Patent Publication Number: US-7584558-B2

Title: Financial transaction card with pop-up member

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation of and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 11/615,861, entitled “FINANCIAL TRANSACTION CARD WITH POP-UP MEMBER,” having a filing date of Dec. 22, 2006, which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Stored-value cards and other financial transactions cards come in many forms. A gift card, for example, is a type of stored-value card that includes pre-loaded or selectively loaded monetary value. In one example, a consumer buys a gift card having a specified value for presentation as a gift to another person. In another example, a consumer is offered a gift card as an incentive to make a purchase. A gift card, like other stored-value cards, can be “recharged” or “reloaded” at the direction of the bearer. The balance associated with the gift card declines as the gift card is used, encouraging repeat visits to the retailer or other provider issuing the gift card. Additionally, the gift card generally remains in the user&#39;s purse or wallet, serving as an advertisement or reminder to revisit the associated retailer. Gift cards provide a number of advantages to both the consumer and the retailer. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     One aspect of the present invention relates to a financial transaction card including an account identifier, a panel, and a plurality of pop-up members. The account identifier links the financial transaction card to at least one of a financial account or a financial record and is readily readable by a point-of-sale terminal. The plurality of pop-up members are each coupled with one of the panel and another one of the plurality of pop-up members. Each of the plurality of pop-up members is configured to transition between a collapsed position and an extended position. The financial transaction card is substantially flat when the plurality of pop-up members are each in the collapsed position, and the plurality of pop-up members each extend outwardly from the panel in the extended position. Other related products and methods are also disclosed and provide additional advantages. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Embodiments of the invention will be described with respect to the figures, in which like reference numerals denote like elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view illustrating a stored-value card in an open position, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a front view illustrating the stored-value card of  FIG. 1  in the open position, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  is a rear view illustrating the stored-value card of  FIG. 1  in the open position, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a right side view illustrating the stored-value card of  FIG. 1  the an open position, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a left side view illustrating the stored-value card of  FIG. 1  in the open position, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a top view illustrating the stored-value card of  FIG. 1  in the open position, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a bottom view illustrating the stored-value card of  FIG. 1  in the open position, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view illustrating the stored-value card of  FIG. 1  in a closed position, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 9  is an exploded perspective view illustrating the stored-value card of  FIG. 1 , according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a front view illustrating one embodiment of an unfolded backer for supporting a stored-value card, according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 11  is a rear view illustrating the unfolded backer of  FIG. 10  with a stored-value card to form a stored-value card assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a flow chart illustrating a method of assembling a stored-value card assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 13  is a flow chart illustrating a method of encouraging purchase and facilitating use of a stored-value card assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14  is a flow chart illustrating a method of using a stored-value card, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view illustrating a stored-value card in an open position, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view illustrating a stored-value card in an open position, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Gift cards, e.g., stored-value cards, or other financial transaction cards are adapted for making purchases of goods and/or services at e.g., a retail store or website. According to one embodiment, an original consumer buys a stored-value card to give a recipient who in turn is able to use the stored-value card at a retail store or setting to pay for goods and/or services. A stored-value card, according to embodiments of the present invention, provides the consumer and recipient with extra amusement due to a pop-up feature of the stored-value card in addition to the ability to pay for goods and/or services with the stored-value card. 
     Turning to the figures,  FIGS. 1-7  illustrate various views of a stored-value card  10  in an open position and  FIG. 8  illustrates stored-value card  10  in a closed position, according to one embodiment of the present invention. The stored-value card  10  includes a first member or substrate  12  and an auxiliary member or cover  14 . Substrate  12  provides overall rigidity to stored-value card  10  and supports cover  14 . Cover  14  is coupled to substrate  12  and is foldable between an open position (as illustrated in  FIGS. 1-7 ) and a closed position (as illustrated in  FIG. 8 ). In one embodiment, at least one pop-up member  16  is coupled with cover  14  and is configured to transition from a relatively flat position when cover  14  is closed to a more three-dimensional position when cover  14  is opened and vice versa. The pop-up feature of stored-value card  10  both amuses and attracts the attention of a card bearer or other surrounding individuals. Due at least in part to the amusement and attractiveness of the pop-up member  16 , the stored-value card  10  generally promotes the sale and continued use of stored-value card  10 . 
     Primarily referring to the illustrations of  FIGS. 3 and 9 , substrate  12  is generally a panel defining a first surface  20  ( FIG. 9 ) and a second surface  22  opposite the first surface  20 . Second surface  22  is substantially planar, and in one embodiment, first and second surfaces  20  and  22  are both substantially planar. In one embodiment, substrate  12  is substantially rectangular in shape and sized similarly to an identification card, a credit card, or other card sized to fit in a wallet of a card bearer. In particular, in one embodiment, substrate  12  is about 8.5 cm long, about 5.5 cm wide, and less than about 1 mm thick. In other embodiments, substrate  12  is otherwise shaped as a square, circle, oval, star, or any other suitable shape. 
     Substrate  12  is formed of a somewhat rigid yet flexible material similar to that commonly used for identification cards, credit cards, etc. More specifically, in one embodiment, substrate  12  is formed of paper, cardstock, plastic, e.g. polycarbonate, polystyrene, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or other suitable material. In one embodiment, substrate  12  is formed of injected molded plastic or cut from sheet-stock plastic material. Accordingly, substrate  12  is one example of means for supporting at least cover  14  and pop-up member  16 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , cover  14  comprises a single layer or multiple layers of paper or plastic material, for example, generally in the form of a relatively stiff but bendable/flexible card defining an inside surface  30  and an outside surface  32 . In one embodiment, cover  14  includes a fold line  34  and is configured to transition between an open position (e.g., the partially open position of  FIG. 1 ) and a closed position ( FIG. 8 ) when folded about fold line  34 . In one example, cover  14  is a bi-fold substrate and defines a first cover panel  36  and a second cover panel  38  on opposite sides of fold line  34 . Other means of hingedly connecting first cover panel  36  and  38  other than with a integrally formed fold line  34  are also contemplated. For instance, in one embodiment, first and second cover panels  36  and  38  are separately formed and hingedly coupled with one another to define fold line  34  along a resulting boundary line. In one example, first and second cover panels  36  and  38  are substantially similar in size with fold line  34  extending therebetween. In this manner, cover  14  transitions from a substantially flat, open position to a bi-folded, closed position. More specifically, to close cover  14 , inside surface  30  of first cover panel  36  is rotated or folded toward inside surface  30  of second cover panel  38 . In one example, fold line  34  is one of a plurality of fold lines (not shown) defined by cover  14 . 
     In one embodiment, cover  14  displays indicia, graphics, or text information including store logo(s), store name(s), slogans, advertising, instructions, directions, brand indicia, promotional information, holiday indicia, seasonal indicia, media format identifiers, characters, and/or other information. For example, inside surface  30  of cover  14  includes indicia  40  configured to associate cover  14  with a particular event, occasion, season, promotion, and/or to visually correspond cover  14  with other portions of stored-value card  10  such as pop-up member  16  as will be further described below. 
     Additionally referring to  FIG. 5 , outside surface  32  of cover  14  may also include any suitable indicia such as decorative indicia  42 . In one example, outside surface  32  of first cover panel  36  includes indicia  42  while outside surface  32  of second cover panel is substantially left blank. In one embodiment, decorative indicia  42  are configured to correspond at least somewhat with indicia  40 . In one example, indicia  42  provide instructions facilitating use of stored-value card  10  for amusement purposes. For instance, indicia  42  may include the phrase “Open me,” similar instructions, and/or other related graphics. 
     Referring primarily to  FIGS. 1 and 9 , in one embodiment, stored-value card  10  includes an auxiliary or pop-up member  16  in the form of a relatively stiff but bendable/flexible card defining an inside surface  52  and an outside surface  54 . Pop-up member  16  is configured to be coupled with inside surface  30  of cover  14  such that pop-up member  16  extends outwardly from inside surface  30  when cover  14  is in an open position and collapses or folds down when cover  14  is closed such that pop-up member  16  can be maintained in a folded, relatively flat configuration between inside surface  30  of first and second panels  36  and  38  of cover  14 . 
     Pop-up member  16  can be formed in any number of configurations as will be apparent to one of skill in the art upon reading this application. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 1-9 , pop-up member  16  is generally elongated to define a first longitudinal end  56  and a second longitudinal end  58  opposite one another, and has a length and width that are each less than a length and width of cover  14 . Pop-up member  16  includes a plurality of fold lines  60 , which generally divide pop-up member  16  into a plurality of portions. 
     In particular, in one example, the plurality of fold lines  60  include a first, second, and third fold line  62 ,  64 , and  66 , respectively, which extend parallel to and are longitudinally spaced from one another along pop-up member  16 . First fold line  62  is relatively near first longitudinal end  56 , third fold line  66  is relatively near second longitudinal end  58 , and second fold line  64  is positioned between first and third fold lines  62  and  66 . As such, a first portion  70  of pop-up member  16  is defined between first longitudinal end  56  and first fold line  62 , a second portion  72  of pop-up member  16  is defined between first and second fold lines  62  and  64 , a third portion  74  of pop-up member  16  is defined between second and third fold lines  64  and  66 , and a fourth portion  76  of pop-up member  16  is defined between third fold line  66  and second longitudinal end  58 . 
     In one embodiment, outside surface  54  of pop-up member  16  includes indicia  80  configured to complement or otherwise correspond with indicia  40  on inside surface  30  of cover  14 . For instance, where indicia  40  on cover  14  depict a plurality of balloons, outside surface  54  of pop-up member  16  may also include a plurality of balloons and/or a subject holding or otherwise surrounded by balloons such that the images of indicia  40  and  80  collectively define a visual scene. In one example, longitudinal edges  82  and  84  of pop-up member  16  are cut-out or otherwise formed to outline or correspond with the shapes depicted by indicia  80 . As such, longitudinal edges  82  and  84  may be substantially non-linear. In other embodiments, indicia  40  and  80  may be eliminated. 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 , in one embodiment, stored-value card  10  includes an account identifier  90 , such as a barcode, a magnetic strip, a smart chip or other electronic device, a radio frequency identification (RFID) device, or other suitable identifier readily readable by a point-of-sale terminal, account access station, kiosk, or other suitable device. In one embodiment, account identifier  90  is printed on or otherwise applied to second surface  22  of substrate  12 . Account identifier  90  indicates a financial account or record to which stored-value card  10  is linked. The financial account or record of the monetary balance on stored-value card  10  optionally is maintained on a database, other electronic or manual record-keeping system, or, in the case of “smart” cards for example, on a chip or other electronic device on/in stored-value card  10  itself. Accordingly, by scanning account identifier  90 , a financial account or record linked to stored-value card  10  is identified and can subsequently be activated, have amounts debited therefrom, and/or have amounts added thereto. Account identifier  90  is one example of means for associating stored-value card  10  with a financial account or a financial record. 
     Stored-value card  10  may also include redemption indicia  92  such as, for example, on second surface  22  of substrate  12 . Redemption indicia  92  indicate that stored-value card  10  is redeemable for the purchase of goods and/or services and that, upon use, a value of the purchased goods and/or services will be deducted from the financial account or record linked to stored-value card  10 . In one embodiment, redemption indicia  92  include phrases such as “&lt;NAME OF STORE&gt; GiftCard” and “This GiftCard is redeemable for merchandise or services at any of our stores or at our website,” and/or provides help or phone line information in the case of a lost, stolen, or damaged stored-value card, etc. 
     In one example, stored-vale card  10  includes brand indicia  94  ( FIG. 5 ) identifying a store, brand, department, etc. and/or services associated with substrate  12 . In one example, brand indicia  94  relate to a retailer configured to accept stored-value card  10  as payment for goods and/or services. In one embodiment, brand indicia  94  are included any one or more of substrate  12 , cover  14 , and pop-up member  16 . Any of indicia  40 ,  80 ,  92 , and  94  or other indicia optionally may appear anywhere on stored-value card  10 . Additional information besides that specifically described and illustrated herein may also be included. 
     During assembly, pop-up member  16  is coupled with cover  14 , more specifically, with inside surface  30  of cover  14 . In one embodiment, inside surface  52  of first portion  70  is coupled with inside surface  30  of first cover panel  36 , and inside surface  52  of fourth portion  76  is coupled with inside surface  30  of second cover panel  38  as illustrated with reference to  FIGS. 1-7  and  9 . In one example, second and third portions  72  and  74  are not directly coupled with cover  14 , and rather, are only coupled with cover  14  via their association with first and fourth portions  70  and  76 . With this assembly in mind, second and third portions  72  and  74  are each configured to fold out away from inside surface  30  of cover  14  about fold lines  62  and  64 , respectively. In one embodiment, second and third portions  72  and  74  each fold away from inside surface  30  with an angle (generally indicated at A 1  in  FIGS. 6 and 7 ) that is relatively small when cover  14  is open, but which becomes relatively large, in one example, approaching 180°, when cover  14  is closed. 
     To facilitate transitioning or folding of pop-up member  16  between open and closed positions, pop-up member  16  generally folds about second fold line  64  in the opposite direction as pop-up member  16  folds about first and third fold lines  62  and  66 . More specifically, second portion  72  and third portion  74  of pop-up member  16  are configured to fold such that their inside surfaces  52  ( FIGS. 6 ,  7 , and  9 ) are moved toward each other as cover  14  is closed. In one example, when cover  14  is closed, inside surface  52  of second portion  72  of pop-up member  16  interfaces with or abuts inside surface  52  of third portion  74  of pop-up member  16 . As such, in one example, an angle (generally indicated at A 2  in  FIGS. 6 and 7 ) generally transitions from a relatively large angle when cover  14  is open to a relatively small angle when cover  14  is closed. In this manner, in one embodiment, the size of angle A 1  is inversely proportionate to the size of angle A 2 . 
     Either prior to or subsequent to coupling cover  14  with pop-up member  16 , in one example, cover  14  is coupled with substrate  12 . In particular, as illustrated with reference to  FIG. 9 , outside surface  32  of second cover panel  38  is adhered to or otherwise coupled with first surface  20  of substrate  12 . In one example, second cover panel  38  is similar in size and shape to substrate  12  such that, upon assembly, second cover panel  38  substantially entirely covers first surface  20  of substrate  12 . Such assembly of cover  14  with substrate  12  bolsters the overall strength and rigidity of stored-value card  10 , thereby decreasing the amount of noticeable wear of stored-value card  10 . In one embodiment, substrate  12  is formed of a plastic or similar member having greater strength than the material from which cover  14  is formed. In this manner, substrate  12  provides rigidity to stored-value card  10  while the lesser strength and greater flexibility of cover  14  and pop-up member  16  allow for more detailed and intricate cuts and effects to be created than if stored-value card  10  where made entirely of a single type of material. In one embodiment, substrate  12  is eliminated. 
     Once assembled, stored-value card  10  is configured such that when cover  14  is in the closed position, pop-up member  16  is folded relatively flat (e.g., is collapsed) such that pop-up member  16  is interposed between inside surfaces  30  of first and second cover panels  36  and  38  during storage and periods of non-use. When first cover panel  36  is rotated about fold line  34  to transition cover  14  toward the open position, pop-up member  16  hinges about fold lines  62 ,  64 , and  66  to extend outwardly away from inside surface  30  of cover, in other words, pop-up member  16  pops-up from cover  14 . In one embodiment, when pop-up member  16  hinges about fold lines  62 ,  64 , and  66  to extend outwardly away from inside surface  30  of cover, angles A 1  defined thereby decrease and angle A 2  increases. 
     As generally illustrated in  FIG. 9 , in one embodiment, at least during packaging and prior to first use, stored-value card  10  is provided with a sticker  96 . Sticker  96  is configured to maintain stored-value card  10 , more particularly, cover  14  in a closed position. In one example, sticker  96  is partially affixed to second surface  22  of substrate  12 , is folded over ends of first and second cover panels  36  and  38  about a fold line (generally indicated at  98 ), and is affixed to outside surface  32  of first cover panel  36  thereby holding cover  14  in a closed position. Sticker  96  is generally easily removable when desired such that sticker  96  can be peeled from or otherwise removed from sticker  10  to allow cover  14  to be opened. In one embodiment, sticker  96  is one of translucent and transparent. In one embodiment, sticker  96  is eliminated or otherwise placed on stored-value card  10  to selectively maintain cover  14  in a closed position. 
       FIGS. 10 and 11  illustrate a carrier or backer  100  for supporting stored-value card  10 . Stored-value card  10 , which is represented in phantom lines in  FIG. 10  for illustrative purposes so as to not obstruct backer  100 , is readily releasably attached to backer  100 , for example by a removable adhesive  102  or the like. Backer  100  and stored-value card  10  collectively define a stored-value card assembly  150  ( FIG. 11 ). Backer  100  comprises a single layer or multiple layers of paper or plastic material, for example, generally in the form of a relatively stiff but bendable/flexible card. Use of other materials is also contemplated. Backer  100  displays indicia, graphics or text information including store logo(s), store name(s), slogans, advertising, instructions, directions, brand indicia, promotional information, holiday indicia, seasonal indicia, media format identifiers, characters, and/or other information. 
     For example, indicia  104  include to, from, amount, and message fields. The fields of indicia  104  provide areas of backer  100  configured to be written upon by a consumer to personalize backer  100  for presentation as a gift to a particular recipient, for a particular purpose, and/or to indicate a value of stored-value card  10 . 
     In one example, indicia  106  promote that stored-value card  10  can be opened and/or that stored-value card  10  includes pop-up member  16 . In one instance, indicia  106  state “Surprise Inside!” In one example, indicia  106  additionally or otherwise instruct the bearer of store-value card  10  on how to use stored-value card  10  for amusement. 
     Referring to  FIG. 11 , in one embodiment, indicia  110  indicate that stored-value card  10  is redeemable for the purchase of goods and/or services and that upon use, a value of the purchased goods and/or services will be deducted from the financial account or record linked to stored-value card  10 . In one embodiment, indicia  110  include phrases such as “&lt;NAME OF STORE&gt; GiftCard” and “This GiftCard is redeemable for merchandise or services at any of our stores or at our website,” and/or provides help or phone line information in case of a lost, stolen, or damaged stored-value card  10 , etc. 
     Brand indicia  112  may also or alternatively be included and identify a store, brand, department, etc. and/or services associated with stored-value card  10 . Any of indicia  40  (e.g.,  FIG. 1 ),  42  (e.g.,  FIG. 5 ),  104 ,  106 ,  110 ,  112 , or other indicia optionally may appear anywhere on backer  100  or stored-value card  10 . Additional information besides that specifically described and illustrated herein may also be included and/or one or more of indicia  40 ,  42 ,  44 ,  104 ,  106 ,  110 , and  112  may be eliminated. 
     Backer  100  includes a window or opening  114  for displaying account identifier  90  of stored-value card  10  therethrough as illustrated in  FIG. 11 . As previously described, account identifier  90  is adapted for accessing a financial account or a financial record associated with stored-value card  10  for activating, loading, or debiting from the financial account or financial record. Accordingly, opening  114  allows viewing or other access to account identifier  90  to activate and/or load stored-value card  10  without removing stored-value card  10  from backer  100 . In one embodiment, a portion of backer  100  alternatively is configured to be folded away from the remainder of backer  100  to access account identifier  90  without removing stored-value card  10  from backer  100 . 
     In one embodiment, backer  100  is a bi-fold substrate defining at least one fold line  116 , about which backer  100  is foldable roughly in half. In  FIGS. 10 and 11 , backer  100  is unfolded, i.e. is in an open configuration. According to one embodiment,  FIG. 10  illustrates inside surfaces  120  of backer  100  that will be supported on a rack or other fixture to be visible to a consumer of a retail store who is considering the purchase of stored-value card  10 . In one example, while on display in a retail store, backer  100  is folded back about fold line(s)  116  to present only portions of inside surfaces  120  of backer  100 , i.e., surfaces illustrated in  FIG. 10 , that are positioned on the same side of fold line(s)  116  as stored-value card  10  to a consumer. In such an embodiment, indicia  104  would not be visible to a consumer when backer  100  and stored-value card  10  are placed for display in a retail store. Backer  100  is one example of means for supporting stored-value card  10  for display in a retail setting. 
     After purchase, backer  100  is foldable about fold line(s)  116  such that the  FIG. 10  inside surfaces  120  of backer  100  are folded toward each other and stored-value card  10  is enclosed or wrapped in a compact package formed by foldable backer  100 . In this manner, outer surfaces  122  of backer  100 , i.e., the surfaces illustrated in  FIG. 11 , are disposed toward the outside of the folded, compact package, according to embodiments of the invention. In one embodiment, folded backer  100  effectively wraps stored-value card  10  for presentation from a consumer to a recipient. Folding backer  100  in the other direction about fold line(s)  116  for display on a rack in a retail setting, or about other fold lines of backer  100  is also contemplated. In one embodiment, fold line(s)  116  are one or more fold lines of a plurality of fold lines  116  positioned to accommodate an overall thickness of or to otherwise wrap stored-value card  10  as will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this application. 
     In one embodiment, a cut  130  is formed through backer  100  near an edge of backer  100  spaced from and substantially parallel to fold line(s)  116 . Cut  130  extends partially toward fold line(s)  116  and defines a flap  132 , which can be partially bent away from the remainder of backer  100 . More specifically, upon folding of backer  100  about fold line(s)  116  to close backer  100  around stored-value card  10 , an opposing edge of backer  100  is tucked beneath flap  132  to maintain backer  100  in a folded or closed position. In one embodiment, cut  130  and thereby flap  132  are each substantially semi-circular in shape. Other backers similar to backer  100  can be used having various sizes and shapes for supporting stored-value card  10 . 
       FIG. 12  is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method  200  of assembling stored-value card assembly  150  ( FIG. 11 ) and is described with particular reference to stored-value card  10  (e.g.  FIG. 1 ) and backer  100  ( FIGS. 10 and 11 ). At  202 , stored-value card  10  is assembled and, at  204 , stored-value card  10  is coupled with backer  100  to form stored-value card assembly  150 . In one embodiment, assembly at  206 , includes coupling cover  14  to substrate  12  for support. More specifically, in one embodiment, outside surface  32  of second cover panel  38  is adhered or otherwise affixed to second first surface  20  of substrate  12 . In one example, second cover panel  38  is sized similar to substrate  12  such that when coupled together, second cover panel  38  and substrate perimeters are substantially aligned and second cover panel  38  substantially covers first surface  20  of substrate  12 . 
     At  208 , assembly of stored-value card  10  continues by coupling pop-up member  16  to cover  14 . In particular, inside surface  52  of pop-up member  16  is coupled with inside surface  30  of cover  14 . In one example, first portion  70  of pop-up member  16  is coupled with first cover panel  36 , and fourth portion  76  of pop-up member  16  is coupled with second cover panel  38 . Upon assembly, pop-up member  16  is configured to fold up for selective and relatively flat storage between first and second cover panels  36  and  38  and to fold outwardly upon opening of cover  14  as described above. Although illustrated as occurring after assembly operation  206 , in one embodiment, assembly operation  208  occurs prior to assembly operation  206 . 
     In one embodiment, at  210 , cover  14  is selectively secured in a closed position such as, for example, by placing a removable sticker  96  around an edge of stored-value card  10 . In one embodiment, cover  14  is not so secured and operation step  210  is eliminated. Other general methods of assembling stored-value card  10  and other embodiments with be apparent to one of skill in the art upon reading this application. For instance, stored-value card  10  with cover  14  and pop-up member  16  is a relatively simple pop-up construction. In one embodiment, more complicated pop-up constructions may be utilized thereby impacting the overall assembly of stored-value card  10  as will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this application. 
     At  204 , the assembled stored-value card  10  is coupled with backer  100  ( FIGS. 10 and 11 ) to form stored-value card assembly  150 . In one example, stored-value card  10  is coupled to backer  100  with adhesive  102  or other selectively releasable material or device. Once stored-value card  10  is coupled to backer  100 , account identifier  90  is viewable through window  114  of backer  100 . In one embodiment, backer  100  is folded into a folded position for shipment to and/or display in retail settings. Backer  100  is, more specifically, folded by folding backer  100  about fold line(s)  116  such that outer surfaces  122  illustrated in  FIG. 11  are moved toward each other. As such, a portion of backer  100  with stored-value card  10  is visible from one side of folded backer  100 . Backer  100  can also be folded in the opposite direction about fold line(s)  116  to substantially enclose stored-value card  10 . In one embodiment, backer  100  is displayed in position in which outer surfaces  122  are folded toward one another. 
       FIG. 13  is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method  230  of encouraging purchase and facilitating use of stored-value card  10  by consumers. At  232 , stored-value card  10  is placed or hung from a rack, shelf, or other similar device to display stored-value card  10  for sale to potential consumers. In one example, stored-value card  10  is placed for retail sale when assembled to backer  100  as part of stored-value card assembly  150 . In one embodiment, stored-value card  10  is displayed without backer  100  and/or a depiction of stored-value card  10  is placed on a website for viewing and purchase by potential consumers. 
     At  234 , a consumer who has decided to purchase stored-value card  10  presents the stored-value card  10  on backer  100  to a retail store employee, retail store kiosk, remote terminal, or other person or device to scan account identifier  90  to access a financial account or financial record linked to account identifier  90 . In particular, account identifier  90  is scanned or otherwise accessed, for example through window  114  of backer  100  to activate stored-value card  10 . 
     Upon accessing the financial account or financial record, then, at  236 , value is added to the financial account or financial record. Thus, stored-value card  10  is activated and loaded. Once stored-value card  10  is activated and loaded, stored-value card  10  can be used by the consumer or any other bearer of stored-value card  10  to purchase goods and/or services at the retail store or other affiliated retail setting or website. In one embodiment, where stored-value card  10  is displayed on a website at  232 , then, at  234 , stored-value card  10  may be activated in any suitable method and may not require the physical scanning of account identifier  90  to be activated or to otherwise access the associated financial account or record such as at  236 . 
     At  238 , the retail store or other affiliated retail setting or website accepts stored-value card  10  as payment towards the purchase of goods and/or services made by the current bearer of stored-value card  10 . In particular, the value currently loaded on stored-value card  10  (i.e. stored or recorded in the financial record or account linked to account identifier  90 ) is applied toward the purchase of goods and/or services. At  240 , additional value is optionally loaded on stored-value card  10  at a point of sale terminal, kiosk, or other area of the retail store or related setting. 
     Upon accepting stored-value card  10  as payment at  238 , the retail store or related setting can subsequently perform either operation  238  or operation  240  as requested by a current bearer of stored-value card  10 . Similarly, upon loading additional value on stored-value card  10  at  240 , the retail store or related setting can subsequently perform either operation  240  again or operation  238 . In one example, the ability to accept stored-value card  10  as payments for goods and/or services at  238  is limited by whether the financial account or financial record associated with stored-value card  10  has any value stored or recorded therein at the time of attempted redemption. 
       FIG. 14  is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method  250  of using stored-value card  10  ( FIG. 1 ). At  252 , a potential consumer of stored-value card  10 , which is displayed in a retail store or viewed on a website, decides to and does purchase stored-value card  10  from the retail store or website. Stored-value card  10  can be displayed and purchased alone or as part of stored-value card assembly  150  ( FIG. 11 ) along with backer  100 . Upon purchasing a stored-value card  10 , a retail store employee, a retail store kiosk, or other person or device scans account identifier  90  ( FIGS. 3 and 11 ) through window  114  of backer  100  or otherwise reads or accesses account identifier  90 . Upon accessing account identifier  90 , the financial account or record linked to account identifier  90  is accessed and activated to load value onto stored-value card  10 . In one embodiment, such as where stored-value card  10  is purchased at  252  via a website, actual scanning of account identifier  90  may be eliminated. 
     At  254 , the consumer optionally gives stored-value card  10  to a recipient, such as a graduate, relative, friend, expectant parents, one having a recent or impending birthday, a couple having a recent or impending anniversary, etc. In one embodiment, a plurality of stored-value cards  10  are purchased and given to party goers, such as at a birthday party, etc. as party favors or gifts. As an alternative, the consumer can keep stored-value card  10  for his or her own use thereby eliminating operation  254 . 
     At  256 , the consumer or recipient, whoever is in current ownership or otherwise is the current bearer of stored-value card  10 , plays with stored-value card  10 . In one embodiment, to play with stored-value card  10 , the card bearer removes stored-value card  10  from backer  100  if stored-value card  10  is coupled with backer  100  and at least partially releases sticker  96 , if so included. Subsequently, cover  14  of stored-value card  10  is opened causing pop-up member  16  to fold outwardly or, in other words, to pop-up, from cover  14 . The movement of pop-up member  16  serves to amuse the card bearer and or others viewing the opening of stored-value card  10 , more particularly, cover  14 . The amusing aspect of stored-value card  10  is a useful tool in encouraging initial purchase of stored-value card  10  and in encouraging future use and/or additionally loading of value onto stored-value card  10 . In one embodiment, cover  14  can be opened as part of operation  256  without removing stored-value card  10  from backer  100 . 
     At  258 , the current bearer of stored-value card  10  redeems stored-value card  10  for goods and/or services from the retail store or website. At  260 , the current bearer of stored-value card  10  optionally adds value to stored-value card  10 , and more particularly, to the financial account or financial record associated with stored-value card  10 , at the retail store or over the Internet (i.e. via the website). Upon playing with stored-value card  10  at  256 , redeeming stored-value card  10  at  258 , or adding value to stored-value card  10  at  260 , the current bearer of stored-value card  10  subsequently can perform any of operations  256 ,  258 , or  260  as desired. In one embodiment, the ability of the current bearer to repeat redeeming stored-value card  10  at  258  is limited by whether the financial account or financial record associated with stored-value card  10  has any remaining value stored or recorded therein at the time of attempted redemption. 
     Although described above as occurring at a single retail store or website, in one embodiment, purchasing stored-value card  10  at  252 , redeeming stored-value card  10  at  258 , and adding value to stored-value card  10  at  260 , can each be performed at any one of a number of stores adapted to accept stored-value card  10  or over the Internet. In one example, a number of stores are each part of a chain or similarly branded stores. In one example, a number of stores include at least one website and/or at least one conventional brick and mortar store. 
       FIG. 15  illustrates another embodiment of a stored-value card  300 . Stored-value card  300  is similar to stored-value card  10 ; however, stored-value card  300  includes a plurality of pop-up members  316  attached to cover  314  and/or to one another to collectively create a compound member pop-up feature. In one example, the plurality of pop-up members  316  define a member  318  configured to move in a lateral direction when stored-value card  300  is opened such that pop-up member  318  selectively extends outside the general lateral boundaries of cover  14  when open and folds back within the lateral boundaries of cover  14  when stored-value card  10  is closed. 
     In one instance, pop-up members  316  of stored-value card  300  additionally include any number of internal cuts so as to define apertures  326  and/or internal folding portions  328 . As such, pop-up members  316  are generally more intricate than pop-up member  16  (e.g.,  FIG. 1 ). As will be apparent to one of skill in the art upon reading this application, pop-up members  16  and  316  or similar pop-up members may be used alone or in combination as necessary to achieve a desired overall amusing effect of stored-value card  10 . In one embodiment, the additional intricacy of pop-up members  316  is possible due in part to the flexibility and relatively low rigidity of the material forming cover  314  as compared to the material of substrate  12  (e.g.,  FIG. 9 ) when included in a similar manner as described above with respect to stored-value card  10  (e.g.,  FIG. 9 ). 
       FIG. 16  illustrates one embodiment of a stored-value card  400 . Stored-value card  400  is similar to stored-value card  10 ; however, stored-value card  400  includes a plurality of pop-up members  416  coupled with or otherwise associated with cover  414  to create a compound member pop-up. In one example, the plurality of pop-up members  416  include a main pop-up member  424 , and a rotating member  426 . Main pop-up member  424  is attached and folds relative to cover  414  in a similar manner as described with respect to pop-up member  16  and cover  14  above. 
     Rotating member  426  includes a shaft  428  extending through a portion of main pop-up member  424  such that rotating member  426  is configured to rotate about shaft  428  as generally indicated by arrow  429 . Rotating member  426  and shaft  428  are configured to transition upon closing such that rotating member  426  with main pop-up member  424  both collectively fold substantially flat. In one embodiment, a string or other member (not shown) may also be incorporated and stored-value card  400  to facilitate folding and unfolding of the plurality of pop-up members  416  and to initiate rotation of rotating member  426  as will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this application. 
     Various pop-up members  16 ,  316 ,  318 ,  416 ,  424 , and  428  have been described above, and it should be understood that the features of any and/or all of pop-up members  16 ,  316 ,  318 ,  416 ,  424 , and  428  can generally be interchanged and/or collectively used together to create a desired effect. Further, other pop-up configurations that will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this application have been contemplated and fall within the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment, sound, light, and/or other features may also be incorporated into stored-value card  10 ,  300 , and/or  400  as will also be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this application. 
     Stored-value cards come in many forms, according to embodiments of the invention. The gift card, like other stored-value cards, can be “re-charged” or “re-loaded” at the direction of the original consumer, the gift recipient, or third party. The term “loading on” or “loaded on” herein should be interpreted to include adding to the balance of a financial account or financial record associated with a stored-value card. The balance associated with the stored-value card declines as the card is used, encouraging repeat visits. The card remains in the user&#39;s purse or wallet, serving as an advertisement or a reminder to revisit the associated merchant. Gift cards according to embodiments of the invention provide a number of advantages to both the consumer and the merchant. Other gift cards and stored-value cards according to embodiments of the invention include loyalty cards, merchandise return cards, electronic gift certificates, employee cards, frequency cards, prepaid cards, and other types of cards associated with or representing purchasing power or monetary value, for example. 
     Although the invention has been described with respect to particular embodiments, such embodiments are meant for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered to limit the invention. Various alternatives and changes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, other stored-value card structures including movable graphic portions may be used. Other modifications within the scope of the invention and its various embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill.