Patent Publication Number: US-7900827-B2

Title: Transaction card assembly with subject and stand portions, electrostatic clings and a backer

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Stored-value cards and other transaction products come in many forms. A gift card, for example, is a type of stored-value card that includes a 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 and other transaction products 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 transaction product including a subject portion defining a first slot, a stand portion defining a second slot having a similar width as the first slot, and an account identifier. The stand portion is coupled to the subject portion along a line of weakness and is readily separable from the subject portion along the line of weakness without using tools. The account identifier is fixedly connected to one of the subject portion and the stand portion and links the one of the subject portion and the stand portion to at least one of an account and a record. The account identifier is machine readable by a point-of-sale terminal. When the subject portion and the stand portion are separated from one another along the line of weakness, the subject portion and the stand portion are configured to be reassembled by turning one portion substantially 90° with respect to the other portion and sliding the two portions toward one another such that the first slot receives a thickness of the stand portion and the second slot receives a thickness of the subject portion. Stored-value cards, methods of providing a stored-value card and other embodiments of stored-value or transaction cards and associated combinations are also disclosed. 
    
    
     
       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 front view illustration of a transaction card, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a rear view illustration of the transaction card of  FIG. 1 , according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view illustration of the transaction card of  FIG. 1  upwardly extending from a support surface, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a detailed perspective view illustration of a portion of the transaction card of  FIG. 1 , according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a front view illustration of statically charged clings on a support sheet, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  a perspective view illustration of the transaction card and the support surface of  FIG. 3  with the statically charged clings of  FIG. 5 , according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a cross-sectional view taken along the line X-X in  FIG. 6 , according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a front view illustration of a transaction card assembly including the transaction card of  FIG. 1  and a folded backer, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 9  is a front view illustration of the transaction card assembly of  FIG. 8  when the backer is unfolded to reveal statically charged clings, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a rear view illustration of the transaction card assembly of  FIG. 8  when the backer is folded, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11  is a flow chart illustrating a method of forming a transaction product, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a flow chart illustrating a method of encouraging purchase and facilitating use of a transaction product, according to one embodiment the present invention. 
         FIG. 13  is a flow chart illustrating a method of using a transaction product, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following detailed description of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the invention or the application and uses of the invention. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background of the invention or the following detailed description of the invention. 
     A stored-value card or transaction product, such as a gift card, is adapted for making purchases of goods and/or services at, for example, a retail store or web site. According to one embodiment, an original consumer buys a transaction card to give a recipient who in turn is able to use it to pay for goods and/or services. According to embodiments of the present invention, an assembly including the transaction card provides the consumer and/or recipient with at least two readily separable pieces or portions configured to be reassembled with one another to define an object configured to stand or extend upward from a generally horizontal support surface such as a table, desk, floor, etc. 
     In one example, in addition to the transaction card, the transaction card assembly provides a user with a plurality of statically charged members. Each statically charged member is configured to be selectively applied to and removed from the transaction card to change the appearance of the transaction card in a manner generally amusing the bearer of the transaction card. In one embodiment, the transaction card depicts a character, which may be fictional or non-fictional, and the statically charged members each depict an item of clothing or other wearable item sized to correspond with the size of the character depicted by the transaction card. As such, the statically charged members can be placed on the transaction card in such a manner that the statically charged members appear as clothing, costume members, etc. on the character. In this manner, the transaction card not only serves as a financial transaction product, but also serves as a doll or figurine that can be dressed, etc. by the bearer of the transaction card. The dual functionality of the transaction card increases the appeal of the card to the initial consumers purchasing the card from a retail store, etc. and to end recipient consumers who receive the card from the initial consumers. 
     Turning to the figures,  FIGS. 1-4  illustrate various views of one embodiment of a subject stored-value, financial, or other transaction card  10  formed of a substrate  12  having an activation area or account identifier  14  ( FIG. 2 ) and defining a first or subject portion  16  and a second or stand portion  18 . Account identifier  14  configures transaction card  10  for use as payment toward a purchase of goods and/or services. The stand portion  18  is readily configured to be separated from and reassembled with the subject portion  16  to form a character or other object configured to stand on (e.g., extend vertically from) a support surface to amuse a bearer of transaction card  10 . 
     Substrate  12  is any suitable material such as 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 a substantially planar member formed of paper, cardstock, plastic (e.g., polycarbonate, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), teslin, polyactide (PLA) and acrylic) or other suitable material. In one embodiment, substrate  12  is formed of injection molded plastic or cut from sheet-stock plastic material. Substrate  12  can be formed in any other suitable planar or non-planar configuration as will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this application. 
     In one embodiment, subject portion  16  defines a first surface  20  (i.e., a first major surface) and a second surface  22  (i.e., a second major surface) opposite first surface  20  separated by a thickness of substrate  12 . In one embodiment, at least one of first surface  20  and second surface  22  is substantially planar. In one example, one or both of surfaces  20  and  22  are polish laminated or otherwise treated to more readily receive statically charged members as will be further described below. 
     In one embodiment, account identifier  14  ( FIG. 3 ) is included on at least one of first surface  20  and second surface  22  and includes one or more of a bar code, a magnetic strip, a smart chip or other electronic device, a radio frequency identification (RFID) device, or other suitable identifier readily machine readable by a point-of-sale terminal, account access station, kiosk or other suitable device. In one embodiment where account identifier  14  is machine readable, account identifier  14  is also readable by a bearer of transaction card  10  such that transaction card  10  can be used when a machine configured to read transaction card  10  is not present (e.g., when using transaction card  10  to make a purchase on a web site). For example, account identifier  14  may include a number or letter string or a personal identification number (PIN) identifying the associated account or record and/or a password (not illustrated) associated therewith. In one embodiment, account identifier  14  is printed on or otherwise applied or fixedly connected to one of subject portion  16  and stand portion  18 , for example, to second surface  22  of subject portion  16 . 
     Account identifier  14  indicates and, therefore, links transaction card  10  to, a financial or other stored-value account or record. The account or record indicates a value or balance (e.g., monetary value, points, minutes or other balance) associated with transaction card  10  and 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 transaction card  10  itself. Accordingly, by scanning account identifier  14 , the account or record linked to transaction card  10  is identified and can subsequently be activated, have amounts debited therefrom and/or have amounts credited thereto. Account identifier  14  is one example of means for linking transaction card  10  with an account or record. 
     In one embodiment, redemption indicia  26 , which are generally indicated by a broken line box in  FIG. 2 , are included on transaction card  10  such as on second surface  22  of substrate  12 . Redemption indicia  26  indicate that transaction 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 account or record linked to transaction card  10 . In one embodiment, redemption indicia  26  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 web site,” and/or provides help or phone line information in the case of a lost, stolen or damaged stored-value card, etc. 
     Substrate  12 , which, in one example, is formed of a single piece of material, defines subject portion  16  and stand portion  18 . In one embodiment, substrate  12  only defines subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  and there is no other portion of transaction card  10 . In one embodiment, subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  are only two of three or more portions of transaction card  10  defined by substrate  12 . Subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  are initially secured to, but configured to be readily separated from one another. In one example, subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  are coplanarly positioned with respect to one another prior to their separation from one another. 
     In one embodiment, subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  are positioned on opposite sides of, and in one example, each directly abut, a line of weakness  30  (e.g., a score line, perforation line, narrowing or partial cut). In one example, line of weakness  30  is substantially linear. Line of weakness  30  facilitates separating subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  without the use of tools. For example, by applying a small amount of pressure to each of subject portion  16  and stand portion  18 , substrate  12  can be snapped or otherwise broken along line of weakness  30  to separate subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  from one another (i.e., broken into separate pieces). In view of the above, scoring of substrate  12  or otherwise forming line of weakness  30  is an example of means for defining and/or separating subject portion  16  and stand portion  18 . 
     In one embodiment, subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  each define an elongated slot  32  and  34 , respectively, which extends from line of weakness  30  into an internal portion of the respective subject portion  16  or stand portion  18 . For example, slot  32  and slot  34  extend from line of weakness  30  in opposite directions. In one embodiment, slot  32  and slot  34  align with and abut one another such that slot  32  and slot  34  collectively define a larger slot or narrow opening  40  ( FIGS. 1 and 2 ) in an internal section of substrate  12  (i.e., spaced from an outermost perimeter  42  of substrate  12 ). 
     For example, slot  32  extends from a lower edge  44  of subject portion  16 , which borders line of weakness  30 , away from line of weakness  30 . In one example, slot  34  extends from an upper edge  46  of stand portion  18 , which is opposite and parallel a lower edge  48  of stand portion  18  and borders line of weakness  30 , away from line of weakness  30 . Each slot  32  and  34  is configured to facilitate assembly of subject portion  16  and stand portion  18 . In one embodiment, each slot  32  and  34  has a similar width substantially equal to a thickness of substrate  12 . In one example, slots  32  and  34  are laterally centered across a front of substrate  12 . 
     In one embodiment, following separation of subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  along line of weakness  30 , subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  are configured to be selectively assembled with one another such that the reconfigured transaction card  10  stands on, i.e., extends upwardly from, a separate support surface  52  ( FIG. 3 ). More specifically, following separation of subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  from one another, one or both of subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  is rotated such that subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  are positioned to be substantially perpendicular to one another (e.g., one of subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  is rotated about 90°, while the other of subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  remains in a substantially static position) as illustrated with reference to  FIG. 4 . 
     While subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  are positioned substantially perpendicular to one another, slots  32  and  34  are aligned and subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  are moved toward one another. As such, slots  32  and  34  move through one another to each receive a part of the other of subject portion  16  and stand portion  18 . Since slots  32  and  34  are laterally centered on substrate  12 , when reassembled, stand portion  18  partially extends in front of and behind subject portion  16  (i.e., a stand portion  18  is positioned to partially extend from each of first surface  20  and second surface  22  of subject portion  16 ). Once reassembled with one another, lower edge  44  of subject portion  16  and lower edge  48  of stand portion  18  are directly adjacent and positioned in a common plane with one another. Once assembled, lower edge  44  and lower edge  48  are placed on support surface  52  such that at least subject portion  16  extends upward from support surface  52 . 
     In one embodiment, subject portion  16  is shaped and/or includes graphics  60  or other indicia to define a subject  62  such as a character (fictional or non-fictional), or other object (e.g., an automobile). For example, as illustrated in  FIGS. 1-3 , first surface  20  of subject portion  16  includes graphic  60  such as nose, eye, mouth, arm, leg and body demarcations to further define a character subject  62 . 
     Additional indicia may also be included on subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  of substrate  12  for decorative or other purposes. In one example, additional indicia include any suitable graphics, text or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, additional indicia include one or more brand identifier  64 . Brand identifier  64  includes one or more of a logo, text, trademark, etc. that associate transaction card  10  with at least one of a product, a brand, a store, etc. Other indicia may also be included on transaction card  10  as will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this application. In one example, any one or more of indicia  26 ,  60 ,  64 , etc. may not be included on transaction card  10 . 
     Additionally referring to  FIGS. 5-7 , in one embodiment, transaction card  10  is configured for use with clings  80 , i.e., members configured to be selectively and repeatedly applied to and removed from at least one of first surface  20  and second surface  22  of subject portion  16  and/or stand portion  18 . In one example, clings  80  are statically charged members. More specifically, clings  80  are formed from an electrostatically charged, film or other relatively thin sheet of material, for example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene, polyolefin electret, polylactic acid (PLA). In one embodiment, clings  80  are formed with a thickness less than about 0.25 mm, for example, less than or equal to about 0.15 mm. Alternatively clings  80  may be formed of any other suitable material configured to selectively “stick” or be readily releasably adhered to subject portion  16 . Although primarily described as a plurality of clings  80 , in one embodiment, only one cling  80  is included for use with transaction card  10 . 
     Each cling  80  defines a first surface  84  ( FIG. 7 ) configured to directly interface with substrate  12  and a second surface  86  opposite first surface  84 . In one embodiment, each cling  80  is formed from a substantially transparent sheet of material including graphics  82  or other indicia reverse printed to first surface  84  such that graphics  82  are viewable from second surface  86  through cling  80 . In one embodiment, one or more of clings  80  is formed of an opaque sheet of electrostatically charged material including graphics  82  printed on second surface  86 . 
     In one embodiment, clings  80  are provided in groups  88  that collectively define a costume, other outfit or theme of clings. Groups  88  of clings  80  are configured to be applied to subject portion  16  to dress or otherwise decorate subject portion  16  in a particular overall costume or theme. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 5 , a group  88  of clings  80  is provided to collectively define a monster costume, for example, a monster costume associated with the Halloween holiday. More particularly, as illustrated in  FIG. 5 , group  88  of clings  80  includes a mask  80   a , pants  80   b , and shoes  80   c  and  80   d  all providing part of a costume associated with a single monster. As such, clings  80  may each represent a costume member or item (e.g., an item of clothing, a mask, a wig, an additional appendage or other item) such that two or more clings  80  collectively define a costume as a whole for subject portion  16 . Clings  80  are sized and shaped to fit on subject portion  16  to define portions of costume in a manner that will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this application. 
     Additionally referring to  FIG. 6 , in one example, some clings  80 , for example, shoes  80   c  and  80   d , are sized to follow or to be coextensive with a portion of an outer perimeter  70  of subject portion  16 . In one embodiment, one or more clings  80 , for example, mask  80   a  is configured to be coextensive with a portion of subject portion  16  and to also extend to and beyond outer perimeter  70  of subject portion as illustrated in  FIG. 6 . In one example, one or more clings  80  includes one or more cutouts  90  for revealing an area of subject portion  16  therethrough (e.g., eyes or mouth of subjection portion  16 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , in one embodiment, group  88  of clings  80  are provided on a piece of backing paper or other sheet  100  with a coating or finish on a cling side  102  thereof such that cling side  102  is configured to selectively and readily removably receive group  88  of clings  80 . For example, varnish  104  or other release liner may be applied to cling side  102  of sheet  100  to releasably receive clings  80 . As such, clings  80  can be stored on sheet  100  prior to and after use on substrate  12 . In one embodiment, each group  88  of clings  80  is formed on a different sheet  100 . 
       FIGS. 8-10  illustrate a transaction card assembly  120  including transaction card  10 , clings  80  and a carrier or backer  122  configured to be selectively coupled with and to support transaction card  10  and clings  80 . Accordingly, backer  122  is one example of means for supporting transaction card  10  and for substantially enclosing clings  80  on sheets  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d .  FIGS. 8 ,  9  and  10  respectively depict a front closed view, a front open view and a rear closed view of backer  122  and the remainder of transaction card assembly  120 . Transaction card  10  is readily releasably attached to backer  122 , for example by removable adhesive, overlying skinning material, or the like. Backer  122  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 such that backer  122  defines a first or outside surface  124  and a second or inside surface  126  opposite first surface  124 . Use of other materials is also contemplated. 
     In one example, backer  122  is a bi-fold backer defining first panel  132  and second panel  134  separated from one another by fold line  136 . In one embodiment, transaction card  10  is adhered, blister sealed or otherwise readily removably coupled with first surface  124  and first panel  132 . More particularly, in one example, backer  122  includes a first window or opening  140  and a second window or opening  142  for displaying account identifier  14  of transaction card  10  therethrough as illustrated in  FIG. 10 . First opening  140  and second opening  142  are each examples of means for visually permitting access to account identifier  14 . 
     In one embodiment, first opening  140  is formed in first panel  132  and second opening  142  is formed in second panel  134 . First opening  140  and second opening  142  are similarly sized and shaped and positioned on opposite sides of fold line  136 . As such, when backer  122  is folded along fold line  136  into a closed position as shown in  FIGS. 8 and 10 , first opening  140  and second opening  142  align to reveal account identifier  14  of transaction card  10  through both first opening  140  and second opening  142 . 
     As previously described, account identifier  14  is adapted for accessing an account or a record associated with transaction card  10  for activating, loading value to or debiting value from the account or record. Accordingly, first opening  140  and second opening  142  collectively allow viewing or other access to account identifier  14  to activate and/or load transaction card  10  without removing transaction card  10  from backer  122 . In one embodiment, a portion of backer  122  alternatively is configured to be folded away from the remainder of backer  122  to access account identifier  14  or account identifier  14  is otherwise accessible through backer  122 . 
     Backer  122 , as illustrated in  FIG. 9 , additionally supports clings  80 , for example, clings  80  releasably supported on one or more sheets. For instance, in one embodiment, transaction card assembly  120  includes a plurality of sheets  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d  each supporting a different group  88  of clings  80 . In one example, each group  88  of clings  80  relates to a different costume, outfit or decorated theme for subject portion  16 . In one embodiment, each sheet  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d  is attached to second surface  126  with a piece of tape  150 , adhesive or other suitable attachment device. In one example, the plurality of sheets  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d  is attached to second surface  126  such that one or more sheet  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and/or  100   d  can be flipped or rotated relative to backer  122  in a book or tablet like format as will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading the present application. 
     Backer  122  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  151  include to, from, amount and/or message fields. The fields of indicia  151  provide areas of backer  122  configured to be written upon by a consumer to personalize backer  122  for presentation as a gift to a particular recipient, for a particular purpose and/or to indicate a value of transaction card  10 . In one embodiment, transaction card  10  includes brand indicia  152 , which identify a store, brand, department, etc. and/or services associated with transaction card  10 . Brand indicia  152  may be similar to or otherwise visually correspond with brand identifier  64  on transaction card  10 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , in one embodiment, backer  122  includes indicia  154  indicating that transaction 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 transaction card  10 . In one embodiment, indicia  154  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 web site,” and/or provides help or phone line information in case of a lost, stolen or damaged transaction card  10 , etc. 
     In one example, instructional indicia  156  inform a bearer of transaction card assembly  120  that transaction card  10  includes clings  80  that can be selectively applied, removed and reapplied to subject portion  16  to dress or otherwise decorate subject portion  16 . In one embodiment, instructional indicia  156  additionally or alternatively inform a user that stand portion  18  can be readily separated from subject portion  16 , rotated and re-coupled with subject portion  16  to form a subject that can stand on separate support surface  52 . As such, instructional indicia  156  further promote the sale of transaction card  10  by drawing the attention of a potential consumer to the non-transactional features of transaction card  10 . Instructional indicia  156  may additionally or alternatively instruct bearer of transaction card assembly  120  of any other features or available items associated with transaction card assembly  120 . For example, instructional indicia  156  may inform card assembly bearer that films featuring the subject depicted by subject portion  16  and/or additional music, scenes, costumes, outfits, themes, etc. that are associated with the depicted subject are available at a stated web address, etc. 
     Per one embodiment, backer  122  includes scene indicia  158  depicting a scene or background for non-transactional use with subject portion  16  when subject portion  16  is configured to stand on support surface  52 . For example, scene indicia  158  may be provided on second surface  126  of backer  122  such that backer  122  can stand on support surface  52  when backer  122  is partially folded about fold line  136 . As such, subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  can be positioned on support surface  52  in front of scene indicia  158  on backer  122  providing a synergistic play set. 
     Any of identifiers or indicia  26 ,  60 ,  64 ,  151 ,  152 ,  154 ,  156  and  158  or other indicia optionally may appear anywhere on backer  122  or transaction card  10 . Additional information besides that specifically described and illustrated herein may also be included and/or one or more of identifiers or indicia  26 ,  60 ,  64 ,  151 ,  152 ,  154 ,  156  and  158  may be eliminated. 
     One embodiment of a method of forming transaction card assembly  120  is generally indicated at  200  in  FIG. 11  and is described with additional reference to  FIGS. 1 ,  2 ,  5  and  8 - 10 . At  202 , transaction card  10  is formed. More specifically, substrate  12  is provided and indicia such as one or more of identifiers or indicia  26 ,  60  and  64  and/or other indicia are printed on substrate  12 . In one embodiment, printing to substrate  12  includes printing at least a portion of account identifier  14  to first surface  20  and/or second surface  22 , for example, where account identifier  14  includes a bar code and/or number or character sequence. In one example, account identifier  14  is embedded within or otherwise provided as part of substrate  12  prior to operation  202 . 
     In one embodiment, forming transaction card  10  at  202  additionally includes cutting outermost perimeter  42  of substrate  12  such as from a larger sheet of material (not shown) and scoring, cutting or otherwise defining line of weakness  30  between subject portion  16  and stand portion  18 . In one embodiment, subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  are separated by a single line of weakness  30  and each abut that line of weakness  30 . The single line of weakness  30  simplifies manufacturing by limiting the number of lines of weakness that need to be created in transaction card  10 . 
     Slots  32  and  34  are also cut from or otherwise formed in substrate  12 , for example, in positions as described above. In one example, slots  32  and  34  are laterally aligned with one another on opposite sides of the line of weakness to define larger slot  40 . By so aligning slots  32  and  34 , which have similar widths, manufacturing is simplified as a single punch or series of cuts can be used to form both slots  32  and  34 . Transaction card  10  may be printed and subsequently cut (or otherwise extruded, etc. to form outermost perimeter  42 , etc.) or vice versa as will be apparent to one of skill in the art upon reading the present application. 
     At  204 , one or more sheets  100  each having one or more clings  80  thereon are formed. Clings  80  are cut from the base material such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and are electrostatically charged as will be apparent to one of skill in the art upon reading the present application. In one embodiment, clings  80  are printed with graphics  82  prior to being cut and/or electrostatically charged. Each cling  80  is supported by one of respective sheets  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d  for selectively supporting clings  80 , such as separate groups  88  of clings  80  as described above. In one embodiment, each sheet  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d  includes a different group  88  of clings  80 . 
     More specifically, in one embodiment, clings  80  are formed of PVC mixed with plasticizers to form a thermoplastic compound. The compound is calendered to a desired thickness (e.g., about 0.15 mm) and smoothness. Subsequently, the compound is chilled to maintain the desired thickness. The calendered PVC material (i.e., the cling material) is laminated to sheets  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d  formed of label paper with a release lining thereon. In particular, first surface  84  of PVC material is laminated to one of sheets  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d . The calendered PVC sheet generally is statically charged. 
     In one example, ionized air blowers or ionized air curtains force ionized particles into the PVC material to de-static the non-laminated side of the PVC material (i.e., second surface  86  of the resultant cling  80 ) so that it can more readily be printed with graphics  60  and/or brand identifier  64 . In one embodiment, the PVC material is treated to remove static from the non-laminated side after lamination with one of sheets  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d . Other methods to de-static the PVC material, such as with tinsel, static string or static bars to de-static the PVC material while the PVC material is processed through a press, are also contemplated and will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading the present application. 
     Following lamination of the PVC material to sheets  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d , the PVC material is kiss cut (i.e., is cut therethrough generally without cutting the underlying sheet  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  or  100   d ) to define clings  80  thereon. As such, waste PVC material may define remainder or waste portions on each sheet  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  or  100   d  surrounding clings  80 . In one embodiment, each sheet  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d  supports one group  88  of clings  80 , and each group  88  corresponds to a single outfit, costume or other decoration for subject portion  16 . Other methods of forming clings will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this application. 
     At  206 , backer  122  is formed from suitable paper or other substantially planar material. In one embodiment, backer  122  is printed with indicia  151 ,  152 ,  154 ,  156  and  158  and subsequently is cut to define an outer perimeter thereof as well as first opening  140  and second opening  142 . In one example, fold line  136  is predefined by a score, perforation or other suitable line. 
     Once each of operations  202 ,  204  and  206  are completed (note that operations  202 ,  204  and  206  may be performed substantially simultaneously or in any desired order), operations  208  and  210  are performed. At  208 , transaction card  10  is coupled to backer  122 . More specifically, in one embodiment, second surface  22  of transaction card  10  is coupled to first surface  124  of first panel  132  such that account identifier  14  aligns with and is visible through first opening  140  of backer  122 . Transaction card  10  may be coupled to backer in any suitable manner, for example, using adhesive, skinning and/or any other suitable means or in any other suitable manner. 
     At  210 , sheets  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d  with clings  80  coupled thereto (or any other suitable auxiliary members such as substantially planar auxiliary members) are attached to backer  122 . For example, sheets  100  and  100   b  are stacked and positioned on second surface  126  of first panel  132  between fold line  136  and first opening  140 . In one embodiment, sheets  100  and  100   b  are slightly staggered, such as vertically, in a manner exposing an edge of each sheet  100  and  100   b  at one side thereof (e.g., the top as illustrated in  FIG. 9 ). A piece of tape  150  or other suitable attachment means is posited over the exposed edge of each sheet  100  and  100   b  and a portion of second surface  126  of first panel  132  to hingedly couple sheets  100  and  100   b  to backer  122 . In one embodiment, sheets  100   c  and  100   d  are similarly hingedly or otherwise coupled to backer  122  on the opposite side of fold line  136  (i.e., on second surface  126  of second panel  134 , e.g., between fold line  136  and second opening  142 ). Notably, operations  208  and  210  can be performed in either order or substantially simultaneously. 
     At  212 , backer is folded about fold line  136  such that second surface  126  of first panel  132  is moved toward second surface  126  of second panel  134 . Once folded, sheets  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d  are substantially interposed and enclosed between first panel  132  and second panel  134  of backer  122 . In one embodiment, once backer  122  is folded, first opening  140  aligns with second opening  142  such that account identifier  14  of transaction card  10  is viewable through both first opening  140  and second opening  142  to facilitate machine reading of account identifier  14  for activating transaction card  10  and/or loading value thereto while transaction card  10  is coupled with backer  122 . Although described as occurring after operations  208  and  210 , it should be understood that, in one example, operation  212  may occur before operation  208  as will be apparent to one of skill in the art upon reading the present application. 
       FIG. 12  is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method  220  of encouraging purchase and facilitating use of transaction card  10  by consumers and/or recipients. At  222 , transaction card  10  is placed on or hung from a rack, shelf or other similar device to display transaction card  10  for sale to potential consumers. In one embodiment, a depiction of transaction card  10  is placed on a web site for viewing and purchase by potential consumers. 
     At  224 , a consumer who has decided to purchase transaction card  10  presents transaction card  10  on backer  122  to a retail store employee, retail store kiosk, remote terminal, or other person or device to scan account identifier  14  to access an account or record linked to account identifier  14 . In particular, account identifier  14  is scanned or otherwise accessed, for example through first opening  140  and second opening  142  of backer  122  to activate transaction card  10 . Upon accessing the account or record, then, at  226 , value is added to the account or record in the form of monetary value, points, minutes, etc. Thus, transaction card  10  is activated and loaded. In one embodiment, value is already associated with the account or record linked to account identifier  14 . In such an embodiment, account identifier  14  is scanned to activate the account or record and operation  226  may be eliminated. 
     Once transaction card  10  is activated and loaded, transaction card  10  can be used by the consumer or any other bearer of transaction card  10  to purchase goods and/or services at the affiliated retail setting (e.g., a retail store or web site) or can be used in exchange for calling minutes, etc. In one embodiment, where transaction card  10  is displayed on a web site at  222 , then, at  224 , transaction card  10  may be activated in any suitable method and may not require the physical scanning of account identifier  14  to be activated or to otherwise access the associated account or record such as at  226 . 
     In one example, at  228 , the retail store or other affiliated retail setting or web site accepts transaction card  10  or at least a portion thereof including account identifier  14  (e.g., subject portion  16 ) as payment toward the purchase of goods and/or services made by the current bearer of transaction card  10 . In particular, the value currently loaded on transaction card  10  (i.e., value stored or recorded in the account or record linked to account identifier  14 ) is applied toward the purchase of goods and/or services. At  230 , additional value is optionally loaded on transaction card  10  at a point-of-sale terminal, kiosk, web site or other area of the retail store or related setting. 
     Upon accepting transaction card  10  as payment at  228 , the retail store or related setting can subsequently perform either operation  228  or operation  230  as requested by a current bearer of transaction card  10 . Similarly, upon loading additional value on transaction card  10  at  230 , the retail store or related setting can subsequently perform either operation  230  again or operation  228 . In one example, the ability to accept transaction card  10  as payment for goods and/or services is limited by whether the account or record associated with transaction card  10  has any value stored or recorded therein at the time of attempted redemption. 
       FIG. 13  is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method  250  of using transaction card  10  (e.g.,  FIGS. 1-10 ). At  252 , a potential consumer of transaction card  10 , which is displayed in a retail store or viewed on a web site, decides to and does purchase transaction card  10  from the retail store or web site. It should be understood that transaction card  10  can be displayed and purchased alone or as part of transaction card assembly  120  along with backer  122 . Upon purchasing transaction card  10 , a retail store employee, a retail store kiosk or other person or device scans account identifier  14  through opening  114  of backer  122  or otherwise reads or accesses account identifier  14  (e.g.,  FIG. 10 ). Upon accessing account identifier  14 , the account or record linked to account identifier  14  is accessed and activated to load value onto transaction card  10  (i.e., load value to the account or record associated with transaction card  10 ). In one embodiment, such as where transaction card  10  is purchased at  252  via a web site, actual scanning or other mechanical detection of account identifier  14  may be eliminated. 
     At  254 , the consumer optionally gives transaction 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 or other party. In one embodiment, a plurality of transaction 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 transaction card  10  for his or her own use thereby eliminating operation  254 . 
     At  256 , the consumer, recipient, or other current bearer of transaction card  10  is able to play with or otherwise use transaction card  10  or at least a portion thereof for non-transactional and/or amusing purposes. More specifically, as described above, the bearer is able to remove transaction card  10  from backer  122 . Transaction card  10  is then snapped or otherwise broken along line of weakness  30  without the use of tools to separate subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  into two separate pieces. Subject portion  16  and stand portion  18  are rotated with respect to one another and reassembled by mating slots  32  and  34  with one another and a thickness of subject portion  16  and stand portion  18 . Upon reassembly of transaction card  10 , the card bearer can use transaction card  10  as a toy, etc. alone or with backer  122 , more specifically, the scene depicted by backer  122 , providing additional amusement to the bearer and/or other observers of transaction card  10 . 
     The amusing nature of transaction card  10  is further enhanced by use of clings  80 . In particular, the card bearer selects desired ones of clings  80  and peels or otherwise removes each desired one of clings  80  from the respective one of sheets  100 ,  100   b ,  100   c  and  100   d . The cling  80  is then placed on first surface  20  of subject portion  16 . The electrostatic nature of cling  80  selectively maintains each cling  80  on subject portion  16 . In one embodiment, clings  80  can be mixed and matched to form different appearances of subject portion  16 . In one example, where subject portion  16  depicts a character and clings  80  depict costumes or clothing, changing which of clings  80  is positioned on subject portion  16  essentially appears as change the clothes of the character. 
     At  258 , the product bearer redeems transaction card  10  or at least a portion thereof for goods and/or services from the retail store or web site. At  260 , the bearer of transaction card  10  optionally adds value to transaction card  10 , more particularly, to the account or record associated with account identifier  14  included therewith, at the retail store or over the Internet (i.e., via the web site). Upon playing with at least a portion of transaction card  10  and/or backer  122  at  256  or redeeming transaction card  10  at  258  or adding value to transaction card  10  at  260 , the bearer of transaction card  10  subsequently can perform either of operations  256 ,  258  or  260  as desired. In one embodiment, the ability of the bearer to repeat redeeming transaction card  10  at  258  is limited by whether the account or record linked with transaction 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 web site, in one embodiment, purchasing transaction card  10  at  252 , redeeming transaction card  10  at  258  and adding value to transaction card  10  at  260 , can each be performed at any one of a number of stores adapted to accept transaction card  10  or over the Internet. In one example, a number of stores are each part of a chain or are similarly branded stores. In one example, a number of stores include at least one web site and/or at least one conventional brick and mortar store. 
     Stored-value cards and other transaction products come in many forms, according to embodiments of the invention. The gift card, like other stored-value cards and transaction products, can be “re-charged” or “re-loaded” at the direction of the original consumer, the gift recipient, or a third party. The term “loading on” or “loaded on” herein should be interpreted to include adding to the balance of an account or record associated with a transaction product. The balance associated with the s transaction product declines as the transaction product is used, encouraging repeat visits or use. The transaction product remains in the user&#39;s purse or wallet, serving as an advertisement or a reminder to revisit the associated merchant. Transaction products according to embodiments of the invention provide a number of advantages to both the consumer and the merchant. Other transaction products according to embodiments of the invention include loyalty cards, merchandise return cards, electronic gift certificates, calling cards, employee cards, frequency cards, prepaid cards and other types of cards associated with or representing purchasing power, monetary value, etc. 
     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. Other modifications within the scope of the invention and its various embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill.