Having Sound-producing Means Patents (Class 40/124.03)
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Publication number: 20130283652Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound and/or other special effects. The greeting cards may include various switch mechanisms that may be located and accessed through various locations on the foam greeting card body.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2012Publication date: October 31, 2013Applicant: American Greetings CorporationInventors: David Mayer, Lynne Shlonsky
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Publication number: 20130283653Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2012Publication date: October 31, 2013Applicant: AMERICAN GREETINGS CORPORATIONInventors: Erin DENNIS, Michelle PARKINSON
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Publication number: 20130283651Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2012Publication date: October 31, 2013Applicant: AMERICAN GREETINGS CORPORATIONInventors: Allison MARSH, David MAYER, Carol MILLER
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Patent number: 8567101Abstract: An electronic greeting card containing a recordable audio module with a pre-recorded audio or music clip which allows a user to sing along with the pre-recorded audio or music clip and record it within the audio module in the card. The card also contains a preview function that allows a consumer to try the recording function before purchasing the greeting card. In preview mode, the recorded message is played back, simultaneously with the pre-recorded clip, only once and then erased. Once a consumer has purchased the card, the preview function can be disabled whereby the user-recorded sound clip is saved, and whereby the user-recorded sound clip is played back simultaneously with the pre-recorded sound clip.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2012Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: David Mayer, Mary McClain, Allison Marsh, Eva Jin, Tiger Qiao
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Publication number: 20130269225Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object. This movement may be up-and-down or “bouncing” motion, spinning or rotational motion, side-to-side motion or any other reciprocating motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2012Publication date: October 17, 2013Applicant: AMERICAN GREETINGS CORPORATIONInventor: Gary NELSON
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Patent number: 8549776Abstract: The interactive flap sensor activated greeting card of the present invention contains an audio module and a series of “window flaps” across the inside of the greeting card. When the greeting card is opened, a short audio prompt instructs the user to open a series of flaps inside the card to hear further audio messages or sound clips that correlate with the art work inside the card. When each flap is opened, a different audio file is played. The sound module is programmed to react to the card opening and then to trigger additional individual sounds each time one of the flaps of the card is opened. In another embodiment, the greeting card contains a series of flaps wherein opening one flap reveals another flap, and so on. Once the last flap is opened, a short audio recording is activated.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2012Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: Jerry Guo, Tiger Qiao, David Sapp, Beth Laverdiere, Jonathan Talbot
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Publication number: 20130239448Abstract: A personalized greeting from a celebrity or well-known figure for use in greeting cards, gift, or consumer type products, is recorded and stored in digital media for application to a consumer product such as a greeting card. The greeting can consist of speech, music, or both, and is in the unique and personal style of the celebrity or well-known figure. Graphics may be included that can be a picture of the celebrity or well-known figure or a written greeting. A code may also be provided with the consumer product to enable access to free information on the internet about the greeting, the celebrity or well-known figure.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2012Publication date: September 19, 2013Inventor: Leonard Davis
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Publication number: 20130232828Abstract: An interactive electronic greeting card with pop up feature includes a three-sided pocket or cavity which houses various electronic and mechanical components and a pop up element. In a first position, the pop up element is substantially contained within the greeting card pocket or cavity. When the push button is depressed, the pop up element is ejected or “pops up” out of the greeting card pocket or cavity, revealing a greeting or other printed indicia. The push button also initiates playback of a pre-loaded digital audio file, which may be a spoken message, a sound, a song, music or other such audio recording. Manually pushing the pop up element back into the cavity ends playback of the audio.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2012Publication date: September 12, 2013Inventors: Tiger QIAO, Johnathan Talbot, Theresa Muri, David Mayer, Jerry Guo, Annie Deckerd, Gary Nelson
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Patent number: 8516726Abstract: An audio gift tag assembly including means for removably attaching the assembly to the neck of a container. In certain embodiments, the assembly includes means for receiving and holding a transaction card, such as a gift card.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2011Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Gift Card Impressions, LLCInventor: Brett R. Glass
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Publication number: 20130192103Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object. This movement may be up-and-down or “bouncing” motion, spinning or rotational motion, side-to-side motion or any other reciprocating motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2013Publication date: August 1, 2013Applicant: American Greetings CorporationInventor: American Greetings Corporation
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Publication number: 20130192104Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object. This movement may be up-and-down or “bouncing” motion, spinning or rotational motion, side-to-side motion or any other reciprocating motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2013Publication date: August 1, 2013Applicant: American Greetings CorporationInventor: American Greetings Corporation
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Patent number: 8490306Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2013Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: Jerry Guo, John Talbot, Anthony Begin, Annie Deckerd
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Patent number: 8490305Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2011Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo
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Patent number: 8474162Abstract: An ornament gift card holder that includes a removably attached gift card, a slot for inserting the gift card into the holder after removal for loading at the point of purchase, a loop, hook or similar means for hanging the holder upon a Christmas tree or other desired location, and audio circuitry for recording and playing sound such as music and/or a message from the gift giver.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2010Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: Gift Card Impressions, LLCInventor: Brett R. Glass
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Publication number: 20130139418Abstract: An interactive greeting card having a multi-panel greeting card body, a sound module and a molded track contained between two or more panels of the multi-panel greeting card body, and a moveable object which is attached to the molded track through an opening in one or more of the greeting card panels. The moveable object is operative to move from one end of the molded track to the opposite end of the molded track whereby playback of a pre-recorded digital audio file is initiated. The interactive greeting card may additionally contain a small motor which causes movement of a second moveable object and an object launcher which is operative to launch an object along the track and into the air. Other special effects may be included such as lights, additional sounds or movement, or any other special effects which can be incorporated into a greeting card.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2013Publication date: June 6, 2013Applicant: American Greetings CorporationInventor: American Greetings Corporation
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Publication number: 20130139419Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2013Publication date: June 6, 2013Applicant: American Greetings CorporationInventor: American Greetings Corporation
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Publication number: 20130139417Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2012Publication date: June 6, 2013Inventors: David MAYER, Terry HUGHES, Jerry GUO, John TALBOT, Sharon BOGDANSKI
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Publication number: 20130133232Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object. This movement may be up-and-down or “bouncing” motion, spinning or rotational motion, side-to-side motion or any other reciprocating motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2012Publication date: May 30, 2013Inventors: Gary Nelson, John Talbot
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Patent number: 8448361Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2011Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: David Sapp, David Mayer, Anastasia Taylor, Kimberly Bikowski, Allison Marsh, Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo
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Patent number: 8448360Abstract: The interactive flap sensor activated greeting card of the present invention contains an audio module and a series of “window flaps” across the inside of the greeting card. When the greeting card is opened, a short audio prompt instructs the user to open a series of flaps inside the card to hear further audio messages or sound clips that correlate with the art work inside the card. When each flap is opened, a different audio file is played. The sound module is programmed to react to the card opening and then to trigger additional individual sounds each time one of the flaps of the card is opened. In another embodiment, the greeting card contains a series of flaps wherein opening one flap reveals another flap, and so on. Once the last flap is opened, a short audio recording is activated.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2011Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: Jerry Guo, Tiger Qiao, David Sapp, Beth Laverdiere, Johnathan Talbot
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Publication number: 20130125429Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2013Publication date: May 23, 2013Applicant: American Greetings CorporationInventor: American Greetings Corporation
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Publication number: 20130104430Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2012Publication date: May 2, 2013Inventors: Anastasia TAYLOR, David Mayer, Dawn Pyne, Elizabeth Draeger, Katalina Speek, Lynne Shlonsky, Jill Jankowski, Brian Altman, Rob Matousek, Terry Hughes
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Publication number: 20130104431Abstract: An interactive sound generating greeting card having two separate and distinct components, one being an outer greeting card which serves as a pocket or cavity with a slot located thereon providing access to the pocket or cavity and the other being an inner greeting card which is sized to partially fit into the cavity in the outer greeting card. A sound module is contained and concealed within the outer greeting card cavity, including a switch mechanism. The inner greeting card and switch mechanism work in combination to control the playback of a digital audio file stored on the sound module such that when the inner greeting card is contained within the cavity of the outer greeting card, playback of the digital audio file is deactivated and when the inner greeting card is removed from the cavity of the outer greeting card, playback of the digital audio file is activated.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2012Publication date: May 2, 2013Applicant: AMERICAN GREETINGS CORPORATIONInventor: American Greetings Corporation
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Publication number: 20130097898Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object. This movement may be up-and-down or “bouncing” motion, spinning or rotational motion, side-to-side motion or any other reciprocating motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2012Publication date: April 25, 2013Inventors: David Mayer, Terry Hughes, Jerry Guo, Tiger Qiao, John Talbot
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Publication number: 20130097899Abstract: Greeting cards and novelties with electronic circuits having switch mechanisms operable by manipulation of a moveable component. Manipulation of the moveable component causes activation of the electronic circuit.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2012Publication date: April 25, 2013Inventors: Lauren M. Budzar, Seth Larson, Erin Dennis, Dan Kopsak
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Patent number: 8418384Abstract: An interactive greeting card operative to move between a first position wherein several interconnected panels are folded into a substantially flat position and a second position wherein the several interconnected panels are unfolded into a three-dimensional pop-up structure. Movement between the first and second positions may also control playback of digital audio, activation of one or more LED lights, or various other special effects. An inner sentiment panel is substantially contained within an outer greeting card body and is revealed when the greeting card is moved from the first to the second position. Various openings on the greeting card panels accommodate movement and visibility of the inner sentiment panel.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2011Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: Eva Jin, Beth Laverdiere, David Sapp, Seth Larson, Johnathan Talbot
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Publication number: 20130086831Abstract: The greeting card of the present invention combines paper, mechanical and electrical components to simulate the action of a record player or phonograph. When the greeting card is opened, a paper record begins to spin as audio plays along in the background. The greeting card is made of heavy-gauge paperboard formed into a box-like structure with a flap opening thereon. The box-like structure or body of the greeting card may have various indicia printed thereon which make the greeting card resemble a mini record player or phonograph. The box-like structure contains a cavity therein which houses and conceals the mechanical and electrical components of a greeting card. A corrugate insert, also located within the cavity, serves as protection for the mechanical components.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2012Publication date: April 11, 2013Applicant: American Greetings CorporationInventor: American Greetings Corporation
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Publication number: 20130074379Abstract: The interactive greeting card of the present disclosure and related inventions combines a traditional paper card with one or more special effects that are initiated by interaction between a user and the greeting card. One or more touch sensors are used to initiate effects including, but not limited to sound, light, movement or a combination thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: AMERICAN GREETINGS CORPORATIONInventor: AMERICAN GREETINGS CORPORATION
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Publication number: 20130074380Abstract: The interactive greeting card of the present disclosure and related inventions combines a traditional paper card with one or more special effects that are initiated by interaction between a user and the greeting card. One or more touch sensors are used to initiate effects including, but not limited to sound, light, movement or a combination thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: AMERICAN GREETINGS CORPORATIONInventor: AMERICAN GREETINGS CORPORATION
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Patent number: 8393098Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2012Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: Rob Roth, Annie Deckerd
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Publication number: 20130025174Abstract: Low profile electronic display greeting cards combine a traditional paper greeting card and other product constructions with a very low profile multimedia player device which includes a low profile display screen for displaying images and/or video and emitting sound. The low profile and minimalist construction of the greeting card provide the ability to display the cards at mass retail in traditional card pockets, mail or transport the greeting card in a traditional sized greeting card envelope, and provide, at lower cost to the consumer, a disposable electronic greeting card. A multi-panel greeting card body contains and conceals components of the multimedia device, which may include a display screen, a speaker, a circuit board, a microprocessor, a controller, a memory storage device and related circuitry. The greeting card may contain pre-loaded content such as digital audio, video and/or photographs or still images or it may be operative to receive such digital files from an external memory source.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2011Publication date: January 31, 2013Inventors: David Sapp, David Mayer, Allison Marsh, Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo
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Publication number: 20130000165Abstract: An electronic greeting card containing a recordable audio module with a pre-recorded audio or music clip which allows a user to sing along with the pre-recorded audio or music clip and record it within the audio module in the card. The card also contains a preview function that allows a consumer to try the recording function before purchasing the greeting card. In preview mode, the recorded message is played back, simultaneously with the pre-recorded clip, only once and then erased. Once a consumer has purchased the card, the preview function can be disabled whereby the user-recorded sound clip is saved, and whereby the user-recorded sound clip is played back simultaneously with the pre-recorded sound clip.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2012Publication date: January 3, 2013Inventors: David Mayer, Mary McClain, Allison Marsh, Eva Jin, Tiger Qiao
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Publication number: 20130000166Abstract: The interactive greeting card of the present disclosure and related inventions combines a traditional paper card with one or more special effects that are initiated by interaction between a user and the greeting card. One or more touch sensors are used to initiate effects including, but not limited to sound, light, movement or a combination thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2012Publication date: January 3, 2013Applicant: American Greetings CorporationInventors: Lauren Budzar, Gary Nelson, Melissa Sapp, Melissa Flesher
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Publication number: 20130000164Abstract: A greeting card is provided. The greeting card has a back cover, a front cover, a control module, a movable component, and a protective cover. The back cover is configured as the base of the greeting card. The front cover is coupled to the back cover and contains a window. The front cover can be folded over the back cover. The control module is mounted within or on the back cover. The movable component is mounted within or on the back cover and is driven by the control module The window is located on a location on the front cover corresponding to the movable component. The protective cover is mounted within the window and configured to protect the movable component and provide moving space for the movable component.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2012Publication date: January 3, 2013Inventors: Harshad Jayantilal Shah, Man Dong Ho
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Patent number: 8341858Abstract: An article of print media that includes an electronic module that has at least one chip for storing data and for controlling the electronic module and first means for closing the electronic module such that at least a first video is shown.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2011Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Assignee: Americhip, Inc.Inventors: Timothy P. Clegg, Michael D. Ronk
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Publication number: 20120317850Abstract: The interactive flap sensor activated greeting card of the present invention contains an audio module and a series of “window flaps” across the inside of the greeting card. When the greeting card is opened, a short audio prompt instructs the user to open a series of flaps inside the card to hear further audio messages or sound clips that correlate with the art work inside the card. When each flap is opened, a different audio file is played. The sound module is programmed to react to the card opening and then to trigger additional individual sounds each time one of the flaps of the card is opened. In another embodiment, the greeting card contains a series of flaps wherein opening one flap reveals another flap, and so on. Once the last flap is opened, a short audio recording is activated.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2012Publication date: December 20, 2012Inventors: Jerry GUO, Tiger Qiao, David Sapp, Beth Laverdiere, Johnathan Talbot
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Publication number: 20120304509Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2011Publication date: December 6, 2012Inventors: David Mayer, Lauren M. Budzar, Eva Jin, Mary McClain
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Publication number: 20120304510Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2011Publication date: December 6, 2012Inventors: Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo
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Patent number: 8322058Abstract: A telescoping greeting card having a plurality of pockets and/or panels that are connected in sequence and configured to slidably telescope between a closed position wherein each of the pockets and/or panels are contained within a main panel and an open position wherein each of the pockets and/or panels are extended in a longitudinal array. The greeting card additionally contains a switch and a sound module with at least one pre-recorded audio file that may be played back upon removal of one of the panels or pockets of the greeting card, which triggers the switch.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2010Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: David Mayer, Allison Marsh, Kimberly Bikowski, David Sapp, Tiger Qiao, Catherine Liu, Coco Zhang, Jerry Guo
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Patent number: 8316565Abstract: An interactive sound generating greeting card having two separate and distinct components, one being an outer greeting card which serves as a pocket or cavity with a slot located thereon providing access to the pocket or cavity and the other being an inner greeting card which is sized to partially fit into the cavity in the outer greeting card. A sound module is contained and concealed within the outer greeting card cavity, including a switch mechanism. The inner greeting card and switch mechanism work in combination to control the playback of a digital audio file stored on the sound module such that when the inner greeting card is contained within the cavity of the outer greeting card, playback of the digital audio file is deactivated and when the inner greeting card is removed from the cavity of the outer greeting card, playback of the digital audio file is activated.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2011Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: Eva Jin, Tiger Qiao, Johnathan Talbot, David Mayer, Allison Marsh
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Patent number: 8312651Abstract: Electronic greeting cards include a greeting card with two or more interconnected panels in combination with a digital multimedia player device which includes an electronic display and an audio output, and circuitry which is operative to receive, store and play digital multimedia files and content. The various greeting card structures cover and encapsulate or otherwise house and adorn the digital multimedia player. Digital files are loaded on to the digital multimedia player by a connection to a network, or directly from a data storage device such as an SD card or USB connection or compact flash which interfaces with a port in the digital multimedia player. Pre-recorded digital multimedia greeting card content is either pre-loaded on a portable data storage device, or selected for purchase and downloaded or transferred for replay by the digital multimedia player of the electronic greeting card.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2010Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: Josef A. Mandelbaum, Rajiv Jain, Allison Marsh, Kimberly Bikowski, Cathy Tasse, David Mayer, Eliza DeVogel, Katalina Speck, Mary McClain, Sharon Bogdanski, Mindy Leeders, Catherine Gruntman
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Patent number: 8312652Abstract: An electronic greeting card containing a recordable audio module with a pre-recorded audio or music clip which allows a user to sing along with the pre-recorded audio or music clip and record it within the audio module in the card. The greeting card contains a slide trigger that activates the pre-recorded sound clip upon opening the greeting card. A second push-button trigger controls playback of the pre-recorded music clip while simultaneously recording the user singing along to the pre-recorded music. The card also contains a preview function that allows a consumer to try the recording function before purchasing the greeting card. In preview mode, the recorded message is played back, simultaneously with the pre-recorded clip, only once and then erased. Once a consumer has purchased the card, the preview function can be disabled whereby the user-recorded sound clip is saved, and whereby the user-recorded sound clip is played back simultaneously with the pre-recorded sound clip.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2010Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: David Mayer, Mary McClain, Allison Marsh, Eva Jin, Tiger Qiao
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Publication number: 20120285054Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2012Publication date: November 15, 2012Applicant: AMERICAN GREETINGS CORPORATIONInventors: Rob ROTH, Annie DECKERD
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Publication number: 20120266503Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2011Publication date: October 25, 2012Inventors: David Sapp, David Mayer, Anastasia Taylor, Kimberly Bikowski, Allison Marsh, Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo
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Patent number: 8256150Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2011Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo
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Publication number: 20120192467Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2012Publication date: August 2, 2012Inventors: Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo
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Patent number: 8230624Abstract: The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object. This movement may be up-and-down or “bouncing” motion, spinning or rotational motion, side-to-side motion or any other reciprocating motion.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2010Date of Patent: July 31, 2012Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: David Sapp, David Mayer, Anastasia Taylor, Kimberly Bikowski, Allison Marsh, Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo
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Patent number: 8205365Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof. The greeting cards may include various switch mechanisms that may be located and accessed through various locations on the foam greeting card body.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2011Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: Anastasia Taylor, David Mayer, Dawn Pyne, Elizabeth Draeger, Katalina Speck, Lynne Shlonsky, Jill Jankowski, Brian Altman, Rob Matousek, Terry Hughes
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Patent number: 8191293Abstract: A solar powered advertising apparatus comprising a digital display to display an advertisement heading, wherein the apparatus is configured to be affixable to an exterior of a printed directory. The apparatus comprises a memory to store a set of advertisement headings, with the advertisement headings stored in the memory prior to affixing the advertising apparatus to the printed directory. The advertising apparatus further comprises a set of buttons for selecting an advertisement heading to be displayed.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2009Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.Inventor: Douglas Keith Trotman
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Patent number: 8176663Abstract: Greeting cards and novelties with electronic circuits having switch mechanisms operable by manipulation of a moveable component. Manipulation of the moveable component causes activation of the electronic circuit.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2010Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: American Greetings CorporationInventors: David Sapp, Tiger Qiao, Erik Flesher, Emily Gross, David Mayer, Eliza DeVogal, Katalina Speck, Sharon Bogdanski, Allison Marsh, Kimberly Bikowski