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Title:
CARD
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2014/032109
Kind Code:
A9
Abstract:
An article such as a greeting card (10) comprising a sheet (11) defining at least one central portion( 16)and at least one versatile portion (18) connected together via at least one fold (20). The central portion (16) has two opposing edges (26, 28) adapted to be drawn together to create a three-dimensional form. The fold (20) is located at a junction of the central portion (16) and versatile portion (18). These portions (16, 18) are foldably connected together whereby the versatile portion (18) can be folded and adapted for location adjacent to or at an angle to the three-dimensional form, and may be secured at that location. The greeting card (10) may further comprise numerous engagement means (30, 32), apertures (38) and cords (39). The greeting card (10) can be delivered in a collapsed condition and can be readily assembled into a three-dimensional form revealing the ingenuity of the card.

Inventors:
VINECOMBE BARBARA JEAN (AU)
Application Number:
PCT/AU2013/000974
Publication Date:
October 09, 2014
Filing Date:
August 28, 2013
Export Citation:
Click for automatic bibliography generation   Help
Assignee:
VINECOMBE BARBARA JEAN (AU)
International Classes:
B42D15/02
Download PDF:
Claims:
a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group ot integers.

Hie Claims Defining the Invention are as Follows:

1. An article comprising a single Dat sheet of material d fining at least two portions, a first portion and a second portion adapted to be foldably connected together via a fold, wherebythecentralportioncomprisesailrstedge and twoopposedsecondand third edges, shorterthan the firstedge and the twoopposededgesarebroughttogcthertocreatea three

an angle to the oentral portion.

2. Anarticleaccordingtoclaim 1 whereinthethree-dimensionalformisprovidedwith a base such that a cavity is detined within the three-dimensional tbrm into which an object can be inserted.

3. An article according to claim 1 wherein the versatile portion can adapt itself to various names and roles including, but not limited to, a background, a foreground, internal portion, a side, a top and a base to define a particular application adopted by the versatile portion.

4. An article according to claim 1 wherein the first portion comprises at leasttwo sections, parts of the sections being integrally connected and further parts of the sections beingdetached, where byoneofsuchsections projects fromanotherofsuchsections when the first portion is erected into the three-dimensional form.

5. An article according to claim 4 wherein the first portion when in the three- dimensional form portrays, a body havi ng a tor so and a head, with the uppe r section forming the head and upper part of the torso, and the main body section forming the lower part of the torso.

6. An article according to claim 5 whereinthe firstportionhasanuppersectionanda main body section, and wherein the main body section is provided with spaced first and second engagement means such that upon the first portion being folded upon itself and the first and second engagement means are inter-engaged to transform the first portion into three-dimensional form.

7. An articleaccordingtoolaim5whereinsectionsofthe main body section canextend width wise and in height.

8. An article according to claim 1 whereinthefirstengagementmeanscomprisesatab and the second engagement means comprises a slot configured to receive the tab.

9. Anarticle accordingto claim 8 whereinthe first engagement means, the tab, can be on one portion and the second engagement means, the slot, can be on another portion whereby upon engagement of the tab and the slot, the portions are brought together.

10. Anarticleaccordingto claim 1 wherein a weightisattachedtotheparticularfaceof the first portion which is innermost when the first portion is erected into the three- dimensional form.

11. Anarti cleaccordingto claim 1 whereinthe firstedgecomprisesafirstedgeportionand a second edge portion, the first and second edge portions are at a first di stance apart when the firstportionisflat, and are a second distance apart, shorter than the first distance when the first portion is erected into the three dimensional form

12. An article according to claim 1 wherein the first portion defines a central portion adaptedforerectionintoathree dimensional form, andtfie second portiondefinesa versatile portion connected to the central portion via a fold.

13. An article according to claim 1 whereinthe versatile portion is adapted to be folded to a position adjacent to or at an angle to the front side of the erected three dimensional form and furthermorejhe versatile portionis adapted to be folded to a position adjacent to or at an angle to the rearsideofthe central portionpri or tothe central porti on beingerected into the three dimensional form.

14. Anarticleaccordingtoclaim 1 wherein therecanbeoneornumerouscentralportions, versatileportions,folds, spacedfirstengagementmeans, spaced second engagementmeans, apertures, cords, andadheringmeans by which a portion can connectto another portion which in turn can connect to another portion.

Abstract

An article such as a greeting card (10) comprising a sheet (11) defining at least one central portion( 16)and at least one versatile portion (18) connectedtogether viaatleastone fold (20). The central portion (16) has two opposing edges (26, 28) adapted to be drawn together to create a three-dimensional form. The fold (20) is located at a junction of the central portion (16) and versatile portion (18). These portions (16, 18) are foldably connected together whereby the versatile portion (18) can be folded and adapted for locati on adjacenttooratan angle to the three-dimensional form, and maybe secured atthat location. The greeting card (10) may further comprise numerous engagement means (30, 32), apertures (38) and cords (39). The greeting card (10) can be delivered in a collapsed condition andean be readilyassembledintoathree-dimensional form revealing the ingenuity of the card.

Description:
Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an article that can transform from a collapsed condition, whichisgenerallyflat, intoanerectedconditionthathasatliree-dimensionalfonn, an transform back to its collapsed condition.

The article may be usedfor any appropriate purpose such as, for example, agreetingcard to convey a greeting message or other information; a decoration; a gift; a souvenir; an ornament; a puzzle; entertainment; a table name card; an educational tool; a promotional tool or display device for advertising or conveying other information.

Background Art

The discussion of the background art is included exclusively for the purpose of providing a context for the presentinvention. It should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgement or admissi on that any of the material referred to was common general knowledge in the field relevantto the presentinventionin Australiaor else wherebeforethe priority date.

It is known that on special occasions or as a sign of affection, greeting cards may be given by one personknown as the sender, to anotherpersonknownas the recipient. Suchgreeting cards are normally manufacturedinabookletstylesuchthatthefrontcoverincorporates a design, message, photograph or a combination of these. The booklet style greeting card may be folded flat, placed in an envelope and sent by mail to the intended recipient; generally, whenreceived, the recipientknows beforehand whatisinsidethe envelope before opening it. Thereisnoanticipation, wonder, excitementorsurprise factor: agreetingcard isagreetingcard. Thebookletstylegreetingcardsarenormallydisplayedbytherecipie nt for a short period of time.

Inrecenttimesattempts have been made to addexcitementandlife to greeting cards bythe introduction of pop up cards and three dimensi pnal greeting cards. The greeting card has virtually stagnated, being consistently similar and consistently familiar. It is what it is and has remained so for approximately 650 years. The booklet style greeting card generally i s often difficult to di splay and when the greeting cardisdisplayed, onlythe front coverorthe inside cover orpage are displayed, and a slight breeze will topple them off the furniture.

There have been various proposals to enhance the sentiment or interest engendered by greeting cards through a provision enabling them to be assembled into a three-dimensional form for display.

Besides US patent no. 8,252,391, US patent application no. 13/597,190, PCT application no.AU2008/000039, Australian Paten No.2008207283, Mexican Patent No.304499, Chinese Patent Application No. 200880008541.1, Brazilian Patent Application No.PI000806769-4, andIndianPatentApplicationNo. l536/MUMNP/2009),examplesof suchproposal are disclosedinUS PatentNos.2,616, 199, 2,696,690, 3, 134,708, 3,571 ,958, 6, 173,515, 7,596, 896 B2, 7,490,425 B2, 7,409,787 B2, 7,316,085 B 1 , 5,933,989, 526, 172; US7, 100,317 and Martha Stewart Living Magazine December 2000 Issue pg 90, "Paper Plate Angels", H. Hayes (US Patent No 2,205,262(also Re. 22,109) and Sylvan (http:crafts.kaboose.com/angel-and-singer-ornaments.htm & http://wv^.ldclsdomain.com/crafVcegiforn/ang-hom.gif).

While some such proposals may be effective in creating intere st and allowing display in the three-dimensional form, they can be rather complicatedto erectand/ornotsufficiently stable whenintheerectedconditionfordisplaypurposes. Agreetingcardshouldbeeverevolving and always presenting new options for the sender and excitement to the recipient. The present invention provides for greater remembrance of the sender upon the greeting card being received, and long after other kind of greeting cards are stored or thrown away. Businessesandcorporations can have their own individual style in their communications and advertisementstotheircustomerscustomizedingreetingcardofthe invention designedto their specification and with the same aforementioned qualities.

The present invention seeks to overcome atleastinpartthe aforementioneddi sadvantage s or limitations of the prior artand provide innovative advancements and useful choicest© the prior art arrangements referred to above . When the article is being purchased, the buyer may choose from a range of characters, scenes, sports, etc, and words in most languages. There are also variant degrees of simplicity,creativit ,intrigue,interacUvityandcomplexitiestochoosefrom. Theseoptions are created by the different designs and art used, layout andnumber of the portions, hi nges, spaced engagements means, adhering means, apertures and cords. By mixing these coordinates and strategically adding and removing some, the arrangements are always different. As the coordinates are folded into place, the coordinated art work is then appreciated.

The article in its simplest form requires only a bend, a flip and a stick to realize its three dimensional form. It is simple, yet, intriguing. There is also anticipation, wonder, excitement,creativityjnteractivity, and it has a surprise factor. Prior to the complete erection of the article into the simple orthe more complex three dimensional form, it is not known what the article will look like, inducing the recipient to experiencainexpected emotions as mentioned above. The article in its more complexform offers varyingdegrees of challenge to skills, interactivity, ingenuity and mental fortitude to fathom and erect the numerouscoordinatesintothethreedimensionalform. Thearticlecanbe hung, adheredto asupportorsatuponasuitable surface. A weight maybe applied ontothearticle sothat in its form of a greetingcard it can sit in any breezy condition in the home oroffice. Aribbon may be inserted into a push-out aperture in the article so that in its form of a greeting cardit can hang inside or outside automobiles or boats.

Disclosure of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an article comprising a single flatsheetofmatenal defining atleasttwo portions, afirstportionandasecond portion. The first portion defines a central portion and the second portion defines a versatile portion foldablyconnectedtogetherviaafold,thecentralportionbeingadap tedforerectioninto a three dimensional form and the versatile portion beingadaptedforlocationadjacenttoorat an angle to the said erected three-dimensional form. In an alternative arrangement, the article can comprise one or numerous central portions, one or numerous versatileportions and one or numerous folds. Preferably, the central portion comprises opposed second and third edges adapted to be drawn togetherto create the three-dimensional form. The central portion furthercomprises a first edge defining a bottom end when the central portion is erected into the three- dimensional form, with the firstedge terminating at the second andthird edges ofthe central portion. In this arrangement, the central portioncan be turned upon it se If to bring the two opposed second and third edges together.

Preferably, the lower end ofthe erected three dimensional form has a curved periphery so that the central portion has a generally inverted cone shape. The curved periphery can consist of numerous straight lines.

Preferably, the first edge comprises a first edge portion and a second edge portion. The first edge portion is at one end of the first edge, and the second edge portion is at the extreme otherendof the firstedge. The firstedge portionislocatedatthejunctionofthe first edge and the third edge, and the second edge portion is located at the junction ofthe first edge and the secondedge. The central portion is erected into the three-dimensional form when the first edge portion and the second edge portion are brought together. The first andsecondedge portions are a first distance apart when the central portionis flat, and are a second distance apart, shorter than the first distance, when the central portion is erected into the three-dimensional form.

Preferably, the central portion has a lower end and an upper end, wherein the upper end is provided with spacedfirstand second engagement means, such that uponthe central portion being drawn upon itself, the first and secondengagement means are inter-engagedto secure the central portion in the three-dimensional form.

The first engagement means can comprise a tab, and the second engagement means can comprise a slot configured to receive the tab. The tab can be notched so that upon engagemenlbetween the tab and the slot, a part ofthe tab is located behind the portion adjacenttheslot. Thespacedfirstandsecondengagementmeanscanalsocomprise forms ofengagementmeansotherthanatabandaslot. In alternative arrangements, engagement means canalsocompriseotherformsofengagementmeans. In an alternative arrangement, spaced first engagement meanscan be onanyportionandspacedsecondengagementmeans can be on any portion. Preferably, thecentralportioncomprisesatleasttwosections, parts of the sections being integrallyconnected,withfurtherpartsofthesectionsbeingdetach ed, where byoneofsuch sections proj ects from another of such sections when the central portioniserectedinto the three-dimensionalforrn. In this arrangement, the central portion, when in the three- dimensional form, can portray a body having a torso and a head, with one section forming the head and upper part of the torso, and another section forming the lower part of the torso.

In an alternative arrangement, sections of the body can extend widthwise to at least the width of the central portion whenthe central portionis inthe two dimensional flat form andextend to at least the height of the central portion whenthe central portion is in the two dimensional flat form. In an alternative arrangement, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the central portion when in the three-dimensional form can portray lower floors of a building. In an alternative arrangement, as illustrated in FIG. 18, the central portion when in the three- dimensional form can portray an entire building.

Conveniently, thccentralportioniscuttoproduceatleasttwosectionsatthe same time as the sheet stock is cut to produce the sheet of the required configuration.

Preferably,thecentral portion comprises the first edge and the slot, and therebetween is located a heel section. When the central portion and versatile portion are in the three dimensional form, and resting on a support surface, the heel section provides balance and stability for the three dimensional form. Dimensions of the heel section can be variedto suit balance and stability requirements of alternative arrangements, with the first edge conforming accordingly.

Preferably, the fold foldably connects the versatile portion to the central portion. In alternative arrangements, any central portion(s) can be connected to further central portion(s)viaafold; the any central portion(s)canbeconnectedtoversatileportion(s)viaa fold; any versatile portion(s)canbe connectedtofurtherversatileportion(s)viaafold. In an alternative arrangement each portion can consist of one or numerous folds.

Preferably, the versatileportionisfoldablyconnected to the central portion viathe fold, and is adapted to be folded into apositionadjacenttooratanangle to the central portion wnen in the erected three-dimensional form.

In alternative arrangements, the versatility of the versatile portion allows the versatile portion to adapt itself to various names and roles including, but not limited to, a background, a foreground, internal portion (74), a side, a top and a base (54) to define a particular application adopted by the versatile portion. Versatile portions, in their given adopted names, are adapted to be folded toa position adjacent to oratan angle to further versatile portion(s) and to further central portion(s).

A versatile portion, in the role of internal portion, as seen in FIG. 7 (74), is adapted to be folded to a position adjacent to or at an angle to the rear side of the central portion prior to the central portion being erected into the three dimensional form.

In an alternative arrangement, the versatile portion can be at least the same size of the central portion.

Inalternativearrangementasillustrated in FIG. 16, versatile portion 18 inthe role of a base, and 18a in the role of internal portion, are adaptedto be folded to a position adjacent to or at an angle to the bottom end and to the rear side of the central portion prior to the central portion being erected into the three dimensional form.

Preferably, the versatile portion is adapted to be secured to the three-dimensional form. Adhering means, such as but not li mited to, glue, double sided tape, can be provided for securing the versatile portion to the three-dimensional form.

In an alternative arrangement, adhering means can be provided for securing any portion to any portion. Adhering means can be provided for securing part of a portion to itself.

In an alternative arrangement, the article can comprise one or numerous central portions, versatileportions,folds,spaced firstengagementmeans, spaced secondengagement means, aperture 38, cords, and adhering means. Thecentralportionandtheversatileportioneachoompriseabordered ge. Theborderedge of the central portion is defined as central border, and the border edge of the versatile portion is defined as versatile border.

The versatile border connects to one or numerous versatile border(s) via the fold. The versatileborderoonnects toone or a numerous central border(s)viathe fold. The central border connects to one or numerous central border(s) via the fold. The central border connects to one or numerous versatile borders) via the fold.

The article according to the invention can be configured as a card (such as, for example, a greetingcard)fromasingleflatsheetofmaterial. The sheet comprisesasingle piece of flat material. The sheet can be made from sheet stock of any appropriate material and appropriatethickness including, but not limited to, paper, cardboard, plastics, minerals, electronic and parchment paper. Typically, the sheet stockis cutto produce the sheetof therequiredconfiguration. Thesheetstockcanbecutbyadie-cuttingprocess. The sheet can comprise one or numerous folds.

The three-dimensional form can be provided with a base such thatacavityisdefined within the three-dimensional form into which an object such as a gift can be inserted.

Preferably, the versatile portion can be adapted to receive attachment means to allow the assembled article to be attached to a support for display purposes.

Inanaltemativearrangemen1,any ortion(s)canbeadaptedtoreceiveattachmentmeansto allow the assembled article to be attached to a support for display purposes.

Inaltemativearrangements,theattachmentmeanscancompriseatt achmentdevice(s)such as, but not limited to, at least one magnet for attaching the article to metallic surfaces, such as refrigerator doors or parts of a motor vehicle. In alternative arrangements, the attachments meanscancompriseasuspensionelement,suchas, butnotlimitedto,acord by means of which the assembled article can be hung for display. In an alternative arrangement there can be one or numerous threads that can be threaded through one or numerous apertures. According to a second aspect of the invention, as illustrated in FIG.3, there is provided an article formed from a single flat sheetof material comprisingacentral portion arranged to be transformedinto three-dimensional form. The central portion having a lower end and an upper end, wherein the upper end is provided with spaced first and second engagement means such that upon the central portion being turned around upon itself, the first and secondengagement means are inter-engagedto transform the central portion into three- dimensional form.

According to a third aspect of the invention, as illustrated in FIG.6, the central portion either prior to or when erected i nto the three-dimensional form, can be adapted to receive a weight to enhance the stability of the three-dimensional form when resting on a support surface. The weight can be attached to the rear side of the front face of the central portion when flat, as or when the central portioniserectedinthe three-dimensional form.

There can be numerous central portions, versatile portions, folds, firstengagements, second engagements, cords, apertures and adhering means adapted to represent a variety of art in three dimensional forms.

Inanaltemativean¾ngementmerecanbenumerousvereatite

connected at the first edge of the central portion. The sender can remove the number of candles exceeding the required number for the birthday occasion by cutting same from the first edge at the fold without detracting from the card.

Inan alternative arrangement, aversatiieportioninthe role of aforeground portion, suchas in FIG. 17 (18a) can, but is not limited to, be of an upright, oblong shape for the sender (whomaybeonvacation),topastetheirphotographontoversatileport ion l8aandthencut around their body outline. When this versatile portion (18a) is lifted into place, it reveals the sender standing in front of an iconic image or tourist attraction. Other means for the sender to have his/her/their photograph(s) in versatile portion ( 18a) includes, but is not limitedto,accesstouploadingphotographsdirectontothearticleof 1hegreetingcardofthe invention via electronic means.

In alternative arrangement, an assortment of articles/cards can be arranged as a hanging mobile for a room decoration.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention will be better understood by reference to the fol lowing description as shown in the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a front side view of an article according to a first embodiment, the article being configured as a greeting card and being shown in the two-dimensional flat form;

Figure2isarearsideviewofthe greeting cardofFigure 1 inthe two-dimensional flat form

Figure 3 is a front perspective view of the greeting cardofFigure 1 in the process of being assembled into three-dimensional form;

Figure4 isafrontperspective view ofthe greeting cardofFigure 1 inthe assembled three- dimensional form;

Figure 5 is a side elevation view of the greeting card as shown in Figure 4;

Figure 6 is a rear side view of the greeting card according to a second embodiment, illustrating a marked location for a weight positioning in the two-dimensional flat form;

Figure 7 is a front side viewof an article according to a third embodiment, the article being configured as a greeting cardconsi sting of acentral portion, numerous versatile portions and numerous folds and being shown in the two-dimensional flat form;

Figure 8 is a front perspective viewof the greeting cardofFigure 7 in the assembledthree- dimensional form;

Figure 9isafront side view of an article accordingtoafourthembodiment, configured asa greetingcard consisting of a central portion, numerous versatile portions and numerous folds, and being shown in the two-dimensional flat form Figures 10, 11 and 12 are magnified front side views of alternative variations of the heel portion of the greeting card. See FIG 9 (72);

Figure 13 is a side elevation view of an article accordingto a fifth embodiment, configured as a greeting card in the three dimensional form displaying a versatile portion 18a, forming a base of the greeting card;

Figure 14 is a side elevation viewofanarticle accordingto asixthembodiment, configured as a greeting cardin the three dimensional form, displayingthe versatility of versatile portion 18;

Figure 15 is a side elevation view of an article according to a seventhembodiment, configured as a greeting card in the three dimensional form displ aying two versatile portions connectedviatwofolds;

Figure 16 is a side elevation view of an article accordingto an eighth embodiment, configuredasagreetingcard,displayingtwoversatilepoi1ions,bot hportionsadaptedtobe positioned prior to the erection central portion into the three dimensional form;

Figure 17 is a front perspective view of an article accordingto a ninth embodiment, configuredasagreetingcard, displayingthe use of numerous versatile portions ( 18, 18a and 18b) in the assembled three dimensional form;

Figure 18 is a front perspective view of an article according to a tenthembodiment, configured as a greeting card, displaying an alternative arrangement for FIG.17;

Figure 19 is a front side viewofanarticle according toaneleventh embodiment, thearticle being configured as a greeting card and being shown in a folded flat condition in the two- dimensional flat form;

Figure 20isasideelevationviewof an article accordingto atwelfth embodiment, the article being configured asagreeting card displaying a versatile portion 18 folded downwards from upper portion 22 and behind upper portion 22 to provide the background to the erected three-dimensional form;

Figure 21 is a side elevation view of an article according to a thirteenth embodiment, the article being configured as a greeting card, displaying the versatile portion 18 extending upwards from upper portion 22, and a further versatile portion 18a to provide the background to the erected three-dimensional form;

Figure 22isafrontside view ofanarticle according toafourteenthembodiment,thearticle being configured as a greeting card and being shown in the two-dimensional flat form.

Best Mode(s) for Carrying Out the Invention

Referring to the Figures 1 to 6 of the drawings, there is shown an article configured as a greeting card 10 according to the first embodiment. The greeting card 10 is illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 in two-dimensional form, comprising a sheet 11 having a front side 12anda rear side 14. The sheet 11 comprises a first portion defined as the central portion 16, a second portion defined as a versatile portion 18 and a fold line defined as fold 20. The versatile portion 18 is attached to the central portion 16 through the fold 20. The central portion 16 and the versatile portion 18 are connected via the fold 20. The central portion 16 and the versatile portion 18 are formedfroma single piece of material. The greetingcard 10 may be manufactured from a paper stock of suitable thickness. In an alternative embodiment the greeting card may be manufactured from a wide variety of materials, such as, butnotlimitedto,paper,cardboarcl, plastics, minerdsandparchmentpaper. Typically, the sheet stock is cut to produce the sheet 11 of the required configuration. The sheet stock may be cut by a die^cutting process.

The central portion 16canbe generally of semi-circular shape and comprise an upper section 22, (as seen in the drawings) and a main body section 24. The main body section 24 comprises a curved first edge 25, and a second edge 26 and a third edge 28 disposed on either side of the upper section 22. In order for the greeting card 10 to be erected into a three dimensional form with stable structure, as will be described, the first edge 25 is preferably of a greater length than either of the edges 26 and 28. The upper secti on 22 and the main body section 24 are formed integrally, with parts oTthe two sections, 22and24, being integrallyconnectedatjunction21 therebetween, andfurther parts of the two sections 22 and 24 being detached along character lines 36. Thej unction

21 is centrally located. The lines of separation 23 arc defined by slits in the sheet 11. Character line 36 is defined by aslitinthe sheet 11. The lines of separation 23 can be part of or separate to the character line 36. The linesof separation 23 and the character line 36 are formed at the same time as the sheet stockis cutto produce the sheet 11 ofthe required configuration.

With this arrangement, the upper section 22 and main body section24 projects from the main body section 24 when the greeting card 10 is erected, as shown in Figures 3, 4 and 5. In the arrangement shown, the central portion 16, when in the three-dimensional form, portrays a body 27 having atorso 27a and a head 27b, with the upper section 22 forming the head and the main body section 24 forming the upper and lower part ofthe torso. In this embodiment, the body 27 depicts a rabbit. In an alternative arrangement, the body 27 may depict a differing shape, such as, but not limited to, a steepled church or an aeroplane.

The upper section22 maybe substantially circular inshape. Alternatively, the upper section

22 may be of a differing shape, such as, but not limited to, a square, triangle or oval shape. The upper section 22 may extend widthwise to at least the width ofthe central portion 16 when in the flat two dimensional form, and extend to at least the height of the central portion 16 when in the flat two dimensional form. The upper section 22 and 24 may include character line 36 in the material so that an appendage portion, such as, but not limited to, a rabbit tail or a basket of eggs may be incorporated.

Located adj acent to the second edge 26 is a tab 30. The tab 30 is formed with notches in the form of slits 32 and 32a in the material at the junction ofthe tab 30 and the second edge 26. Aslot34 is locatedadjacentto the third edge 28. The slot 34 is in the form ofa slit in the material extending at a spaced location from the third edge 28. The slot 34 is smaller in length than the longest length ofthe tab 30. The length ofthe engagement means can be shortened, and lengthened according to the configuration ofthe card 10.

Thecentralrx rtion l6furthercomprisesaheelsection72betweenthefirstedge25andthe slot 34. When the central portion 16, inthe three dimensional form, is sitting on asurface^ the heel section72provides even distributionofweightto the first edge 25, and balance and stability for the three dimensional form.

The greeting card 10 contains the fold20 at the meeting of the two portions 16 and 18. At the meeting of these two portions 16 and 18 is the first edge 25. In an alternative embodiment of this invention, the versatile portion 18 may be of a differing shape, such as, but not limited to, a circle, square or triangle shape. The fold 20 can comprise part of an edge ofthe central portion 16andpart ofan edge of afurther central portion 16. The fold 20 can comprise part of an edge ofthe versatile portion 18 and part of an edge of a further versatile portion 18. At the meeting of any two portions is the fold.

Thecentralportion 16hasanouter edgedefinedascentralborder71. The versatile portion 18 has an outer edge defined as versatile border 73.

Locatedonthefrontside 12oftheversatileportion l8isanadheringmeans44, suchas, but not limited to, double sided tape. In an alternative arrangement of this invention, the adhering means 44 maybe located on the rear sides and front sides of central portion 16 and versatile portion 18.

In an alternative arrangement of this invention, adhering means 44 may be used to adhere portion to portion. In an alternative arrangement of this invention, adhering means 44 may be used to adhere part of a portion to the same portion.

The greeting card lOmayal so contain attachment means to allowtheassembledcard lOto be attached to a supportfordisplaypurposes. Attachmentmeanscancomprise attachment means such as, but not limited to, magnets for attaching the assembled card to metallic surfaces such as, but not limited to, doors of refrigerators or parts of motor vehicles.

The front side 12 and rear si de 14 may contain a greeting or greetings corresponding to the intended sentiment of the greeting card 10. The greeting card 10 may be supplied with a selection of available messagest pically, but not limited to, verse form. In an alternative embodiment of this invention, the greeting card 10 may contain means for the sender to create messages suchas, butnotlimitedto, electronic means whereby the message contentis uploadedorselectedbythe sender. The frontside 12andrearside 14 mayalsocontainany number of designs, markings or slits.

Inorder to assemble the greeting card 1 Oas illustratedin Figure 3, the central portion 16is turnedaroundonitself suchthatthe Iinearedges26and28 re brought towards each other in order to form an inverted conical shape with a bottom, the bottom of the conical shape being the first edge 25 and the top of the conical shape being the lines of separation 23 as shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3.

The linear edges26 and 28 are bought together and are orientated suchthatthe tab 30 is overthe linear edge 28 adjacent the slot34. Such orientation allowsinserti on ofthetab30 into the slot 34 from the front side 14. Thetab30ispresentedangularlytothe slot34to allow the tab to enter the slot. After insertion, the tab 30 is internally located within the greeting card 10.

The front side 12 of versatile portion 18 can then be folded on fold 20 such that the front side 12ofversatile portion 18isorienteduprightandadjacenttothelinear edges 26 and 28 of the central portion 16. The versatile portion 18 is then secured to the central portion 16 by adhering means 44.

Remote from the junction of the upper section 22 and main body section 24 is an aperture 38. In use, the aperture 38 may be utilized to hang the assembled card 10 for display purposes. The assembled card 10 may be hung directly on a fixture, such as, a peg or hook or, alternatively, the assembled card lOmay be suspended from a cord 39, suchas, butnot limited to, aribbonorcordthreadedthroughaperture38. Inanalternativeembodiment,the cord 39 may be threaded through one or a plurality of aperture 38. Thiscompletesthe assembly of the greeting card 10.

Inan alternative arrangement, prior to the central portion 16 being erected into the three dimensional form, a versatile portion 18a, in the shape of a teddy bear, connected to the first edge 25 of the central portion 16, is folded down, backward and then upward to rest at an angle to the rear side of the central portion 16, whereby when the central portion 16 is erected into the three dimensional form portraying a basket of flowers, the teddy ' earTSa 1 ' appears behind the flowers. Afurthertwoversatileportions 18b & 18c, are connected at the first edge 25, one of these versatile portions 18b comprising a spaced first engagement means 30is connected to the leftside of the basketof flowers via the fold20, and the other versatile portion 18ccomprisingaspacedsecondengagementmeans34isconnectedtothe right side ofthe basket of flowers via the fold 20. The unconnected ends of both these versatile portions 18b& 18c are then folded upwards, brought together over the top ofthe basketof flowers andengagedbytheirrespectivespacedfirstandsecondengagement means 30 & 34, to portray handles to the basket of flowers. Folding downward from the basket handle is a further versatile portion 18d being a heart shaped message area. There is a furtherversatile portion 18e connecting to the uppermost flowers in the basket below the first and second engagement 30 & 34 ofthe handle. When folded outwards, versatile portion 18e reveals two little butterflies. Furthermore, the first edge 25 of the central portion 16consistsofothernumerous versatile portions 18f 18g, 18h, 18i, 18j, 18k, 181, 18m and 18n)thatwhenfoldedupward and adjacentto or at an angle to the central portion 16, represent various flowers and garden fairies. There is a further versatile portion 18o connected to the first edge 25 of the central portion 16 which, whenfolded upward adj acent to the three dimensional form, represents a background 18 of the sun, blue sky and fluffy white clouds. There is afurtherversatile portion 18pconnectedtoversatile portion 18oand another versatile portion 18q connected to versatile portion 18p. Versatile portion 18p is smaller and slimmer than versatile portion 18q. When versatile portion 18pis folded forward, and larger versatile portion 18qisfoldedinfrontof andparallelto versatile portion 18o,asprayofturterfliesfilltheskyfurtherenha^ There isafurther slim versatile portion 18r connected to the uppermost edge of versatile portion 18o viatwo individual folds and a furtherversatileportion 18s, widerthanversatile portion 18o, connectedto versatile portion 18rviatwoindividual folds 20. Whenversatileportion 18r is folde d backwards and versatile portion 18s is foldeddo wnwards to a position adj acent the rear side 14 of versatile portion 18o with the area widerthanversatile portion 18o, distantmountainranges provideafurther background ISstothe background 18o. Afurthcr versatile portion 18t, in the role of a base, connected to the first edge 25, when folded downwardbackward and thensecuredadjacenttothebottomendofthe central portion 16 in the three dimensional form, providesabase 18ttothethreedimensionalform. Thisbase forms a cavity 56 for placing, for example, lollies, teeth, money or an engagement ring. The above alternative arrangement provides an intriguing option to a sender with appetite for creativity and novelty. The greeting card can be sent flat in an envelope likewise provoking intrigue, antici pation and surprise to the recipient with added interactivity and excitement

In an alternative embodiment the rear side 14 of versatile portion 18 can then be folded on the fold20 suchthat the rear side 14 of versatile portion 18 isoriented adjacent to orat an angle to the rear side 14 of the central portion 16 prior to the central portion 16 being erected into the three-dimensional form, as illustrated in FIG. 7 and 8 (18a) and 14 (18).

Inanalternative embodimentasillustratedinFIG.16( 18 and 18a), the rear side of versatile portion 18 may be folded on the fold 20 such that the rear side of versatile portion 18 is oriented adjacent to or at an angle to the bottom end, prior to the central portion 16 being erected into the three-dimensional form.

If so desired, the greeting card 10 may be further folded such that the conical shape of the central portion 16 is flattened, forming a shape such as, but not limitedto, a square, triangle oroval shape. Inthis way the greeting card lOmay be usedforotherpurposessuchas, for example, as a bookmark.

Greeting card 10 presents both the sender and recipient with various grades of intrigue, simplicity, complexity, oreativity, interactivity and, simultaneously, is intrinsically alluring.

Alternatively, the assembled greeting card 10 can be simply placed overanobjectintended as a gift, with the object being accommodated within the confinesof thethree-dimensional form.

Detailed description of the Drawings

FIG. 1 is a front side view of an article according to a first embodiment, the article being configured as a greeting card and being shown in the two-dimensional flat form; FIG. 2 isarearsideviewofthegreetingcardofFigure l in^

FIG. 3 isafrontperspectiveviewofthe greetingcardofFigure 1 in the process of being assembled into three-dimensional form;

FIG. 4 isafrontperspectiveviewofthe greetingcardofFigure 1 in the assembled three- dimensional form;

FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of the greeting card as shown in Figure 4;

FIG. 6 Aocordingtoa secondembodimentsimilarinmanyrespectstothegreetingcardof the first embodiment and so corresponding reference numerals are used to identify similar parts. Inthis secondembodiment, the central portion l6isadaptedtoreceiveaweight50, to provide stability to the greeting card 10 when assembled in the three-dimensional form when resting on a support surface such as a shelf. The weight SO can assist the assembled card to retain its stability when subject to events such as air movement and unintentional knocks. While the weight 50 may take any appropriate form, a coin has been found to be particularly convenient. Inthe arrangement shown, the rear side 14 has a location marked adj acentthe first edge 25 remote from the linear edges26and28 atwhich the weight 50 can be attached;

FIG. 7 According to a third embodiment of the invention as illustrated in FIG. 7, there is an article comprising a sheet defining a central portion 16, and a versatile portion 18 and a further fourversatile portions 18a, 18b, 18c and 18d, connected together, The central portion 16beingadaptedforerectionintoathree-dimensional form, the versatile portion 18 being adapted to the role of a foreground to the central portion 16 in the three-dimensional form, a further versatile portion 18a being adapted to the role of an internal portion 74 to the central portion 16 inthe three-dimensional form, a further versatile portion 18b being adapted to the role of a base to the central portion 16 inthe three-dimensional form, and a furtherversatile portion 18c being adaptedto the rolcof abackgroundtothcccntral portion 16 in the three-dimensional form, and a further versatile portion 18d being adapted to the role of a foreground to the versatile portion 18c inthe role of a background to the central portion 16 inthe three-dimensional form: The versatile portion 18a, inthe role of internal the central portion lopriorto the central portion ibbeingerectedinto the three dimensional form;

FIG. 8 Accordingtothethirdembodimentof the inventionasillustratedinFIG.7, there is an article comprising a sheet defining a central portion 16, and a versatile portion 18 and a further four versatile portions 18a, 18b, 18c and 18d, connected together,

FIG. 9 AccordingtoafourthembodimentoftheinventionasillustratedinFIG .9,thereis an article comprising a sheet defining a central portionl6, and a versatile portion 18 and a further versatile portion 18a connected together, the central portion 16 being adapted for erectionintoathree-dimensional form to provide acentral portion, andthe versatile portion 18 adapted to provide a base 54 to the central portion 16 and the further versatile portion 18a being adapted to provideaforegroundtothethree-dimensionalform. The heel section 72 is also clearly illustrated

FIG. 10, 11 & 12 According to the fourth embodiment of the invention as illustrated in FIG. 9, the central portion 16 consists of a heel section 72. When the erected three dimensional form 16 i s sitting on a surface, the heel section72 provides an evendistribution of weightto the firstedge25ofthe central portion 16and balance and stabilityforthe three dimensional form 16. The dimensions of the heel 72 are adjusted according to the arrangement of the greeting card 10;

FIG. 13 Acconlingtoafiflhembodimentoftheinvention, asinustratedinFIG. 13,thereis an article comprising a sheet defining a central portion 16 andtwo versatile portions 18 and 18a, whereinthefold20isatthejunctionofthe two portions 16and 18. At the junction of these two portions 16 and 18 there is the first edge 25. The first edge 25 comprises a versatile portion 18 that can be folded on fold 20 such that the versatile portion 18 is adapted to provide abackgroundportiontothecentral portion 16. Thefirstedge25ofthe central portionl6furthercomprisesasecondversatile portion 18a whereinthefold20aisat thejunctionofthetwoportions 16andl8a. Versatile portion 18a is orientedto provide a base 54forthe interior 56 ofthe three-dimensional form created uponerectionofthe central portion 16. With this arrangement, the interior 56 can define a cavity for receiving and contaiiiinganobjecteitherinsertedmroughtheopentop58orplacedi ^

the cavity is defined. In this way, asmall giftfor presentation to the recipient of the card can be accommodated in the cavity. One application to which the card according to this embodiment is particularly suitable is for a child who has lost a tooth. The child can insert thelosttoothinthecavity wherebyitcan be exohangedlaterforacoinorother small gift by a "tooth fairy";

Fig 14 According to a sixth embodiment, of liie invention there isan article comprising a sheet defining a central portion, and a versatile portion, and a further versatile portion connectedtogether. Theversatileportion(18)asilIustratedinFIG. 14, being adapted to be folded to any position from an internal position adjacentto the rear side 14 of the oentral portion 16 prior to the erection.of the three-dimensional form, to a foreground position adjacentto the front side 12 ofthe first portionl6whenthecentralportioniserectedinthe three-dimensional form, whereby, the versatile portion 18 can be folded into a location adjacentto or atan angle to the central portion 16. The furtherversatile portion 18a being adapted to provide a base 54 to the three-dimensional form 16;

FIG. 15 According to a seventh embodiment ofthe invention, as illustrated in FIG. 15, there i s an arti cle comprising a sheet defining a central portion 16, and a versatile portion 18, andafurtherversatile portion 18aconnectedtogether, thecentral portion 16beingadapted for erection into the three-dimensional form prior to the versatile portion 18 being adapted to provide a base 54 and the further versatile portion 18a being adapted to provide a background portion 18a to the three-dimensional form 16;

FIG. 16 Accordingto an eighth embodiment ofthe invention, as illustrated in FIG, 16, there is anarticle compnsinga sheetdefiningacentral portion 16, aversatile portion 18 and afurtherversatileportion 18aconnectedtogether,theversatileportion 18, being adaptedto provide a base 54 and the further versatile portion 18a being adapted to provide a background portion prior to the central portion 16 being erected into a three-dimensional form;

FIG. 17 Accordingtoaninthembodimentoftiieinvention, asillustratedinFIG.17, there is an articl e 10 comprising a central portion 16, and a versati le portion 18, and two further versatile portions 18a and 18b connected together via folds 20, 20a and 20b. i ceYftraf ' portion 16isadaptedforerectionintoathree-dimensionalform, where the versatile portion 18 in the role of a background is adapted to be adjacent to or at an angle to the central portion 16 in the three dimensional form, and the two further versatile portions, 18a in the role of a foreground, and 8b in the role of a base, are also adapted to be adjacent to or at an angle to the central portion 16 in the three-dimensional form;

FIG. 18 Accordingtoatenthembodimentoftheinvention,asillustratedinFIG .18, there is an article 10 comprising a central portion 16, and a versatile portion 18, and a further versatileportions 18a connected together via folds 20 and 20a. The central portion 16 is adaptedforerectionintoathree-dimensionalform, where the versatile portion 18in the role of a fore round is adapted to be adjacent to or at an angle to the central portion 16 in the three dimensional form, and the further versatile portions 18a in the role of a base, is also adaptedto be adjacent to or at an angle to the central portion 16 in the three-dimensional form;

FIG. 19 According to an eleventh embodiment of the invention, as illustrated in FIG. 19, there is an article 10 comprising a central portion 6 and a versatile portion 18 in the two dimensional flat form, and ready for inserting into a standard postal envelope for giving or posting. As de scribed earlierinthisapplication,sectionsofbody27 canextendwidthwiseto at least the width of the central portion 16 when the central portion 16 is in the two dimensional flatformandextendtoatleastthe height of the central portion whenthe central portion 16 is in the two dimensional flat form. In this embodiment FIG. 19, character lines 36are configured to representadragon which, in the two dimensional flat form, the tail can extend to the width of the central portion 16, and inthe three dimensional form the tail projects away from the central portion 16, further demonstrating the immense applications of the invention in enabling different uses of art for greeting cards;

FIG. 20 According to a twelfth embodiment of the invention, as illustrated in FIG.20, there is an article comprising a central portion 16 and a versatile portion 18 connected together, whereby the versatile portion 18 connects to the uppermost part of upper section 22 via fold 20. The versatile portion 18 in the role of a background is then adapted to be folded downwards and adjacent to or at an angle to the central portion 16 inthe three dimensional form;

FIG. 21 Aceordingtoathirteenthembodimentofthe invention, asillustratedinFIG.21, there is an article comprising a central portion 16 and two versatile portions 18 and 18a connectedtogetherviathe folds 20 and20a. Central portion 16isadaptcdforerectioninto a three dimensional form. The versatile portion 18aisadaptedforerectionadjacenttoorat an angle to the three dimensional form. Versatile portion 18 connects to the uppermost partof upper section22 of central portion 16. Versatile portion 18 is provided for use as a hangi ng device onto which features such as, but not limited to, information, pictures and calendars can be added to compliment the greeting card;

FIG. 22 Accordingtoafourteenthembodimentofthe invention, as illustratedinFIG.22, there is an article comprising a sheet defining two central portions 16 and nine versatile portions 18 connected together via ten folds, two first engagements, two second engagementsandtwoapertures. The workings of FIG.22 are similar to that of FIG. 7 described earlier in this application with one variation being a fold connecting the two central portions. Other embodimentstowhichtheinventioncanbeadaptedtoincludes, but is not limited to, Christmas decorations, puzzles, sales and promotional material and educational material which can involve additional, central portions and versatile portions interconnected in similar ways to the illustration in FIG. 22.

From the foregoing, it is evident that the various embodiments each provide a simple yet highly creative, versatile and novel greeting card, which can be delivered to an intended recipient in ways similar to conventional cards, but which can be readily assembled into a three-dimensional form to provoke interest, intrigue and to facilitate display.

It should be appreciated that the scope of the invention is not limited to the scope of the various embodiments described.

Modifications and variations as would be apparent to a skilled addressee are deemed to be within the scope of the present invention.

Throughout the specification, unlessthecontextrequiresotherwise, the word"comprise"or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will beunderstoodtoimply the inclusionof