Patent Publication Number: US-7721956-B2

Title: Foldable transaction card systems

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/126,481, entitled “Foldable Transaction Card Systems” and filed on May 23, 2008. The &#39;481 application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/604,449, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,383,989, entitled “Foldable Transaction Card Systems” and filed on Nov. 27, 2006. The &#39;449 application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/733,619, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,147,151, entitled “Foldable Transaction Card Systems” and filed on Dec. 10, 2003. The present application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/604,502, entitled “Foldable Transaction Cards and Methods of Making the Same” and filed on Nov. 27, 2006. All of the above-referenced applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. 

   FIELD OF INVENTION 
   The invention includes transaction card systems comprising a foldable transaction card and a case or housing for holding and/or storing the foldable transaction card therein. 
   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   It is generally known to provide transaction cards for providing a means for purchasing goods or services without the use of paper money or coinage. Specifically, transaction cards may represent credit, whereby a user of the transaction card may present the card in lieu of the paper money or coinage. Alternatively, transaction cards may be debit cards, whereby electronic money, such as money stored in an account, is removed from the account each time that the transaction card is used. In addition, transaction cards may have a certain amount of money, or other valuable commodity, recorded thereon, whereby a user of the transaction card may remove the money directly from the transaction card. For example, retail stores now offer cards that can be purchased for a certain amount of money. That amount, or any other amount, may be represented on the transaction card. When the transaction card is utilized, the amount represented on the card may be reduced until the transaction card represents that it cannot be utilized anymore, or that the card represents that it is not worth any more money. In addition, other values besides currency may be represented on the transaction card, such as equivalent goods or services. 
   Transaction cards typically have a magnetic stripe, integrated circuit, radio frequency antenna and related components, or some other means, for storing information relating to the transaction card, such as, a security code, and information relating to an account or an amount of money that the transaction card may represent. For example, if the transaction card is a credit card, the information contained on the magnetic stripe may relate to an account whereby use of the credit card may alert the account to release funds for the purchase of goods or services. Of course, the magnetic stripe or other means may further contain any other information to allow the transaction card to be utilized. The transaction card is typically fed into, through or scanned by a reader that reads the information contained on the magnetic stripe to extract the information as desired when the transaction card is being used. 
   The transaction card may further contain other features that allow for the secure and efficient use of the transaction card, such as holographic security devices, signature panels, pictures of the owner of the transaction card, embedded microchips, or any other item or element that may be useful for the transaction card. 
   Transaction cards are typically sized according to standards set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This means that most transaction cards being utilized are of the same size and dimensions, typically about 2¼ inches by about 3⅜ inches in a generally rectangular configuration. However, a transaction card having dimensions according to this standard typically is too big to be stored in a convenient way except loose in a pocket, wallet or purse, or contained within a slot in a wallet or purse allowing the snug fit of the transaction card. Transaction cards are, therefore, highly susceptible to being lost or stolen. Other shapes and sizes would allow the transaction cards to be attached to, secured with, or otherwise stored with other items, such as key chains, for example. 
   A need exists, therefore, for a transaction card having the capability of being attached to securing means or stored in smaller areas than are currently allowed. For example, a need exists for a transaction card that may be clipped or otherwise attached to a keychain, or some other means for securing the transaction card to another item, yet is small enough to remain inconspicuous and compact, but handy. Further, a need exists for a transaction card having the above-noted advantages and further that maintains the information or other features typically disposed on or within a transaction card. Still further, a need exists for a case or housing for holding and/or storing the foldable transaction card contained therein. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention relates to a transaction card having one or more fold lines therein to provide a compact and easily stored transaction card. In one embodiment, the system includes a foldable transaction card having one or more holes or apertures therein for holding a keychain, or other device for attaching the transaction card to another item, such as a set of keys, a wallet, or other item. 
   It is, therefore, an advantage to provide a transaction card that is foldable so as to be highly compact so that the transaction card may be stored in small areas. Further, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide a transaction card that may be attached to another item via a securing means, such as a ring or chain. Moreover, it is an advantage to provide a foldable transaction card that may be contained within a housing or case. 
   It is particularly an advantage to provide a transaction card that can be attached to a keychain, yet still remain small and compact. Therefore, an advantage of the present invention is that the transaction card may be small enough to be inconspicuous and be secured to another item thereby minimizing the chance that the transaction card will be misplaced, lost or stolen. 
   It is a further advantage to provide a transaction card that is foldable and held and/or stored within a case or housing that comprises other features typically found on or within a transaction card, such as security devices, embedded microchips, or magnetic stripes having information stored thereon or the like. 
   Additional features and advantages of exemplary embodiments are described in, and will be apparent from, the detailed description of the presently exemplary embodiments and from the drawings. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       FIGS. 1A-1C  illustrate a transaction card that is transversely foldable and having apertures for securing a ring or a keychain thereto. 
       FIGS. 2A-2C  illustrate another transaction card that is transversely foldable. 
       FIGS. 3A-3D  illustrate another transaction card that is transversely foldable having an aperture and slot for a ring or keychain. 
       FIGS. 4A and 4B  illustrate a transaction card foldable longitudinally and parallel to the long edges of the transaction card. 
       FIGS. 5A and 5B  illustrate a smaller-sized transaction card that is transversely foldable. 
       FIGS. 6A to 6C  illustrate a transaction card having fold lines disposed at angles to the edges of the transaction card but can be unfolded to be utilized within a point-of-sale machine. 
       FIGS. 7A and 7B  illustrate a transaction card foldable once in a longitudinal direction, and once in a transverse direction. 
       FIGS. 8A and 8B  illustrate a transaction card having two longitudinal fold lines disposed parallel to edges of said transaction card thereby forming a foldable transaction card having three sections. 
       FIGS. 9A and 9B  illustrate a foldable transaction card having a spring-loaded clip for holding said foldable transaction card in a folded state. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates a foldable transaction card having a spring-loaded clip and a holder for attaching to a ring or keychain. 
       FIGS. 11A and 11B  illustrate a transaction card foldable into thirds and having a spring-loaded clip and a holder for attaching to a ring or keychain. 
       FIGS. 12A and 12B  illustrate a foldable transaction card disposed in a foldable carrier, the foldable transaction card further having a spring-loaded clip and a holder for attaching to a ring or keychain. 
       FIGS. 13A and 13B  illustrate a foldable transaction card that is longitudinally foldable, the transaction card having a spring-loaded clip and a holder for a ring or keychain. 
       FIGS. 14A and 14B  illustrate a longitudinally foldable transaction card disposed within a protective cover. 
       FIGS. 15A to 15D  illustrate an embodiment of a foldable transaction card system. 
       FIGS. 16A to 16C  illustrate an alternate embodiment of a foldable transaction card system. 
       FIG. 17  illustrates an alternate embodiment of a foldable transaction card system having an actuating means disposed on an edge of a case for opening the case and accessing the transaction card disposed therein. 
       FIGS. 18A to 18C  illustrate an alternate embodiment of a foldable transaction card system for a tri-foldable transaction card. 
       FIG. 19  illustrates a further alternate embodiment of a foldable transaction card system having an actuating means disposed on a surface of a case for opening the case and accessing the transaction card disposed therein. 
       FIGS. 20A and 20B  illustrate a cross-sectional views of the foldable transaction card system in the alternate embodiment. 
       FIGS. 21A to 21C  illustrate an alternate embodiment of a foldable transaction card. 
       FIG. 22  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the foldable transaction card in the alternate embodiment. 
       FIG. 23  illustrates a still further alternate embodiment of a foldable transaction card system. 
       FIGS. 24-28  illustrate still further alternate embodiments of non-traditionally-sized and shaped transaction cards that may be utilized in embodiments described herein. 
       FIGS. 29-33  illustrate other embodiments of a foldable transaction card system. 
       FIG. 34  illustrates a perspective view of a foldable transaction card in an alternate embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 35  illustrates a cross-sectional view of a foldable transaction card along line XXX-XXX in the alternate embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 36  illustrates a cross-sectional view of first and second subassemblies prior to laminating to make the foldable transaction card. 
       FIG. 37  illustrates a perspective view of a folded transaction card. 
       FIG. 38  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the folded transaction card along line XXXIII-XXXIII. 
       FIG. 39  illustrates a flow chart showing a method of making the foldable transaction card in the alternate embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 40  illustrates a flow chart showing an alternate method of making the foldable transaction card in a still further alternate embodiment of the present invention. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
   The present invention relates to a transaction card having one or more folds therein to provide a compact and easily stored transaction card. Moreover, the present invention relates to a foldable transaction card having one or more holes or apertures therein for holding a keychain, or other device for attaching the transaction card to another item, such as a set of keys, a wallet, or other item. Moreover, a transaction card system is provided comprising a foldable transaction card and a case or housing for holding and/or storing the foldable transaction card. 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 1A-1C , a first example of the present invention is illustrated.  FIGS. 1A-1C  illustrates a foldable transaction card  10 , shown generically as merely having a magnetic stripe  12 . Other features not shown, however, may be provided on the transaction card, such as a signature panel, an embedded microchip, a holographic image, or the like. These features may allow the transaction card to function more easily, efficiently, and/or more securely. 
   Of course, the transaction card  10  typically comprises a plurality of layers (not shown) to form the rigid card. For example, transaction cards typically include inner layers of a polymeric material to provide the transaction card with thickness and bulk. In addition, outer layers are typically provided comprising a polymeric material that protects the inner layers of the transaction card. In addition, the polymeric material of the outer layers may provide rigidity and further may add to the thickness of the transaction card. The transaction card and the other transaction cards described herein, may be made from any generally known material typically used for transaction cards, such as, for example, polyvinylchloride (PVC) and polypropylene (PP). Typically, transaction cards such as the ones described herein have multiple layers of polymeric materials. For example, a typical card may have one or more internal layers of PVC or PP, and outer layers of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) for rigidity and strength. 
   Transaction cards may further be transparent, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/092,681, filed Mar. 7, 2002, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/062,106, filed Jan. 31, 2001, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/653,837, filed Sep. 1, 2000 and further claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/153,112, filed Sep. 7, 1999; U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/160,519, filed Oct. 20, 1999; U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/167,405, filed Nov. 24, 1999; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/171,689, filed Dec. 21, 1999, each of which is expressly incorporated herein in its entirety. The transparent transaction card may contain a plurality of optically recognizable layers or an infrared-blocking ink to allow the transparent transaction cards to be recognized by a card reader. 
   The transaction card  10  has a fold line  14  that allows the transaction card  10  to be folded, as illustrated in  FIGS. 1B and 1C . The fold line may be made by scoring the outer layers of the transaction card  10  via a scoring means, such as a blade or a laser beam and allowing the inner layers to act as a hinge when the transaction card is folded. Alternatively, the transaction card may include a reinforcing material at the location of the fold line  14  so that the fold line  14  does not pull apart, or otherwise destroy the transaction card  10  when folded. Of course, other materials may be utilized in the transaction card  10  to act as a hinge at the fold line  14 , and the invention should not be limited in this regard. Moreover, the fold line  14  may comprise a break between the two halves of the transaction card  10  whereby a strip may be disposed on one or both sides of the transaction card  10  for holding the two halves together to form a hinge. The strip may be a fabric or a thermoplastic material, such as an elastomeric material that may be stretched when the transaction card is folded, yet retain its shape when the transaction card  10  is unfolded. 
   The magnetic stripe  12  may contain a material for storing information that may be read by a magnetic reader. Typically, the magnetic stripe  12  contains a series of digits that the magnetic card reader can utilize to obtain information about the account that the transaction card is associated with, or otherwise to obtain information relating to the amount of money or other equivalent good or service represented by the transaction card  10 . The magnetic stripe  12  of the present embodiment is, necessarily, split into two halves because of the fold line  14  that bisects the magnetic stripe  12 . Therefore, the information contained on the magnetic stripe  12  may be readable by a magnetic card reader at a point-of-sale machine that accounts for the fold line  14 . Typically, this means that some or all of the information should be contained on a first section  16  of the magnetic stripe  12 , and the rest or a duplicate of the information should be contained on a second section  18  of the magnetic stripe  12 . Therefore, the information contained on the magnetic stripe  12  may be readable by the magnetic stripe reader. Alternatively, the magnetic stripe may be provided in parallel with one of the short ends of the transaction card, as illustrated in  FIGS. 2A-2C , below. 
   Disposed in the transaction card  10  may be a plurality of apertures  20 ,  22 ,  24  and  26  that may be utilized to attach the transaction card  10  to a securing means, such as a ring  28 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 1A-1C . Of course, any other securing means, such as a chain or string, for example, may be utilized and the invention should not be limited as herein described. The securing means can be provided in any of the apertures as needed. Aperture  20  may include a channel  28  that allows a securing means to be slipped into the aperture  20 . For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 1C , the ring  28  may be provided within the aperture  26 , but may also fit within the aperture  20  through the channel  28  so that the transaction card may stay folded. Alternatively, the ring  28  may be provided through one or both of the apertures  22 ,  24 . If the ring  28  is provided through both of the apertures  22  and  24 , the ring  28  may be configured in such a way as to allow the transaction card  10  to be unfolded when used. 
     FIGS. 2A-2C  illustrate an alternate example of the present invention of a foldable transaction card  50  having a magnetic stripe  52  that is parallel to a short side of the transaction card  50 . The transaction card  50  may be very similar to the transaction card  10 , as described above and may have a fold line  54  that divides the transaction card into two halves. Of course, more than one fold line may be provided in the transaction card  50  for dividing the card into more than just two halves, as described below. The transaction card may further have a plurality of holes  56  provided along the fold line  54  thereby giving the transaction card  50  a distinctive appearance, and further aiding in allowing the transaction card  50  to be folded along the fold line  54 . 
   The transaction card  50  may further have apertures  58 ,  60  for a securing means, such as a ring  62 , or other securing means such as a chain or a string, for example. The ring  62  may be provided through the aperture  60 , and may further be clipped into the aperture  58  after the transaction card  50  has been folded, as illustrated in  FIG. 2C . To allow the ring  62  to be clipped into the aperture  58 , the aperture  58  may include a channel  64 . 
     FIGS. 3A-3D  illustrate a still further example of the present invention of a transaction card  100  having similar features to the transaction card  10  of  FIGS. 1A-1C . 
   For example, the transaction card  100  includes a magnetic stripe  102  and a fold line  104  allowing the transaction card  100  to be folded, thereby making the transaction card smaller and more compact. Each half of the transaction card  100  may include a slit  110  connecting two apertures  112  and  114 . A ring  116 , or other securing means, may be provided through the apertures  112  such that, when folded, as illustrated in  FIGS. 3B-3D , the ring  116  may translate through the slits  110  to rest in the aperture  114 , thereby keeping the two halves of the transaction card  100  together when folded. If the transaction card  100  is to be opened, the ring  116  is merely translated back to the apertures  112  and the transaction card  100  is unfolded. 
     FIGS. 4A-4B  illustrate another example of a transaction card  120  having a magnetic stripe  121  and a fold line  122  disposed longitudinally through the center of the transaction card  120  such that when the transaction card  120  is folded along said fold line  122 , a folded transaction card  124  is created, as shown in  FIG. 4B , which thereby protects the magnetic stripe  121 . It should be noted that a smaller-sized transaction card may be created even if the fold line is not disposed longitudinally through the center of the transaction card  120 . 
     FIGS. 5A-5B  illustrate another example of a miniature transaction card  130  having a magnetic stripe  131  and a fold line  132  disposed transversely through the center of the card  130  such that when the miniature transaction card  130  is folded along said fold line  132 , a folded miniature transaction card  134  is created, as illustrated in  FIG. 5B . The size of the miniature transaction card  130  may be smaller than a normally-sized transaction card. Smaller-sized transaction cards are generally described below with reference to  FIGS. 21-28 . It should be noted that a smaller-sized transaction card may be created even if the fold line is not disposed transversely through the center of the transaction card  130 . 
     FIGS. 6A-6C  illustrate another example of a foldable transaction card  140  having a magnetic stripe  141  and two fold lines  142 ,  144  disposed parallel to each other but diagonal relative to the edges of the transaction card  140 . The fold lines  142 ,  144  allow the transaction card  140  to be folded such that flaps  143 ,  145  fold over section  149  to form a folded transaction card  146 , as illustrated in  FIG. 6B , which substantially protects the magnetic stripe  141 . When unfolded, the transaction card  140  may be inserted into a slot  147  of an automatic teller machine (ATM) without difficulty, as illustrated in  FIG. 6C . 
     FIGS. 7A-7B  illustrate another example of a foldable transaction card  150  having a magnetic stripe  151  and two fold lines  152 ,  154  that are disposed both longitudinally and transversely across the transaction card  150 , thereby being disposed perpendicular to each other. The fold lines  152 ,  154  allow the transaction card  150  to be folded twice to form a folded transaction card  156  that protects the magnetic stripe  151 , as illustrated in  FIG. 7B . 
     FIGS. 8A and 8B  illustrate an alternate example of the present invention of a foldable transaction card  160  having a magnetic stripe  161  and two fold lines  162 ,  164  that are disposed longitudinally, but subdivide the transaction card  160  into three sections: a first section  163 , a second section  165  and a third section  167 . Alternatively, the transaction card  160  may have two fold lines that are disposed transversely across the transaction card but also subdivide the transaction into thirds (not shown). The fold lines  162 ,  164  allow the transaction card  160  to be folded twice to form a folded transaction card  166  that is small and compact and further that protects the magnetic stripe. The folded transaction card  166  may be folded as shown in  FIG. 8B , which shows the transaction card  160  such that the outer sections  163 ,  165  of the transaction card  160  are folded inwardly on opposite sides of the middle of the three sections  167  in a “Z” configuration. Alternatively, the transaction card  160  may be folded such that the outer sections  163 ,  165  of the transaction card  160  may be folded inwardly on the same side of the middle section  167  (not shown). Of course, the fold lines  162 ,  164  may not subdivide the transaction card into thirds, but subdivide the transaction card into three unequal sections. In addition, additional fold lines may be provided such that the transaction card may be subdivided into four or more equal or unequal portions. 
   In an alternate example of the present invention, a transaction card, similar to the cards described above with respect to  FIGS. 1A-8 , may have a fold line disposed between at least first and second sections. Further, the transaction card may have a snap, button or other mechanism (collectively a “snap”) which may hold the folded transaction card in a first engaged or locked position (collectively, the “engaged position”). The transaction card may not be usably accessible when the snap is in the engaged position. When the snap is actuated, the snap disengages or unlocks (collectively, the “dis-engaged position”) and the second section of the transaction card unfolds into an “unfolded position”. As noted, the fold line may be disposed either longitudinally or transversely across the face of the transaction card. 
   In the unfolded position, the transaction card becomes a full-sized financial transaction card and/or a card that may be used as a form of payment to conduct transactions and in standard financial transaction card readers, such as those at retail point-of-sale locations or ATM (cash) machines. In a exemplary embodiment, when the second section is folded and is otherwise inaccessible, the external surface area of the card is approximately half compared to when the second section is usably accessible in the unfolded position. In an alternate embodiment, the transaction card can be refolded by folding the first and second sections in relation to one another and re-engaging the snap to keep the card folded. To allow folding, the first and second sections may be coupled by a flexible material or hinge. In an alternative embodiment, the card may have a plurality of folding sections. 
     FIGS. 9A and 9B  illustrate an alternate example of a foldable transaction card  170  having two sections  176 ,  178  separated by a fold line  172 . The transaction card  170  may be maintained in a folded stated via a spring-loaded clip. By releasing the spring-loaded clip  174 , the folded transaction card  170  may unfold along fold line  172  to form an unfolded transaction card  179  having a visible and usable magnetic stripe  171 . The spring-loaded clip  174  may be disposed on a side  177  of the section  176  that forms a side of the transaction card  170  when in the unfolded state. 
   Moreover,  FIG. 10  illustrates a foldable transaction card  180  having two sections  186 ,  188  separated by a fold line  182 . The transaction card  180  may be maintained in the folded stated via a spring-loaded clip  184 . The transaction card  180  may be similar to the transaction card  170 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 9A and 9B , except the clip  184  may be disposed on a side  187  of the section  186  that forms the bottom of the transaction card (opposite the magnetic stripe  181 ). The spring-loaded clip  184  may be interconnected with a holder  190  having the spring-loaded clip  184  disposed thereon. The transaction card  180  may be interconnected with the holder  190  via pins  192 , or via any other means that holds the transaction card  180  to the holder  190 . The transaction card  180  may be removable from the holder  190  so that the transaction card  180  may be usable in any point-of-service machine, such as a payment machine or an automatic teller machine. 
   Alternatively, the transaction card  180  may be permanently attached to the holder  190 . The holder may further be attachable to a key chain, or the like, such that keys or the like may be removably attached to the holder  190 , thereby minimizing the chances that the transaction card  180  may be misplaced. In addition, the transaction card  180  may be easily accessible if attached to a keychain or the like. 
   On external surfaces of the transaction card  180  (on the face of the transaction card opposite the magnetic strip  181 ) there may be disposed a protective material, such as a metallized surface, or other surface, that protects the transaction card  180  when the transaction card  180  is in the folded state. Specifically, a material such as aluminized polyester may be utilized as a coating or external layer of the transaction card  180 . As shown in  FIG. 10 , the magnetic stripe  181  may be disposed on an inside surface of the foldable transaction card  180  so that when folded, the magnetic stripe  181  is protected. 
     FIGS. 11A and 11B  illustrate a still further example of the present invention that is similar to the example shown in  FIG. 10 .  FIGS. 11A and 11B  show a transaction card  200  having a magnetic stripe  201  that may have a folded state (as shown in  FIG. 11A ) or an unfolded state (as shown in  FIG. 11B ). The transaction card  200  may have three sections  204 ,  206  and  208  that are separated by fold lines  210 ,  212 . The outer sections  204  and  208  may fold inwardly toward the center section  206  to form the folded transaction card  202 , thereby protecting the magnetic stripe  201 . In addition, the outside surface of the transaction card  200  (i.e., the surface opposite the magnetic stripe) may be made from a material that protects the transaction card  200 , such as a metallized material. For example, the outside layer of the transaction card  200  may be made from aluminized polyester. 
   A holder  214  may be disposed on the transaction card  200  on the central section  206 , such that when folded together to form the folded state, a spring-loaded clip  216  may hold the folded transaction card  200  together. Although the present example is shown with the holder  214  disposed on the central section  206 , the holder  214  may be disposed on any of the sections  204 ,  206  or  208  such that when folded, the holder may hold the folded transaction card in place with the spring-loaded clip  216 . When actuated, the spring-loaded clip allows the outer sections  204 ,  208  to unfold from the central section  206 , thereby forming the transaction card  200  in the unfolded state. As with the transaction card  180 , as shown in  FIG. 10 , the transaction card  200  may be detachable from the holder  214  such that the transaction card  200  may be utilized in a point-of-sale machine, such as an automatic teller machine. 
   In another embodiment, the transaction card has an associated holder, receptacle, pocket, or sleeve (collectively, the “carrier”) that can fold in relation with the transaction card and in which the transaction card can be enclosed in whole or in part. The carrier itself may have a snap in an engaged or locked position such that in a first position, a second section of the carrier is folded in relation to a first section of the carrier (the “folded position of the carrier”), such that the transaction card is not usably accessible. When the carrier snap is actuated, the snap disengages or unlocks and the carrier second section unfolds in relation to the carrier first section, making accessible a foldable transaction card that simultaneously unfolds in relation to the carrier. The transaction card may be coupled to the carrier in a manner that allows it to be attached or detached. The carrier, in order to fold, may also have at least first and second sections coupled by a flexible material or hinge. 
   An example of this is shown in  FIGS. 12A and 12B , which shows a transaction card  220  having a magnetic stripe  221  that may be in an unfolded state (as shown in  FIG. 12B ) or a folded state (as shown in  FIG. 12A ) due to a fold line or hinge  222 . The transaction card  220  may be disposed within a carrier  224  that may also have a fold line or hinge  226 . Both the transaction card  220  and the carrier  224  may fold via the fold lines  222  and  226 , respectively, to allow the transaction card to be disposed in the folded state, as illustrated in  FIG. 12A . Further, the transaction card  220 , which is disposed within the carrier  224 , may be interconnected with a holder  228  having a spring-loaded clip  230  which can hold both the carrier  224  and the transaction card  220  in the folded state. When the transaction card  220  is in the folded state and the clip  230  is actuated, the transaction card  220  and the carrier  224  may be unfolded. When the transaction card  220  and the carrier  224  are folded, the clip may lock the transaction card  220  into the folded state. 
   Both the transaction card  220  and the carrier  224  may be detachable from the holder  228 . Alternatively, the transaction card  220  may only detachable from the carrier  224 , thereby allowing the transaction card to be utilized in point-of-sale machines, such as ATMs. Alternatively, the transaction card  220  may be detachable and removable from the carrier  224 , which may also be detachable and removable from the holder  228 . 
   Although  FIGS. 12A and 12B  illustrate that the carrier  224  only covers a portion of the transaction card  220 , the carrier  224  may cover more or less of the transaction card  220  than shown. For example, the carrier  224  may cover the entire surface of the transaction card  220  such that the transaction card  220  may be fully removable from the carrier  224  when utilized. 
   Alternatively, a transaction card may be foldable within a foldable carrier and slidable from the foldable carrier, such that the carrier and the transaction card together form a full-sized transaction card that may be utilized in point-of-sale machines. For example, a spring-loaded clip may be actuated thereby allowing a carrier and transaction card to unfold. Once unfolded, a slot may be exposed that allows a user of the transaction card to push the transaction card out of the carrier, thereby exposing the magnetic stripe. Alternatively, a button may be exposed whereupon actuating the button allows the transaction card to be slid from the carrier. However, the transaction card may not be fully removable from the carrier, but may merely be slidable such that a full-sized transaction card is made from the smaller-sized transaction card and the carrier. 
   The transaction card  220  may have a metallized surface such that the surface protects the transaction card  220 . For example, the surface of the transaction card may be made from aluminized polyester. Alternatively, the carrier  224  may be metallized, or made from some other protective material, to protect the transaction card  220 . When folded, the transaction card  220  protects the magnetic stripe  221 . 
   In an alternate example of the present invention,  FIGS. 13A and 13B  show a foldable transaction card  250  having a magnetic stripe  251  that may be foldable because of a fold line  252 . The transaction card  250  may be disposed within a case  254  that is interconnected with a holder  256  having a spring-loaded clip  258 . The case  254  may be formed like a clamshell, in that the transaction card  250  form the two halves of the case and the magnetic stripe  251  is exposed when the case  254  is opened. The bottom portion or first section  260  of the case  254  may have a portion of the transaction card  250  affixed thereto, or may be formed simply as a protective layer on the transaction card  250 , such as aluminized polyester or the like. The top portion or second section  262  of the case  254  may also have a portion of the transaction card  250  affixed thereto, or may also be formed simply as a protective layer on the transaction card  250 , such as aluminized polyester or the like. The spring-loaded clip  258  may hold the case  254  together when the case is in the folded state. 
     FIGS. 14A and 14B  show an alternate example of a transaction card  270  having a magnetic stripe  271  that is similar to the transaction card  250 , described above in relation to  FIGS. 13A and 13B , except the transaction card  270  may have be disposed within a case  274  having a bottom portion or first section  280  of the case  274  and a protective cover or second section  272  of the case  274 . The protective cover  272  may be made from metal, plastic or other material that will protect the foldable transaction card  270  contained therein. Specifically, the transaction card  270  may have a first section  279  and a second section  276 , wherein the second section  276  has the magnetic stripe  271 . The first section  279  may be integrally formed with or removably attached to the bottom portion  280  of the case  274 . If the first section  279  is integrally formed with the bottom portion  280  of the case  274 , it may have a metallized surface, or other protective surface, to protect the first section  279  of the transaction card  270  when the transaction card  270  is folded and the protective cover  272  is folded over the bottom portion  280 . 
   When folded together, the transaction card  270  may be enclosed within the protective cover  272  and the bottom portion  280 , as shown in  FIG. 14A . When utilized, an individual may actuate a spring-loaded clip  282  that allows the protective cover  272  to open, thereby exposing the transaction card  270  therein. The first section  276  may then be unfolded, thereby exposing the magnetic stripe  271  to be utilized at a point-of-sale machine. 
     FIGS. 15A-15D  illustrate an alternate example of a foldable transaction card system  300  that is similar to the foldable transaction card system  270 , described above with reference to  FIGS. 14A-14B . The foldable transaction card system  300  may comprise a case  301  and an actuator  302 , such as a spring-loaded clip, a button or the like, that may be utilized to open the case  301 , as illustrated in  FIG. 15B , via a hinge  304 . The hinge  304  may be tensioned to automatically shut when not held open. Alternatively, the hinge  304  may be tensioned to automatically open when the actuator  302  is actuated. The case  301  includes a lid  303  and a base  305  interconnected via the hinge  304 . 
   A foldable transaction card  306  may be contained within the case  301 . The foldable transaction card  306  may have a first section  310  and a second section  308  that may be interconnected via a transaction card hinge  312 . The transaction card hinge  312  may comprise a line of weakness disposed in the one or more layers of the transaction card  306 . Alternatively, the hinge  312  may comprise a hinge material  321 , such as a polymeric material, a fabric, or some other equivalent reinforcing material, which may be disposed over the line of weakness or space between the first section  310  and the second section  308 . In one embodiment, the hinge material may be a thermoplastic polymeric sheet or film, such as, for example, polypropylene, that may be adhered to both the first section  310  and the second section  308  to allow the first section  310  and the second section  308  to fold relative to each other. 
   Further, disposed on an opposite side of the transaction card  306  may be a further hinge material  322 , as illustrated in  FIG. 15D , that may allow the first section  308  and the second section  310  to be foldable relative to each other. The further hinge material  322  may be any material, such as a polymeric material, a fabric, or other like material, similar to the hinge material  321 , described above. The further hinge material  322  may further be a softer and more elastic material than the hinge material  321  so as to allow the transaction card  306  to be folded to protect a magnetic stripe  314  that may be disposed on the same side of the transaction card  306  as the hinge material  321 . The further hinge material  322  may, in one embodiment, be a nitrile or neoprene elastomeric material that can easily stretch when the transaction card  306  is folded and yet retains its shape when the transaction card  306  is unfolded. 
   Of course, the transaction card  306  may include a magnetic stripe  314  or other features not shown that are typically contained on a transaction card, such as a holographic security indicator, embossed alpha-numeric characters, graphics, a signature panel, microchip or other like feature. 
   The transaction card  306  may be disposed within the case  301  and held within the case  301  via tracks  316   a ,  316   b  within which the transaction card  306  may be slid. In addition, the transaction card  306  may be removable from the tracks  316   a ,  316   b  so that the transaction card  306  may be fully removable from the case  301 , as illustrated in  FIG. 15C . 
     FIG. 15D  illustrates the case  301  having the tracks  316   a ,  316   b  cut-away to reveal tabs  318   a ,  318   b  that may be disposed within the tracks  316   a ,  316   b  that may engage with the transaction card  306  when the transaction card  306  is slid within the tracks  316   a ,  316   b . The tabs  318   a ,  318   b  may engage recesses  320   a ,  320   b  that may be disposed on or within the first section  310  of the transaction card  306 . The tabs  318   a ,  318   b  may hold the transaction card  306  within the case  301 , thereby keeping the transaction card  306  from falling out of the case  301  when the case  301  is opened. However, the transaction card  306  may be easily removable from the case when desired by the card user by pulling the transaction card  306  from the case  301  and sliding the transaction card  306  out of the tracks  316   a ,  316   b.    
     FIGS. 16A-16C  illustrate an alternate example of a foldable transaction card system  350  comprising a case  351 , having a lid  353  and a base  355 . The lid  353  and the base  355  may be separated by a hinge  354  that is in one embodiment tensioned so as to automatically close the lid  353  upon the base  355 . Therefore, to open the case  351 , an individual merely swings the lid  353  from the base  355  against the tension of the hinge  354 , thereby allowing a foldable transaction card  356  to be exposed. 
   The foldable transaction card  356  may have a first section  360  and a second section  358  that are interconnected via a transaction card hinge  362 . The transaction card hinge  362  may be similar, if not identical, to the transaction card hinge  312 , as described above with reference to  FIGS. 15A-15D . 
   The foldable transaction card  356  may be contained within the case  351  by being disposed within tracks  366   a ,  366   b . The tracks may engage the foldable transaction card  356  when the foldable transaction card  356  is slid within the tracks  366   a ,  366   b . Moreover, tabs (not shown) may be disposed within the tracks, and may be similar, if not identical, to the tabs  318   a ,  318   b  as described above with reference to  FIG. 15D . Moreover, the foldable transaction card may have recesses (not shown) substantially as described above with reference to the foldable transaction card  306  described above. 
   In use, the lid  353  may be swung from the base  355  to expose the foldable transaction card  356  contained therein. The foldable transaction card, having the transaction card hinge  362  may be opened to expose a magnetic stripe  364  disposed on or within the foldable transaction card  356 . The unfolded transaction card may be swiped or otherwise utilized at a point-of-sale device while remaining disposed within the case  351 . Alternatively, the transaction card  356  may be removed from the case  351  to be utilized, such as being physically disposed within a point-of-sale device, such as an automated teller machine, or the like. 
     FIG. 17  illustrates an alternate embodiment of a foldable transaction card system  400  of a foldable case  401  having a lid  403  and a base  405  separated by a hinge  404 . A foldable transaction card  406  may be disposed within tracks  416   a ,  416   b  so as to be removable from the case  401  when the case  401  is unfolded. The case  401  further has an actuator  402  disposed on the edge of the lid  403  for allowing the case  401  to be opened when the actuator is actuated. Specifically, the lid  403  and the base  405  may remain together when the case  401  is folded by an engaging means, such as a clip or other like device. By actuating the actuator  402 , the engaging means may release, thereby allowing the lid  403  to swing away from the base  405 . The hinge  404  may be spring-loaded, thereby allowing the lid  403  to easily and automatically swing away from the base  405 . The foldable transaction card  406  contained therein may be unfolded via a transaction card hinge  412 , thereby exposing the magnetic stripe  414 . The foldable transaction card  406  may then be utilized. Alternatively, the foldable transaction card  406  may be removed from the case  401  and utilized. 
   The foldable transaction card  406  may be removably disposed within the case  401  in a similar manner as described above with reference to  FIGS. 15A-15D  and  FIGS. 16A-16C . Specifically, the foldable transaction card  406  may be contained within the case  401  by being disposed within the tracks  416   a ,  416   b . The tracks may engage the foldable transaction card  406  when the foldable transaction card  406  is slid within the tracks  416   a ,  416   b . Moreover, tabs (not shown) may be disposed within the tracks  416   a ,  416   b , and may be similar, if not identical, to the tabs  318   a ,  318   b  as described above with reference to  FIGS. 15A-15D . Moreover, the foldable transaction card may have recesses (not shown) substantially as described above with reference to the foldable transaction card  306  described above in  FIG. 15D . 
     FIGS. 18A-18C  illustrate an alternate embodiment of a foldable transaction card system  450  substantially similar to the foldable transaction card system  300  illustrated above with respect to  FIGS. 15A-15D , including an actuator  452  substantially similar to the actuator  302  described above. However, the system  450  may comprise a case  451  that may be smaller in width than the case  301 . The foldable transaction card  456  disposed within the case  451  may be tri-folded, thereby providing a folded transaction card that takes up less width space, thereby allowing a smaller case  451  to be utilized. As with the foldable transaction card  306 , described above, a foldable transaction card  456  may be usable within the case  401 , as illustrated in  FIG. 18B , or may be completely removed from the case  401 , as illustrated in  FIG. 18C . 
     FIG. 19  illustrates an alternate embodiment of a foldable transaction card system  500  of a case  501  having a foldable transaction card contained therein (not shown), which is substantially similar to the foldable transaction card system  400 , described above with reference to  FIG. 17 . However, the foldable transaction card system  500  includes an actuator  502  disposed on a surface of a lid  503  of the case  501 , having the foldable transaction card (not shown) contained therein. The actuator  502  may be disposed such that the actuator does not protrude greatly or at all from the surface of the lid  503 . By actuating the actuator the case  501  may be opened to access the foldable transaction card (not shown) that may be contained therein. 
     FIGS. 20A-20B  illustrate cross-sectional views of the case  501  illustrating the actuator that allows the case  501  to open when the actuator  502  is actuated. Specifically,  FIG. 20A  illustrates the actuating mechanism when the case  501  is closed. The actuator  502  is interconnectedly engaged with an arm  510  having an end  512  that may be configured to engage a tab  514 . The end  512  of the arm  510  engages the tab  514  to keep the case  501  from opening. When the actuator  502  is actuated, by depressing the actuator  502  or otherwise moving the actuator  502 , the end  512  of the arm  510  may disengage from the tab  514 , thereby allowing the case  501  to open, exposing the foldable transaction card contained therein. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 20B , the actuator  510  may be moved with a thumb or finger, thereby moving the arm  510  and disengaging the end  512  of the arm  510  from the tab  514 . 
     FIGS. 21A-21B  illustrates an alternate embodiment of a foldable transaction card  550  having a shape different from that of a traditional transaction card. The foldable transaction card  550  includes features common to traditional transaction cards, such as a signature panel  560  and a magnetic stripe  562 . Of course, other features common to traditional transaction cards may also be included, such as holographic images useful as security indicators, embedded microchips, or other like features. 
   Specifically, the transaction card  550  comprises two halves  551 ,  553  that may be attached together via a hinge material  554  and a hinge backing material  556 . The hinge material  554  may comprise an elastomeric material, such as a nitrile or neoprene elastomeric material, that may be disposed between the two halves  551 ,  553 . Of course, any other hinge material is contemplated that may attach the two halves  551 ,  553  together, thereby allowing the transaction card  550  to fold. The hinge material  554  may, therefore, stretch when the foldable transaction card  550  is folded but retain its shape when the transaction card  550  is unfolded. Typically, the foldable transaction card  550  is folded such that the signature panel  560  and the magnetic stripe  562  are disposed within the folded transaction card, thereby protecting the signature panel and, especially, the magnetic stripe. The hinge backing material  556  may be provided on an opposite side of the transaction card  550  to provide reinforcement so that the two halves  551 ,  553  do not separate. Typically, the hinge backing material may be polypropylene, or other thermoplastic material that reinforces the hinge created between the two halves  551 ,  553  of the foldable transaction card  550 . Of course, other materials are contemplated that can reinforce the hinge created between the two halves  551 ,  553 .  FIG. 21C  illustrates the foldable transaction card  550  folded. 
   The foldable transaction card  550  may be any size. In one embodiment, the foldable transaction card  550  may have one or more dimensions smaller than traditional transaction cards. Specifically, a traditional transaction card may be about 3⅜ inches long and about 2¼ inches wide. The foldable transaction card  550  may have a greatest length (measured from the middle of the foldable transaction card  550 ) that is less than 3⅜ inches. Particular embodiments illustrating non-traditionally-sized transaction cards are described herein with reference to  FIGS. 24-28 , as described below. 
     FIG. 22  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the transaction card  550  folded, thereby illustrating the hinge material  554  and the hinge backing material  556  utilized to create the hinge in the foldable transaction card  550 . Specifically, the hinge material  554  is stretched when the transaction card  550  is folded. Because the hinge material  554  may be made from an elastomeric material, the hinge material  554  may stretch when the transaction card  550  is folded and then may retain its original shape when the transaction card  550  is unfolded. 
     FIG. 23  illustrates a foldable transaction card system  600  incorporating the foldable transaction card  550 , described above with respect to  FIGS. 21A-21C  and  FIG. 22 . The foldable transaction card  550  may include the signature panel  560  and the magnetic stripe  562 . Moreover the foldable transaction card system  600  may include a case  601  that is substantially similar to the foldable transaction card system  400 , described above with reference to  FIG. 17 . However, the case  601  may include tracks  616   a ,  616   b  that are generally shaped like the edges of the foldable transaction card. Specifically, since the edges of the foldable transaction card  550  may have curved edges, rather than straight edges, which would be typical for a traditional transaction card, the tracks  616   a ,  616   b  may also be curved to follow the curve of the transaction card  550 . Alternatively, the tracks  616   a ,  616   b  may be any other shape to hold the transaction card  550  therein. In addition, since the foldable transaction card  550  may have at least one dimension that is smaller than traditional transaction cards, the case  601  may be smaller than if a traditionally-sized transaction card was utilized. 
   The transaction cards of the present embodiment described herein may have lengths and widths that are smaller or larger than traditional transaction cards. More specifically, a traditional transaction card may have a length of about 3⅜ inches and a width of about 2¼ inches. Therefore, a transaction card having a length, for example, of less than 3⅜ inches may allow for a smaller foldable transaction card system when the transaction card has a fold therein and is disposed within a case, as described above.  FIGS. 24-28  Illustrate various embodiments of transaction cards that may be utilized herein having dimensions, i.e., lengths and widths, that are non-traditional. 
   The transaction card  610  shown in  FIG. 24  has a width (W) of less than approximately 1 inch and a length (L) of also less than approximately 1 inch. For example, as shown in  FIG. 24 , the transaction card  610  is generally square and the width W could be approximately ¾ inch and the length L could also be approximately ¾ inch. A fold line  612  may be disposed within the transaction card  610 , as described above. 
     FIGS. 25A and 25B  illustrate alternate embodiments of a transaction card  620  having a magnetic stripe  624  that is parallel to a side  626  of the transaction card  620 . The transaction card  620  may be made from the same or similar materials as the transaction card  610  described above with reference to  FIG. 1 . In addition, the transaction card  620  may have a fold line  622  disposed within the transaction card  620 , as described above. 
   The transaction card  620  shown has a width (W) and a length (L). In this particular embodiment, the transaction card  620  has a length L of greater than 3 inches, and more in one embodiment of greater than approximately 3⅜ inches. For example, as shown in  FIG. 25A , the transaction card  620  may have a width W of approximately 2 inches and a length L of approximately 4 inches. Alternatively, as shown in  FIG. 25B , the width could be approximately 1 inch and the length L could be approximately 3⅞ inches. Therefore, the transaction card may be longer than a standard transaction card, but narrower than a standard transaction card. This may allow the transaction card  620  to be kept or stored in locations where the widthwise dimension limits the storage capability of the transaction card  620 . 
     FIGS. 26A and 26B  illustrate further alternate embodiments of a transaction card  630  having a magnetic stripe  634  that is parallel to a side  636  of the transaction card  630 . The transaction card  630  may be comprised of the same materials as described above with reference to the transaction card  610 . In addition, the transaction card  630  may have a fold line  632  disposed within the transaction card  630 , as described above. 
   The transaction card  630  shown has a width (W) and a length (L). In the embodiment described herein with reference to  FIGS. 26A and 26B , the transaction card  630  has a length L of between approximately 1 inch and approximately 3 inches and a width W of less than approximately 1 inch or greater than approximately 1⅞ inches. For example, as shown in  FIG. 26A , the transaction card  630  may have a width W of approximately ¾ inch and a length L of approximately 2¼ inches. Alternatively, as shown in  FIG. 26B , the width W could be approximately 2⅛ inches and the length L could be approximately 3 inches. 
     FIG. 27  illustrates an alternate embodiment of a transaction card  640  having a magnetic stripe  644  that is parallel to a side  646  of the transaction card  640 . Alternately, the magnetic stripe may be parallel to one of the other sides  647 ,  648  or  649 . The transaction card  640  may be comprised of the same or similar materials as that of the transaction card  610 . In this particular embodiment, the transaction card  640  has at least one set of opposing sides  646  and  647 , or  648  and  649  that is not parallel. In addition, the transaction card  640  may have a fold line  642  disposed within the transaction card  640 , as described above 
   The transaction card  640  shown has a width (W) and a length (L). The card  640  has a length L of between approximately 1 inch and approximately 1⅞ inches or a length L of greater than approximately 3 inches, and in one embodiment, of greater than approximately 3⅜ inches. In addition, the width W is less than approximately 1 inch or greater than approximately 1⅞ inches. For example, as shown in  FIG. 27 , the transaction card  640  may have a width W of approximately ¾ inch and a length L of approximately 1½ inches. Alternatively, the width W could be approximately 2 inches and the length L could be approximately 3½ inches. 
     FIG. 28  illustrates an alternate embodiment of a transaction card  650  having a magnetic stripe  654  that is parallel to a side  656  of the transaction card  650 . The transaction card  650  may comprise the same or similar material as that described above with reference to the transaction card  610 , as noted above of the same or similar construction to the transaction card  610  described above. In addition, the transaction card  650  may have a fold line  652  disposed within the transaction card  650 , as described above. 
   The transaction card  650  may have any length L or width W, so long as the card  650  has a magnetic stripe  652  of length M, which is less than approximately 1 inch. Alternatively, the transaction card  650  may have any length L or width W, so long as the length M of the magnetic stripe  654  is greater than approximately 3 inches long, and in one embodiment, greater than approximately 3⅜ inches long. 
   As noted above, each embodiment of a non-traditionally sized transaction card (i.e., having dimensions larger or smaller than traditionally-sized transaction cards) may have a fold line disposed therein and a hinge material that allows the transaction card to fold and unfold. The foldable non-traditionally sized transaction card may be incorporated into a foldable transaction card system, whereby the foldable transaction card has a case or housing for holding and/or storing the foldable transaction card. The non-traditionally sized foldable transaction card allows for the use of cases that are smaller in a certain dimension, such as a length and/or width, thereby providing transaction card systems that may be smaller, and more usable, especially when incorporated onto a keychain or other like connecting means. Of course, other sizes and shapes of transaction cards may be utilized in the present invention to arrive at a foldable transaction card system that is compact and convenient. 
   Foldable housings may be used in conjunction with transaction devices. The transaction devices may include a standard transaction card, a non-standard transaction card (e.g., non-standard dimensions), a integrated circuit smart card, a magnetic stripe card, a radio frequency card and/or the like.  FIGS. 29-33  illustrate an embodiment of a foldable transaction card system. Foldable transaction card systems that include a foldable housing and a foldable transaction card may provide increased convenience and flexibility to users of transaction cards. A foldable housing may be any housing that may be capable of fully or partially enclosing a foldable transaction card. A foldable housing may be constructed of any suitable material including, for example, metal, fabric, leather, natural hides, vinyl, synthetic hides, wood, plastic, thermoplastic, polymeric material, textile, padding and/or any combination thereof. Suitable fabrics and/or textiles may include, for example, nylon, ballistic nylon, rayon, silk, linen, wool, polyester, canvas, cotton, cotton duck, microfiber, burlap, spandex, and/or any combination thereof. Suitable metals include, for example, stainless steel, iron, copper, steel, zinc, aluminum, and/or tin. 
   A foldable housing may have a folded state, a partially folded state and an unfolded state. For example, a folded state  3200  is shown in  FIG. 32 . Unfolded states are depicted, for example, in  FIGS. 29-30 . 
   In various embodiments, a foldable housing may comprise a first portion and a second portion. The first and second portions may be coupled in any manner that allows the portions to move or partially move relative to each other. For example, any type of hinge (e.g., hinge  2907 ) may be used to couple a first portion  2910  and a second portion  2904 . In one embodiment when the first portion and second portion are rectangular, a hinge may be disposed lengthwise between the first portion and second portion. The hinge may allow any degree of rotation of the second portion with respect to the first portion. In one embodiment, the degree of rotation of the second portion with respect to the first portion may be up to about 360 degrees. A fold line may divide the first portion from the second portion. A fold line may allow the first portion to be moved relative to the second portion. 
   A hinge may be anything that allows the first portion and the second portion to move relative to each other. The hinge may be a mechanical, magnetic, optical, electronic, chemical and/or any other means. Mechanical hinges include continuous hinges. The hinge may also comprise hinge material. Hinge material may be any material that allows the first portion and the second portion to move relative to each other. For example, hinge material may be any leather, fabric and/or textile as described above. For example, ballistic nylon, canvas, and/or leather may be used as a hinges. Hinges may be made of a single layer or multiple layers of material. For example, multiple layers of fabric or textile may comprise a hinge. In another embodiment, multiple layers of fabric or textile and leather may comprise a hinge. Mechanical, magnetic, optical, electronic, chemical and any other elements may also be combined with hinge material to form a hinge. For example, springs and/or dampers may be combined with hinge material such that the springs and/or dampers provide a tendency for the housing to be in a folded state or an unfolded state. Dual action springs may be used to both provide assistance upon folding and unfolding. Springs or other mechanical hinge devices may be mounted to the first portion and the second portion. In various embodiments, a spring may be compressed when a foldable housing is in a partial or fully folded state, making opening easier. In various embodiments, a spring may be extended when a foldable housing is in a folded state, to make it easier to close. 
   A foldable housing may include any device, chemical, magnetic or any other means for suitably securing a foldable transaction card to the foldable housing. A securing mechanism may allow the card to be partially or fully removable or it may permanently affix the foldable card to the foldable housing. Examples of suitable mechanisms include a track, a bracket, an adhesive, a pin, a spring, a clip, and the like. A track  2901  may be used so that a foldable transaction card may be slid into the track and the track secures the foldable transaction card  2905  to the foldable housing. There may be a track on the first portion of a foldable housing, the second portion of a foldable housing, or both. The track may allow the foldable transaction card to be removable from the foldable housing. The track may also allow a portion of the foldable transaction card to remain in contact with the foldable housing, while the transaction card is in the unfolded state. 
   In various embodiments, a fastener (e.g., latch) is used to secure the first and second portions of the foldable housing. For example, the securing device may be a latch, a bullet latch, a clasp, a hook and loop fastener, a buckle, a clip, or combinations thereof. The fastener  2903  may be a “push” style latch, such that pushing in on the latch causes it to unlatch. In various embodiments, a latch may be used to fix the foldable housing in an unfolded state. In various embodiments, a latch may be used to fix the foldable housing in a folded state. A latch may contain a spring to facilitate closing and/or opening. 
   When the second portion of a foldable housing is rotated to meet the first portion of the foldable housing (e.g., about 360 degrees), a fastener may be used to secure the portions together, fixing the foldable housing in an unfolded state. A fastener may be constructed using various component pieces. For example, latch  3004  may be combined with button  3005  and latch insert  3006  as shown in  FIG. 30 . Top  3003  may be attached to the latch and/or metal plate  3014 . 
   A foldable housing may include a hook, a carabiner, a spring-loaded carabiner, a locking carabiner, a lanyard, a wristlet, a strap, or other affixing device for affixing the foldable housing to an article. For example, a carabiner  2902 , may be used to attach the foldable housing to a key ring or a second carabiner. Also, for example, an affixing device of a foldable housing attaches to a lanyard or a wristlet. The affixing device may attach to a personal article such as a purse or briefcase. In various embodiments, personal articles could be attached to the carabiner. For example, a personal article could be a charm, a key ring, a second carabiner, a hook, a lanyard, a wristlet, a loop, a purse, a backpack, a briefcase, a suitcase, or combinations thereof. The charm may contain indicia disposed on a surface. The foldable housing may include a carabiner that attaches to a charm and a lanyard, a second carabiner, a key ring, or wristlet. In various embodiments, a charm contains indicia disposed on a surface. 
   A foldable housing may include an interior and/or exterior pocket. An interior pocket may be a space where other items may be stored. For example, a foldable housing may include an interior pocket  3101  for the storage of cash. 
   The foldable housing may be constructed of multiple layers of material arranged in any order. Referring to  FIG. 30 , multiple layers  3009 ,  3010 ,  3011 ,  3014  may comprise the first portion and the second portion. For example, these layers may comprise leather  3009 , fabric backing  3010 , foam backing  3011 , and metal plates  3014 . In various embodiments, several layers of materials may be used to construct the foldable housing. For example, a foldable housing may be constructed with two metal plates having a fabric or textile layer affixed thereto such that the fabric layer allows the first portion and the second portion to move relative to each other. In such embodiments, the fabric layer thus comprises a hinge. Hinge material may be affixed to a portion of a surface of the metal plates, or an entire surface of the metal plates. The hinge material may be affixed by any suitable means, including gluing. In various embodiments, a foldable housing may be constructed of layers of leather, fabric, and metal plates wherein the leather and fabric backing form a hinge between the first portion and the second portion. In various embodiments, a foldable housing may be constructed of a layer or layers of fabric or textiles wherein the fabric or textiles form a hinge between the first portion and the second portion. In various embodiments, a foldable housing may be constructed of one or more layers of metal with a mechanical hinge coupling the first portion to the second portion. In various embodiments, a foldable housing may be constructed of one or more layers of leather wherein the leather forms a hinge between the first portion and the second portion. In various embodiments, a foldable housing may be constructed of one or more layers of leather and metal plates, wherein the leather forms a hinge between the first portion and the second portion. 
   The first portion and the second portion of the foldable housing may be coupled with a base  3001 . A track may be constructed as shown using plate  3002 . A closing mechanism may be constructed to keep the foldable housing in the folded state. For example, hook pin  3007 , hook spring  3008 , and hook gate  3013  may be used to keep the foldable housing in the folded state while maintaining the hook spring  3008  in a compressed state. 
   A foldable transaction card system may be used to facilitate a financial transaction at a point of sale. A point of sale may be any place which accepts financial transaction information. A financial transaction may further by facilitated by a card reader. A card reader may comprise a magnetic stripe reader, a smart card reader and an RFID receiver. To facilitate a financial transaction, a foldable housing may be opened and the foldable transaction card unfolded. The foldable transaction card may then be swiped in a magnetic stripe reader. The foldable transaction may be removed from the foldable housing and placed in a “dip” or “take” style magnetic stripe reader. A “dip” or “take” style magnetic stripe reader are readers that require most or all of the card body to be inserted into the reader. The foldable transaction may be removed from the foldable housing and placed in a smart card reader. In various embodiments, a foldable transaction card may facilitate a financial transaction while still enclosed in the foldable housing. For example, the foldable housing may be brought near an RFID receiver at a point of sale and a foldable transaction card having an RFID antenna may then facilitate the financial transaction. 
   Any foldable transaction card may be used with a foldable housing. A foldable transaction card that is the size of a standard transaction card when unfolded may be used with a foldable housing. A foldable transaction card that is the size of a standard transaction card when unfolded and that is foldable along a horizontal or vertical axis may be used with a foldable housing. Any of the foldable transaction cards described herein may be used with a foldable housing. For example, a transaction card that contains an internal hinge layer may be used with a foldable housing. Transaction card with internal hinge layers and methods of making the same are disclosed herein. A foldable transaction card may be disposed within the foldable housing in any suitable manner. A foldable transaction card may be disposed within the foldable housing such that a magnetic stripe on the foldable transaction card is exposed (upwards or downwards relative to the housing) when the foldable housing is in an unfolded or partially unfolded state. A foldable transaction card may be disposed within the foldable housing such that the account number is visible when the foldable housing is in an unfolded or partially unfolded state. A foldable transaction card may be disposed within the foldable housing such that a signature panel is visible when the foldable housing is in an unfolded or partially unfolded state. A foldable transaction card may be disposed within the foldable housing such that a magnetic stripe is not exposed when the foldable housing is in an unfolded or partially unfolded state. 
   A folding transaction card system may comprise a nonfoldable transaction card and a foldable housing. In various embodiments, a foldable housing may be used with a nonfoldable transaction card to facilitate a purchase transaction at a point of sale. For example, a nonfoldable transaction card may be slid within a track of a foldable housing. A second portion of a foldable housing may then be able to be folded over the nonfoldable transaction card to encapsulate the card. At a point of sale, the second portion of the foldable housing may rotate to expose the nonfoldable transaction card, then the card may be slid along the track to expose the magnetic stripe outside of the foldable housing. In one embodiment, the track itself may extend outside of the housing, thereby exposing the magnetic stripe outside of the housing. The nonfoldable transaction card may also be removed from the foldable housing. The nonfoldable transaction card may then be swiped through a magnetic stripe reader or inserted into a magnetic stripe reader or a smartcard reader. One skilled in the art will appreciate that, the disclosure related to exposing a magnetic strip outside of the housing may also contemplate exposing other elements such as a recordable medium, microchip, antenna, etc. 
   In an alternate embodiment of the present invention, a foldable transaction card system may be combined with a money clip. For example, the embodiments described herein of a foldable transaction card and case or housing may include a money clip on a surface of the case or housing for holding and/or storing currency, or other like material. Moreover, the foldable transaction card systems may further be combined with a mobile telephone, such as a cellular telephone, or other personal communication device, such that the foldable transaction card may be removably attached to a housing or case that may be interconnected with the mobile telephone. Of course, foldable transaction card systems may be incorporated into other items as well, such as personal digital assistants (“PDAs”) or other like devices. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 34  through  FIG. 40 ,  FIG. 34  illustrates a perspective view of a foldable transaction card in an alternate embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIG. 35  illustrates a cross-sectional view of transaction card  700  along line XXX-XXX. As illustrated, transaction card  700  comprises a plurality of layers and has fold line  702  disposed therein, which is described in more detail below. 
   Transaction card  700  may comprise a top layer  710  comprising a polymeric material useful as a protective topcoat layer. Top layer  710  may be transparent, and may be utilized to protect the layers disposed beneath top layer  710 , as described below. Although any thermoplastic polymeric material may be utilized as top layer  710 , an exemplary thermoplastic polymeric material is transparent polyvinyl chloride, so as to allow a graphic layer  712 , described below, to be viewable. In one embodiment, the thickness of top layer  710  is about 1.8 mils (about 46 microns), although any other thickness is contemplated. 
   Disposed beneath top layer  710  is a graphic layer  712  comprising a printed thermoplastic polymeric material (e.g., polyvinyl chloride) although any thermoplastic polymeric material may be utilized as apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art. In one embodiment, the thickness of graphic layer  712  is about 6 or 7 mils (about 15 to 18 microns), although any other thickness is contemplated. 
   Disposed beneath graphic layer  712  is an adhesive layer  714  for bonding graphic layer  712  to a core layer  716  comprising polymeric spacers  718 ,  720  and an elastomeric material  722 , described below. Adhesive layer  714  may be any adhesive apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art for bonding the layers of transaction card  700  together. In one embodiment, adhesive layer  714  comprises a tripartite construction of adhesive and polyester. Specifically, adhesive layer  714  in one embodiment comprises a first sublayer comprising about 1 mil (about 25 microns) adhesive, a second sublayer comprising about 1 mil (about 25 microns) polyester, and a third sublayer comprising about 1 mil (about 25 microns) adhesive. Adhesive layer  714  may not be disposed across entire transaction card  700 , which may have a gap  715 , thereby providing hinge material  722  (described below) freedom to stretch, thereby allowing transaction card  700  to easily fold. Alternatively, adhesive layer  714  may have a release material, such as a silicone material disposed in the center of adhesive layer  714  facing core layer  716 , described below, thereby allowing hinge material  722  freedom to stretch. Alternatively, adhesive layer  714  is disposed across entire transaction card  700  without gap  715  or the release material. Adhesive layer  714  may be about 3 mils (about 76 microns) in total thickness, although any other thickness is contemplated. 
   Disposed beneath adhesive layer  714  is a core layer  716 . Core layer  716  comprises a first spacer  718  and a second spacer  720  disposed on opposite sides of hinge material  722 , which is generally disposed in the center of core layer  716  and disposed so as to straddle fold line  702 . First spacer  718  and second spacer  720  generally comprise polyvinyl chloride, although any similar thermoplastic polymer may be utilized. In one embodiment, first spacer  718  and second spacer  720  are about 10 mils (about 254 microns) thick. Disposed between first spacer  718  and second spacer  720  is hinge material  722 . Hinge material  722  may in one embodiment be an elastomeric material, such as nitrile or neoprene, for example, and may be about 15 mils (about 380 microns) thick, and may be disposed so as not to fill the entire space between first spacer  718  and second spacer  720 . This allows hinge material  722  to be stretched and/or compressed to fill the entire space when the layers of transaction card  700  are laminated together, which will also thin hinge material  722  to about 10 mils (about 254 microns). The lamination pressure stretches hinge material  722  to fill the space between first spacer  718  and second spacer  720 , thereby providing tension in hinge material  722  to keep transaction card  700  flat and in an unfolded state when at rest. Folding transaction card  700  stretches hinge material  722 , which acts as a spring allowing transaction card  700  to “snap” back to its flat configuration. 
   Hinge material  722  may be a strip of elastomeric material, as described above. Alternatively, hinge material  722  may comprise a plurality of strips that are disposed side-by-side with spacing therebetween, to allow reinforcing thermoplastic, such as polyvinyl chloride, to be disposed between the strips when the layers of transaction card  700  are laminated together, thereby adding strength and/or rigidity to transaction cards  700  Alternatively, hinge material  722  may comprise holes for allowing reinforcing thermoplastic, such as PVC, to be disposed within the holes when the layers of transaction card  700  are laminated together. Alternatively, hinge material  722  may be disposed across entire transaction card  700 , thereby precluding the use of or need for spacers  718 ,  720 . 
   Disposed beneath core layer  716  is a second adhesive layer  724  that may be substantially similar to, if not identical to, adhesive layer  714  described above. More specifically, adhesive layer  724  may comprise a tripartite construction of a first sublayer of adhesive that is generally about 1 mil (about 25 microns) thick, a second sublayer of polyester that is generally about 1 mil (about 25 microns) thick, and a third sublayer of adhesive that is generally about 1 mil (about 25 microns) thick. Adhesive layer  724  may not be disposed across entire transaction card  700 , and may have a gap  725 , thereby providing hinge material  722  freedom to stretch, thereby allowing transaction card  700  to easily fold. Alternatively, adhesive layer  724  may comprise a release material disposed on a surface facing core layer  716  and further disposed in the center of adhesive layer  724  thereby allowing hinge material  722  freedom to stretch. 
   Disposed beneath second adhesive layer  724  is a second graphic layer  726 . Second graphic layer  726  may comprise a printed layer of polyvinyl chloride, although any other polymeric material may be utilized as apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art. Disposed beneath second graphic layer  726  may be a bottom layer  728  comprising a protective polymeric material such as transparent polyvinyl chloride, so as to allow the graphics printed on second graphic layer  726  to be viewable. 
   Not shown are other features common to transaction cards, such as a signature panel, a magnetic stripe, holographic features, photographs, microchips and the like, which may be incorporated on transaction card  700  or within the layers of transaction card  700 . 
   Now referring to  FIG. 36 , a first subassembly  730  and a second subassembly  732  of transaction card  700  are illustrated. In general, transaction card  700  is constructed by laminating first subassembly  730  and second subassembly  732  together. Further, the subassemblies are typically constructed on large sheets prior to punching out individual cards. The subassemblies may be laminated together to form a laminated assembly (not shown) prior to punching out, cutting or otherwise removing individual cards. 
   First subassembly  730  comprises top layer  710 , graphic layer  712  and adhesive layer  714 . Second subassembly  732  comprises core layer  716  comprising first spacer  718 , second spacer  720  and hinge material  722 , second adhesive layer  724 , second graphic layer  726  and bottom layer  728 . However, first and second subassemblies  730 ,  732  may comprise other layers not detailed herein, which may be utilized to provide strength, rigidity and other like properties to a transaction card made therefrom. 
   In one embodiment, first subassembly  730  and second subassembly  732  are manufactured separately in large sheets and laminated together to form an assembly having all layers shown in the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 35 . Each individual transaction card  700  may be punched out, cut or otherwise removed from the assembly. Alternatively, the subassemblies may be made without top layer  710  and bottom layer  728 . After the subassemblies are laminated together, top layer  710  and bottom layer  728  may be laminated thereto. In addition, prior to punching out, cutting or otherwise removing individual cards, the laminated assembly may be slit or cut on opposite sides to form the fold line, such that all layers are cut, except for hinge material  722 , which acts like a hinge disposed in the center of transaction card  700 . This allows transaction card  700  to be folded in either direction, i.e. so as to fold over the front surface or the back surface of transaction card  700 . 
   Alternatively, each subassembly  730 ,  732  may be slit or cut prior to laminating the subassemblies together to form the assembly. This allows each subassembly  730 ,  732  to be slit or cut from the inside surface of each subassembly  730 ,  732 , thereby allowing any jagged edge from the slitting of each subassembly  730 ,  732  to be disposed on an outer surface of each subassembly  730 ,  732 , thereby minimizing contact between hinge material  722  and any jagged edges disposed on each subassembly  730 ,  732 , which may be caused by cutting or slitting each subassembly  730 ,  732 . This will increase the life of the transaction card  700  since wear of hinge material  722  is minimized. 
     FIG. 37  illustrates transaction card  700  in a folded configuration having a first section  740  and a second section  742  disposed adjacently. Hinge material  722  is utilized to allow first section  740  and second section  742  to fold relative to each other.  FIG. 33  illustrates a cross-sectional view of transaction card  700  in a folded state, showing first section  740  and second section  742  adjacent each other, and connected by hinge material  722 , which is stretched and tensioned when first section  740  and second section  742  are folded. 
     FIG. 39  illustrates a method of making the foldable transaction cards described herein in a flowchart  750 . In a first step  752 , first subassembly  730  is manufactured by laminating adhesive layer  714 , graphic layer  712  and top layer  710  together in a first sheet. In a second step  754 , second subassembly  732  is manufactured by laminating second adhesive layer  724 , second graphic layer  726  and bottom layer  728  together in a second sheet. In step  756 , a cutter cuts or slits first and second subassemblies  730 ,  732  to form fold line  702 . In step  758 , first spacer  718  and second spacer  720  are added to second subassembly  732 . First spacer  718  and second spacer  720  may be tacked or otherwise adhered to second subassembly  732  so as to be unmovable until subassemblies  730 ,  732  are laminated together. 
   Hinge material  722  is then added in step  760  to the space between first spacer  718  and second spacer  720  so as to straddle the fold line that has been cut or slit into second subassembly  732 . In step  762 , first subassembly  730  and second subassembly  732  are laminated together with heat and pressure to fuse first subassembly  730  to second subassembly  732  without damaging hinge material  722  disposed therein, or fusing the cut or slit disposed in each subassembly. Once subassemblies  730 ,  732  are laminated together, individual transaction cards are cut or punched out in step  764 . 
     FIG. 40  illustrates an alternate method of making foldable transaction cards described herein in a flowchart  770 . In a first step  772 , first subassembly  730  is manufactured by laminating adhesive layer  714 , graphic layer  712  and top layer  710  together in a first sheet. In a second step  774 , second subassembly  732  is manufactured by laminating second adhesive layer  724 , second graphic layer  726  and bottom layer  728  together in a second sheet. In step  776 , first spacer  718  and second spacer  720  are added to second subassembly  732 . First spacer  718  and second spacer  720  may be tacked or otherwise adhered to second subassembly  732  so as to be unmovable until the subassemblies are laminated together. Hinge material  722  is then added in step  778  between first spacer  718  and second spacer  720 . 
   In step  780 , first subassembly  730  and second subassembly  732  are laminated together with heat and pressure to fuse first subassembly  730  to second subassembly  732  without damaging hinge material  722  disposed therein. In step  782 , a cutter slits first and second subassemblies  730 ,  732  to form fold line  702 , without cutting or slitting the hinge material disposed between first subassembly  730  and second subassembly  732 . Once subassemblies  730 ,  732  are laminated together, individual transaction cards are punched out, cut or otherwise removed in step  784 . 
   After the cards are punched out in steps  764  and  784 , described above with reference to  FIGS. 37 ,  38 , the individual transaction cards may be personalized by adding account information, personal information, and other like information to the transaction card by embossing the transaction or via any other method apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art. 
   The present invention has been described above with reference to exemplary embodiments. However, those skilled in the art having read this disclosure will recognize that changes and modifications may be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. 
   Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described herein with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of the invention. The scope of the invention is accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended claims, in which reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one or more.” Moreover, where a phrase similar to ‘at least one of A, B, and C’ is used in the claims, it is intended that the phrase be interpreted to mean that A alone may be present in an embodiment, B alone may be present in an embodiment, C alone may be present in an embodiment, or that any combination of the elements A, B and C may be present in a single embodiment; for example, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. Although the invention has been described as a method, it is contemplated that it may be embodied as computer program instructions on a tangible computer-readable carrier, such as a magnetic or optical memory or a magnetic or optical disk. All structural, chemical, and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described exemplary embodiments that are known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. Moreover, it is not necessary for a device or method to address each and every problem sought to be solved by the present invention, for it to be encompassed by the present claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for.” As used herein, the terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.