JP2013530065A - Versatile structure - Google Patents

Abstract

A versatile structure that can be printed and imprinted is described. The multi-use structure includes a removable component (eg, greeting card) that includes a round-trip letter portion and a substitute bill (eg, gift card). The round-trip letter portion may be a greeting card or a postcard. The proxy bill can be any non-money certificate and can be exchanged for currency, goods, or services (eg, gift cards or gift certificates). The removable component may include an envelope piece having a plurality of leaves and an attachment region. An envelope is obtained by folding and assembling the plurality of leaves and sticking regions. The assembled envelope can be used to mail the round-trip letter portion and substitute bills from a gift sender to a gift recipient. The structure can be used in conjunction with a website and software to customize the removable component for imprinting using a printer and creating a virtual ecard. The virtual e-card includes customization contents corresponding to customization contents of the multi-use structure of the user.
[Selection] Figure 1

Description

  No. 12 / 768,671 (application date: April 27, 2010) and US serial number 12 / 777,810 (application date: 2010). Claim priority from May 11). In this specification, the entire application is incorporated by reference.

  The present invention relates to a versatile structure. More particularly, the present invention relates to a versatile structure having removable components. By imprinting onto the removable component using computer software and a printer, the removable component can be customized, resulting in a user customized product.

  Structures with removable components are manufactured using a printing press and finishing equipment in a commercial printing factory. Currently, structures (e.g., tearing structures, two-level / three-level structures including imprint areas using typewriters or handwriting, labels, business cards) are packaged and can be purchased by consumers. Such printable structures include a customizable space. The user can print his or her selected text or image on the customizable space. These structures typically include removable components of the same size and shape. In the case of a conventional structure, printing or imprinting onto the customizable space can be accomplished using a desktop printer or any other printing device with the appropriate size and supply capability.

  Conventional greeting cards are sold or distributed at retail stores and websites with the same or different cards in individual units or packs. Such greeting cards are often impossible for the user to customize except for a certain blank space on the inside of the greeting card. Such a certain blank space is reserved for the purchasing user by the manufacturer, in which the user writes a message or the user wants the recipient to receive it. Any other printed material desired or typically handwritten text, images or symbols can be included. On the outer surface of such a greeting card and especially on the front outer surface, illustrations, symbols, images or text are most often printed by the manufacturer and there is little space for the user to customize. Commercial structures (eg, greeting cards) that include a single component can also be imprinted by a consumer using a desktop printer. Such printable and imprintable structures are often packaged with a separate envelope on which consumers can imprint or fill in addresses and apply stamps. .

  As the consumer market moves away from cash use, automatic withdrawals and credits have become popular as alternatives, and gift card use has become common. A gift certificate is used instead of cash, and when the consumer wants to give a gift, the recipient user can purchase goods or services using the gift certificate. Gift cards are becoming increasingly popular in place of gift certificates as a means of gifting in the structure of current loans, specific goods or specific services. Gift cards are preferred over gift certificates because, in contrast to gift certificates, traditional plastic gift cards contain a magnetic stripe, and data can be encoded on this magnetic stripe. (For example, the amount sent by the gift sender, gifts selected by the gift sender (ie goods or services), personal information of the gift sender, personal information of the gift recipient, bank, store or manufacturer information) . Another reason that gift cards are preferred over gift certificates is that gift cards are about the size of a credit or debit card, so they can be placed in smaller areas (for example, wallets). There is. Another reason that gift cards are preferred over gift certificates is that security functions and sales place commercial transactions can be entered using magnetic code information on gift cards.

  Conventional gift cards are purchased or obtained at retail stores (eg, stores or websites), and designs and texts are pre-printed on the gift card by the gift card manufacturer or issuer. In the case of such pre-printed gift cards, the purchaser (ie, the gift sender) cannot customize the gift card and send it to the recipient (ie, the gift recipient).

  Greeting cards and envelopes can also be purchased or obtained from online services. In the case of a greeting card generated by an online service, the user can personalize and customize the card to a limited extent. Such personalization and customization is done by selecting themes, images and messages from a library of such content. In some cases, through online services, users can further customize by uploading photos. Greeting cards generated by such online services often cannot be attached with a gift card, and are removable that the recipient who receives the greeting card can use it for other purposes It does not contain any sections.

  Traditionally, gift cards and greeting cards and envelopes have not been provided with removable components as a combined, versatile, imprintable structure. Given such a combined versatile structure imprintable structure and removable component, a consumer or end user obtains a versatile structure that may include one or more seats. A desktop printer or other printing device can be used to imprint specific customized text, images or symbols selected by the user.

  Versatile printable structures can be manufactured. The versatile printable structure includes one, two, three or more removable sheets. Each of the sheets may include one or more removable components. Removable components can be formed as part of the sheet and can include greeting cards, gift cards and envelopes. Each of the removable components can be used alone or in combination with other removable components of the versatile structure. Each sheet may include a frame formed from the sheet of paper or other material. The frame may be formed around the side edge of each removable component, or the sheet may be constructed so that the frame is formed only around the outer edge of each sheet. Each seat may not include a frame anywhere other than interconnected removable components, or, in another embodiment, the multi-use structure includes a plurality of seats, The sheet can include a frame, and other sheets do not include a frame. The removable components can be sized, shaped and arranged on the sheets so as to maximize the amount of paper used in each sheet and reduce waste. Maximizing the amount of paper used and reducing waste can be achieved by making the frame structure the minimum necessary part of the sheet.

  The removable component can be torn, cut or removed from the sheet along a separation line. The separation line can be perforated to assist the user in cleanly removing each removable component from the seat. The separation line causes a tear in the removable component, or paper when separating the two removable components along a separation line that does not include a perforation (eg, a fold line) No debris will remain. The finest perforations can also be used to achieve the most beautiful separation, thereby smoothing the appearance of the edges of the separated removable components.

  At the time of manufacture of the multi-use structure, graphics and text can be printed on the multi-use structure, or the structure can be supplied to the user as blank. By installing software on a user's computer or remotely accessing software on a website via the Internet, customization and imprint customization on the multi-use structure is possible.

  As used herein, the terms “printing” and “printable” are used for the first time by a manufacturer to print or print on one of the structures during the production of the versatile structure. Refers to printing. As used herein, the terms “imprint” and “imprintable” refer to a user printing on one of the structures after the structure is manufactured. The imprint can be accomplished manually using a pen, pencil or other writing instrument, or it can be accomplished mechanically using a printer or printing device. For example, if the manufacturer does not print any information on the structure at the time of manufacture, the user can imprint the customized content on the blank structure from the first time. Alternatively, the user can imprint the customized contents on the second, third, fourth, etc. on the structure on which the information print is printed at the time of manufacture by the manufacturer. As a further example, the information is printed on the structure by the manufacturer on the first time during manufacturing, then the customization is imprinted on the structure by the gift sender on the second time, and then further information is received on the third time. Imprinted on the structure by a person.

  One advantage of the versatile structure is that users can create customized greeting cards and gift cards that can be presented to recipients as an alternative to traditional store-purchased greeting cards and gift cards. There is a point. In the case of greeting cards and gift cards purchased at conventional stores, it cannot be customized to the extent desired by many users. Using the versatile structure, the user can customize the design and text of both the greeting card and the gift card. Customizable text includes imprinting the name, address and other contact information of the sender (eg, user or gift sender) or recipient (eg, gift recipient).

  Another advantage of the versatile structure is that the user can purchase a gift for the recipient from any location farther away from home, office or store. After the user obtains the versatile structure, the user can customize the graphic and text on the removable component using a printer and imprint it on a gift card, greeting card or both Gifts or money value that can be selected and credited to the card via a website operated by the card issuer, manufacturer, retailer, distributor, bank or commerce processor can do.

  Yet another advantage of the versatile structure is that the user can be more involved in the process of sending gifts. Because when the user customizes or decorates, imprints and assembles the final form (eg, greeting card, gift card, and envelope) for sending the versatile structure and its removable components to the recipient Because you can be technically and artistically involved.

  Yet another advantage of the multi-use structure is an increase in conversion to electronic commerce (eg, completion of gift card purchase commerce) due to the use of the multi-use structure, resulting in neglect of online shopping carts. (Ie, the customer has not completed a purchase after selecting an item on the website).

  Yet another advantage of the multi-use structure is that the multi-use structure can be used together with a website to collect and compile both gift sender personal information and gift recipient personal information in a database. There is a point. As a result, the security of electronic commerce is improved and the retailer, manufacturer, advertiser or website system operator can sell goods and services to the gift sender and gift recipient.

  Yet another advantage of the multi-use structure is that the multi-use structure can be sent directly to the user's home regardless of whether it is charged or not. As a result, the gift card component of the structure is increased, as opposed to a user having to visit a retail store with a gift card mall to purchase and deposit a gift card.

  Yet another advantage of the multi-use structure is that the multi-use structure can be constructed to be flat and uniform or nearly uniform in thickness so that when multiple multi-use structures are packaged, The resulting package structure complies with US Postal Service or other postal or courier service guidelines and legislation relating to the flatness required in postal printing materials.

  Yet another advantage of the multi-use structure is that the user can perform the work of imprinting all greeting cards, gift cards and envelopes with a desktop printer. Such an imprinting operation is performed by feeding a single or more than one sheet through the printer. If the printer has a function capable of duplex printing by passing through the printer once, the step of imprinting all of these components can be achieved simultaneously.

  Yet another advantage of the versatile structure is that in embodiments that include gift cards, paper gift cards are safer than plastic cards when mailed. This is because a paper gift card is thin and cannot be easily sensed through an enclosed envelope. In contrast, in the case of a thicker plastic card, the presence can be easily recognized by touching the surface of the sealed envelope. As an additional safety feature, a gift card addressed to the intended recipient can be registered using the system website described herein used with the multi-use structure, so that only the intended recipient However, the gift card can be exchanged for a product. The product is exchanged using a login, a password, or other information capable of confirming the recipient's identification information through a website.

  Thus, the versatile structure provided by the present invention can be a single sheet. The single sheet has at least two removable components. The removable component may include at least a round trip letter portion and a substitute bill.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the seat further includes a frame. The removable component can be attached to the frame, and the removable component can be removed from the frame.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the round-trip letter portion is a greeting card.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the round-trip letter portion is a postcard.

  In another aspect, according to the invention, the removable component further comprises at least one customizable component. By imprinting a photo on the at least one customizable component, a wallet-sized photo adapted to the wallet can be created.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the removable component further comprises an envelope piece. The envelope piece is removable from the frame.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the envelope piece includes a plurality of foldable leaves and an attachment region. The plurality of foldable leaves and sticking regions are used when the envelope pieces are assembled into an envelope shape.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the envelope piece further includes one of the plurality of foldable leaves. One of the plurality of foldable leaves serves as an envelope lid portion and a sticking region on one surface of the envelope lid portion, and is used when sealing the assembled envelope.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the substitute banknote is a gift card.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the substitute banknote is a gift certificate.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the substitute banknote is a coupon.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the substitute banknote is any non-money certificate and can be redeemed for goods as currency, goods or service value.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the sheet includes a separation line. The removable component can be separated from the separation line.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the separation line is a perforation.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the sheet includes a first surface, a second surface, an upper edge, a lower edge, and two side edges.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the sheet includes preprinted information. The preprinted information is printed on at least one of the first surface and the second surface.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the removable component includes a customizable space. On the customizable space, the user can imprint or fix his / her own customized content.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the customization includes at least one imprinted item, written item, drawn item, embossed item or fixed item. The at least one imprinted item, written item, drawn item, embossed item or fixed item is selected from text, images, symbols, labels and stamps.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the sheet further includes a postage stamp. The postage stamp may be secured to the envelope as a postage stamp paid for mailing the envelope and its enclosure.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, a user can imprint the customized content using a software program and a printer.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the software program is installed on a computer.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the software program can be accessed from a remote server via a communication network.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the software program includes each sheet of the multi-use structure generated by a computer.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, each versatile structure includes a structure identification number. The structure identification number uniquely identifies the versatile structure.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the software program is accessible via a website. The website may include a data field. In the data field, when the user enters a structure identification number for the multi-use structure, the structure identification number is transmitted through the website so that the software program is associated with a user stored on a remote database. Each sheet of the multi-use structure generated by the computer is populated in personal information to be generated.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the multi-use structure includes a plurality of sheets. Each seat includes at least two removable components.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, a plurality of versatile structures are packaged in a single pack and distributed to users.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the plurality of packaged multi-use structures are flat packages, rounded about 6 inches wide by about 5 inches long and having a radius of about 0.125 inches. The thickness from any edge of the package is about 0.75 inches or more, so that it is sufficiently flexible to be able to bend only 1 inch from any edge of the package. And the enclosure in the package is not affected by bending. The package can also be of uniform thickness so that the thickness of the package does not change more than about 1/4 inch due to any bumps, protrusions or other irregularities.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the single sheet comprises two layers of paper that are stretched together.

  In another aspect, according to the invention, the single sheet comprises three layers of paper that are stretched together.

  In another aspect, according to the invention, the single sheet comprises more paper than one layer stretched together.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, an envelope including a pocket is provided. The pocket is formed between two layers of the plurality of layers of paper.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the removable component includes one or more product stamps.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, each of the one or more product stamps includes a gift expression.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the gift expression includes a visual or textual description of a gift item or gift service that is gifted from a gift sender to a gift recipient.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the removable component also includes a coupon.

  The invention also relates to a versatile structure comprising a single sheet. The single sheet has at least one removable component. The removable component may be an envelope piece.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the envelope piece has a plurality of leaves and a sticking region. An envelope can be created by assembling the plurality of leaves and the sticking region.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the sheet includes at least two layers and the envelope piece. The at least two layers and the envelope piece include a fully assembled envelope. The fully assembled envelope is removable from the sheet.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the envelope includes a pocket formed in a space between the two layers of the sheet. The two layers can be glued together on three sides.

  The invention also relates to a versatile structure having at least one sheet. The seat includes at least one removable component and a structural identification number. By inputting the structure identification number into software as input data, the software can constitute output data. The output data is used when imprinting on the multi-use structure by a printer.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the software includes a website that is accessible via a communication network.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the output data is text, a design, or an image.

  In another aspect, according to the present invention, the removable component is at least one item. The at least one item is selected from: a round-trip letter portion, a substitute bill, an envelope piece, an envelope, a product stamp, a postage stamp, a coupon, a registration, a business card, and a customizable component.

  The method of the present invention can be used with versatile structures. The method may include the following steps: (a) providing a multi-use structure, the multi-use structure including a printed structure identification number and a customizable space; (B) inputting the structure identification number as a first input into a data field of a website; and (c) transmitting the structure identification number from the website to a remote server via a communication network. The method also includes the following steps: (d) using a software program installed on the remote server, the transmitted structure identification number and a corresponding multi-purpose structure generated by a computer. Associating, wherein the corresponding multi-use structure generated by the computer is stored on the remote server; and (e) the multi-use structure generated by the computer is converted to the web. The step of displaying on the display screen of the computer through the site. The computer generated multi-use structure may include a computer generated customizable space. The method may further include the following steps: (f) data to be added to the computer-generated customizable space to customize the computer-generated versatile structure; Selecting via a website; (g) populating the computer-generated customizable space with data selected via the website; and (h) generated by the computer. Imprinting data added to the customizable space by a printer onto the customizable space of the multi-use structure.

  Another method of the invention may include providing a plurality of versatile structures. In said step, all versatile structures include those with the same printed structure identification number and those with different structure identification numbers.

  Another method of the present invention can include each versatile structure comprising two or more sheets. The same structure identification number is printed on all the same sheets, and different sheets may contain different structure identification numbers.

  Another method of the invention may include multiple versatile structures. Each of the plurality of multi-use structures may include a unique unique structure identification number.

  Another method of the invention may include data selected from at least one of the following items: text, symbols, images, photos, personal information of the user, and personal information of a person other than the user.

  Another method of the present invention includes the steps of requiring a user to log in to the website prior to entering the structure identification number as a first input, the user's account, and an individual compiled in a database Associating information, and using the user's personal information to populate the computer generated customizable space into data that can be imprinted on the customizable space of the versatile structure; Can be included.

  Another method of the invention is the step of uploading data to the website, wherein the data is customizable by the computer used for imprinting the versatile structure into the customizable space. Steps used to populate a large space may be included.

  Another method of the present invention is the step of adjusting the settings of the printer, wherein the adjustment is based on the structure identification number entered on the website and on the customizable space of the multi-use structure. This is done so as to optimize the printer used for imprinting.

  The method of the present invention can also be used to deliver a round-trip letter portion from a user to a recipient. The method may include the following steps: (a) providing a website accessible via a communication network, through which the user provides his personal information. Registering an account, wherein the personal information is stored in a remote database, the remote database being communicatively connected to the website, and (b) whenever the user visits the website Requesting the user to log in to the user's account and associating the user with the user's personal information in the database using the website. The method may also include the following steps: (c) providing a plurality of virtual ecards, from which the user selects any virtual ecard destined for a recipient. And (d) providing a software program tool on the website, wherein the software program tool allows the user to generate computer generated customizations; Customization content generated by the computer is added to a virtual ecard selected by the user. The method may further include the following steps: (e) providing a multi-use structure, the multi-use structure including a printed structure identification number and a customizable space; (F) inputting the structure identification number as a first input into a data field of the website; and (g) transmitting the structure identification number from the website to the remote server via the communication network. And (h) associating the transmitted structure identification number with an imprint instruction using a software program installed on the remote server, wherein the imprint instruction is associated with the website. The multi-use structure associated with the structure identification number entered and transmitted by the user It is optimized for. The method may also include the following steps: (i) imprinting the computer-generated customization added to the user selected virtual ecard into the versatile structure; The versatile structure includes a removable component that includes a round-trip letter portion; (j) physically delivering the round-trip letter portion to the recipient; and (k) the virtual electronically delivering an e-card to the recipient;

  Another method of the invention may include at least one removable component. The at least one removable component is a substitute bill, imprintable and deliverable to the recipient.

  Another method of the invention may include the step of funding the substitute bill. The funding step is performed by authenticating a fund transfer through the website.

  Another method of the invention may include the virtual ecard. The virtual e-card further includes a virtual substitute banknote. The virtual substitute banknote can be funded via the website and can be transmitted electronically.

  Unless defined otherwise, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods and materials are described below. All published references, patent applications, patents and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference. In case of conflict, the present specification, including terms, will control.

It is a front top view of the multipurpose structure containing a substitute banknote and a greeting card. FIG. 2 is a rear plan view of the versatile structure of FIG. 1. It is a front top view of a two-layer type multi-use structure. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the versatile structure of FIG. 3 showing the pockets formed between the two layers of paper. FIG. 6 is a front plan view of another embodiment of a multi-use structure, the multi-use structure including a substitute bill, a greeting card, and an envelope piece. FIG. 6 is a rear plan view of the multi-use structure of FIG. 5. FIG. 3 is a front plan view of another embodiment of the multi-use structure of FIG. 1. The multi-use structure includes a second sheet. The second sheet includes an envelope as a removable component. FIG. 8 is a rear plan view of the versatile structure of FIG. 7.

  The present invention provides an interactive gift system and method. The interactive gift system and method may include a multimedia component. Gift card issuers can use the gift system to market and promote retail products and services to users through methods using gifts, entertainment, and games and rewards. The user may be a consumer. The consumer can be a gift sender (i.e. a gift-giving person) or a gift recipient (i.e. a gift recipient). The card issuer may be an advertiser, retailer, manufacturer or service provider.

  The present invention may include a gift card system. The gift card system makes it possible to give a gift from a gift sender to a gift recipient. The gift card system serves as a tool for the promotion and marketing of goods and services manufactured, provided and sold by manufacturers and retailers. The gift card system may include a gift card. The gift card can be a physical gift card, an electronic gift card, or both. The system may include only a single gift card, in which case the gift sender can purchase his own unique greeting card and envelope and insert the gift card therein.

  In an exemplary embodiment, the gift card can be a combined gift card, greeting card, instruction sheet, and envelope. With these components, a gift card package can be formed. The gift card package can be delivered to a gift recipient. The gift card package may also include a catalog, booklet, brochure or other suitable insert advertisement that contains an image or description of the product that the gift sender can purchase for the gift recipient. These components of the exemplary embodiment may be manufactured by any suitable printing and folding means. Each gift card is personalized with a unique card identifier (eg, a hexadecimal or standard 16-digit gift card number that can be used in payments using a point-of-sale (POS) terminal at a retail store). be able to. It is also possible to mark or print or fix a product or retailer name or logo on the gift card. It is also possible to print or fix a description about the gift item selected by the gift sender on the gift card. In other embodiments, a product or retailer name, logo, or description may be printed or affixed on either or both of the greeting card and the envelope.

  In another embodiment, the system may include only gift cards, greeting cards and envelopes. In yet another embodiment, the system may include only gift cards and envelopes. In still other embodiments, either or both of the greeting card and the command can be omitted. In one embodiment, the system may further include a receipt. In one embodiment, the gift card system may include envelopes that are manufactured around gift cards and other content (eg, greeting cards, instruction sheets, and catalogs), so that these are manufactured simultaneously with the manufacture of the envelope. Can be enclosed in the envelope.

  The physical gift card can be a gift card and can be composed of paper, plastic, or another suitable material (which can be printed, embossed, engraved, stamped or fixed). The electronic gift card may be a downloadable file, web page, virtual card or email. Any of these include alphanumeric text and other types of characters, images, audio data, video data, or other (suitable for inclusion in or attached to the electronic gift card) Types of data can be included. As a gift item, the gift card can be exchanged for a product. The gift item can be an article (eg, a retail item (eg, shirt or television) or a service (eg, manicure or golf lesson) In another embodiment, the gift card can be redeemed for money. .

  In embodiments where the gift card is a physical gift card, the gift card can be a printable email card, a two-dimensional gift card, or a three-dimensional card. In one embodiment, the two-dimensional gift card may include a single sheet structure having perforations. The perforations can be used to separate removable gift cards, greeting cards and envelopes. In another embodiment, the three-dimensional gift card may be pre-cut and / or pre-folded and may include a pop-up portion. The pop-up portion is folded so that when the card changes from a closed configuration to an open configuration, a portion of the card “pops up” or “rises up”. The pop-up portion of the card may include a photo (eg, a gift sender photo, illustration, logo, alphanumeric text, or any other desired information or image). The three-dimensional pop-up card is in the form of a greeting card or business card, and may also include a gift expression that visually represents the gift item selected by the gift sender for the gift recipient. In one embodiment, the business card may be an expandable card. The gift card can be customized to the gift sender or can be custom designed by the gift sender, or can be selected by the gift sender from one or more templates provided by the card issuer. .

  The gift sender can personalize the greeting card section and the gift card section. Personalized gift cards can be further customized using personal information of gift senders and / or gift recipients. Examples of personal information include name, address, location information, photos, email addresses, birthdays, anniversaries, or other personally important related to gift senders and / or gift recipients There is information.

  The gift card system may further include a gift representation of at least one gift item. In an exemplary embodiment, the gift card system may include multiple gift expressions. Each of the plurality of gift expressions represents a unique gift item. The gift expression can be described in the form of a picture of the gift item, or can be described as a picture of the gift item. In another embodiment, the name of the gift item can be written or typed on the gift expression, and a description of the gift item can be written or typed on the gift expression. The gift expressions can be displayed as a list of gift expressions or as part of another set.

  The gift expression can be displayed on printed matter or electronically. For example, the gift expression can be printed on a magazine, catalog, booklet or other printed material. In another example, the gift expression can be displayed as an electronic image or text on a website or in an email.

  When the gift card or multiple gift cards (eg, multipacks) are delivered to a gift sender, the gift sender sends the gift card (each of the gift cards may contain a different gift expression). To select the gift item you want to purchase for the gift recipient. The gift card or a package including a plurality of gift cards may be sent directly to the gift sender by mail, or the gift sender may obtain it at a retail store. The gift card or gift card package can be sent to the gift sender when requested by the gift sender, or mailed or delivered to the gift sender without such a request. You can also The gift expression described on each gift card can be printed, embossed, engraved or stamped on each gift card. In another embodiment, the gift expression can be printed on a certificate with an adhesive back and the certificate can be secured to the gift card. In embodiments where a gift card package is provided to a gift sender, the package may include a catalog. The catalog may include a plurality of gift expressions. Each of the plurality of gift expressions is printed on a removable stamp. The gift sender selects one or more gift items by removing a gift expression stamp corresponding to each selected gift item and attaching the stamp (s) to one or more gift cards. Can do. The one or more gift cards are delivered from the gift sender to the gift recipient.

  The gift card system may also include a website having a graphical user interface (UI). The graphical user interface (UI) can be accessed via a communication network (eg, the Internet). In other embodiments, the communication network may be a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a global area network (GAN), an intranet, or another suitable communication network. The graphical user interface of the website can receive information and send the information to a server. The information is entered or uploaded by a user of the website (eg, a gift sender or gift recipient). The server can be a remote server. The server may include a processor. The processor electronically manipulates data transmitted to the server via the website. The server may also include a data storage device. The data storage device functions to store information submitted through the UI and information transmitted from the website software via a server via a communication network. The information submitted through the UI and website includes personal information of the gift sender and gift recipient, credit card or other account information that allows the gift sender or gift recipient to purchase, and gifts There are photos, images, audio files and video files that allow the gift sender or greeting card to be customized by the sender.

  In one embodiment, the website may include an account management function. The account management function allows the gift sender to transfer funds to the card issuer. A remote server connected to the global communication network can store fund data associated with the gift card. Fund data relates to funds transferred from the gift sender to the card issuer.

  The website may include a dynamic button navigation system. The dynamic button navigation system allows the user to easily and quickly navigate a gift expression indicating a gift item displayed on a website. It is also possible for a gift sender or gift recipient to use the dynamic button navigation system to navigate a retailer product that can be purchased on the card issuer's website.

  In one method, a gift sender can send a physical or electronic gift card to the gift recipient by purchasing a gift item using the gift card system website and ordering the gift card.

  In another method, if the gift sender receives or obtains a physical gift card directly by mail or by other delivery means, the gift sender can activate the gift card. The activation is performed by funding the gift card to purchase the gift item represented by the gift expression described on the gift card using the purchase function of the gift card system website. Is called. The gift card is then mailed by the gift sender or delivered from the gift sender to the gift recipient. The gift recipient can then activate the card. The activation accesses the system website, provides personal information for identification or a code provided by the gift sender, and uses the gift redemption function of the website to provide the gift card of the gift sender This is done by redeeming for a product or selecting a gift item that is different from the one selected by the gift sender. In this method, the gift sender is first involved in the first (or purchase stage) activation of the gift card, and the gift recipient uses the gift card to identify the gift item or the gift recipient. Participate in a second activation (or redemption phase) to redeem for another selected item.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the gift card system, the gift card may include a unique card identifier. The unique card identifier may be a unique account or identification number (eg, a series of alphanumeric characters (eg, a series of 16 numbers), a unique barcode encoding a unique account or identification number, A chip that stores or encodes a unique account or identification number, or another unique identifier that associates a gift card with the user account where the funds are stored). The unique card identifier may also be associated with the user and the user's personal information.

  In an exemplary embodiment, the unique card identifier may be a hexadecimal number (also known as a hexadecimal number or hexadecimal or any alphanumeric notation). Hexadecimal numbers may be standard in that they can be represented by a combination of numbers 0-9 and letters AF. The hexadecimal number may include a check digit. Using the check digit, it is possible to detect an error in the input of a hexadecimal number (for example, there is a typo in one digit of the hexadecimal number).

  Hexadecimal numbers can be used to identify the gift card, its original distribution method (eg, direct mail or insertion into a publication), and the original gift recipient (ie, the gift sender). The gift sender can also perform the first activation using a hexadecimal number. In the first activation, the gift card is activated and funded by the gift sender. The gift card can then be placed in a gift card package and delivered to the gift recipient. If the gift sender is a new user, the website notifies the gift sender that the gift card can be activated and funded after creating and registering a new account.

  Upon receipt of the gift card package, the gift recipient accesses the system website and submits the hexadecimal number for a second activation of the gift card. The second activation confirms that the gift card has been received by the correct intended recipient. In this second activation, the website may also provide the recipient with an option to send a printed or electronic “thank you” message to the gift sender.

  In an exemplary embodiment, hexadecimal numbers can be used in connection with Internet-based commerce and gift redemptions conducted through the system website. In another embodiment of the system, a hexadecimal number is submitted through the website and the hexadecimal number is converted into a printable document by software. This printable document can be used by a gift recipient at an existing retail store with a POS system. The printed printable document (ie, printed gift card) may include a barcode. In the bar code, a standard 16-digit gift card number is encoded and handled by the POS terminal. In another embodiment, the printed gift card may only contain a standard printed gift card number and no barcode. It is also possible for the system software to use hexadecimal numbers to identify users accessing a website and customize the website based on available data associated with the particular user.

  Hexadecimal numbers may be printed or on the source (eg, gift card (eg, physical card (eg, paper or plastic gift card) or virtual gift card or “e gift card”)) or It may be described inside. Alternatively, hexadecimal numbers may represent a number of other sources (including, but not limited to, catalogs, newspaper advertisements, catalog and newspaper inserts, booklets, magazines, traditional greeting cards, and virtual greeting cards or “e greeting cards” ") Can be printed on or printed on or within.

  Each hexadecimal number may be unique and may be used as primary identification information (“primary ID”) for one or more information items. For example, the primary ID identifies a name, address, email address, telephone number, fax number, publication name, publication date, publication quantity, card issuer name, account number, or person, entity or publication It can be any other information item. Examples of publications include booklets, catalogs, magazines, newspapers, and promotional inserts.

  Each hexadecimal number may also be used as second identification information (“second ID”) for one or more information items. For example, the second ID may include a publisher or retailer name, effective date, internal date, publication date, commerce date, email list source, recipient name, recipient address, recipient email address, specific The product, the name of the gift sender, the address of the gift sender, the email address of the gift sender, the type of transaction, or other information that can be used to identify the gift sender, recipient, publisher, or retailer It can be.

  In an exemplary embodiment, the source may be an e-gift card and may include as a primary ID the name and address of the recipient to whom the e-gift card is directly mailed. The second ID may be one or more of publisher, retailer, specific product, publication date of publication, commerce date, and commerce type.

  In another embodiment, the source may be a virtual greeting card and may include the recipient's email address as the primary ID. The second ID may be one or more of a gift sender email address, a specific product, a publisher, a retailer, a commercial date, and a commercial transaction type.

  In another embodiment, the source may be a catalog (eg, a store catalog). The primary ID may be the catalog recipient's name and address. The second ID may be one or more of catalog publisher, retailer, company date, effective date, mail list source, specific product in the catalog, and recipient email address.

  In another embodiment, the source may be a newspaper insert and may include the date of issue and the amount of publication as the primary ID. The second ID may be a specific product.

  In another embodiment, the source may be a newspaper advertisement and may include the date of publication and the amount of publication as the primary ID. The second ID may be a specific product.

  In another embodiment, the source may be a booklet and the primary ID may include a publication issue date and a publication quantity. The second ID may be one or more of a specific product, publisher, retailer of the specific product, publication date, effective date, booklet recipient name and address, and recipient email address. .

  In yet another embodiment, the source may be a magazine and the primary ID may be the name and address of the magazine recipient. The second ID may be one or more of a magazine publisher, the company date, an effective date, a mail list source, a specific product, and a recipient email address.

  In yet another embodiment, the sauce may be a conventional gift card or a conventional greeting card. The primary ID can be a card issuer and an account number. The second ID may be one or more of a recipient's email address, a specific product, a transaction date, and a transaction type.

  Hexadecimal numbers can be used with one or more computer databases to track the buying habits of consumers (including gift senders and gift recipients). Predictive advertising can be performed using information obtained by retailers, publishers or advertisers using such tracking capabilities. In predictive advertising, after an initial purchase, a related product is proposed to the gift sender or the gift recipient. For example, the system may use this year's recommended product or service for the gift recipient's birthday using data related to the birthday gift that the gift sender purchased for the gift recipient in the previous year. It can be recommended to the gift sender. In one embodiment, hexadecimal numbers can be used with social networking websites (eg, Facebook® or MySpace®) to obtain information and data about users of the social networking website. The obtained data and information may relate to advertisements viewed by users within the social networking website. This user data and information can be compiled in a computer database and linked to a product or service. The product or service may be displayed in a promotion targeted to a specific individual or group of individuals or customized for the specific individual or group of individuals.

  In another embodiment, the unique identifier may be a minimum inventory management unit (SKU). In a minimum inventory management unit (SKU), a separate and unique SKU is assigned to each product. The SKU may be a universal SKU system. In contrast to the traditional SKU, which uses digits assigned by each retailer or manufacturer using a unique hex, SKU allows multiple retailers or manufacturers to identify a product. Is possible. Hexadecimal numbers may be used instead of SKU, or may be used in combination with SKU.

  In one embodiment, when a user enters a hexadecimal number described in a catalog or other publication into the system using a system website, the system uses the hexadecimal number to identify the user and the publication. (E.g., the publication is a subscription that is regularly sent to the user). The catalog may further include a unique SKU. Each SKU identifies a unique retail item or service or gift item displayed in the catalog. The user can select the gift item or retail item or service that they want to purchase by entering the associated SKU of the gift item or retail item or service that they want to purchase into the UI of the website. The system then directs the user to the web page of the website. In this web page, information about the selected item and purchase options is provided.

  When a hexadecimal number associated with the gift item listed in the publication is entered by the user into the UI of the website, the hexadecimal number is identified by the system, the image of the gift item and the gift item's Matched to the location or IP address of a particular web page on the retailer or card issuer's website that can display a description. The system associates the hexadecimal number with the user so that the system can make the publication read by the user, the product the user has viewed on the system website, and the purchase through the system website. The user's history of the product and the like can be tracked.

  A gift sender can send a financial gift to a gift recipient using a gift card. The monetary gift can be used to purchase goods or services from a particular retailer, manufacturer or service provider. Alternatively, in one exemplary embodiment, the monetary gift is used to gift a specific product sold or manufactured by a specific manufacturer or retailer or a specific service provided by a specific predetermined service provider. Can be sent to the gift recipient.

  For example, the gift card may be for a specific magazine subscription, a specific perfume, or a specific set of golf clubs. The gift card can also be redeemed for services (e.g., manicure or day spa invitation). The gift card may include a photo or other image of the gift selected by the gift sender for the gift recipient. The gift card may further include a web address of a card issuer's website. At this web address, the gift recipient can redeem for the gift card and merchandise. The gift card may also include the purchase price or amount of funds for the card, so that the gift recipient can know the amount of funds that can be used in exchange for the card. The gift card can be obtained from the card issuer by the gift sender. The card issuer can be a retailer, manufacturer, advertiser, retailer, manufacturer, or a third party on behalf of the advertiser.

  The gift card system may also include means for the gift sender to deliver the gift card to the gift recipient. The delivery means can be a separate envelope into which the gift card can be inserted, a combined gift card and envelope combination, or email or (viewed on a display monitor and / or printed by a printer connected to a computer. It can be other electronic or digital delivery means.

  The gift card may be a value storage type card and includes a magnetic band that encodes a card number and funding data. In an exemplary embodiment, the fund data is the amount of funds transferred from the gift sender to the card issuer when funding the card. Although the fund data can be physically stored as data encoded on the magnetic band of the gift card, in an exemplary embodiment, the fund data is stored on a remote server. The remote server can be accessed via a global communication network. The remote server may be maintained by the card issuer.

  In one exemplary embodiment, the gift card can be a paper card. The paper gift card may be a closed mail envelope, including a combined envelope. A card to be mailed from a gift sender to a gift recipient is connected to the combined envelope into the mold envelope. The combined gift card and envelope may be a single integral piece and may include separate booklets. The envelope may include a barcode. Each bar code was sent to each gift card (especially when the gift card was sent unilaterally, when it was attached to a package or in bulk mail or email) The card issuer can track the individual. The booklet can be used to notify the gift recipient of how to fund the gift card or notify the gift recipient about how to redeem the card for a product. In another embodiment, the booklet may include promotional information related to other products or services sold or provided by card issuers, retailers or manufacturers.

  In another embodiment, the gift card may include a portion. The part is a greeting card. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the gift card can be a greeting card and includes a unique card identifier (eg, hexadecimal or gift card number). Using the unique card identifier, it is possible to securely supply funds to the card by a gift sender, activation by an intended recipient, and exchange for goods.

  The paper gift card may be in the form of a coupon, or it may be part of a package envelope, card and promotional information that has been mass mailed to a specific individual or household at random or as a target. A coupon form gift card may include a card number. The card number allows funding of the card by the gift sender and activation of the card by the recipient at the retail store or online through the card issuer's website. The gift card can be utilized and delivered by the gift sender as a stand-alone booklet, package insert or direct mail. In another embodiment, the paper gift card may be a folded advertisement that is not attached or inserted into a magazine, catalog, newspaper or other publication. The magazines, catalogs, newspapers or other publications are purchased and viewed by individuals who do not know the identification information. In yet another embodiment, the gift card can be predictive. For example, a card issuer can obtain information related to personal contact information and purchase preference information from a retailer or another source and distribute the card to targeted individuals.

  The paper gift card may be connected to an envelope tongue that can be delivered by mail or other delivery means. The envelope may be oriented so that the recipient can access the envelope (eg, gift card, gift card instruction, catalog, booklet, or greeting card) in an open configuration. The envelope is also oriented so that it can enclose and seal the enclosure within the envelope in a closed configuration. The gift card is connected to the inner surface of the tongue of the envelope by an adhesive in a removable manner. The gift card may include a fixing part. The securing portion is attached to the envelope tongue by an adhesive or other attachment means. The gift card and the fixing part can be separated by a perforation. The gift card can be removed from the fixed portion by tearing along the perforation. The gift card is attached to the inner surface of the envelope tongue so that the upper edge of the gift card extends further than the lower edge of the envelope tongue and directly below the lower edge of the envelope tongue. Can be sized like The gift card may be inserted into a pouch (or internal space) of the envelope when the envelope is oriented in the closed configuration. When the gift sender holds and opens the envelope tongue, the gift card is pulled out of the envelope pouch and is visible to the user.

  The gift card may further include a space for writing or printing a gift recipient's name. After the gift sender removes the gift card from the securing portion, the gift sender inserts the gift card into the envelope pouch and then seals the envelope in a sealed configuration to the gift recipient Deliverable.

  In another embodiment, the gift card is detachably connected to the envelope via a perforation. When the envelope is oriented to the closed configuration and is visible, the gift card may be wholly or partially exposed outside the envelope pouch. Even when the envelope tongue is oriented in the closed configuration, the gift card remains visible to the user. This is because the gift card protrudes just below the lower edge of the envelope tongue. After activation and funding of the gift card, the gift sender can remove the gift card from the lower edge of the envelope tongue and insert the card into the envelope. The envelope can then be sealed in the closed configuration and delivered to the gift recipient.

  In another embodiment, the envelope tongue may further include a removable portion or stub connected to the lower edge of the tongue. The removable portion may include a gift item purchased by a gift sender and an image or description of a gift item that can be redeemed by a recipient using a gift card enclosed in the envelope. The removable portion can be removed by the gift sender and is kept by the gift sender as a record of gift items that have been discarded, removed, or purchased for the gift recipient.

  In one embodiment, the paper gift card can be attached to a box (eg, the top of a pizza box) or other package used to deliver the product to the consumer. The paper gift card may be attached to the box or other package by a cartoon strip or other resin or adhesive. However, any suitable attachment means can be used for this purpose. It is also possible to use a cartoon strip to attach gift cards to the inside and top of magazines and other publications.

  In another embodiment, the gift system may use a multipack. The multi-pack can be a package or envelope and includes multiple gift cards for multiple products or services or multiple gift cards from multiple retailers or manufacturers. The multi-pack can be delivered to the consumer, for example by direct mail, so that the consumer browses the gift card and selects one or more to activate for gift gift recipients And funding. Since the gift sender can select one or more gift cards from a plurality of gift cards included in the multi-pack for activation and gift giving for the gift recipient, the gift sender You can get some kind of “gift card mall” experience delivered directly to your home. The gift sender selects a gift from the gift expressions provided in the multipack, and activates and funds the gift card from a convenient location for the gift sender and a computer via the website. Can be done. The multipack can be mailed to consumers based on consumer requests, or from a mailing list compiled or obtained by a card issuer or advertiser to a consumer group from which contact information was obtained. It can also be mailed.

  Using a single stream inline process, sheet feeding operation, manual or any other suitable printing and folding means, the multipack and a plurality of individual unique gift cards contained in the multipack Can be manufactured. In order to efficiently create the multi-pack, unique cards can be printed sequentially via inkjet printing means using a variable printing press. The printer's sequential printing function prints a set of multiple unique gift cards (eg, gift carts for different gifts or gift carts from different retailers or manufacturers) sequentially as a set. It becomes possible to do. This set can then be packaged together. Therefore, printing of the different card and subsequent verification are not necessary. Since the gift card can be variably printed, the name of the consumer, gift expression, retailer or manufacturer printed on each card in the set to be packaged will be different for each card. In this way, each consumer can receive a multipack. The multipack may be individually personalized for a particular user and include a gift card. The gift card may be the same as or different from that included in any other multipack. Personalization of each multipack tailored to each particular user can be accomplished using personal information contained in a database associated with each user. Since the printing machine automatically collates the cards, it is not necessary to perform collation by manual or mechanical means after printing each set of identical gift cards separately. In one embodiment, the multipack may also include one or more mailable greeting cards and envelopes in addition to the plurality of gift cards. In another embodiment, a gift sender can select the multipack at a retail store. Each gift card in the multi-pack may include a unique hexadecimal number, a standard gift card number, and / or a barcode printed on the gift card. Other information can also be printed on each unique gift card in the multi-pack, which further personalizes the gift card (eg, gift sender name and address, product name or product image). , And product information). In embodiments where one or more greeting cards are included in the multipack, similar personalization data can be printed on the greeting card.

  In another exemplary embodiment, the gift card can be a digital card or an electronic card. For example, the gift card may take the form of an email that includes a unique card identifier. Since the e-mail is printable, the gift recipient can receive, print and use the gift card after purchase from the gift sender to the gift recipient. The electronic gift card may be designed by a gift sender using design functions available on the website. For example, the website allows a gift sender to place a picture of the gift sender on a gift card.

  According to the method according to the present invention, the gift sender creates an account on the card issuer's website, logs into the account and accesses the account function on the website, so that the gift sender You can order, personalize, fund, address, and send personalized gift cards to gift recipients. After the gift card is purchased, the website may generate a receipt. The receipt may be an animation, notifying the gift sender that the purchase transaction has been completed and the gift card will be delivered to the gift recipient. The receipt may be delivered as an email to the gift sender. The gift card (the gift card can be a printed paper gift card that is mailed or otherwise delivered or an electronic gift card (or e-gift card or e-card) The recipient of the gift has accessed the card issuer's website and is provided in the website The gift card can be exchanged for a product by activating the card according to the instruction. In another embodiment, the gift recipient can activate the card via the card issuer's telephone system.

  In an embodiment using an e-gift card, the e-gift card may include links to advertisements for gift items or other products or services sold by gift item retailers. In another embodiment, the advertisement may be attached to the e-gift card as a separate file. The separate file may be a multimedia file.

  The gift sender may register the website for access, and upon completion of registration, the gift sender may enter a login or user name and personal identification number (pin) or password required to access the website. Can receive. Personal information entered by the gift sender at the time of registration can be stored on a remote server. The remote server is maintained and controlled by a card issuer. The gift sender can select as a gift card a gift that the gift recipient wishes to purchase and give. The gift card can be redeemed for goods online or at a retail store. In order to send a gift card to the gift recipient, the gift sender needs to input predetermined personal information related to the gift recipient. The predetermined personal information can also be stored on the remote server. The website generates a password. The password is provided to the gift recipient and is used when the gift card is activated online by telephone or at a retail store and redeemed for the gift card as a gift. In another embodiment, the user can access the website without the need for a password.

  In another embodiment, the method requires that the gift recipient also registers access to the website, thereby providing certain predetermined personal information for activation of the gift card. Includes a step. After the gift recipient has registered on the website and logged into the website, the gift recipient can activate the card and redeem it for a gift item. If the gift recipient accepts the gift, an acceptance confirmation may be provided. Shipment confirmation may also be provided via the website, email, or mail, where the gift is shipped to the gift recipient rather than being received at a retail store.

  The website may include an avatar generated from software. The avatar generates a human voice, verbally describes the product being advertised, provides instructions, greets each visit to an individual website, provides a gift card delivery status, or Provide information on points or rewards earned through use of the card issuer's website. The avatar and associated software enables dynamic personalization of user accounts that can be accessed through the website. This dynamic personalization is achieved by linking the avatar software and a database stored on the server in a communicable manner. The database may include user information (eg, the user's name, address, date of birth, anniversary, and other personal information specifically associated with the user). The system may include speech to text conversion software. The speech to text conversion software converts the text entered into the system and preselected user information obtained by the avatar software from the database into a speech file. The voice file outputs a voice similar to a human voice or outputs a voice imitating a human voice. The avatar speech may include reading the name of the website user aloud as part of a greeting message to the user. In another example, the audio file that is likely to be spoken by the avatar may include a birthday greeting message on or near the birthday of the user.

  In one embodiment, the system may suggest a gift through voice “reading” by the avatar using data related to the user's shopping interests and previous purchases. For example, if the user / gift sender is shopping at a time close to Mother's Day, the system will use avatar speech to resemble the gift that the gift sender purchased for the gift recipient in the previous year. A gift can be recommended to the gift sender. In another embodiment, the avatar of the system may recommend various gifts as a candidate for purchase by the gift sender. For example, if a gift sender is shopping on a website looking for a female gift recipient's birthday gift, the avatar will provide details of one or more gift items (eg, jewelry or feminine perfume). "Read aloud". In this way, based on the user's history and preferences recorded by the system when the user previously visited the website, the appearance and content of the web pages and content of the website are predictive. Can be customized.

  When the gift sender selects a specific gift for the gift recipient, the specific gift can be displayed in the information on the gift card. If the gift recipient wants a gift other than the gift selected by the gift sender, the gift recipient accesses the card issuer's website and changes the gift selection according to the instructions in the website Allows you to select another gift of the same or lower value.

  In another embodiment, where the card issuer is an existing retailer, the gift recipient can redeem the card and gift by visiting one of the retailer's stores.

  The invention also relates to a method for gifting and advertising. In one step of the method, when the gift recipient accesses the card issuer's website and activates the gift card, the gift recipient has the option to send a thank you message. The thank you message can be delivered to the gift sender via email.

  In one embodiment of the method, the website is customized to have a different appearance or include different content (eg, promotional content) for each gift sender and gift recipient accessing the website. Can do. Ads on a website can be linked or hosted.

  The invention also relates to a gifting method. The method may include the use of a unique card identifier. The unique card identifier may be an alphanumeric identifier (eg, hexadecimal, minimum inventory control unit (SKU), or standard gift card number (eg, standard 16 digit gift card number)). Alternatively, the unique card identifier may be a barcode obtained by encoding any one of the above identifiers. The method may include providing a printed matter including a plurality of gift expressions each representing an actual gift item. A unique printed alphanumeric identifier stored on the server may be assigned to each of the plurality of gift items represented by the plurality of gift expressions. The method can be used to associate tracking data with each alphanumeric identifier. The method may also provide a website. The website is connected to a server via a communication network. Via the communication network, the user can purchase at least one gift item selected from the plurality of gift expressions described in the printed matter. The user may be required to enter the alphanumeric identifier assigned to the selected gift item into the graphical user interface of the website. Also, according to the method, the user may be required to provide personal information through the graphical user interface of the website. The alphanumeric identifier may be associated with the user in a database, for example. In the database, each alphanumeric identifier is associated with one of a plurality of users.

  If hexadecimal or SKU is used, the method may include converting the alphanumeric identifier to a standard 16 digit gift card number. The standard 16-digit gift card number can be accepted by a POS terminal at a retail store.

  The method also includes analyzing user tracking data, personal information, browsing preferences and shopping preferences collected when the user is accessing a website to predictively determine the user's purchase preference information. Can be included. An advertisement can be presented to the user based on the user's predicted purchase preference information.

  The method may include purchasing a gift item to be gifted from a user to a gift recipient through the website. The user is a gift sender. Another step of the method may include delivering a gift card to the gift recipient. The gift card may include a gift representation of the actual gift item selected and purchased by the gift sender. The gift recipient can redeem the gift card for the actual gift item by providing personal information of the gift recipient through the graphical user interface of the website.

  The method can be used to record data related to shopping and purchasing activities of gift senders and gift recipients accessing the website. Purchasing based on the gift sender's shopping activity and purchase activity data at the time of the visit to the website when the gift sender is subsequently visiting the website using the recorded data A gift item can be proposed to the gift sender as a candidate. The gift recipient can redeem a gift card and merchandise for the gift item selected and purchased by the gift sender for receiving the gift. Alternatively, the gift recipient can reject the gift item selected and purchased by the gift sender, in which case the different gift item selected by the gift recipient himself can be selected.

  The invention also relates to a method by which retail goods and services can be promoted and marketed through gift giving. When a user (eg, a consumer, gift sender or gift recipient) accesses the system website, the user can choose to play or watch the advertisement. The advertisement may include information related to the retail item. The retail item can be an article or service. Through the website, a series of questions related to retail items can be questioned or presented to the user. Points may be awarded to the user based on the number of questions that the user has answered correctly. Thereafter, the user can redeem points awarded from the system for reward items. The reward item can be a downloadable video, a downloadable song file, a downloadable audio book, a pay-per-view video, a downloadable image file, a downloadable computer screen saver, a downloadable video file, or a video rental ticket. . By the method, the gift sender can give the gift recipient the acquisition point or reward item selected by the gift sender.

  In another step of the method, when the gift sender and gift recipient access the card issuer's website, advertisements and other marketing information provided by the card issuer, retailer and / or manufacturer are Can be presented to gift senders and gift recipients. The promotional information may be provided as video and / or audio presentation, still photos and / or text advertisements. The advertising information can be provided through a game. In this game, the gift sender or gift recipient can answer the question and obtain points. Acquisition points can be used to redeem products as rewards. If the website is operated by a third party and not operated by one or more retailers or manufacturers, the retailer and / or manufacturer will pay for rewards acquired by users of the website You can Questions on the website may be directed to information about the retailer and / or the manufacturer's product. Consumers can receive rewards or payments by viewing advertisements. That is, the consumer can obtain reward points by viewing advertisements on the website and answering questions about each advertisement correctly. The consumer can also earn points by making purchases (including gift card purchases) through the website. The number of reward points may be based on another variable (e.g., viewing time (in seconds) of a promotion when the gift sender or gift recipient is accessing the website). Examples of rewards that can be obtained through game promotions on the website include streaming and downloadable videos that are viewable online, pay-per-view video credits, music downloads, gas credits, or any other suitable There is a product or service. In one embodiment, an interactive gift system allows a consumer to select an advertisement to watch.

  The method can include using the system to record the number of correct and incorrect answers provided by a consumer. Other information (eg, information about specific questions that the consumer answered correctly or incorrectly) can also be recorded. In this way, more points can be awarded to consumers who have correctly answered a particular question than other questions. The method employs these data mining functions recorded in a manner associated with specific consumer identification and personal information, so that the advertiser is the individual that the advertiser wants to target for advertising and promotion. In connection with this, a more feasible and valuable lead position can be obtained.

  The method and the system associated with the method are important in that one consumer can introduce another consumer to the website about the system. In one example, the referral is made by a gift sender delivering a gift card to a gift recipient and directing the gift recipient to the website by an instruction included in the gift card for merchandise exchange. Achieved. After the gift recipient accesses the website, the gift recipient redeems the gift card for a gift item, and then the gift recipient views a commercial game (eg, an advertisement on the website). Can also participate in games that answer rewards related to the advertisement and obtain reward points that can be redeemed for retail goods or services. The method may also include the step of a first consumer introducing a second consumer to the website. The referral can be emailed from the system by emailing a link to the website, verbal method, or submitting the second consumer's email address or other contact information through the website. Or by other methods for communicating information related to the game and reward points system to the second consumer.

  Versatile structure

  As described herein, the gift card may include a structure that includes a single sheet having a removable portion. The present invention may relate to versatile structures. The versatile structure includes at least two removable components. The at least two removable components can be customized by a user. The user may be an individual (eg, printing a greeting card or gift card for a consumer, gift sender or gift recipient, commercial printer, educational or institutional user, business user, consumer Or a service office that imprints and creates, or any other person or entity that needs to make use of the multi-use structure for personal or commercial purposes). The invention also relates to a method of using said versatile structure and a method of gift giving. The multi-use structure may include a single sheet or more than one sheet. Each seat includes at least one removable component. In the exemplary embodiment, each seat includes at least two removable components. As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the removable component of the multi-use structure includes at least a round-trip letter portion and a substitute bill. In the exemplary embodiment as shown in FIGS. 5-8, the removable component also includes an envelope.

  In another embodiment, the sheet comprises only a single sheet. The single sheet includes a single removable component. The single removable component is an envelope piece. The envelope piece may be a flat planar piece, and includes a plurality of leaves (for example, five or more leaves) and a sticking region for folding and assembling the envelope piece into an envelope form. The assembled envelope may include a lid, three closed sides, one open side, and a pocket. In another embodiment, the sheet may include more than one material layer. The removable component can be a fully assembled envelope and can be removed from the sheet. In this embodiment, the envelope pocket can be formed in a space between two layers. The two layers can be glued together on three sides and open on a fourth side.

  The sheet may be formed from a single layer of material (eg, paper). In an exemplary embodiment, each sheet can be formed from two layers of material. In other embodiments, one or more of the sheets may be formed from more than two layers of material. When producing the sheet using a plurality of layers of material, the plurality of layers are sandwiched and securely attached to each other with an adhesive. In an exemplary embodiment, the sheet includes two layers. The two layers are attached to each other only around the sheet or around one or more specific removable components (eg, around the envelope). Each layer may be made of the same material, or each layer may be made of a different material. For example, in a two-layer embodiment, the first layer can be made of paper and the second layer can be made of plastic. In another example, a three-layer sheet may include a first paper layer, a second plastic layer, and a third foil layer. In embodiments where the sheet includes multiple layers, on a printing press or other printing means using text, graphics, images, or other information that is visible on the inner surface after the layers are stuck together Each layer can be preprinted during manufacture. When the removable component is removed from the sheet, the gift sender or gift recipient opens or folds the layer, thereby concealing text, graphics, images or other information hidden by the inter-layer wear. Can be exposed. After being removed from the sheet, a single greeting card or gift card of one page can be obtained by assembling each of the plurality of layers. The layer (or page) may be sealed with an adhesive or may be open.

  Each sheet of the multi-use structure includes a first surface, a second surface, an upper edge, a lower edge, and two side edges. The first surface can be the front surface and the second surface can be the back surface, or vice versa. Each sheet of the multi-use structure is perforated, scored, slitted, punched line and (after separation from the multi-use structure and from each other, the user can fasten the parts of the removable component together Any type of adhesive may be included. Each sheet may contain preprinted information. The preprinted information is printed on the first surface, the second surface or both. The preprinted information can also be printed on the removable component. The removable component forms part of the first surface and the second surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the removable component may include a customizable space. On the customizable space, the user can imprint or fix the user's unique customization content. Such customizations include at least one imprinted item, written item, drawn item, embossed item, or fixed item (eg, text, image, symbol, label and Stamp). The customization content can be selected using software. The software may be attached to the multi-use structure or may be separated from the multi-use structure, installed on a computer, or available on the Internet or another communication network Software that can be accessed through the site may be used. The user may select from stock customization provided by a software manufacturer or website operator, or the user may choose to create the customization using custom content provided by the user. You can also The customization content can be imprinted by a printer on the customizable space of the sheet.

  In an exemplary embodiment, each versatile structure can include a structure identification number. The structure identification number uniquely identifies the structure. For example, all versatile structures of the same type (eg, the same size, shape, material, structure or layout and orientation of removable components) may have the same structure identification number. The same structure identification number is printed on each sheet of the multi-use structure set. In one embodiment, each sheet of the multi-use structure may include a separate and unique structure identification number. For example, when the multi-use structure includes two sheets (for example, the first sheet and the second sheet), the entire original of the first sheet of the multi-use structure among a plurality of the same multi-use structures is It may have a first structure identification number (ie, the same first structure identification number is printed on each first sheet). Also, all originals of the second sheet of the multi-use structure can have a second structure identification number (ie, the same second structure identification number is printed on each second sheet). The structural identification number may identify each type of multi-use structure, its size, and the format or layout and size of removable components provided on each sheet of the multi-use structure. Each type of multi-use structure may include a set of multi-use structures. The plurality of sets of versatile structures all have the same size, shape, orientation, material, structure and removable component format or layout and shape and size. In another embodiment, the structural identification number identifies each unique individual multi-use structure, its size, and the format or layout and size of removable components provided on each sheet of the multi-use structure Can do. The structure identification number can be printed on a frame (as shown below), or in an embodiment of a versatile structure that includes a frame, the structure identification number is one of the removable components. The above can be printed.

  In another embodiment, the structure identification number can be printed on the structure or it can be encoded on the structure. The encoding is in the form of magnetic stripes, embedded microchips, bar codes, quick response (QR) codes, alphanumeric numbers or hexadecimal numbers.

  The software may include fields whether or not installed on a computer (eg, a user's computer) and accessed through a website. In the field, the structure identification number can be entered and submitted. After submission, the software may recognize a versatile structure that the user wishes to imprint. The software sets the printer's print settings (eg, paper size, margins, and each versatile structure on each sheet based on user input of the correct structure identification number printed on the sheet imprinted by the user. Customizable space location and orientation). In this way, the printer is configured with an appropriate field, position, and location on and on each removable component for which the imprint of the customization selected by the user is within or within each removable component. The print head or other printing mechanism can be positioned or configured to be directed and on location.

  In another exemplary embodiment, the website can be used to collect and compile one or more databases of personal information associated with users of the website. Also, use the website or software to collect and compile one or more databases of personal information related to gift recipient (s) who received gifts from gift givers (or gift senders) You can also Personal information includes name, address, phone number, email address, other contact information (eg fax number, pager number, online messenger screen name, social networking website screen name, and any other contact information Information), birthdays, anniversaries, similar types of information related to the user's contacts (eg, the user's spouse, children, grandchildren, parents, siblings, other relatives, fiances, and friends) and gifts Personal purchases and user shopping preferences and preferences associated with purchases). In embodiments where the software is installed on a computer, the information collected by the software is transmitted to a remote server via the Internet or other communication network connection, and added and compiled into a database.

  When collecting and compiling personal information into a database using the website or software program, each generated versatile structure may include its own unique structure identification number. The website and software may include online or computer-based versatile structures. Each such versatile structure can be viewed on a computer screen or monitor, populated with information and images, and imprinted by a user by a printer. (For convenience purposes and without introducing any restrictions, the remainder of the description of this particular embodiment of the present invention refers to the entry and transmission of a structural identification number through a website, but the Internet or other It should be noted that software installed on a computer having a communication network connection can be used in this embodiment in place of or in conjunction with a website. All of the functions and tools described herein can then be provided and executed in a software program that can be installed on a computer.) The user can pre-print on a particular versatile structure Find and read the unique structure identification number Entered in typing or otherwise unique structural identification number data fields of the web site. The website sends the unique structure identification number to a remote server where the software is installed. The software then finds personal information associated with the user on the database. The website accesses the database using the software and collects information related to the user from among stored personal information. The user may also view the website provider's image library (eg, photos, computer generated images, uploaded photos and / or editable photos, illustrations, drawings, paintings, and other electronic or digital images). (Used or not used animation) can be accessed and a stock image used to customize the versatile structure the user is working on can also be selected. Alternatively, as described herein, the user selects the user's own image and uses the image as a customization for imprinting into the customizable space of the removable component. And upload.

  When the user enters a unique structure identification number of the particular multi-use structure used in the website, the website software accesses the remote database and stores the stored personal information of the user in the database. And populate the user's information into specific fields of the versatile structure. For example, the website and its software may populate the name, address and other contact information of the user or the name, address and birthday of the gift recipient in any field of the online version of the multi-use structure. obtain. In another example, the website and its software may populate personal information obtained from an e-card, virtual greeting card or animated e-card in the field of the versatile online version. The e-card, virtual greeting card or video-equipped e-card is one that the user has created before or that the user has created at the same time with a versatile structure using the website. The website software processes the personal information to place the personal information in an online version of the multi-use structure, and the multi-use structure having a structure identification number entered and submitted by the user through the website. Adapt to a specific format. Then, using a personal, desktop or other printer, the user is populated with text, images, and other data or information selected by the user and appropriate fields on the online version of the versatile structure. And imprinting the versatile structure populated in the place. The website uses the unique structure identification number to populate the fields and locations that are to be imprinted by the printer onto the versatile structure in an online version of a variety that is visible on a computer monitor. It can also be done without first creating a usage structure. That is, after the multi-use structure or each sheet of the multi-use structure is imprinted, removable components that require further assembly (eg, envelope pieces and reciprocating letter parts) are removed from each sheet and assembled. be able to.

  In another embodiment, a photo, image, symbol, text or other printable content (e.g., a theme (e.g., the same or similar) that corresponds to or is the same or similar to an existing computer-generated graphic or animation on a virtual ecard , Birthday or holiday related graphics)) can be pre-printed on the removable component of the versatile structure. When the user enters a unique structure identification number for a versatile structure into the website, the website prompts the user to enter the user's personalized and customized date or information into a virtual ecard. . The virtual ecard may include an animation in some embodiments. In this way, a virtual card for the gift recipient is created from the user using the versatile structure and its structure identification number.

  Personal information related to the user or his / her relatives, friends and acquaintances can be obtained through the website, and thereafter such information can be used to customize the removable space of the removable component and a computer Can be populated or customized with a computer generated customizable space on the versatile structure generated by The computer generated version of the versatile structure is visible on a computer display screen.

  For example, the user can visit a website using a browser software program and a computer with an internet connection or connection to another communication network. The user can create an account through the website. The account may include a login or screen name and password. The website may request the user to submit personal information (eg, name, address, date of birth) and register an account for using the services provided through the website. After the user creates an account, the user can log in to the website. In addition to customizing a multi-use structure for imprinting by the printer using the website and funding the substitute bill, the website is presented to the gift recipient Also provided is a step that allows the user to select a vendor name (eg, retailer or manufacturer) for a gift to be given. The website software program may include the vendor's name, logo, product information or other information associated with the vendor in a computer-generated customizable space of the computer-generated multi-use structure. Can be programmed to add to one. Thereafter, such information can be imprinted onto the customizable space of the versatile structure. In another embodiment, the vendor's name, logo, product information or other information related to the vendor may be added to a virtual e-card that may be generated by the website software. The virtual e-card can be delivered to the recipient by electronic means (eg, access via email attachment or link to a website). The link can be inserted into an email sent to the recipient. The virtual ecard may be animated, in that it may include cartoons or other animations generated as GIF, Flash, MPEG, or any other type of animation file. When the user only generates a virtual ecard using the website and does not imprint one of the versatile structures of the present invention, the user generates a virtual ecard. In addition, personal information associated with the user or the recipient may be collected from the user. In this way, personal information can be compiled into the database using the website. The user can also provide payment information using the website (e.g., the user's credit card, debit card, or check account number to fund the proxy bill) (provided that the If the substitute bill is a gift card or gift certificate). The user can enter the dollar amount selected by the user. The dollar amount selected by the user may be reduced or charged from other bank accounts or credit accounts for funding the user's substitute bills.

  As a security function, using the website, registering the substitute banknote so that only the gift recipient intended by the gift sender (not the owner of the substitute banknote) can use and redeem the substitute banknote. it can.

  As described above, the user uses the website and database or data library (eg, images, symbols, photos, and text) to attach a virtual ecard to a virtual ecard to customize according to user preferences. The data to be selected can be selected. The user also uses the upload function of the website to customize data stored locally on the user's computer or on a server or computer of a connected communication network for customization of a virtual ecard. Can be uploaded for. The website may also provide multiple virtual ecard designs and themes. Of the plurality of virtual ecard designs and themes, the user adapts to a virtual ecard that fits user preferences, a particular situation (eg, a specific holiday, recipient's birthday or anniversary) The user can select what is suitable for sending to the recipient or what the user thinks the recipient will be pleased with. When there are a plurality of animations available through the website, the user can select a virtual ecard animation from the plurality of animations through the website. The user can further personalize the virtual ecard by typing a personalization message into the recipient. The personalized message is described in a text field of the virtual ecard. In one embodiment, the user can select a message to the recipient who wants to add to the virtual ecard from a plurality of messages that can be used as selection targets on the website. Further customization content (e.g., colors, typefaces, or fonts used on the virtual ecard) is also possible.

  For the data upload described above, the user can upload a photo or other image to the website and add it to the virtual ecard as customization.

  In one embodiment, the user can select a photo from the database of the website or upload a photo from a computer or communication network to the website and the photo included in the website software. An editing tool can be used to generate an editable space within the photo. The original image of the photo in the editable space may be displayed as a blank area in the photo, or the editable space may be displayed as a silhouette area, thereby It becomes visible to the user as if the original image is below the editable space. For example, the color, contrast, and brightness of the original image can be reduced or invalidated within the editable image region in the photograph. Using the photo editing tool of the website software, the user can edit the size, shape, orientation and location of editable space in or on the photo. By using the website software, the user can also create more than one editable space in a single photo. In one embodiment, the software may automatically recognize human faces in uploaded photos and automatically generate editable spaces on each face.

  After generation of the editable space, the photo editing tool can be used to crop the original image in the editable space obtained from the photo. The photo editing tool allows the original image in the editable space (eg, size, orientation, color, contrast, brightness, or any other dimensions, quality, characteristics or features associated with the image and photo image) ) Can be rotated or changed. In one embodiment, the photo editing tool can be used to resize and rotate the original image in the editable space. For example, the face in the original image can be rotated by the photo editing tool in the editable space of the photo. In another embodiment, the user can upload and add a second photo. The second photo can be inserted into the editable space, thereby changing the appearance of the original photo and replacing the original image in the editable space. For example, the user is on the face of a first person in a first photo (eg, a stock image in a connected database of the website or an image uploaded from the user to the website). An editable space can be created and a second photo of the second person's face can be uploaded and placed in a layer behind the first photo. The second person's face may be the user's face, the recipient's face, or another human or animal face. In this way, the user places the first face in the first photo by placing the second face of the second photo into the editable space of the first photo. Can be replaced. Pictures and other images can be used in a similar manner to generate a virtual e-card with video. The user's customizations to the editable space can also be imprinted on corresponding removable components of the multi-use structure. For example, the versatile structure may include removable components. Within the removable component, bonding or other fastening means (tape, adhesive, staple, clip, or other suitable means to another portion of the removable component (eg, a reciprocating letter portion) It is possible to imprint, remove and fix a photograph (for example, a face photograph) via a fastener.

  The website may include voice and video instructions and text instructions. These instructions direct the user how to generate a virtual e-card and how to generate, imprint and assemble the versatile structure and / or its removable components.

  After the user completes the customization of the virtual e-card, the virtual e-card can be electronically transmitted to the recipient through a communication network via email or other means. The user can input the structure identification number printed on the multi-use structure of the present invention, so that the website and its software can store the customization data selected by the user of the virtual ecard. Can be imprinted at one or more specific locations on the versatile structure and its removable components. The website software can automatically format the user-selected customization of the virtual ecard into a form suitable for imprinting on the versatile structure and its removable components. . The step of automatically formatting includes a structure identification number of the multi-use structure entered by the user on the website and a known programmed format criterion of the multi-use structure (eg, dimensions, orientation, material, Based on the fit between structure and layout, shape and size of removable components). The website software may also use the entered structure identification number to determine whether imprinting should be done only on one side or on both sides in the multi-use structure imprinted by the user. it can. After imprinting the multi-use structure with the one corresponding to the customization content that matches the customization content selected by the user in generating the virtual ecard, the removable components of the multi-use structure are separated if necessary And can be assembled. Such assembly is done by folding, gluing and insertion techniques. The assembled removable component is then mailed from the user to the recipient or physically delivered by other means.

  In another application, after receiving an envelope containing a round-trip letter portion and a substitute bill, the gift recipient may find a structure identification number printed on one or more of the removable components.

  In one example, the round trip letter portion may include a pre-printed scene that includes one or more human figures. Each person's face may be omitted or replaced with a customizable space. The user can then select the photos belonging to the user to be imprinted on the customizable space of the round-trip letter portion. In this way, the user inserts the user's face, the gift recipient's face, a third person's face or another picture or image into the customizable space of the preprinted scene. Can be printed.

  In another example, the removable component may include one or more customizable components. On the one or more customizable components, a user may imprint a photo, image or symbol. The customizable component can include an adhesive on the back side. Remove the customizable component (e.g., a picture of a human face) and, as part of the user customization of the multi-use component, a round-trip letter or other removable component Can be fixed to one of the two. In another embodiment, the removable component may include one or more customizable components. A photo can be imprinted on the one or more customizable components. These removable customizable components can be, for example, wallet-sized photos that can be removed and inserted into the wallet.

  In one embodiment, the customization content may be imprinted on one or more separate customization content pieces. The one or more separate customization content pieces are removable components. Since the customized content piece includes an adhesive backside, the customized content piece is placed after being imprinted and attached as a label or sticker on a portion of one of the other removable components (eg, greeting card). It can be removed from the seat. In one example, the user may imprint a photo (eg, a face) on a non-adhesive surface on the front of the customized content piece. The imprinted customized content piece can be removed from the sheet and secured onto a corresponding similar shaped and sized customized content space on the round-trip letter portion. For example, the user can imprint a face photo on the customized content piece, remove it from the sheet, and fix it on the face or head area. The face or head region constitutes a customizable space above the human body image preprinted on the round-trip letter portion. It is also possible to imprint and secure a customizable piece on an envelope or substitute bill.

  The adhesive used in the present invention can be a pressure sensitive adhesive, a low tack adhesive, a rewetable adhesive, or any adhesive suitable for attaching the site of the structure after imprinting. The versatile structure can be manufactured and printed using a printing press and finishing equipment as described herein. Finishing equipment can be used during manufacture to change the size or shape of each sheet or each removable component included on each structure in a multi-use structure package. The sheets of the present invention can be collected to form a stack of individual sheets, a sheet roll, or an accordion structure (eg, an accordion structure folded in a sector). In so doing, feed holes or other elements that may or may not be required when feeding the sheet through a printer, printing press or other suitable printing device are used or not used. Each sheet may include a plurality of identical multi-use structures, a plurality of different multi-use structures, or a plurality of multi-use structures including both the same and different.

  The step of removing the removable component from the seat includes breaking, tearing or cutting along a separation line between each removable component or a separation line between each removable component and the frame. Is achieved. The separation line may be a fold line, a punch line, or a printed dashed or dotted line. In an exemplary embodiment, the separation line may be a perforation. In the most exemplary embodiment, the separation line may be a micro perforation.

  The versatile sheet can be made from any material having a surface that can be fed through a printer and printed by the printer. Suitable materials include paper, plastic, metal foil or semi-metal foil, and paper board. The material can be of any weight, thickness or stiffness provided it is sufficiently flexible to be sent mechanically through the printer. The material may be any size or shape as long as it can be sent in a printer. In an exemplary embodiment, the material is 8.5 inches x 11 inches (letter size), 8.5 inches x 14 inches (legal size), 11 inches x 17 inches, 11 inches x 25.5 inches, 14 inches. X25.5 inches, or A4. By including perforations or separation lines in large size paper, the perforations or separation lines can be used to separate the sheet into two or more pieces. The two or more pieces are sent through a printer. In this way, if the user does not have a printer capable of receiving 11 inch × 17 inch paper, for example, a centerline perforation is included in the versatile structure, and the perforation is used. By separating the paper, two letter-size sheets can be obtained, which allows the versatile structure to be imprinted using printing equipment available to the user. In another embodiment, by including perforations or separation lines in a 11 inch × 25.5 inch size versatile structure, the user can separate the versatile structure using the perforations or separation line to 3 Two letter size sheets are available for imprinting. In yet another embodiment, by including a perforation or separation line in a 14 inch x 25.5 inch size versatile structure, the user can use the perforation or separation line to separate the versatile structure. Three legal size sheets can be obtained as imprint targets.

  The printer used with the present invention can be any printing device capable of receiving and internally feeding the versatile sheet. For example, the printer can be a home printer or an office printer (eg, a personal printer or a desktop printer, or a large stand-alone multifunction printer (eg, as commonly found in offices)). The printer may be an inkjet printer, laser printer, wide format plotter, copier, litho printer, or any other suitable type of printer. The printer may be a standard printing press, a digital printing device or a variable printing device. Since the multi-use structure is intended to be used by consumers at home, the multi-use structure and software used with the multi-use structure can be optimized for use with a desktop printer. The printer may be of a type capable of printing only one side of the versatile sheet or only both sides of the sheet. The multi-use structure can also be imprinted on the digital printing press or any other type of printer along with the customizations, so that the user can use the available printers to customize the customizations. Can be imprinted on the structure.

  Printing and imprinting can be performed in multiple stages (also referred to herein as instances). In the first stage, the manufacturer can print information on the versatile structure during or after manufacture of the structure. In the second stage, a user (eg, a gift sender) can imprint information on the multi-use structure. In a third stage, another user (eg, gift recipient) can imprint further information onto the multi-use structure. A gift recipient (or gift recipient) may need to imprint further information on the multi-use structure after receiving the multi-use structure from the gift sender. For example, when the substitute banknote is activated using the website described in this specification, a contest entry option may be given to the gift recipient. If the gift recipient wins the contest, the website requests that additional information (eg, information related to contest prizes) be imprinted on the multi-use structure in the third imprint stage. Or may be desired by the gift recipient.

  In an exemplary embodiment, the round trip letter portion may be a greeting card. The greeting card may include two leaves. The two leaves can be folded along a fold line. In other embodiments, the greeting card may include three, four or more leaves and a plurality of fold lines. After the reciprocal letter portion is removed from the sheet, the card is folded by the leaf and a plurality of folding lines. In another embodiment, the round trip letter portion may be a postcard.

  In an exemplary embodiment, the substitute banknote is a gift card. In another embodiment, the substitute banknote may be a gift certificate or a coupon. The proxy bill may be any non-money certificate and can be redeemed for currency, goods, or service value. Examples of currencies include loyalty points or reward points that a user can earn through the use of a public currency (eg, US dollars) or a website or other shopping service. The surrogate bills can be two-dimensional or flat and often require no folding or other assembly after removal from the sheet. The proxy bill may include one or more identifiers. Funds loaded on the one or more identifiers or by the one or more identifiers (ie, gift senders), gift recipients, retailers, manufacturers, card issuers, banks, cards, or Data associated with funds added to the card account, as well as goods or services selected as gifts, may be encoded. Suitable identifiers include magnetic stripes, embedded microchips, bar codes, quick response (QR) codes, gift card numbers, alphanumeric numbers and hexadecimal numbers. Retailers, manufacturers, banks, card issuers and card processors use the information encoded on the identifier or the information encoded by the identifier to make purchases made using the substitute bill. Can authenticate and mediate. To track consumer shopping preferences and preferences (specifically, locations where gift senders and gift recipients used substitute bills in connection with the online shopping website that is part of the present invention) Information encoded on a banknote or information encoded by a substitute banknote may be used by retailers, manufacturers, banks, card issuers and card processors.

  In one embodiment, the substitute banknote may include an adhesive on at least one surface. The adhesive is used when the substitute banknote is attached to a removable component (for example, an envelope or a part for reciprocating letters). The adhesive can be a rewetable adhesive, a pressure sensitive adhesive, or any other adhesive suitable for use in attaching the substitute bill material to other removable component materials. In another embodiment, by inserting two or more of the corners of the substitute bill into slots or holes formed in the removable component, the substitute bill is inserted into the removable component. Can be fixed to one of them. For example, if the round trip letter portion is a greeting card consisting of two foldable leaves, the round trip letter portion may include four slots. When the substitute banknote is a gift card, the four slots are formed on the inner surface of one of the leaves and are positioned to receive the four corners of the substitute banknote.

  Each sheet of the multi-use structure may also include a frame. The at least two removable components are attached to the frame. The removable component is removable from the frame. In embodiments where the versatile structure does not include a frame, the removable components can be connected to each other and removed from each other. The frame may be blank or may include a colored area (eg, a gray area). The colored area assists the user in recognizing a site to be removed from around the removable component. The frame may also include directions or symbols. The direction or symbol instructs the user about the direction of the surface and edge of the sheet that should be loaded first into the printer when the user's customization is imprinted on the sheet. After the step of imprinting the customizations on one surface of the sheet, software or a printer removes the imprinted sheet from the user and redirects and inserts it into the printer again. Is notified or instructed to imprint the customization content selected as an imprint target on the back side of the sheet (provided that such customization content exists). In other embodiments, the removable component may form an entire seat and no frame is included within the versatile structure.

  The removable component may further include an envelope piece. In an embodiment of a versatile structure that includes a frame, the envelope piece is removable from the frame. In an embodiment of a versatile structure that does not include a frame, the envelope piece is removable from other removable components. In some embodiments, the envelope piece may be formed from the entire sheet of the versatile structure. The envelope piece may be a part of a sheet including a reciprocating letter portion and a substitute bill.

  The envelope piece may include a plurality of foldable leaves and a sticking region. The plurality of foldable leaves and sticking regions are used when the envelope pieces are assembled into an envelope shape. In one embodiment, the application area may include a wax paper coating or other coating. When it becomes necessary to use the sticking area (for example, when assembling and sealing an envelope or envelope piece), the adhesive can be exposed by peeling off the wax paper covering portion or other covering portion. One of the plurality of foldable leaves may form an envelope lid. The envelope lid includes a sticking area on one surface used for sealing the envelope. The envelope further includes a pocket in the assembled state. In embodiments of the two-layer materials of the present invention that adhere to the two-layer type and other multilayer states, the pockets can be formed as follows or pre-formed at the time of manufacture. In an exemplary embodiment, when the plurality of layers form an envelope pocket, the plurality of layers are adhered by an adhesive only on three sides. The fourth side is open and serves as an entry for content that the user wishes to deliver in the envelope. The assembled envelope is sized and shaped such that the reciprocating letter portion and substitute bills can be inserted into the pocket structure for mailing to a gift recipient.

  In one embodiment, the envelope piece may include a central back panel. The central back panel is flanked by a first side panel and a second side panel, an upper lid portion, and a lower front portion. The central back panel, the first side panel, the second side panel, the upper lid portion, and the lower front portion each include a front surface and a back surface. e When the envelope piece is removed from the sheet, the sheet, the first side panel, and the second side panel are each folded to fold the first side panel and the second side panel It can be arranged in contact with the front surface of the central back panel. Thereafter, the lower front part can be folded upward and fixed to the first side panel and the second side panel with an adhesive. The adhesive may be provided on two side edges of the lower front part or on the back surfaces of the first side panel and the second side panel, whereby the side panel and the lower front part Are folded and assembled, the envelope pieces can be fixed together by the adhesive. The front surface of the upper lid portion may also include an adhesive. After the envelope is assembled and the contents are inserted into the envelope, the lid portion of the envelope can be sealed to the rear surface of the lower front portion using the adhesive. The back surface of the central back panel forms the back surface of the assembled envelope and may include spaces or blank lines. The space or blank line is used when entering or imprinting a delivery address and a return address and a mark indicating a place where the postage stamp should be fixed.

  The removable component may further include a postage stamp (eg, a US postage stamp). The postage stamp can be secured on the envelope as a postage stamp paid for mailing the envelope and its enclosure. The enclosure is one or more of other assembled removable components. In another embodiment, instead of imprinting a separate stamp as a removable component and then securing it to the envelope, the stamp can be pre-printed directly on the envelope piece, or It can also be imprinted on the envelope piece by the user.

  In addition to the round trip letter portion, substitute bills and envelopes, the removable component of the versatile structure may also include a coupon. The user or recipient can use the coupon to obtain goods or services at a discounted price or to obtain free goods or services sold or manufactured by a particular retailer or manufacturer. .

  In one embodiment, the removable component of the versatile structure may include one or more product stamps that represent a gift expression. The product stamp may be provided as part of the multi-use structure and may take the form of a stamp, sticker or label, from the gift sender by securing the product stamp to the round-trip letter portion or substitute bill The gift recipient can be provided with visual identification information of the gift to be presented. The gift expression displayed on the front of each product stamp may include text (eg, words, numbers or type marks), a symbol or image that identifies the gift. For example, if the gift presented to the gift recipient is cash, the gift recipient can attach a number of product stamps representing a gift representation in the form of a particular dollar amount to the round-trip letter or substitute bill. In another example, if a particular item is presented as a gift, the multi-use structure may include a number of product stamps that show a gift expression showing an image or text that identifies the item that is a gift. The service can be specified in the same way using the product stamp indicating the gift expression.

  The versatile structure may also include instructions for folding and assembling the removable component into each final piece. For example, there is an instruction to fold the round-trip letter part to form a greeting card or an instruction to fold and assemble the envelope piece to produce an envelope. The instructions may be part of the versatile seat frame or a separate removable component. The instructions can be text, schematic diagrams, or combinations thereof.

  The versatile structure may also include a removable component that is a record list. The record list may include a series of lines or cells. In the series of lines or cells, the payee can write or obtain purchases made using the voucher, thereby tracking the remaining value of the funds on the proxy bill. The record list may be similar to the check record list generally described in a check passbook. In an exemplary embodiment, a record of funds that can be used on a substitute bill is also stored and can be accessed online via a website.

  The versatile structure may also include removable components. The removable component is a business card. The business card may be a single panel type two-dimensional piece and does not require folding. Alternatively, the business card may be a multi-panel foldable expandable business card (eg, as described in US patent application Ser. No. 11 / 365,071). In this specification, the entire document is incorporated by reference. The multi-purpose structure substitute banknote can also be constructed as a removable component, in which case the assembled substitute banknote can be expanded in the same or similar manner with the expandable business card.

  In an exemplary embodiment, multiple versatile structures can be packaged into a single package and distributed to users. A versatile package may be flat. The versatile package can be used as desired by the user in various situations and in making gifts for various gift recipients. In this embodiment, the versatile structure can be blank and contain little pre-printed information (eg, images or text). In this way, the user can select his own customizations or stock images and text. The stock images and text, software and services for the purpose of customizing the multi-use sheet for birthdays, holidays, anniversaries and greeting cards and any other situation where it is appropriate to send gifts Available through the provider.

  Distribution of a single multi-use structure or multi-use package to consumers may be done by direct mail, by order or request from the consumer, or at a retail store. However, it can be done through distribution by inserting the multi-use structure into other publications, or it can be done by packaging the multi-use structure with other articles. In an exemplary embodiment, the multi-use structure package may be shrink wrapped. However, in other embodiments, other known packaging methods and materials as well as currently unknown packaging methods and materials may be utilized.

  Maximum number of multi-use structures that can be packaged in accordance with US Postal Service (“USPS”) direct mail manual specifications and flat rate standard mail according to USPS flat rate standard mail legislation The sheet can be formatted so that To comply with USPS legislation and specifications applicable to USPS flat rate standard mail, a versatile package may be at least about 6 inches wide by 5 inches long with a radius corner of about 0.125 inches Has a round part. The packaged versatile structure should not exceed about 0.75 inches thick from any edge of the package. Since the multi-use structure package is flexible, the package can be bent by 1 inch from any edge, and the bending does not affect the inclusions in the package. The versatile package also has a uniform thickness so that the thickness of the package does not change more than 1/4 inch due to any bumps, protrusions or other irregularities. These dimensions minimize the expense of stamps for mailing each package of a versatile structure. The paper that is the component material of the multi-use structure may be of almost any weight, but in an exemplary embodiment, 50 lb. Or 60 lb base weight uncoated book paper, or 20 lb. Or 24 lb. The base weight of the bond weight paper. 24 lb. Bond paper or the 60 lb. With 30 uncoated book paper, 30 versatile structures, each containing a single sheet, can be packaged in a single package and delivered or distributed to consumers as a standard USPS flat rate post can do. When using lighter paper (eg, the 20 lb. bond paper or the 50 lb. uncoated book paper), package over 30 versatile structures and use the USPS flat rate standard mail to the consumer Can be mailed.

  At the time of manufacture and packaging, each package in a versatile structure can be personalized with a different consumer name and address. The first or last versatile structure of a set of matched versatile structures in the package can be encoded with a readable mark. The readable mark is printed on the package. When the readable mark is scanned by manufacturing and packaging equipment or other digital or electronic recognition is performed on the readable mark, the readable mark is used to separate the versatile The structure can be split to obtain multiple matched sets. Each matched versatile structure set can then be packaged by method and material (eg, shrink wrap or polyethylene bagging), resulting in individual packages of versatile structures that are mailed to the consumer. It is done. The consumer's mailing address may be printed on the surface of the package by inkjet or another printing method, or may be printed on one of the packaged multi-use structures. Alternatively, or alternatively, it may be printed on a separate sheet of material packaged on top of the versatile structure. The mailing address may be secured to the package surface on the label.

Other embodiments

  While the invention has been described in conjunction with the detailed description, it is understood that the above description is illustrative and not restrictive of the scope of the invention. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. Other aspects, advantages, and modifications are within the scope of the claims.

Claims (56)

A multi-use structure comprising a single sheet, the sheet comprising:
At least two removable components;
Including
The at least two removable components are:
A round-trip letter part;
Substitute bills,
including,
Multi-use structure.   The seat of claim 1, further comprising a frame, wherein the at least two removable components can be attached to the frame and the at least two removable components can be removed from the frame. The versatile structure described.   The multi-use structure of claim 1, wherein the round-trip letter portion includes a greeting card.   The multi-use structure of claim 1, wherein the round-trip letter portion includes a postcard.   The at least two removable components further include at least one customizable component, and a wallet-sized photo that fits a wallet by imprinting a photo on the at least one customizable component. The versatile structure of claim 1, wherein:   The versatile structure of claim 1, wherein the at least two removable components further comprise an envelope piece.   The envelope piece includes a plurality of foldable leaves and sticking regions, and the plurality of foldable leaves and sticking regions are used when the envelope pieces are assembled into an envelope form. The versatile structure described.   The envelope piece further includes one of the plurality of foldable leaves, and one of the plurality of foldable leaves includes an envelope lid portion and a sticking region on one surface of the envelope lid portion. The multi-use structure according to claim 7, which functions as a seal and is used for sealing the envelope.   The multi-use structure according to claim 1, wherein the substitute banknote includes a gift card.   The multipurpose structure according to claim 1, wherein the substitute banknote includes a gift certificate.   The multi-use structure according to claim 1, wherein the substitute bill includes a coupon.   The multi-use structure of claim 1, wherein the substitute banknote includes an optional non-money certificate, and the optional non-money certificate is redeemable for valuable currency, goods, or services.   The versatile structure of claim 1, wherein the sheet includes a separation line along which the removable component can be separated.   The versatile structure of claim 13, wherein the separation line includes a perforation.   The versatile structure of claim 1, wherein the sheet includes a first surface, a second surface, an upper edge, a lower edge, and two side edges.   The multi-sheet according to claim 15, wherein the sheet includes preprinted information, and the preprinted information is printed on at least one of the first surface and the second surface. Application structure.   The said at least two removable components include a customizable space on which the user can imprint or fix his own customizations. Multi-use structure.   The customization includes at least one imprinted item, written item, drawn item, embossed item, or fixed item, the item including text, images, symbols, labels, and 18. A versatile structure according to claim 17, selected from the group consisting of stamps.   The multi-use structure of claim 6, wherein the sheet further includes a postage stamp, the postage stamp being able to be secured to the envelope as a postage stamp paid for mailing the envelope and its enclosure.   The multi-use structure according to claim 17, wherein the user can imprint the customization using a software program and a printer.   21. A multi-use structure according to claim 20, wherein the software program is installed on a computer.   21. A multi-use structure according to claim 20, wherein the software program is accessible on a remote server via a communication network.   21. The multi-use structure of claim 20, wherein the software program includes each sheet of the multi-use structure generated by a computer.   24. The multi-use structure of claim 23, wherein each multi-use structure includes a structure identification number, wherein the structure identification number uniquely identifies the multi-use structure.   The software program is accessible via a website, the website including a data field, in which the user can enter a structure identification number of the versatile structure, the versatile structure The software program populates the computer program with personal information associated with the user stored on a remote database in each sheet of the multi-use structure generated by the computer. 25. A versatile structure according to claim 24, which makes it possible to do so.   The multi-use structure of claim 1, wherein the multi-use structure includes a plurality of sheets, each sheet including at least two removable components.   The multi-use structure of claim 1, wherein the multi-use structure is packaged to form a single pack suitable for distribution to a user.   The packaged multi-use structure includes a flat package, the flat package being about 6 inches wide by about 5 inches long and having rounded corners with a radius of about 0.125 inches. And the thickness from an arbitrary edge of the package is about 0.75 inch or more, and is flexible enough to be able to be bent by 1 inch from the arbitrary edge of the package, The inclusions in the package are not affected by bending, and the package can be of uniform thickness, so that the thickness of the package is reduced to about 1/4 inch due to any bumps, protrusions or other irregularities. 28. A versatile structure according to claim 27, wherein the structure is not changed beyond.   The versatile structure of claim 1, wherein the single sheet comprises two layers of paper that are stretched together.   The versatile structure of claim 1, wherein the single sheet comprises three layers of paper that are stretched together.   The multi-use structure of claim 1, wherein the single sheet comprises more than one layer of paper that are stretched together.   32. The versatile structure of claim 31, wherein an envelope including a pocket is formed between two layers of the plurality of layers of paper.   The multi-use structure of claim 1, wherein the at least two removable components include one or more product stamps.   34. The multi-use structure of claim 33, wherein each of the one or more product stamps includes a gift expression.   35. The versatile structure of claim 34, wherein the gift representation includes a visual or textual description of a gift item or gift service that is gifted from a gift sender to a gift recipient.   The versatile structure of claim 1, wherein the removable component further comprises a coupon. A multi-use structure comprising a single sheet, the sheet comprising:
At least one removable component, wherein the at least one removable component comprises an envelope piece;
Including a single sheet.   The multi-use structure according to claim 37, wherein the envelope piece includes a plurality of leaves and a sticking region, and an envelope can be created by assembling the plurality of leaves and the sticking region.   38. The versatile structure of claim 37, wherein the sheet includes at least two layers, the envelope piece includes a fully assembled envelope, and the fully assembled envelope is removable from the sheet.   40. The versatile structure of claim 39, wherein the envelope includes a pocket formed in a space between the two layers of the sheet, the two layers being stuck together on three sides.   A multi-use structure including at least one sheet, wherein the at least one sheet includes at least one removable component and a structure identification number, the structure identification number being input to software as input data And thereby the software is configured to output data as an imprint target on the multi-use structure by a printer.   42. The multi-use structure of claim 41, wherein the software includes a website accessible via a communication network.   42. The multi-use structure according to claim 41, wherein the output data includes text, designs or images.   The at least one removable component includes at least one item, the at least one item comprising a round-trip letter portion, a substitute bill, an envelope piece, an envelope, a product stamp, a postage stamp, a coupon, a registration, a business card, 42. The versatile structure of claim 41, selected from the group consisting of: and customizable components. A method of using a versatile structure,
(A) providing an imprintable multi-use structure, wherein the imprintable multi-use structure includes a structure identification number printed on the imprintable multi-use structure and a customizable space; Including steps, and
(B) inputting the structure identification number as a first input into a data field of a website;
(C) transmitting the structure identification number from the website to a remote server via a communication network;
(D) associating the transmitted structure identification number with the corresponding multi-use structure generated by a computer using a software program installed on the remote server, which is generated by the computer The corresponding multi-use structure is stored on the remote server; and
(E) displaying the multi-use structure generated by the computer on a display screen of the computer via the website, wherein the multi-use structure generated by the computer is generated by the computer Steps, including customizable space;
(F) selecting, via the website, data to be added to the customizable space generated by the computer to customize the versatile structure generated by the computer;
(G) populating the computer-generated customizable space with data selected via the website;
(H) imprinting the data added to the customizable space generated by the computer using a printer on the customizable space of the multi-use structure;
Including a method.   46. The method of claim 45, wherein the method includes a plurality of multi-use structures, all having the same structure identification number printed on the same multi-use structure, and different multi-use structures include different structure identification numbers. Method.   49. The method of claim 46, wherein each versatile structure includes two or more sheets, all on the same sheet printed with the same structure identification number, and different sheets include different structure identification numbers.   46. The method of claim 45, wherein the method provides a plurality of multi-use structures, each of the plurality of multi-use structures including a unique unique structure identification number.   The data includes at least one item, wherein the at least one item is selected from the group consisting of text, symbols, images, photos, personal information of a user, and personal information of a person other than the user. The method described in 1. (I) requesting the user to log in to the website before entering the structure identification number as a first input;
(J) associating the user's account with personal information compiled in a database;
(K) using the user's personal information to populate the customizable space generated by the computer with data imprintable on the customizable space of the multi-use structure;
46. The method of claim 45, further comprising: (L) uploading data to the website, wherein the data populates the computer generated customizable space used for imprinting the versatile structure into the customizable space; Steps used when
46. The method of claim 45, further comprising: (M) adjusting the printer settings based on the structure identification number entered on the website so as to optimize the printer used for imprinting the versatile structure onto the customizable space; Step to do,
46. The method of claim 45, further comprising: A method of delivering a round-trip letter part from a user to a recipient,
(A) providing a website accessible via a communication network, through which the user registers an account, and the registration provides personal information associated with the user; Personal information associated with the user is stored in a remote database, and the remote database is communicatively connected to the website; and
(B) Each time the user visits the website, the user is requested to log in to the user's account on the website, whereby the user using the website and the database Associating with said user's personal information of:
(C) providing a plurality of virtual e-cards, wherein the user can select a virtual e-card to be sent to a recipient from among the plurality of virtual e-cards;
(D) providing a software program tool on the website, wherein the software program tool allows the user to generate a computer-generated customization, and the computer-generated customization Content is added to the virtual ecard selected by the user; and
(E) providing a multi-use structure, the multi-use structure comprising a printed structure identification number and a customizable space;
(F) inputting the structure identification number in a data field of the website as a first input;
(G) transmitting the structural identification number through the website to the remote server via the communication network;
(H) associating the transmitted structure identification number with an imprint command using a software program installed on the remote server, wherein the imprint command is input to the website; Optimized for the structure identification number transmitted by the user and the versatile structure associated with the transmitted;
(I) imprinting the computer-generated customization added to the user-selected virtual ecard on the multi-use structure, the multi-use structure being at least one removable The at least one removable component includes a reciprocal letter portion,
(J) physically delivering the round-trip letter portion to the recipient;
(K) electronically delivering the virtual ecard to the recipient;
Including a method.   54. The method of claim 53, wherein the at least one removable component further includes a substitute bill, the substitute bill being imprintable and deliverable to the recipient. (L) funding the substitute banknotes, wherein the funding is performed by authenticating the fund transfer via the website,
55. The method of claim 54, further comprising:   54. The method of claim 53, wherein the virtual e-card further includes a virtual proxy bill, and the virtual proxy bill can be funded and electronically transmitted via the website.

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