Abstract: A card carrier and presentation device that can assume a flat 2-dimensional configuration and be deformed into a 3-dimensional configuration. The flat configuration is used to carrier the card on a rack for vending. When the card and device is purchased, the card can be removed and inserted into the device after it is deformed into the 3-dimensional configuration. The card can become part of the 3-dimensional structure. The device can be transparent and have optional artwork on a surface that can optically interact with artwork on the card when the device is in the 3-dimensional configuration to create a combined visual effect.

Abstract: A greeting card includes a body portion that defines an interior cavity. A sentiment panel is slidably received in the cavity via an opening in the body portion. The sentiment panel is movable from a concealed position, where a portion thereof is received in the interior cavity and obstructed from view by the body portion, to an extended position, where the portion is outside the body and is visible. Electrical components may be positioned inside the interior cavity and activated upon movement of the panel from the concealed position to the extended position.

Abstract: An identification card holder with flash memory card reader has a body and a card reader module. The body has an identification card holder and a card reader side. The identification card holder holds a personal identification card. The card reader module is formed on the card reader side, is a flash memory card readable and is an audio file playable processing unit.

Abstract: An autograph board includes a removable cover so that the object to be autographed can be protected when not being autographed. The board is in a shape suggestive of the sport involved, for example, a home plate for a baseball. Removable frame supports allow the board to freely stand on a flat surface for display purposes. A clip holds a pen on the edge of the board.

Abstract: An advertising device for an improved golf ball retriever is provided. The golf ball retriever includes a hollow shaft made of a clear plastic material wherein an advertising slip can be placed into the hollow shaft by the use of a pole. The shaft may include a grip on one end for secure maneuvering of the golf ball retriever during retrieval. The shaft includes a suction cup with a hollow center on the opposite end where the grip may be located for retrieving a golf ball. The top end of the shaft also includes apertures in the shaft that allow a hanging device to be removably affixed to the shaft of the golf ball retriever. The top end of the shaft also has an end cap removably attached to the shaft to enclose the top end of the hollow shaft.

Abstract: Providing a digital experience with a greeting card. A card purchaser selects one or more digital experiences to enhance or complete the thought of the selected card. The selection of digital experiences can occur using a computing device in a retail store or remotely via the Internet. The purchaser scans an identification code or selects a digital representation of the greeting card at the computing device and is presented with digital experiences best suited to the selected card. Additionally, the card purchaser may view or select from a full-line of digital experiences without scanning or selecting the digital representation of the card. Information relating to the digital experience is included in the card. The card is transmitted to a recipient, and the recipient accesses the digital experience based on information provided in the greeting card. The digital experience may be provided to the recipient using a digital delivery device.

Abstract: Gift bag assemblies and related retail displays including multiple components which are selected and assembled to form unique gift bags. The display includes a plurality of each of the gift bag components which include bags which have a transparent pocket for receiving a decorative card, decorative cards which bear printed matter which is visible through the transparent pocket, and handles which have a gripping portion and an attachment portion and a fastener on the attachment portion for attachment to the bag. The consumer selects each of the components based upon occasion or design attributes and assembles a unique gift bag by insertion of a selected decorative card into the transparent pocket of the bag and attachment of a selected handle to the bag.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a decorative card. The decorative card includes a vessel having at least a portion which is transparent, the vessel holding a liquid having particles contained therein. The decorative card also includes a back panel having an image provided on an inside surface thereof, wherein the back panel is positioned such that the image is visible through the portion of the vessel which is transparent.

Abstract: Gift bag assemblies and related retail displays include multiple components which are selected and assembled to form unique gift bags. The display includes a plurality of each of the gift bag components which include bags which have a transparent pocket for receiving a decorative card, decorative cards which bear printed matter which is visible through the transparent pocket, and handles which have a gripping portion and an attachment portion and a fastener on the attachment portion for attachment to the bag. The consumer selects each of the components based upon occasion or design attributes and assembles a unique gift bag by insertion of a selected decorative card into the transparent pocket of the bag, and attachment of a selected handle to the bag.

Abstract: An advertising apparatus including a body portion adapted to be one or both of connected to or disposed on a support structure accessible for advertising purposes and, an interchangeable and/or replaceable advertising device, the advertising device being adapted to be one or both of connected to or disposed on the body portion.

Abstract: Transactional presentation instrument systems having one or more chambers, and method of using and constructing such systems are provided. Systems can include a presentation instrument, an information storage medium configured to store a unique identifier, and a chamber having a fluid component and an object component. The object component can include a plurality of items that float in or disperse throughout the fluid component.

Abstract: An attachable and detachable cover for a pocket having an inner area. The cover may include a first portion disposed external to the pocket, generally conforming to a contour of the pocket, and removably secured to the pocket. The first portion may include a decorative element. In addition, the decorative cover may include a second portion disposed within the inner area of the pocket. The second portion may cause the cover to be retained by the pocket. Further, the cover may include a third portion connecting the first portion and the second portion.

Abstract: A greeting bag is described that is includes a gift bag and a greeting card. The gift bag and greeting card connect together to form the integrated assembly of the greeting bag that has a purposefully coordinated single decorative style. The gift bag and greeting card have individual decors that define alternative aspects of that particular theme of a decorative style. An attachment mechanism can also be included in the greeting bag that further fixes the greeting card to the gift bag. The attachment mechanism can have a third decor as well as a size and dimensions that can include an image or sentiment. A method is described wherein a greeting bag is selected by selecting a gift bag from a set of one or more gift bags that share a common decorative style. A greeting card is selected from a set of one or more greeting cards that share the same common decorative style with the gift bag.

Abstract: A greeting card system comprises a card member. The card member includes a first window. The system includes a gift card attached to the card member. The gift card is activated through use of a code that is displayed in the first window. Accordingly, a greeting card system is provided that allows for immediate use of a gift card. The system minimizes fraud or theft of the card through the use of an activation code thereon.

Abstract: A method of constructing an origami-style booklet from a unitary blank of sheet material. The blank of sheet material is divided into eight equal rectangles. The blank of sheet material is then cut widthwise along one of three notional boundary lines separating two of the rectangles, from one of opposed side edges to a notional centerline. The blank of sheet material is then lengthwise along the notional centerline starting one rectangle in from a top edge to one rectangle in from a bottom edge. The blank of sheet material is then folded lengthwise in accordion fashion about the three boundary lines and widthwise along the notional centerline until the rectangles are in face to face relation forming a booklet consisting of a front cover, a back cover and eight interior display surfaces.

Abstract: By providing a housing and a cooperating slider member cooperatively associated with each other, with the slider member being removable from the housing for simultaneously activating the housing to automatically form a three-dimensional object, a unique, hands-on, printed, visually exciting and interest generating advertising/promotional product is attained which can be used for a wide variety of promotions, including use as a mailer. The system of the present invention provides an exciting and surprising result which is not anticipated by the user, and can be produced in a wide variety of alternate forms and/or configurations.

Abstract: A rotatable desktop organizer for holding a plurality of writing instruments and desk items such as paperclips. The desktop organizer has a platform having a plurality of concentric receptacles along the circumference of the top platform surface for securely holding, in each of the receptacle, a single writing instrument in a substantially upright position, a hollow column with an open top protruding upward from the center of the platform for storing desk items therein, a flat base rotatably connected to the bottom of the platform to allow, by rotating the platform, easier access to a particular writing instrument selected, and a removable plug for inserting into the column which has a magnet at its distal end for thereby picking up metallic items stored in the column. The desktop organizer may further have advertising material disposed on the side surface of either the column or the platform.

Abstract: A display system utilizing a graphics box as a primary component is disclosed. The graphics box greatly increases the flexibility and aesthetic appeal of displayed graphics cards. The ability to mass produce the graphics box, use multiple graphics boxes to deliver displays of different size and information content and, especially, the ability to reuse the graphics boxes, means that costs of the disclosed display system are relatively low and are achievable without a decrease in the aesthetic appeal of the entire display. Structures for supporting the graphics box to further increase the flexibility of the display system are also disclosed.

Abstract: A packaging arrangement for marketing products and information; the packaging arrangement including an envelope, a sleeve, and a postcard. Each of the sleeve and the postcard being positionable within a volume defined by the envelope. The postcard including a tab that is located outside of the volume of the envelope when the postcard is positioned within the envelope. The sleeve including a front floating panel and a back panel designed and arranged to create visual illusions and provide various visual effects.

Abstract: A merchandising apparatus and method for use in conjunction with a beverage dispenser, such as a water cooler, and a beverage dispensing system utilizing the same. In one aspect the invention is a merchandising apparatus for mounting to a beverage dispenser comprising: a center panel having a bottom edge, a top edge, a first lateral edge, a second lateral edge, a front surface and a rear surface; a first flange extending from one of the front or rear surfaces of the center panel; a first side panel connected to the first lateral edge of the center panel, the first side panel extending below the bottom edge of the center panel; and a second side panel connected to the second lateral edge of the center panel, the second side panel extending below the bottom edge of the center panel.

Abstract: Promotional material display devices are provided. The display devices have a unique configuration that improves visual display and organization of promotional material including flyers and business cards. The display devices uniquely integrate a direction indicator with the display device providing an attractive dimension to and purpose for the flyer and business card holder in real estate applications.

Abstract: A cleaning wipe container includes a bottom panel, a front panel, a rear panel, a pair of side panels and a lid. The cleaning wipe container may be filled with a plurality of cleaning wipes that are contained in a cartridge. The container also includes a slidably engaged window that cooperatively interacts with the cartridge to display a message on or through a portion of a panel of the container. The message is based on the wipes in the cartridge and may include a type of wipe, a list of ingredients of the wipes, and/or instructions for using the wipes.

Abstract: A three-dimensional display frame assembly for displaying planar display material in respective multiple planes. The frame assembly can be provided as a single-sheet preform and can be self-standing.

Abstract: By providing a unique, pre-printed housing within which a plurality of windows are formed and positioned for cooperating with a plurality of longitudinally movable arm members or sliders, a unique, hands-on, printed, visually exciting and interest generating advertising/promotional product is attained. In the preferred embodiment, each window incorporates a transparent panel for overlying the visual image contained in the window, as well as preventing the user from obtaining access to the visual information contained therein. By constructing each of the plurality of longitudinally movable arm members/sliders in an overlying manner, a unique construction is realized which enables the movement of one arm member/slider to effectuate a change in the visual display of a window element which is not directly adjacent the arm member or slider. In this way, a unique, surprising and interest generating result is attained.

Abstract: A greeting or announcement card includes integrated picture mailer and frame. An illustrative embodiment of the card is made by die cutting thick paper stock. The card includes front and back portions disposed side-by-side, and a middle portion disposed under the back portion. Adhesive strips cover the inside of the back portion or of the middle portion. When the card is assembled, it is folded along a line to bring into contact the inside surfaces of the middle and back portions, forming a holding pocket open on one side. A picture can be inserted into the pocket and viewed through an aperture in the middle portion. After insertion, the front portion is folded towards the pocket, and the card is mailed. The card's recipient tears off the front portion, and pulls on a precut tab in the back portion, forming a picture frame with an easel-like stand.

Abstract: A cap has a recessed side wall which receives an indicia bearing card. A transparent plate covers the card. With this arrangement, the card is protected from the weather and may be swapped out for a different card. The cap may be configured to cap a wheel stop but may also be placed along the periphery of a tee-off box on a golf course. In the latter instance, spikes with golf-ball like heads may be used to moor the caps in place.

Abstract: A refrigerator includes a refrigerator body, an information card, and at least one door pivotally coupled to the refrigerator body. The refrigerator body includes a recess configured to receive the information card, the recess having an interior portion that substantially conforms to the exterior of the information card.

Abstract: A combination note card and protector, now known commercially as the a Heart Warmer®, is an unattached pocket made of fabric where a side folds down to display a card, trinket, or other sentiment. Its purpose is to send a greeting, trinket or other sentiment, which is held in the pocket, to a loved one. The recipient can then place the Heart Warmer® in his pocket close to his heart. It is constructed out of a single piece of fabric folded in half and sewn on at least portion of the sides with the a corner of the fabric folded down to create a pocket effect. It preferably comes with a card that fits into the pocket for the sender to write a personal message to the recipient.

Abstract: An ornamental gift card holder ornamentally presents a gift card to a gift recipient. The gift card holder comprises an anterior card-framing portion, a posterior card-retaining portion, and a card-receiving slot. The card-framing and card-retaining portions are substantially planar, and the card-receiving slot extends intermediate the card-framing and card-retaining portions in parallel relation thereto. The slot comprises opposing closed and open ends, and is sized and shaped for frictionally retaining the gift card. The receivable gift card may be received via the open end and stoppable via the closed end. The card-framing portion comprises a card-display window for enabling anterior viewing of the anterior portion of the card. The closed end positions the card in centered relation relative to the card-display window. The card-retaining portion functions to posteriorly retain the gift card in the card-receiving slot.

Abstract: A gift card apparatus is described that includes a gift representation and a greeting card. The gift representation can include a product stamp, a gift certificate or a gift debit card. The gift representation is concealed beneath a removable panel that is attached to the first page. A second page retains the greeting card. A method of using the gift card apparatus includes selecting a gift from a list of items provided by a plurality of vendors. The gift item is identified to a gift recipient using a gift representation. The gift giver forwards the gift card apparatus including the gift representation with a greeting card to the gift recipient. The gift representation can include a merchandise certificate with an image of the gift item, a monetary gift certificate and/or a gift credit card. The gift recipient redeems the gift representation using one or more vendors and can select an alternative gift item from the list of items provided by the plurality of vendors.

Abstract: A point of sale card package, and method for manufacturing same, include an intermediate in the form of a sheet of paper material which is sequentially V-folded twice about a first and a second fold line, extending orthogonally to one another, to form four stacked panels defined by and connected at the fold lines, with a credit-card-like card disposed between two adjacent ones of the stacked panels, and the with separate portions of the peripheries of the stacked panels being adhesively joined together by a pressure sensitive adhesive.

Abstract: A themed greeting card is disclosed, comprising a body composed of a member of the group consisting of paper products, paper, card stock, cardboard, wood, stone, plastic, porcelain, vinyl and metal, said body comprising a front, a back, a top, a bottom, a right side, and a left side; a holder of sufficient size to hold a theme-related item of trading-card size affixed to said greeting card, said holder being a planar member with a top, a bottom, a left side, a right side, and a central portion, said holder being affixed to said body inside or body outside such that said theme-related item can be inserted between said holder and said body, and said holder being composed of a transparent material; and a display mechanism for said holder such that said themed greeting card forms a frame for said holder.

Abstract: Special effects containers that include a special effects substance are provided in, for example, greeting cards, gift bags, photo albums, postcards. This substance may comprise particles (e.g., a glitter or confetti) and a liquid (e.g., water) such that when the special effects container is shaken, a visual effect is produced. One type of visual effect produced is similar to that of a snow globe. For example, pieces of a polymer confetti, each having the shape of a snowflake, may be included in a special effects container with a liquid. Such confetti may have a negative buoyancy with respect to the liquid such that after the special effects container is shaken, the pieces of confetti sink. The rate of descent/ascent of the container particles can be configured by changing the specific weight of the liquid or particles.

Abstract: A transparent divider to be used at checkout conveyors for separating one customers order from the next customers order. The divider is an elongate bar which has an open bottom for ease of stacking or sliding along a checkout rail. A slot is formed in the side walls of the divider into which a sheet of printed advertisement can be folded and slid. The advertisement is visible, preferably on all side walls of the divider. The divider is available in a number of different shapes and can be made as a single piece or as an inner divider with a transparent cover.

Abstract: A laminating and mounting system include a pouch (10) made of thermal laminating film (15,16) and a thermal adhesive (21,22) on a surface (17,18) both inside the pouch and outside the pouch. A first substrate (19), like a print, is placed within a chamber (25) of the pouch (10). The pouch (10) is attached or aligned with a backer board, a rigid substrate (20). The assembly comprising the pouch (10), print (19) and backer substrate (20) are laminated in one pass by a laminating machine (30) that applies both heat and pressure.

Abstract: A method wherein an indicia is selected from one of diverse indicia sources that promotes an informational application, a holder may be selected from a holder source specialized for the given application, and a display is selected from a display source. The indicia is placed in a suggested manner in the display or the indicia and holder unit are placed in the display such that the desired information is displayed. The flap portions of the display are manipulated to expose or conceal releasable, reusable adhesive portions, to suit the carrying of the display appliance, as in a book or bag, or the display of the display appliance from either side in a vertical or horizontal position, as on a cabinet, or wall. An easel insert oir easel attachment allows for a standing position on a counter top or table.

Abstract: A lightweight, easily portable, convertible billboard display has three panels rotatably connected to each other in parallel fashion. The billboard display can be used as a vertically standing three panel display or, when two of the panels are connected by a removable connection component, as a three dimensional triangular display. Informational display items can be removably attached to the display panels. In addition, pockets, variously located within each panel, allow for the insertion and display of and full access to multi-page display items, mounted directly on the billboard display.

Abstract: A promotional tool and a vehicle used to distribute products, information, gift certificates, prepaid phone cards, and coupons for businesses, corporations, retail establishments, universities, and sales personnel. A customized gift card displays professionally created artwork, logos and graphics that best portray the provider's intent for the overall design. The card is folded, die-cut and glued to receive a multimedia disc, gift certificate, coupon or phone card. A Multimedia Disc is included as a gift with each card. It is a digital medium that contains professionally recorded digital music and a variety of audio, video, and graphic information regarding the provider. It is placed in the card so the label which supports the card's overall design, is in view. A gift certificate, coupon, or a prepaid phone card can be placed in the card for easy accessibility and scanning by a retailer.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the invention provide a greeting card having a holder element on the front surface of the greeting card. The holder element is capable of retaining a prepaid gift card or the like. One such embodiment provides the gift-giver with an opportunity to retain the prepaid gift card to the greeting card without reducing the area on the inner surface for writing a personal message to the recipient.

Abstract: A card may include a generally planar panel and a plurality of opposing retaining members disposed on the panel. The plurality of opposing retaining members may be arranged to retain a substantially rectangular transaction card having a first longitudinal axis in a first orientation with respect to the panel and to retain a substantially rectangular paper gift having a second longitudinal axis in a second orientation with respect to the panel, so that the orientation of the first longitudinal axis is substantially transverse to the second orientation of the second longitudinal axis. The paper gift may be, for example, paper monetary currency, a paper bank check, or a paper gift certificate. The transaction card may be, for example, a debit card, a credit card, a gift card, a prepaid phone card, a card containing a merchandise credit usable at a retail establishment.

Abstract: A shelf device for an inside surface of a cooler door has a tray with a bottom panel, opposed front and rear panels connected to the bottom panel, and opposed end panels connected to the bottom, front and rear panels. The front panel has a rear face opposite the rear panel and a front face. A front display panel has an embellished front surface and has a rear surface attached to the front surface of the front panel of the tray. Openings in tray flanges receive suction cup protrusions for attaching the tray to the inside surface of the cooler door.

Abstract: A device for storing and displaying jewelry having a frame fabricated from a single sheet of resilient material. The frame contains parallel, spaced apart front and rear panels that are co-joined along their upper edges by a top wall. The front panel extends below the rear panel and a base is integrally connected to the lower edge of the front panel and extends rearwardly beneath the rear panel. The front panel includes a window through which access can be gained to a foam pad that is captured between the front and rear panels. Studded hooks are inserted into the pad upon which various items of jewelry can be hung. Pins and studded pieces of jewelry can also be inserted directly into the pad for display and storage purposes.

Abstract: A transit center apparatus is provided having one or more modules attachable to a transit stop pole to provide one or more of the following conveniences to a transit stop patron: information in an optionally illuminated modular display apparatus, overhead illumination, video camera surveillance, and wireless communication. These conveniences are preferably provided through an overhead assembly and a rugged information display case. The overhead assembly houses one or more of the group consisting of solar cells, a rechargeable battery pack, overhead lights, a cell phone antenna, camera, and related circuitry. The information display case provides backlighting and houses a switch assembly. The display case is preferably constructed from extruded, interlocking aluminum frame members and is easily installable on existing support poles.

Abstract: A system is designed for highly customizing and personalizing a greeting card through the association with a digital recording media. The CD can include a writable track for recording the user's voice input and a writable track for recording other audio and/or video input. The CD can, additionally be provided with a track prerecorded with words and music based around specific occasions, such as Mother's Day, Christmas, etc. and can be provided with a track on which is prerecorded instrumental music for use karaoke style. As a further option, the CD can be provided with a writable track for recording the user's voice merged with the music on the instrumental track.

Abstract: A plurality of edges (106–110) of a transparent sheet (112) are adhered to a back (114) of a paper backing (116) to from a clear-front envelope (102). A support flap (104) is attached to the clear-front envelope (102) where the support flap (104) folds away from the clear-front envelope (102) at a fold line (126) and has an edge for resting a horizontal surface. A display item is secured between the paper backing (116) and the transparent sheet (112) and can be displayed in a landscape or portrait position. Postage indicia (1102) on the support flap (104) allows the display item to be mailed as a personalized postcard. Other indicia (1104) may further provide advertising or customize the display device (100).

Abstract: A container for small sized objects such as candies, chocolates, cosmetics, fragrances and small gifts which comprises: a first element (1) having a first and a second apertures (2) symmetrically disposed with respect to a hinge axis (140) and whose outline defines a geometric or fancy figure; a flap or patch of fabric or cloth (3) applied on the rear surface (10) of said first element (1); a second element (4) associated with the rear surface of said first element (1) on the back of said fabric (3) so that the said fabric will result interposed between the first (1) and second (4) elements, the same fabric being able to partly project from the surface defined by said first element (1) or said second element (4), the surface of the latter being provided, likewise the surface of the first element (1), with a third and a fourth apertures (40), disposed in correspondence to said first and second apertures (2), as to coincide with each other when the container (S) is in closed condition, that is, folded over abou

Abstract: A combination greeting card and gift card with a coded information portion is provided to be sold and delivered to a recipient as a unit. The greeting card includes preprinted indicia preferably corresponding to a particular occasion such as a birthday, holiday, graduation or other celebretory event. The coded information portion of the gift card preferably includes a PIN number or a scannable portion which, when an account in a remote computer corresponding to the coded information and the gift card is activated, enables the holder of the gift card to obtain goods or services by access to credit corresponding to the card from a remote database. The gift card is initially temporarily coupled to the greeting card by adhesive, tabs and slits, or a mechanical fastener, and concealed when the front and rear panels of the greeting card are in a closed, substantially parallel orientation.

Abstract: A display apparatus for displaying a clip-on sunglass, sunglass or other product and a method of assembling the display apparatus. In one embodiment, a closable case is removably attached to a product card, wherein the product card includes product information and an aperture for handing the display apparatus on a display case. The closable case may be closable and removably attached to the product card with a fastener, wherein one portion of the fastener is mounted to the body of the closable case, while the other portion is mounted to the body of the closable case and to a perforated portion of the product card, thus allowing the closable case to be removed from the product card and used as a case for clip-ons, sunglasses or any other product.

Abstract: An assembly for providing information about an individual such as a lost child includes an envelope and an information sheet releasably adhesively connected to the rear panel of the envelope. The information sheet is manually removable from the rear envelope panel for insertion into the envelope. Removal of the information sheet exposes the adhesive on the envelope rear panel and the adhesive is used to apply the envelope to an individual's clothing.

Abstract: Disclosed is a utensil support apparatus constructed of paper and includes a main body and a utensil supporting section formed on the main body. The utensil supporting section is folded upwards along a lateral edge and a pair of outer sections formed on the utensil supporting sections is folded to prop the utensil supporting section. A detachable advertising section is formed on the main body for removal after use of the utensil support apparatus.