Separable Transaction Card Assembling 3D Object
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stored-value cards lack an innovative way to combine transaction functionality with entertainment or promotional value, failing to effectively engage users beyond their primary monetary purpose.
Innovation Solution
A transaction product featuring a substrate with removable pieces that can be assembled into a three-dimensional object, equipped with a machine-readable account identifier, allowing for both transactional and playful uses, and optionally accompanied by a backer that can be transformed into a complementary three-dimensional object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional stored-value card is used, then transaction functionality is provided, but user engagement and entertainment value are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The substrate is divided into multiple separable pieces that can be detached and assembled into three-dimensional objects. This segmentation transforms a flat transaction card into an interactive assembly experience, enhancing user engagement while maintaining the core transaction functionality through the account identifier.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional flat card to a three-dimensional assembled object. The separable pieces are configured to be assembled into 3D structures, adding spatial dimension and tactile interaction to the traditionally flat stored-value card, thereby improving entertainment value and user engagement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separable pieces are added to create three-dimensional objects, then entertainment value increases, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The substrate incorporates pre-defined separation features that divide it into multiple pieces during manufacturing. These features allow the card to be easily divided into separable components that can later be assembled into three-dimensional objects, enabling entertainment functionality while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The separation features are pre-formed during substrate manufacturing, preparing the card for future assembly into three-dimensional objects. This preliminary action during manufacturing reduces complexity by establishing the segmentation structure upfront, allowing easy separation and assembly by the end user without requiring complex manufacturing processes.
3Ease of operation
If the card is made separable into pieces, then assembly interactivity improves, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The substrate is designed with controlled separation features that allow clean division into multiple pieces while maintaining the integrity of each individual piece. The segmentation is planned during manufacturing to ensure that each separable piece retains sufficient structural strength for both transaction use and assembly into stable three-dimensional objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The separable pieces are designed to interlock or nest together when assembled into three-dimensional objects, creating a stable composite structure. The nesting arrangement allows pieces to support each other, enhancing overall structural integrity while maintaining the separability and assembly interactivity that improves ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A transaction product includes a substrate and an account identifier. The substrate defines a plurality of pieces separable from a remainder of the substrate. Following separation of the plurality of pieces from the remainder of the substrate, the plurality of pieces are configured to be assembled with one another to define a three-dimensional object. The account identifier is attached to the substrate and links the transaction product to at least one of an account and a record, wherein the account identifier is machine readable by a point-of-sale terminal. Stored-value cards, combinations, methods of facilitating use of a transaction product and other embodiments are also disclosed.