AU2018102117A4 - Improved greeting card system and greeting card - Google Patents

Abstract

A greeting card and a greeting card system is provided. The greeting card system includes: a greeting card and one or more servers. The greeting card includes a display screen, configured to display content to a recipient of the greeting card, a memory coupled to the display screen, the memory configured to store the content, and a data interface, coupled to the memory, configured to receive the content. The one or more servers includes a remote data interface, configured to receive content remotely from a user, and a local data interface, configured to interface with the data interface of the greeting card, to configure the greeting card to display the received content. coa

Description

IMPROVED GREETING CARD SYSTEM AND GREETING CARD

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates to greeting cards, such as Christmas cards, birthday cards, wedding cards, Valentine’s Day cards, and cards for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.

BACKGROUND ART [0002] It is becoming more and more popular for persons to move abroad for work, or to just take time to experience another culture. While abroad, important events, such as Christmas, birthdays, weddings and the like are often missed. Similarly, those that live in another city, or those travelling for shorter periods, such as business travellers, may also miss such important events.

[0003] Greeting cards have traditionally been sent in such circumstances, as they provide a way to pass on a message to the other party (e.g. of congratulations or best wishes), which would have otherwise been provided in person. Greeting cards often include a decorative background, on which the person may write a personalised message.

[0004] With new technology has come the ability to send emails and instant messages, which may include photographs. As it is generally inexpensive (or free) to send such messages, even internationally, emails and instant messages are often sent in place of traditional greeting cards. However, the excitement of receiving an opening a traditional greeting card is lost in such circumstances.

[0005] Even more recently, video telephony has become ubiquitous and is a feature of most modern smartphones. While the remote person cannot physically take part in the event, they can pass on their wishes through a video call. A problem, however, with video calls is that they are not always convenient. In particular, the person making or receiving the call may not be able to call at a particular time. Furthermore, even if a convenient time is organised, that in many ways takes away the excitement of spontaneously receiving a card.

[0006] As such, there is clearly a need for improved greeting card system.

[0007] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

2018102117 21 Dec 2018

SUMMARY OF INVENTION [0008] The present invention is directed to a greeting card system and greeting card which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0009] With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in a greeting card system including:

a greeting card including a display screen, configured to display content to a recipient of the greeting card, a memory coupled to the display screen, the memory configured to store the content, and a data interface, coupled to the memory, configured to receive the content; and one or more servers including a remote data interface, configured to receive the content remotely from a user, and a local data interface, configured to interface with the data interface of the greeting card, to configure the greeting card to display the received content.

[0010] Advantageously, the system enables greeting cards to be created which include a customised content which is displayed on a display screen. This in turn enables the excitement associated with receiving and opening a traditional greeting card to be provided, including the flexibility in when the card can be opened and viewed, while enabling a personalised and intimate message to be provided by video, or other content, in the card.

[0011] This is particularly useful for those that are not physically able to spend Christmas or other special events with their loved ones, family or friends, such as backpackers or business travellers.

[0012] Preferably, the content comprises video. The video may include audio, and the greeting card may be configured to play the audio.

[0013] Preferably, the greeting card includes a battery, to enable functioning of the display screen without an external power supply.

[0014] Preferably, the greeting card includes a base, the base including the display screen. The greeting card may include a cover for selectively covering the display screen.

[0015] The base and cover formed of a single sheet of cardboard which is folded. The greeting card may be substantially formed of cardboard, which is folded. The cardboard may comprise a single sheet of cardboard.

[0016] The greeting card may be folded such that only one side of the cardboard is visible

2018102117 21 Dec 2018 in the greeting card. This enables the greeting card to be generated by printing on only one side of the cardboard prior to assembly.

[0017] The greeting card may be folded to define a chamber in the base, the chamber including the display screen and the memory. The chamber may also include a battery, a circuit board, and any other electrical components of the greeting card.

[0018] The base may include an aperture, through which the display screen is visible.

The base may include an aperture, for a port of the data interface.

[0019] The greeting card may include one or more media control buttons. The media control buttons may comprise a button surface, printed on the card, and a pressure sensitive button provided behind the button surface.

[0020] The display screen may be configured to automatically display the video on the display screen when the cover is opened.

[0021] The system may include at least one printer configured to print on the card. The system may be configured to print a customised message on the card. The system may be configured to provide a custom layout (e.g. images) on the card.

[0022] The system may be configured to print and assemble the card at a location close to recipient. This is particularly useful for overseas travellers, as it enables the card to be delivered quickly and inexpensively, i.e. without the need for expensive and time consuming international postage.

[0023] The one or more servers may be configured to provide a graphical user interface (GUI) to the user. The GUI may be configured to enable the user to select a layout of the card. The GUI may be configured to enable the user to select a type of card, e.g. a Christmas card.

[0024] The GUI may be configured to enable the user to upload a video, for use in the greeting card. The GUI may enable the user to record a video for use in the greeting card.

[0025] The GUI may be configured to enable the user to enter a customised message, which is printed on the card.

[0026] The GUI may enable the user to enter an address, to which the card is delivered.

[0027] In another form, the invention resides broadly in a greeting card including: a data interface, configured to receive a video from a user; a memory, configured to store the video for later playback; and

2018102117 21 Dec 2018 a display screen, configured to display the video.

[0028] Preferably, the greeting car is configured to receive a video from the user subsequent to manufacture of the greeting card [0029] Preferably, the card includes a battery, for powering the display screen.

[0030] Preferably, the card includes a cover, and the display screen is provided behind the cover.

[0031] The display screen may be configured to automatically display the video on the display screen when the cover is opened.

[0032] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[0033] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [0034] Various embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0035] Figure 1 illustrates a greeting card system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 2 illustrates a screenshot of a first greeting card generation screen of the system of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 3 illustrates a screenshot of a second greeting card generation screen of the system of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 4 illustrates a screenshot of a third greeting card generation screen of the system of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 5 illustrates a screenshot of a fourth greeting card generate screen of the system of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 6 illustrates a front view of a card of the system of Figure 1 assembled and in a closed configuration, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

2018102117 21 Dec 2018 [0041] Figure 7 illustrates a front view of the card of Figure 6, assembled and in an open configuration.

[0042] Figure 8 illustrates an end view of the card of Figure 6, assembled and in a closed configuration.

[0043] Figure 9 illustrates a front view of a carboard structure of the card of Figure 6, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 10 illustrates an enlarged view of an end portion of the carboard structure of Figure 9.

[0045] Figure 11 illustrates a rear view of an inside of the base portion of the card of Figure 6.

[0046] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS [0047] Figure 1 illustrates a greeting card system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The greeting card system 100 enables a user 105, such as a person living overseas or away from friends or family, to remotely send a personalised greeting card 110, including a display screen on which a personalised video is displayed, to another person 115, such as a parent or friend. The greeting card 110 is a physical greeting card, and as such, the excitement of receiving an opening a traditional greeting card is kept, while incorporating a personalised video that has been recorded by the user 105.

[0048] Initially, the user 105 accesses a remote server 120 using a portable computing device 125. The remote server 120 may comprise a web server configured to provide a website to the portable computing device with which the user 105 may interact, using a global computing network such as the Internet 130.

[0049] The website may enable the user 105 to generate the greeting card 110 by uploading a video, selecting a layout, and providing a message. The card 110 may then be generated ondemand at a location near the delivery address, or centrally, and be mailed to the person 115, as outlined below.

2018102117 21 Dec 2018 [0050] Figure 2 illustrates a screenshot 200 of a first greeting card generation screen of the system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The first greeting card generation screen enables the user to generate or upload a video for incorporation into the card 110.

[0051] The first greeting card generation screen includes a video display element 205, displaying video being captured by the portable computing device 125, and a record video button 210, enabling the user 105 to record (save) the video. The record video button 210 provides a means for the user 105 to start and stop recording of the video.

[0052] The first greeting card generation screen further includes an upload video button 215, which enables the user 105 to upload a video that has been previously recorded.

[0053] Once either the video is generated or uploaded, the user 105 selects a layout of the card. Figure 3 illustrates a screenshot 300 of a second greeting card generation screen of the system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The second greeting card generation screen enables the user to select the layout of the card 110.

[0054] The second greeting card generation screen includes a layout element 305, and associated navigation elements 310. The user 105 may navigate between multiple layouts (e.g. Christmas card layouts, as well as layouts for other types of cards) using the navigation elements 310, upon which the layout element 305 is updated. The user 105 may review the layouts and select one, which forms the basis for the card 110.

[0055] Once the layout has been selected, a message may be entered. The message is printed on an inside of the card, and is personalised to the recipient. Figure 4 illustrates a screenshot 400 of a third greeting card generation screen of the system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The third greeting card generation screen enables the user to select the message to be printed in the card 110.

[0056] The third greeting card generation screen includes a message input field 405, in which the user 105 may enter his or her message, and a save button 410, to enable the user 105 to save the message.

[0057] Once the message has been selected, the user 105 may select a delivery address. The delivery address is the address to which the physical card 110 is posted.

[0058] Figure 5 illustrates a screenshot 500 of a fourth greeting card generate screen of the system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The fourth greeting card generation screen enables the user 105 to select the address to which the card 110 is to be

2018102117 21 Dec 2018 delivered.

[0059] The fourth greeting card generation screen includes an address input field 505, in which the user 105 may enter the address to which the card 110 is to be delivered, and the save button 410, to enable the user 105 to save the input address.

[0060] The skilled addressee will readily appreciate that other aspects of the card 110 may also be customised. As an illustrative example, the system 100 may allow the user to provide or select images to be printed on the card, to design their own layout, or add corporate branding, for example.

[0061] Once the card generation steps have been completed, details of the card are uploaded to the server 120. The server 120 then sends the details to a computing device 135 of a card manufacturing facility. In some embodiments, there may be a plurality of card manufacturing facilities and the card may be sent to a facility close to the person 115 which will receive the card.

[0062] The server 120 is coupled to a printer 140, which may print a structure of the card 110 on cardboard, on demand, and prior to assembly. The card 110 may then be assembled (e.g. by hand), by folding the printed cardboard, and incorporating the display screen therein.

[0063] Figure 6 illustrates a front view of the card 110 assembled and in a closed configuration, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 illustrates a front view of the card 110, assembled and in an open configuration, and Figure 8 illustrates an end view of the card 110, assembled and in a closed configuration.

[0064] As best illustrated in Figure 6, the card 110 includes a planar front 605 that functions as a cover, on which a decorative message 610, in this case “Merry Christmas”, is printed on an outer surface. The decorative message 610 corresponds to part of the selected layout of the card 110, and may take many other alternative forms (e.g. “Happy birthday”). In some embodiments, the decorative message 610 may even be customised.

[0065] As best illustrated in Figure 7, the card 110 includes a base portion 615, from which the planar front 605 extends through a joint 620, much like a spine of a book. As best shown in Figure 8, the base portion 615 is thicker than the planar front 605, to enable it to accommodate a display screen 625. The base portion 615 includes a rectangular aperture through which the display screen 625 is visible, on an inside thereof.

[0066] The display screen 625 is configured to display the video provided by the user in the first greeting card generation screen. The base portion 615 further includes media control

2018102117 21 Dec 2018 buttons 630, including a play/pause button, and volume control buttons. The display screen 625 may automatically play the video when the card 110 is opened, or through interaction with the media control buttons.

[0067] The planar front 605 includes a detailed message 635 printed on an inside surface thereof. The detailed message 630 corresponds to the message entered by the user 105 in the message input field 405.

[0068] As such, when the card is opened, the person 115 is able to view both the personalised detailed message 630 and the video as it is played on the display screen 625.

[0069] Turning back to Figure 8, the card includes a USB-Mini port 640, which enables the display screen 635 and associated components to be configured and charged. Generally, the card is ready to be viewed directly when received, and as such, the charging and configuring of the card is generally performed at the card manufacturing facility.

[0070] Figure 9 illustrates a front view of the carboard structure 900 of the card 110, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 illustrates an enlarged view of an end portion of the carboard structure 900, and Figure 11 illustrates a rear view of an inside of the base portion 605.

[0071] The card structure 900 is planar and formed of a single piece of card that is stamped and folded. This enables the decorative message 610 and the detailed message 635 to be printed on the card in a straightforward manner.

[0072] The card structure 900 includes a front inner panel portion 905a and a front outer panel portion 905b, which fold along a join therebetween to form the planar front 605.

Similarly, the card structure 900 includes a base inner panel portion 905c and a base outer panel portion 905d which together form an inner and outer surface of the base portion 615.

The base inner panel portion 905c includes an aperture 900e stamped therein, through which the display screen 625 may be viewed.

[0073] As best illustrated in Figure 10, the sidewall portions 900f are provided around the base inner panel portion 905c which become the sidewalls of the base portion 615. The sidewall portions 900f that are not attached to an adjacent panel include retaining lips 900g, which secure the sidewalls to the base outer panel portion 905d and an inside of the base 615.

[0074] Finally, a lower sidewall portion 900f includes a USB aperture 900h provided therein to provide access to the USB-Mini port 640.

2018102117 21 Dec 2018 [0075] Due to the way the card structure 900 is folded, the card structure 900 only needs printing on one side which simplifies printing, and thus manufacturing.

[0076] Each panel portion 900a-900d may be A4, A5 or any other suitable size. The card may be 300gsm card, and the cover 605 may include stiffener provided between panels 900a and 900b to provide a hard cover. The card may be glossy or matt, and printed in any suitable colour combination.

[0077] Figure 11 illustrates a rear view of an inside 1100 of the base 615, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] The inside 1100 of the base includes padding 1105, which is a thickness of the base 615, and shaped to include apertures for receiving the electrical components of the base 625. In particular, the inside 1100 includes the screen 625 (a rear of which is shown), together with an integrated circuit board 1110 on a rear thereof.

[0079] Pressure sensitive buttons 1115 are coupled to the circuit board 1110 and are positioned behind the media control buttons 630. In particular, the media control buttons 630 are printed, and pressing the printed buttons 630 causes the physical buttons 1115 to be activated.

[0080] The inside 1100 includes the USB-Mini port 640, which is again coupled to the circuit board 1110.

[0081] Finally, the inside includes a rechargeable battery pack 1120, which powers the screen 625, circuit board 1110 and associated components. The battery pack 1120 may be charged by the USB-Mini port 640, or be pre-charged. As an illustrative example, the battery pack may comprise a lithium battery of between about 300mA~1200mah size.

[0082] The integrated circuit board 1110 includes a processor and memory, including instruction code executable to display content on the display screen 625. The circuit board includes an onboard sound chip and memory for storing content.

[0083] In addition to be configured to display a video, the card 110 may be configured to display images (e.g. in a slideshow), or multimedia content (e.g. a combination of audio, video, images, graphics and/or other content).

[0084] The display screen 625 may take any suitable form, but in one embodiment is a Wide Colour Digital Thin Film Transistor (TFT) display or liquid-crystal display (LCD). It may take any suitable size, and preferably from about 2.4 inches (6.1cm) to about 10.1 inches

2018102117 21 Dec 2018 (25.7cm) in size. As an illustrative example, the screen may be (or be about) 2.8 inches (6.1cm), 4.3 inches (10.9cm), 5 inches (12.7), 6 inches (15.2), 7 inches (17.8cm) or 10.1 inches (25.7cm) in size. The screen may have any suitable resolution, including 480x272, 800x480, and 1024x600 pixels.

[0085] The memory may be of any suitable size, and is typically from about 128MB to about 8GB. As an illustrative example, the memory may be (or be about) 256MB, 512BM,

1GB, 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB in size.

[0086] In addition to being provided directly to the person 115, the system 100 may enable the user 105 to purchase a generic card for customisation prior to sending. In such case, the card 110 may include a generic message (e.g. “Merry Christmas”), and have a space to be written on. In such case, a USB cable may be provided to enable the user to upload a video or content to the card.

[0087] The card 110 may include software stored on a memory thereof to assist in the process of uploading the video or content. The software may assist the user in converting the video into a format suitable for the card 110, for example.

[0088] The card 110 may be adapted to receive a wide range of media formats, including a variety of video, image and audio formats, as well as text and graphics formats.

[0089] The card 110 may be configured to automatically play video when the card 110 is opened. In such case, the card 110 may include a sensor to detect when the card 110 is opened in the form of a magnetic switch, a light sensor. Alternatively or additionally, the card 110 may include an on-off switch.

[0090] The cards and system described above have many uses. As an illustrative example, anyone who is not physically able to spend Christmas with their loved ones, family or friends (e.g. backpackers, business travellers, or young travellers) may send a card to their family (e.g. mum and dad, or spouse at home) home.

[0091] The cards are particularly valuable for sending to those that cannot read, including children and persons who are illiterate or have difficulty reading, as this enables messages to be displayed in an easy to use environment. The messages may also be saved and replayed over and over, unlike video conferencing sessions.

[0092] Advantageously, the system provides the excitement associated with receiving and opening a traditional greeting card, the flexibility in when the card can be opened and viewed, while enabling and personalised and intimate message to be provided by video and in the

2018102117 21 Dec 2018 card.

[0093] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[0094] Reference throughout this specification to One embodiment’ or ‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0095] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims (5)

1. A greeting card system including:

a greeting card including a display screen, configured to display content to a recipient of the greeting card, a memory coupled to the display screen, the memory configured to store the content, and a data interface, coupled to the memory, configured to receive the content; and one or more servers including a remote data interface, configured to receive the content remotely from a user, and a local data interface, configured to interface with the data interface of the greeting card, to configure the greeting card to display the received content.

2. The greeting card system of claim 1, wherein the greeting card includes a base, the base including the display screen, and a cover for selectively covering the display screen, wherein the base and cover formed of a single sheet of cardboard which is folded.

3. The system may include a printer configured to print on the card, the printer configured to print a custom message on the card.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more servers are configured to provide a graphical user interface (GUI), the GUI configured to enable the user to select a layout of the card, select a type of card, upload a video for use in the greeting card, record a video for us in the greeting card and/or enter a customised message, which is printed on the card.

5. A greeting card including:

a data interface, configured to receive a video from a user; a memory, configured to store the video for later playback; and a display screen, configured to display the video.