia (e.g., first visual indicia) may be indicative of the provider of such a digital gift, and such first visual indicia may be common and/or otherwise shared visual indicia included on the label sheet 326, the token 320, and/or the packaging 12. Further, in such examples, at least the token 320 and the packaging 12 may include additional common and/or otherwise shared visual indicia (e.g., second visual indicia) indicative of the digital gift. For example, while the first visual indicia described above may indicate a provider of a particular digital gift (e.g., “Gamefly”), such second visual indicia may comprise a name, brand, trademark, slogan, logo, image, text, color scheme, graphic, and/or other content that is indicative of and/or associated with the digital gift (e.g., a 3-month subscription). In such examples, the common first visual indicia may be the same as or different from the common second visual indicia.

FIG. 12 includes a flowchart illustrating yet another example method 400 of the present disclosure. In such an example method 400 (e.g., a method of manufacturing packaging 12, a token 10, and/or other components), an operator may, at 402, form a token having decal removably attached thereto. In example embodiments, forming such a token at 402 may include a number of steps or processes. Further, the steps or processes performed at 402 may be similar and/or identical to one or more of the steps or processes described above with respect to the method 200 and/or with respect to the method 300.

FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate a token 408 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, and such a token 408 may be formed by an operator at 402. For example, at 402 an operator may form a token 408 having a top surface 410, a bottom surface 412 opposite the top surface 410, and at least one decal 414 removably attached to the bottom surface 412. As shown in FIG. 13, an example decal 414 may include one or more unique identifiers 416, 418. Additionally, as shown in at least FIG. 14, at 402 the operator may form a token 408 including at least one additional unique identifier 422 disposed on and/or within a region 420 of the bottom surface 412. In such examples, the unique identifier 422 disposed on the bottom surface 412 may correspond to and/or may be indicative of at least one of the unique identifiers 416, 418 of the decal 414. Further, in any of the examples described herein, the unique identifier 422 disposed on the bottom surface 412 of the token 408 may be operable to provide access to a digital gift corresponding to and/or associated with the token 408. In some examples, at 402, forming the token 408 may include removably attaching the decal 414 to the bottom surface 412 of the token 408 such that the region 420 and/or the unique identifier 422 is substantially covered by the decal 414. As a result, the unique identifier 422 may be at least partially obscured from view by the decal 414 while the decal 414 is removably attached to the bottom surface 412. It is understood that FIG. 14 illustrates the bottom surface 412 without the decal 414 attached thereto. At 402, forming the token 408 may also include printing the unique identifier 422 on the bottom surface 412, etching the unique identifier 422 onto the bottom surface 412, attaching an additional decal, with the unique identifier 422 printed thereon, to the bottom surface 412 beneath the decal 414, and/or any other such process.

Similar to the decal 218 described above with respect to FIG. 7, the decal 414 may comprise one or more strips of paper, plastic, polymers, and/or other material that is adhered, and/or otherwise at least temporarily (e.g., removably) attached to the token 408. In some examples, the decal 414 may comprise a sticker, label, and/or other such component. In some examples, the unique identifier 416 may comprise a barcode, QR code, RFID tag, magnetic strip, and/or other computer-readable code or component. In such examples, the unique identifier 416 may be, for example, scanned, detected, and/or otherwise observed at the point-of-sale. In such examples, the unique identifier 416 may comprise an activation code associated with the token 408 to which the decal 414 is removably attached, and the token 408 may be configured such that scanning the unique identifier 416 at the point-of-sale may activate the token 408. In such embodiments, a gift corresponding to the token 408 may only be redeemed once such activation has occurred. Accordingly, in the embodiment of FIGS. 13 and 14, the token 408 may not be active or “live” until it is activated at the point-of-sale.

Further, similar to the unique identifier 222 described above, the unique identifier 418 of the decal 414 may comprise a series of letters, numerals, an alpha-numeric code, and/or other human-readable code. In such examples, the unique identifier 418 may be indicative of and/or may correspond to the unique identifier 416. For example, the unique identifier 418 may comprise a SKU number and/or item number that can is matched with and/or stored in association with the unique identifier 416 in a database and/or other memory of the card manufacturer, a processing center 106, and/or a provider 108. In such examples, the unique identifier 418 may be used for inventory processes, accounting, and/or other retail-related tracking processes. In some examples, the unique identifier 418 may also be indicative of and/or may correspond to the particular token 408 to which the decal 414 is removably attached.

Additionally, as noted above, the unique identifier 422 may be operable to provide access to and/or to otherwise redeem a digital gift corresponding to the token 408. In any of the examples described herein, the unique identifier 422 may comprise a series of letters, numerals, an alpha-numeric code, and/or other human-readable code. Additionally or alternatively, the unique identifier 422 may comprise a barcode, QR code, RFID tag, magnetic strip, digital watermark, and/or other computer-readable code or component. In such examples, the unique identifier 422 may be the same as, or may be different from, at least the unique identifier 418 associated with the decal 414. In some examples, upon receiving the token 408 disposed within the packaging 12, a recipient 110 may enter the unique identifier 422 (in examples in which the unique identifier 422 comprises a human-readable redemption code) into a website, a mobile device application, or other redemption portal in order to redeem the gift corresponding to the token 408. Alternatively, in examples in which the unique identifier 422 comprises a computer-readable redemption code, the recipient 110 may scan the unique identifier 422 with an electronic device 112, or may have the unique identifier 422 scanned at a brick-and-mortar store, kiosk, or other redemption portal in order to redeem the gift corresponding to the token 408. Although not illustrate in FIG. 14, in some examples at least part of the unique identifier 422 may be obscured from view even after the decal 414 has been removed from the bottom surface 412. For example, the token 408 may include a removable portion (not shown) covering at least part of the unique identifier 422. In such examples, the removable portion may comprise scratch-off material, an additional sticker, label, or decal, and/or any other such component.

At 404, the method 400 may include removing the decal 414 from the bottom surface 412 of the token 408 such that the unique identifier 422 disposed on the bottom surface 412 is at least temporarily and/or at least partially exposed. Additionally, at 404, the method 400 may include attaching the decal 414 to a base 16 of packaging 12 configured to retain the token 408. For example, as described above, example packaging 12 may include a base 16, and a lid 14 moveable relative to the base 16 between an open positon and a closed position. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the bottom surface 22 of the base 16 may include a region 40 configured to include information 38 associated with a gift assembly of the present disclosure. In some examples, the region 40 may include a shape, size, perimeter, and/or other configuration corresponding to a shape, size, perimeter, and/or other configuration of the decal 414. In such examples, at 404 an operator may remove the decal 414 from the token 408, and may attach the decal 414 to the base 16 substantially within the region 40 of the bottom surface 22.

At 406, the method 400 may include disposing the token 408 within the packaging 12 such that the token 408 is removably retained by the packaging 12 and the unique identifier 422 located on the bottom surface 412 is inaccessible. For example, the packaging 12 may include a pop-up structure 26 disposed between the top surface 20 of the base 16 and, for example, a bottom surface 32 of the lid 14. The pop-up structure 26 may be configured such that movement of the lid 14 causes commensurate movement of the pop-up structure 26. The pop-up structure 26 may also be configured to at least partially retain the token 408 and/or other components of a gift assembly. For example, the pop-up structure 26 may include a shelf 44 on which at least part of the token 408 may be disposed at 406. Further, the unique identifier 422 disposed on the bottom surface 412 of the token 408 may be inaccessible when the token 408 is disposed on the shelf 44. Nevertheless, in some examples the lid 14 of the packaging 12 may include an opening 18 at the approximate center thereof. In such examples, disposing the token 408 within the packaging 12 at 406 may include disposing the token 408 within the packaging 12 such that at least part of the token 408 (e.g., at least part of the top surface 410 of the token 408) is visible from a location external to the packaging 12, via the opening 18 in the lid 14, at least while the lid 14 is in the closed position.

Additionally, the packaging 12 may include at least one sidewall 24 spacing the top surface 20 of the base 16 from the bottom surface 22 of the base 16. In such examples, the sidewall 24 may extend upwardly from the base 16 toward the lid 14. Additionally, the base 16, the lid 14, and the at least one sidewall 24 may form at least part of an inner compartment of the packaging 12. In such examples, the pop-up structure 26 and the token 408 may be disposed at least partly within the inner compartment of the packaging 12 at 406. For example, disposing the token 408 within the packaging 12 at 406 may include disposing the token 408 within the inner compartment. In some examples, the base 16, the lid 14, and the at least one sidewall 24 may form at least part of such an inner compartment of the packaging 12 when the lid 14 is in the closed position.

Moreover, in any of the examples described herein the token 408 and/or the packaging 12 may include various images, pictures, text, logos, and/or other visual indicia associated with a digital gift corresponding to the token 10. For example, the packaging 12 may include first visual indicia associated with the digital gift. Such first visual indicia may be indicative of the provider of such a digital gift, a name, brand, trademark, slogan, logo, image, text, color scheme, graphic, and/or other content that is indicative of and/or associated with the digital gift (e.g., a 3-month subscription), and/or other content. In such examples, the token 408 may include second visual indicia associated with the digital gift. In such examples, the first visual indicia may be the same as or different from the second visual indicia.

Accordingly, as explained with reference to at least FIGS. 5-14, the tokens, packaging, cards, blister packs, and/or other gift assembly components manufactured in accordance with the example methods 100, 200, 300 described herein may enhance the gifting experience for both the purchaser 102 and the recipient 110. Additionally, tokens, packaging, cards, blister packs, and/or other gift assembly components manufactured in accordance with the example methods 100, 200, 300 may enable activation of a token at the point-of-sale without providing access to redemption codes or other unique identifiers located within the packaging, located on a bottom surface of the token, and/or otherwise disposed at a location that is inaccessible to a purchaser 102 or other person at the point-of-sale. As a result, such methods may reduce the risk of fraud and misappropriation associated with manufacturing such tokens, and thus, may provide significant cost savings and other advantages to manufacturers, providers 108, retailers, and/or other entities associated with the sale of such items.

System Hardware/Software

As described above, a system for a token activation and/or redemption process may include, but is not limited to a communications network, cloud services, servers, databases, software, a web browser, electronic communication devices, a mobile app, and an Application Programming Interface (API).

Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one having ordinary skill in the art to which this invention applies. The examples set forth herein are intended to describe particular embodiments only and are not intended to limit the invention in any way.

The term “network” as used herein includes, but is not limited to: a collection of hardware components and computer or machines interconnected by communications channels that allow sharing of resources and information, including, without limitation, the worldwide web or the internet.

The term “server” as used herein, includes, but is not limited to: a computer or machine (physical or virtual) or a device on a network that manages network resources. The general term “server” may include specific types of servers such as an application server (a computer which executes specific logic in software/computer programs), a file server (a computer and storage device dedicated to storing files), a print server (a computer that manages one or more printers), a network server (a computer than manages network traffic), and a database server (a computer system that processes database queries). Although servers are frequently dedicated to performing only server tasks, certain multiprocessing operating systems allow a server to manage other non-server related resources. A “web server” as used herein, includes, but is not limited to: a server which serves content to a web browser by lading a file from a disk and serving it across a network to a user's web browser, typically using a HTTP.

The term “cloud services” as used herein means services made available on demand via the internet from a cloud computing provider's servers as opposed to being provided from a company's own servers.

The term “software” or “computer program” as used herein includes, but is not limited to: one or more computer or machine readable and/or executable instructions that cause a computer, microprocessor, logic circuit, or other electronic device to perform functions, actions and/or behave in a desired manner. The instructions may be embodied in various forms such as routines, algorithms, modules or programs including separate applications or code from dynamically linked libraries. Software may also be implemented in various forms such as stand-alone programs, apps, a function call, a servlet, an applet, instructions stored in a memory or any other computer readable medium, part of an operating system of other type of executable instructions. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the form of software is dependent on, for example, requirements of a desired application, the environment it runs on, and/or the desires of a designer/programmer or the like.

The term “web browser” as used herein, includes, but is not limited to: a software for retrieving and presenting information resources on the worldwide web. An information resource may be a web page, an image, a video, or any other type of electronic content.

The terms “Electronic Communication Devices” or “Electronic Devices,” as used herein, includes, but is not limited to a phone (e.g., a mobile phone), a smartphone, a tablet, a personal data assistant (PDA), a notebook, a personal computer, a laptop computer, a smart TV, a handheld or console-based game system, a digital media receiver (e.g. Apple TV, Roku), a smart digital video disc (DVD) player, a smart device (e.g., Alexa by Amazon, Google Home, and/or other devices in communication via and/or associated with the internet of things), and wearable devices (e.g., smart watch). Any of the processes described herein may be performed by one or more such electronic communication devices. In particular, any of the selection, generation, purchasing, activation, redemption, and or other processes described herein may be performed by one or more such electronic communication devices even if such processes are described herein only with respect to, for example, a mobile phone, a kiosk 40, and or other devices.

“Mobile application” or “Mobile App” or “App” as used herein, includes, but is not limited to: applications that run on mobile phones, tablet computers and other mobile devices. The terms “mobile application”, “mobile app” and “app” can be used synonymously with “software”. Mobile applications allow users to connect to services which are traditionally available on a desktop or notebook platforms. Typically, these services access the internet or intranet or cellular or wireless fidelity networks to access, retrieve, transmit and share data.

The terms “computer”, “processor” or “processing unit” as used herein, includes, but is not limited to: any programmed or programmable electronic device, microprocessor, logic unit that can store, retrieve and process data.

“API files” or “API” or “Application Programming Interface” as used herein, includes, but is not limited to: an interface between different software programs or software files which facilitate the interaction of the different software programs or software files by way of a specific set of rules and specifications.

“Electronic Greeting Card”, “e-greeting”, “e-greeting card” or “e-card”, as used herein, includes, but is not limited to any greeting card, or a personalized message or a message which delivers a pieces of communication from one user to another user or non-user through electronic media.

The foregoing embodiments and clauses of the present disclosure have been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. These descriptions and embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above disclosure. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principle of the disclosure and its practical application to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention in its various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

1. A method, comprising:

forming a card having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a decal removably attached to the bottom surface, the decal including a first unique identifier;

removably attaching a bottom surface of a token to the top surface of the card, the bottom surface of the token including a second unique identifier operable to provide access to a digital gift;

removing the decal from the card;

attaching the decal to a base of packaging configured to retain the token and the card; and

disposing the card and the token within the packaging such that at least the token is removably retained by the packaging and the second unique identifier is inaccessible.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the top surface of the card includes first visual indicia associated with the digital gift, and the top surface of the token includes second visual indicia associated with the digital gift.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the packaging includes a base, and a lid moveable relative to the base between an open position and a closed position, the card and the token being disposed between the lid and the base.

4. The method of claim 3, the packaging further including a pop-up structure disposed between the lid and the base, the pop-up structure being configured such that movement of the lid causes commensurate movement of the pop-up structure, wherein

the pop-up structure includes a shelf, and

at least part of the card is disposed on the shelf.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the bottom surface of the card includes a third unique identifier corresponding to the second unique identifier, and wherein the third unique identifier on the bottom surface of the card is inaccessible when the card is disposed on the shelf.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising covering the token and at least a portion of the card with a layer of substantially transparent material configured to assist in removably attaching the token to the card.

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising disposing the token and the card within the packaging such that at least part of the token is visible from a location external to the packaging via an opening in a lid of the packaging.

8. A method, comprising:

forming a card having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface;

removably attaching a bottom surface of a token to the top surface of the card;

forming a label sheet having a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, a first decal removably attached to one of the first surface or the second surface, and a second decal removably attached to one of the first surface or the second surface, the first decal including a first unique identifier, and the second decal including a second unique identifier corresponding to the first unique identifier, the second unique identifier being operable to provide access to a digital gift;

removing the first decal from the label sheet;

attaching the first decal to a base of packaging configured to retain the token and the card;

removing the second decal from the label sheet;

attaching the second decal to the bottom surface of the card or the bottom surface of the token; and

disposing the card and the token within the packaging such that at least the token is removably retained by the packaging and the second unique identifier is inaccessible.

9. The method of claim 8, the packaging comprising at least one sidewall extending from the base, and a lid moveable relative to the base, wherein

the base, the lid, and the at least one sidewall form at least part of an inner compartment of the packaging, and

disposing the card and the token within the packaging includes disposing at least the token within the inner compartment.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein

the base includes a first region having a perimeter corresponding to the first decal, and

the bottom surface of the card includes a second region having a perimeter corresponding to the second decal.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein at least part of the second unique identifier is obscured from view while the second decal is removably attached to the one of the first surface or the second surface.

12. The method of claim 8, wherein the label sheet, the token, and the packaging include common first visual indicia.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the token and the packaging include common second visual indicia indicative of the digital gift.

14. The method of claim 8, wherein the packaging further includes at least one of a sound module, a speaker, a light, and a motor.

15. A method, comprising:

forming a token having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a decal removably attached to the bottom surface, the decal including a first unique identifier, and the token including a second unique identifier corresponding to the first unique identifier, wherein the second unique identifier is at least partially obscured by the decal, and operable to provide access to a digital gift;

removing the decal from the token such that the second unique identifier is at least temporarily exposed;

attaching the decal to a base of packaging configured to retain the token; and

disposing the token within the packaging such that the token is removably retained by the packaging and the second unique identifier is inaccessible.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the packaging includes first visual indicia associated with the digital gift, and the token includes second visual indicia associated with the digital gift.

17. The method of claim 15, the packaging further including a lid moveable relative to the base, and a pop-up structure disposed between the lid and the base, the pop-up structure being configured such that movement of the lid causes commensurate movement of the pop-up structure, wherein

the pop-up structure includes a shelf, and

the token is disposed on the shelf

18. The method of claim 17, the packaging further including at least one sidewall extending from the base, wherein

the base, the lid, and the at least one sidewall form at least part of an inner compartment of the packaging, and

disposing the token within the packaging includes disposing the token within the inner compartment.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein the token is disposed within the packaging such that the top surface of the token is visible from a location external to the packaging via an opening in a lid of the packaging.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein the first unique identifier is operable to activate the token such that the gift may be redeemed via use of the second unique identifier.