Having Sound-producing Means Patents (Class 40/124.03)
  • Patent number: 11926169
    Abstract: A multimedia business card having a housing, a display, a speaker, a battery, and circuitry for operating the same is provided. In one embodiment, the housing includes a plurality of panels, scores, and joints, including a cover panel and a front panel that includes an aperture. The panels and joints can be folded and secured to form an enclosed (rectangular) housing. The display, speaker, battery, and circuity are secured inside, with the display being visible to a user via the aperture. The housing should open like a book (with a cover opening from right to left), exposing the display to the user, where the opening of the cover triggers the playing of video and/or sound (e.g., via a magnetic switch). For ease of manufacturing, the housing may be constructed from a single piece of material, preferably cardboard or a heavy paper-based product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Inventor: Alex Hagan
  • Patent number: 11316811
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for providing personalized digital messages, such as audio-visual messages, on a device that is used to create personalized associated items and gift arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Inventor: Sal Anthony Spiteri
  • Patent number: 10575077
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a speaker, and speaker module. The speaker comprises a housing and two electrical connection members mounted on the housing, each electrical connection member comprises a second pad portion exposed from a side wall of the housing, and the second pad portion is disposed in parallel to the side wall of the housing. The speaker further comprises a circuit board attached to the side wall of the housing, and the circuit board is electrically connected to the second pad portions. The speaker of the present invention enables attaching the circuit board to the side wall of the housing, thus increasing operation space, and reducing operational risks. By attaching the circuit board to the side wall of the housing, the present invention reduces interference of the circuit board on a terminal antenna, and reduces the possibility of the circuit board involving in vibration of a back chamber, thus improving the performance of the speaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: GOERTEK INC.
    Inventors: Fan Yang, Qing Miao
  • Patent number: 10436438
    Abstract: The customizable holiday decoration is a display device. The customizable holiday decoration displays a sentiment. The customizable holiday decoration has a mechanical component and an electrical component. The mechanical component of the customizable holiday decoration physically moves the sentiment. The electrical component of the sentiment illuminates a plurality of lights, generates audible sounds, and powers the mechanical component of the customizable holiday decoration. The customizable holiday decoration comprises a backing plate, a decorative plate, a plurality of legs, a drive mechanism, and a control system. The decorative plate attaches to the backing plate. The mechanical component and the electrical component attach to the decorative plate. The mechanical component comprises the plurality of legs and the drive mechanism. The electrical component comprises the control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Inventor: Roger Eagan
  • Patent number: 9855784
    Abstract: The interactive greeting card of the present invention combines a greeting card with IR sensor to trigger effects upon the greeting card recipient interacting with the IR sensor. The greeting card contains a hole, opening or aperture therethrough, into which a user may insert his or her finger to trigger one or more special effects such as audio replay, motorized movement of one or more mobile objects attached to the greeting card, or other special effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventor: David Mayer
  • Patent number: 9802436
    Abstract: The present disclosure and related inventions describe a greeting card with audio capabilities and party blower. The greeting card can include a squeeze trigger which initiates audio playback and the unfurling of the party blower. Release of the squeeze trigger causes the retraction of the party blower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventor: Katalina Speck
  • Patent number: 9382042
    Abstract: The greeting card of the present invention is a traditional greeting card enhanced by audio and movement. The greeting card contains a pull trigger mechanism so that the user must interact with the greeting card to trigger the audio and motor movement. The pull trigger mechanism may be made of a variety of different materials and are intended to resemble the tail of various animals. Once the pull mechanism or tail has been pulled, the motor is activated causing movement of a portion of the greeting card proximate to the pull mechanism or tail which resembles the behind of an animal. The moveable portion of the greeting card moves, by for example back and forth, while audio plays in the background.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: John Talbot, Melissa Flesher, Dan Liuzzi, Sean Higgins, Lynne Shlonsky
  • Patent number: 9186928
    Abstract: The greeting card of the present invention is a traditional greeting card enhanced by audio and movement. The greeting card contains a pull trigger mechanism so that the user must interact with the greeting card to trigger the audio and motor movement. The pull trigger mechanism may be made of a variety of different materials and are intended to resemble the tail of various animals. Once the pull mechanism or tail has been pulled, the motor is activated causing movement of a portion of the greeting card proximate to the pull mechanism or tail which resembles the behind of an animal. The moveable portion of the greeting card moves, by for example back and forth, while audio plays in the background.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: John Talbot, Melissa Flesher, Dan Liuzzi, Sean Higgins
  • Patent number: 9038291
    Abstract: Foldable financial transaction card displays that include at least one popup member, methods of making such displays, and methods of promoting such displays. Some of the displays include folding members that are unitary with the popup members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Homer TLC, Inc.
    Inventors: Jessica Canaday, Nichole Flynn
  • Publication number: 20150135564
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2015
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Melissa Flesher
  • Patent number: 9027269
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Lauren Budzar, John Talbot, Lynne Shlonsky, Melissa Flesher
  • Patent number: 9009998
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo
  • Patent number: 8973291
    Abstract: A greeting card which contains a foam body covered by a front and rear surface material and one or more cavities contained therein for accommodating components of a sound and motor module. The greeting card contains a mobile object, which in a preferred embodiment includes a bundle of individual fiber strands. The bundle of fiber strands are attached to the motor module such that activation of the motor module cause the bundle of fiber strands to separate and spin or twirl. The bundle of fibers strands are attached to the motor through an opening in an upper perimeter surface of the foam body. The bundle of fibers together with the printed front and back surface material combine to resemble a character having a tuft of hair which spins upon activation of the motor module. The greeting card also contains a sound module which plays back audio upon activation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: David Mayer, Carol Miller, Dave Sapp, Lynne Shlonsky
  • Patent number: 8973292
    Abstract: An interactive greeting card which contains a moveable object attached to a motor and a sound module operative to store and playback at least one pre-recorded audio file. The moveable object is contained on an inside panel of the greeting card concealed beneath a curtain. The curtain contains a pull string cord which when pulled, opens the curtain revealing the moveable object while also triggering playback of the pre-recorded audio and triggering activation of the motor module, causing movement of the mobile object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Lynne Shlonsky, Gary Nelson
  • Patent number: 8955240
    Abstract: The greeting card of the present invention contains a sound mechanism which is operative to replay one or more audio clips upon a user pulling a pull device which extends outward from the front of the greeting card. The pull device controls activation of the audio but also serves as a three-dimensional aspect of the scene or picture printed on the front of the greeting card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Jim Loftus, Cheryl Cochran
  • Patent number: 8950093
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Josef A. Mandelbaum, Rajiv Jain, Allison Marsh, Kimberly Bikowski, Cathy Tasse, David Mayer, Eliza DeVogel, Katalina Speck, Mary McClain, Sharon Bogdanski, Melinda Leeders, Catherine Gruntman
  • Patent number: 8937535
    Abstract: A greeting card having an audio message and playback device delivers a first sound recording upon opening of the greeting card and a second sound recording upon closing of the greeting card. The delivery of each sound recording may be delayed by a timing component within the audio message and playback device. Additionally, the delivery of each sound recording may be played simultaneously or in queue. Sound recordings may also be recorded by a user using a recording component that is in addition to the audio message and playback device. The audio message and playback device may also include an additional trial mode component that allows the user to test a recorded message before purchasing the greeting card and place the greeting card into a use mode that allows the user to permanently record the message.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Hallmark Cards, Incorporated
    Inventors: Timothy J. Lien, John B. Watkins, Robert D. Wertanen
  • Publication number: 20150000167
    Abstract: The greeting card of the present invention is a traditional greeting card enhanced by audio and movement. The greeting card contains a pull trigger mechanism so that the user must interact with the greeting card to trigger the audio and motor movement. The pull trigger mechanism may be made of a variety of different materials and are intended to resemble the tail of various animals. Once the pull mechanism or tail has been pulled, the motor is activated causing movement of a portion of the greeting card proximate to the pull mechanism or tail which resembles the behind of an animal. The moveable portion of the greeting card moves, by for example back and forth, while audio plays in the background.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventors: John Talbot, Melissa Flesher, Dan Liuzzi, Sean Higgens
  • Publication number: 20140366410
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventors: Lauren Budzar, John Talbot, Lynne Shlonsky, Melissa Flesher
  • Publication number: 20140360064
    Abstract: A greeting card which contains a foam body covered by a front and rear surface material and one or more cavities contained therein for accommodating components of a sound and motor module. The greeting card contains a mobile object, which in a preferred embodiment includes a bundle of individual fiber strands. The bundle of fiber strands are attached to the motor module such that activation of the motor module cause the bundle of fiber strands to separate and spin or twirl. The bundle of fibers strands are attached to the motor through an opening in an upper perimeter surface of the foam body. The bundle of fibers together with the printed front and back surface material combine to resemble a character having a tuft of hair which spins upon activation of the motor module. The greeting card also contains a sound module which plays back audio upon activation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: David Mayer, Carol Miller, Dave Sapp, Lynne Shlonsky
  • Patent number: 8904678
    Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Erin Dennis, Michelle Parkinson
  • Patent number: 8887420
    Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Gary Nelson, Lynne Shlonsky
  • Patent number: 8887419
    Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Melissa Flesher, Erin Dennis, Seth Larson
  • Patent number: 8887418
    Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound 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: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: David Mayer, Lynne Shlonsky
  • Patent number: 8887417
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Sharon Bogdanski, John Talbot, Lauren Budzar, Melissa Flesher, Beth Dinvald
  • Patent number: 8857082
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Jerry Guo, John Talbot, Anthony Begin, Annie Deckerd
  • Patent number: 8850726
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Erin Dennis, Lynne Shlonsky, John Talbot, David Mayer
  • Publication number: 20140259817
    Abstract: A greeting card has a card body comprising at least a front panel and electrical components. The front panel contains an opening that acts as a track. A spinner including two wheels spaced apart and coupled together with an axle rotatably engages the track are positioned on opposite sides of the front panel. The spinner moves along the track by virtue of gravity when the greeting card is being tilted. The electrical components may include a power source, a sound module having an audio file stored therein, a speaker, and a switch located adjacent to the track. The spinner activates the switch when the spinner moves adjacent to the location of the switch which in turn initiates playback of the audio file through the speaker.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: DAVID LYNN REYNOLDS, KAITLYN JEROME, MICHAEL ROBERT ADAIR, ORLANDA DOMINIC LACY, DOUGLAS M. BOWEN
  • Patent number: 8813397
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Lauren M. Budzar, Seth Larson, Erin Dennis, Dan Kopsak
  • Publication number: 20140208622
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Sharon Bogdanski, John Talbot, Lauren Budzar, Melissa Flesher, Beth Dinvald
  • Patent number: 8763286
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Eva Jin, Tiger Qiao, Jonathan Talbot, David Mayer, Allison Marsh
  • Patent number: 8763285
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Lauren Budzar, Gary Nelson, Melissa Sapp, Melissa Flesher
  • Patent number: 8752313
    Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: America Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Nicole Wilson, Gary Nelson, Anthony Begin
  • Publication number: 20140150308
    Abstract: A greeting card having an audio message and playback device delivers a first sound recording upon opening of the greeting card and a second sound recording upon closing of the greeting card. The delivery of each sound recording may be delayed by a timing component within the audio message and playback device. Additionally, the delivery of each sound recording may be played simultaneously or in queue. Sound recordings may also be recorded by a user using a recording component that is in addition to the audio message and playback device. The audio message and playback device may also include an additional trial mode component that allows the user to test a recorded message before purchasing the greeting card and place the greeting card into a use mode that allows the user to permanently record the message.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2014
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: HALLMARK CARDS, INCORPORATED
    Inventors: TIMOTHY J. LIEN, JOHN B. WATKINS, ROBERT D. WERTANEN
  • Publication number: 20140150307
    Abstract: Foldable financial transaction card displays that include at least one popup member, methods of making such displays, and methods of promoting such displays. Some of the displays include folding members that are unitary with the popup members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Inventor: Nathan D. Ehrlich
  • Publication number: 20140144052
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventor: American Greetings Corporation
  • Patent number: 8736429
    Abstract: A greeting card having an audio message and playback device delivers a first sound recording upon opening of the greeting card and a second sound recording upon closing of the greeting card. The delivery of each sound recording may be delayed by a timing component within the audio message and playback device. Additionally, the delivery of each sound recording may be played simultaneously or in queue. Sound recordings may also be recorded by a user using a recording component that is in addition to the audio message and playback device. The audio message and playback device may also include an additional trial mode component that allows the user to test a recorded message before purchasing the greeting card and place the greeting card into a use mode that allows the user to permanently record the message.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Hallmark Cards, Incorporated
    Inventors: Timothy J. Lien, John B. Watkins, Robert D. Wertanen
  • Publication number: 20140137445
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2014
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Josef A. Mandelbaum, Rajiv Jain, Allison Marsh, Kimberly Bikowski, Cathy Tasse, David Mayer, Eliza DeVogel, Katalina Speck, Mary McClain, Sharon Bogdanski, Melinda Leeders, Catherine Gruntman
  • Patent number: 8726548
    Abstract: An integral greeting card/game is disclosed wherein a multi-panel greeting card also serves as a game board and is combined with a game piece and launch mechanism to create a novel, interactive greeting card. The multi-panel greeting card contains a sound module therein and a magnetic trigger is contained and concealed below one or more of the multiple greeting card panels. The game piece contains a magnet therein so that when the game piece comes into contact with the area of the greeting card above or proximate to the magnetic trigger, playback of an audio file is initiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corp.
    Inventors: Seth Larson, Tony Begin, David Mayer, John Talbot, Sharon Bogdanski, Mike Gali
  • Patent number: 8726547
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Sharon Bogdanski, John Talbot, Lauren Budzar, Mary McClain, Brent Cottrell, Melissa Cornet, Dave McPeek, Brian Cleary, Melissa Flesher, Beth Dinvald, Tiger Qiao, Jerry Guo
  • Patent number: 8719033
    Abstract: A greeting card having an audio recording and playback device permits recording of a karaoke-style song to be played upon opening of the greeting card. A user sings along with a permanently prerecorded, karaoke-style song that is played during a recording session. The recording device is operable in either a trial mode or a use mode. In the trial mode, a user-recorded song is played back initially for the potential purchaser but is not subsequently played back to be later heard by other potential purchasers. In the use mode, which the card may be switched to after purchase by removal of a trial mode panel from the greeting card, a user-recorded karaoke-style song is played upon subsequent openings of the card. During playback, the user-recorded song is played simultaneously with the prerecorded karaoke-style recording that was played during the recording session. Additional prerecorded messages, such as voice prompts with instructions, may also be included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Hallmark Cards, Incorporated
    Inventors: Timothy J. Lien, Randy S. Knipp, Robert D. Wertanen, Sara F. Coash, Elizabeth A. Fine
  • Patent number: 8695242
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventor: Gary Nelson
  • Publication number: 20140068977
    Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Allison Marsh, David Mayer, Carol Miller
  • Patent number: 8661719
    Abstract: The interactive greeting card of the present invention contains a multi-panel greeting card body with various electronic components contained and concealed therein. Upon opening the greeting card, spoken instructions may instruct the user to move an attached magnet from one area of the greeting card to another to initiate a surprise or various special effects such as sound and light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Terry Hughes, Carol Miller, John Talbot, Gary Nelson, Lauren Budzar
  • Publication number: 20140033583
    Abstract: An integral greeting card/game is disclosed wherein a multi-panel greeting card also serves as a game board and is combined with a game piece and launch mechanism to create a novel, interactive greeting card. The multi-panel greeting card contains a sound module therein and a magnetic trigger is contained and concealed below one or more of the multiple greeting card panels. The game piece contains a magnet therein so that when the game piece comes into contact with the area of the greeting card above or proximate to the magnetic trigger, playback of an audio file is initiated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Seth Larson, Tony Begin, David Mayer, John Talbot, Sharon Bogdanski, Mike Gali
  • Patent number: 8601726
    Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: David Mayer, Lauren M. Budzar, Eva Jin, Mary McClain
  • Patent number: 8595961
    Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: American Greetings
    Inventors: David Mayer, Terry Hughes, Jerry Guo, John Talbot, Sharon Bogdanski
  • Patent number: 8590182
    Abstract: A reminder apparatus and method are employed to by a dwelling occupant to provide a reminder concerning a pet's whereabouts. The apparatus features a carrier member that is adapted to hang from a door knob or handle, and a timer device is supported on the carrier member and operable to indicate expiration of an interval of time from a selected starting point. When the occupant lets the pet outside, they activate the countdown function of the timer and an alarm sounds when the countdown expires, providing a reminder to let the pet back inside the dwelling. Indications of an indoor and outdoor status are provided on opposing sides of the carrier member, so that reversing of the facing direction of the carrier member every time the pet transfers between the indoors and outdoors results in an ongoing accurate indication of whether the animal is inside or out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventors: Slavomir Federkevic, Karen M. Kolbe
  • Publication number: 20130305574
    Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: America Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Gary Nelson, Lynne Shlonsky
  • Patent number: 8584385
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: David Mayer, Catherine Tasse, Sarah C. Eklund, Allison Marsh, Jerry Guo, Tiger Qiao