GB2555709A

GB2555709A - Scratch card device

Info

Publication number: GB2555709A
Application number: GB1714720.8A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Watson Sandra
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-11-08
Filing date: 2016-11-08
Publication date: 2018-05-09
Anticipated expiration: 2036-11-08
Also published as: GB201714720D0; GB2555709B; GB2555709A9

Abstract

A scratchcard 68 and a device 28 for scraping the removable surface 70 of the scratch-card 69, such as for a lottery game, wherein the scratching surface 14 of the device 28, or an area of the device 28 proximate the scraping surface 14, is in magnetic relationship with the covering surface 70 of the game card 68. The scratch card scraping device 28 may be magnetic, at or proximate the scratching surface 14. The scratching surface 14 may be deformable. The scratch card surface 70 may be metallic, or may be magnetic. This prevents mess by removing or cleaning the debris from removing the scratch card covering surface 14, attracting it to the scraper 28. The device 28 may also comprise a writing implement, such as a pen, which may be proximate the scraping surface 14.

Description

(56) Documents Cited:

US 5114146 A US 20070224398 A1

US 5016881 A (62) Divided from Application No

1618797.3 under section 15(9) of the Patents Act 1977 (58) Field of Search:

INT CLA63F

Other: WPI, EPODOC, Patent Fulltext, Internet (71) Applicant(s):

Sandra Watson

278 Lester Road, Trenton, Ontario, K8V 5P8, Canada (72) Inventor(s):

Sandra Watson (74) Agent and/or Address for Service:

SHIINE® ENTERPRISE PATENTS

Jethro L Bennett, Room 32, The Artesian Building,

10-14 Jamaica Street, Liverpool, L1 OAF,

United Kingdom (54) Title of the Invention: Scratch card device Abstract Title: Magnetic lottery scraper (57) A scratchcard 68 and a device 28 for scraping the removable surface 70 of the scratch-card 69, such as for a lottery game, wherein the scratching surface 14 of the device 28, or an area of the device 28 proximate the scraping surface 14, is in magnetic relationship with the covering surface 70 of the game card 68. The scratch card scraping device 28 may be magnetic, at or proximate the scratching surface 14. The scratching surface 14 may be deformable. The scratch card surface 70 may be metallic, or may be magnetic. This prevents mess by removing or cleaning the debris from removing the scratch card covering surface 14, attracting it to the scraper 28. The device 28 may also comprise a writing implement, such as a pen, which may be proximate the scraping surface 14.

10,12

54, 56

1/5

2/5

Fig. 3

54,55

3/5

Fig. 5

Fig. 6

A1

4/5

Al

5/5

Fig- 9

Scratch Card Device

The present invention relates to a device for removing covering element(s) on a scratch card, and is primarily concerned with a combined scratch card device for both removing of covering element(s) (eg foil) on a scratch card, and also for writing.

T erms/Definitions ‘Arrangement’:

The term arrangement is a technical term which means a feature, or combination of features, (usually with a given purpose). For example, a 'measuring arrangement’ is a feature or features, to facilitate measuring. A 'holding arrangement’ is a feature or features, to facilitate holding.

‘Feature’:

The term ‘feature’ is a broad term that includes within its scope any feature under the Sun. A feature may, for example, be an element, body, member, or may even be an aperture (ie opening/hole or the such like). Thus the term 'holding feature’ includes within its scope, for example, any element, body, member, or even aperture, to facilitate holding. A ‘feature’ may also be a ‘part’ of a broader feature; for example, if a part of an invention is disclosed/claimed as comprising a 'padding feature’, this does not limit the padding feature to being a separate feature that is added to the invention (eg a sponge element, adhered to the invention); the invention, for example, may have a part made of sponge, or have an inner sponge (or soft) layer- in such a case, if that part of the invention is clearly of a material/nature that provides padding, then this falls within a scope of what is defined in the present application as a 'padding feature’.

‘The Or Each’:

The term 'the or each’ (either in disclosure and/or a claim) can refer back to a single feature/thing, and/or can refer back to a plurality of features/things. When the term is read as referring back to a plurality of features/things, it should be taken as meaning, and including within its scope, 'at least one, or more, or all (ie each)’ of the said features/things. Thus, to give an example, if a square is referred to/disclosed that has four corners, if the term 'the or each corner’ is used, it includes within its scope 'one of the corners, (or two, or three, or all of the corners)’.

When any one feature/thing is afforded any feature(s)/definition in the present application, it is taken as read that, where a plurality of the said feature/thing is provided, 'the or each’ said feature/thing may be provided/claimed comprising the said feature(s)/definition (ie at least one, or more or all). Similarly, wherever a plurality of the said feature/thing are afforded any feature(s)/definition, it is taken as read that 'the or each’ said feature/thing may be provided/claimed comprising the feature(s)/definition (ie at least one, or more, or all of the plurality), and/or that even just one said feature/thing may be provided/claimed comprising the feature(s)/definition in an embodiment/claim wherein an invention is defined as comprising 'a' (eg singular) said feature/thing.

User Means:

It will be well known that, in certain patenting territories, (for example, the United States), use of the term 'means’ or 'means for’, if used in a (granted) patent claim, can be seen as a limiting term, limited to only giving the applicant/proprietor of the patent protection of means that are disclosed in the granted patent, or 'equivalent' means. This is not the case with the term 'user means’ as it is used in the present application. The term 'user means’ is a very broad term that is used in the field of product design/userinterface, and defines any means under the sun, provided for a user, for whatever action/result the user means is provided for. For example- a 'user means’ to turn on a television could be provided by way of an ON/OFF button on the television. But it could also be provided by a button on a remote control which turns on the television when pressed. Both of these would fall (in the technical field of product design/userinterface) under the scope of the term 'user means’ to turn on the television. Similarly, with certain inventions/products, a 'user means’ may be provided to 'initiate' an action, for example. Thus, in the present application, a claim that defines an invention which comprises a 'user means’ for [a particular action/result] is not subject to any 'means for’ limitations that certain patent office territories (such as the United States) appropriate to the term 'means for’, but should be read as (and given protection for, if granted) any means under the sun, provided for a user, for [that particular action/result defined].

'User means’ is a technical term in the field of product design/user-interface.

‘Covering Element’:

The general term 'scratch card’ is used ubiquitously. Such 'scratch cards’ tend to have covering element(s) (often of foil or the like) that must be scratched off/removed, to reveal something hidden underneath the covering element(s). The material/part(s) that are scratched off are often foil like in nature, but are not limited to being 'foil', which may be considered to be a limiting term. Thus, for the present application, the term scratch card 'covering element(s)’ is used for the part(s) of a scratch card that is scratched off/removed, to reveal what is underneath.

‘Removing/Remover’:

Given that the name 'scratch card’ is used ubiquitously, removal of any covering element(s) of a scratch card tends to be said to be done by 'scratching'. However, scratching has a fairly specific meaning (outside of scratch card use), which tends to involve movement back and forth, or left and right (ie alternating movement in opposing directions). This is only one way/method of removing a covering element(s) of a scratch card; for example, in various preferred embodiments in the present application, the covering element(s) may be removed by simply engaging the/an invention with the covering element(s), and moving it along the covering element(s), in one direction. Thus, to avoid any unintentional limitations that may be (incorrectly) read onto the/an invention by use of the term 'scratcher' or 'scratching', the terms 'remover' or 'removing' are used. These are extremely broad terms.

Background

Scratch cards are often used for things such as lottery cards, where a user has to scratch off/remove a surface, to reveal what it underneath. On top of this, such cards may also require the user write on the card (eg signing their name on a winning card). (It is also feasible a user may have to write, or sign their name, on an alternative item(s), eg due to winning an amount).

Many people use a coin (or any other object to hand which is suitable) to scratch the covering/foil off the card. However, there are two issues with this; firstly, it often creates a great mess, with parts of the foil/covering being left in the area where it is scratched off. This can particularly be a problem for shops that sell the scratch cards, where many people might be using scratch cards in the same area, leaving foil/covering deposited in large amounts. Surfaces where the mess is deposited must then be regularly cleaned (eg by staff at the shop). Secondly, a coin or the like cannot be used for writing. Therefore a separate device (ie a writing instrument) must be used after the scratching/removing is done, if writing is required (eg a user signing their name on a winning card).

STACEY (US5749578) discloses a scraper (26), and Fig. 1 shows a writing instrument (feature 40). However, the writing instrument is not part of the device. Therefore it is not an all-in-one device that facilitates both writing and scraping.

SANFILIPPO (US5794303 A) has a scraper, but is not a writing device.

LYCHWICK (US6454479 BI) shows a form of assembly, which seems to have interchangeable parts. It also has a strange operational mechanism, and does not seem to facilitate writing (in a conventional sense).

POLK (W02015/05093 Al) discloses a pen with removable cap, which has a scratch-off implement at one end of a pocket clip of the removable cap. However, in order to use POLK in writing mode, the cap (and therefore the scratch-off implement) must first be removed. This limits the device, and the removable cap could get lost when removed, which is not ideal.

WERNER (CA2128585 Al) (not a scratch card device) discloses a writing instrument which has a 'scraper tip’. However, the scraper tip and writing tip are at opposing ends and a long way away from each other. This means the user has to make a significant manual movement when interchanging between use of the writing tip, and use of the scraping tip, which is not ideal.

It would be desirable if an all-in-one device could be provided that allowed the user to remove covering element(s) (eg foil) of a scratch card, and also allowed the user to write (eg to sign their name on the card (or write/sign on any other place)), in a way that was elegant, simple, and quick to use.

Summary

The present invention is defined by the accompanying claims, to which reference should now be made.

Examples of the present invention seek to provide a solution to any or all of the above problem(s) by providing: an all-in-one combined writing and scratch card covering element removing device, comprising: a device body; a scratch card covering element removing arrangement comprising a scratch card covering element removing surface; and a writing arrangement comprising a writing tip for writing with; wherein the writing tip and a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface are provided at a same half of the device; and wherein the device can be used in writing mode, without requiring that the covering element removing surface be removed.

The covering element removing arrangement may be as simple as simply comprising a covering element removing surface. No complexity is required.

Unlike POLK, the device can be used for writing (ie in writing mode), without removing the covering element removing surface. This creates elegance, and ease of use.

The writing tip and a portion or a whole of the removing surface are provided at a same half of the device. As will be seen, this again creates elegance, and can, particularly in preferred embodiments, allow quick and simple interchange of use of the device in a covering element removing mode, and then a writing mode, and vice versa, with very little movement needed from the user.

In a preferred embodiment, the writing tip is retractable. Even more preferably, the writing tip is retractable through a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface. This has benefits which will be shown.

The device is an ‘all-in-one’ device, such that the writing arrangement and covering element removing arrangement can be or are provided simultaneously on/about/as part of/for the device. Assembly inventions which require that one of the arrangements (eg writing or covering element removing arrangement) are removed, in order to be able to attach and use the other arrangement, are not considered to be within a scope of being an ‘all-in-one’ device, because only one of the arrangements can be provided, at any one time, on/about/as part of/for the device. This precludes, for example, aspects of disclosure in LYCHW1CK, which seems to disclose interchangeable arrangements of one sort or another. Such assembly concepts/inventions are thus very limited, and require laborious (and annoying) action from the user.

(Whilst, for the present invention, the writing arrangement and covering element removing arrangement can be or are provided simultaneously, it should be noted that is not to say that one or both of the writing tip and the covering element removing surface may not themselves be removably attachable (which is feasible, and may be provided). One or both of the writing arrangement and the covering element arrangement may be removably attachable. For example, at least two of the provided Figures in the present application show an embodiment where a writing instrument/arrangement may be removably attachable).

In one preferred embodiment, a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface, and/or an area near the covering element removing surface, is magnetic. If any covering element(s) removed by the removing surface of the device include material(s) that are attracted to a magnet (eg metals), this can lead to less mess, as the covering element (or its parts/fragments, when removed) will be attracted to the covering element removing surface, or the area near the covering element removing surface, that is magnetic. It/they will thus ‘stick’ to the covering element removing surface, or the area near the covering element removing surface, rather than creating a mess on/around the scratch card. (This is just one embodiment of wherein here is provided a 'magnetic relationship’ between a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface (and/or an area near the covering element removing surface), and the/a covering element(s) of a scratch card).

Brief Description Of The Drawings

Examples of the present invention will now be more particularly described, with reference to the accompanying drawings, by way of example only, in no way limiting a scope of the invention, in which:

Figure 1 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of an all-in-one combined writing and scratch card covering element removing device;

Figure 2 is a perspective side view of a substantially similar preferred embodiment of the all-in-one combined writing and scratch card covering element removing device, oriented from top to bottom;

Figure 3 is a side view of the all-in-one combined writing and scratch card covering element removing device, in a same/similar embodiment to that of Figure 2, again oriented from top to bottom, showing some internal features of the device, including an example writing arrangement;

Figure 4 is a side perspective exploded view of a same/similar embodiment of the all-inone device as shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3, with the example writing arrangement also being shown exploded and out to a side, parallel, and showing, by way of example, an aperture through which a writing tip of the writing arrangement can protrude through a portion or a whole of a covering element removing surface of the device;

Figure 5 is a side view of a very basic embodiment of the all-in-one device, showing an embodiment wherein the writing arrangement is not internal to the device;

Figure 6 is a very similar embodiment to that of Figure 5, with a slight alteration/alternative embodiment of the covering element removing surface;

Figure 7 shows a partial view of an example of the device in action, showing the covering element removing surface in process of removing a covering element(s) (eg foil) of a bingo card;

Figure 8 is a side view of a further extremely basic embodiment of the device; and

Figure 9 is a view of the same embodiment as shown in Figure 1, from the same angle as shown in Figure 1, now shown with writing tip advanced, in writing mode.

Detailed Description

Referring to the drawings, there is shown an all-in-one combined writing and scratch card covering element removing device 10, comprising: a device body 12; a scratch card covering element removing arrangement (ie for removing scratch card covering element(s)) comprising a scratch card covering element removing surface 14 (ie for removing scratch card covering element(s)); and a writing arrangement comprising a writing tip 16 for writing with; wherein the writing tip 16 and a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface 14 are provided at a same half of the device 10;

and wherein the device 10 can be used in writing mode, without requiring that the covering element removing surface 14 be removed.

As previously stated, the term 'device body’, in the present application/claims, simply refers to the general mass of the device, rather than any particular ‘piece’ of the device, and is thus an extremely broad term that is as broad as 'the device’ 10. For example, the device body 12 includes/comprises all that is shown in all the Figures. (The term 'device body’ 12, however, is not considered to include links, such as, for example, wristbands, loops, etc).

Axis lines A1 in the drawings generally representationally cut the device in half, thus showing that the writing tip 16 and a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface 14 are provided at a same half of the device 10. This is made particularly clear by Fig. 1, where axis line Al is shown representationally splitting the device into first half Hl and second half H2. It is clear (in light of the rest of the disclosure) that the writing tip 16 and the removing surface 14 are provided at half Hl, and are thus provided at the same half of the device.

Preferably the writing tip 16 and the covering element removing surface 14 are provided at a same end and same side of the device 10. This is best shown in Fig. 3, where it can be seen the writing tip 16 is ready to protrude through the covering element removing surface 14 (the writing tip being retractable in the embodiment of

Fig. 3). Thus the writing tip 16 and removing surface 14 are both at a same end of the device, and are both at a same side SI of the device. In Fig. 3, the device 10 (and thus device body 12) has/includes side SI, side S2, side S3, and side S4. Side SI is what could be termed the ‘front’ side of the device. Side S4 is what could be termed the rear side of the device. Side S2, from the angle shown, is the left side of the device. Side S3, from the angle shown, is the right side of the device. It will be obvious then, (particularly when the writing tip 16 is in operational mode), that the writing tip 16 and covering element removing surface 14 are provided both at a same end of the device, and at a same side of the device.

Whilst this is shown best in Fig. 3, this is shown in all the preferred embodiments of the drawings, and is also shown clearly in Fig. 5, Fig. 6, and Fig. 8, which are not preferred embodiments, but nonetheless show the writing tip 16 and covering element removing surface 14 being provided both at a same end of the device, and at a same side of the device. Even in a case of Figs. 5 and 6, where the writing arrangement is not internal to the device, nevertheless, the writing tip 16 and covering element removing surface 14 are both provided at a same end of the device, and at a same side of the device.

Thus preferably the writing tip 16 and (a portion or whole of) the covering element removing surface 14 are provided at a same end and same side of the device 10. For example, all the figures clearly show examples of wherein the writing tip 16 and a portion or whole of the covering element removing surface 14 are provided at a same end and same side of the device 10. (Preferably the writing tip and most or all of the covering element removing surface 14 are provided at a same end and side of the device).

Preferably the device body 12 is elongate in shape. This is shown in all the Figures, other than Fig. 8. (This feature does notinclude/factor in extraneous attachments such as key-rings, wrist-bands, etc which may be attached to the device).

Whilst the writing tip 16 and the removing surface 14 are shown provided at a same end and side of the device in the Figures, they may be provided anywhere at the same half of the device. Thus, for example, with reference to Fig. 1, the writing tip and a portion or a whole of the removing surface may be provided anywhere at half Hl; for example, the writing tip may be provided on side S2 (or anywhere/at any point of the device) within half Hl, and a portion or a whole of the removing surface 14, for example, may be provided on side S3 (or anywhere/at any point of the device) within half Hl. This is within a scope of being provided 'at a same half of the device’, and position examples with reference to sides S2 and S3 (mentioned above) are taken by way of example only.

Preferably the removing surface 14 is angled. This is shown particularly clearly in Figs.

1, 3, and 8 although this feature is provided in many other of the drawings, and is apparent, in use, in Fig. 7.

Furthermore, preferably a general alignment of the device body is straight, and the covering element removing surface of the covering element removing arrangement is angled, with respect to the general alignment of the device body. This is best shown/denoted in Fig. 1, where axis line A2 shows that the general alignment of the device body is straight (ie the device is generally straight in shape). It becomes particularly clear that the removing surface 14 is angled (particularly clear when seen against axis line A2). The term ‘substantially’ straight may also be used instead of ‘generally’ straight. What is being defined is that the device is generally (to the human eye) fairly straight in shape, and the covering element removing surface 14 is angled, with respect to that alignment. This feature (the removing surface 14 being angled, with respect to the general alignment of the device) is best shown in Fig. 3, where the angled nature of the removing surface 14 is clear. This has significant benefits, which are best shown in Fig. 7, where the device 10 is shown in use, and it can be seen that a user can hold the (preferably elongate) device at a particular angle, (which is similar/the same as a user would hold a pen to a piece of paper whilst writing), and nevertheless, because the removing surface is angled, it engages the item (here a bingo scratch card) flat, thus aiding removing of covering elements) of the card whilst holding the device at a comfortable angle.

Preferably the covering element removing surface is also angled with respect to a portion of the device body at which it is provided. This is shown in the all the Figures, and is particularly well shown in Fig. 3, where the removing surface 14 is shown being provided on a front portion 26 of the device, with the removing surface 14 clearly being angled with respect to that portion 26.

Furthermore, preferably, as shown, the covering element removing surface 14 of the covering element removing arrangement is inversely angled. The term ‘inversely’ is just a term used to define the angle of the removing surface 14 (as best shown in Fig. 7), so that, when the device is used (as shown in Fig. 7), the angle of the removing surface 14 generally is more in line/aligned with the item to be engaged (eg the scratch card of Fig. 7) when the device is held, like a pen, for example, angled more toward the user. This ‘inverse’ angle of the remover surface 14 aids removing of any covering element(s), whilst holding the device at a comfortable angle for the user. An example of inverse angling of the removing surface 14 is best shown/denoted in Fig. 7, where axis/line A2 shows/denotes a general alignment of the device 10, and axis/line A3 shows/denotes general angle of the removing surface 14 (which is shown engaging an item- ie a scratch card in the drawing). It can be seen that this inverse angling can make the device more comfortable/intuitive to use, because the device can be held at an angle (much like a pen is held), and the removing surface 14, due to being inversely angled in this way, can then sit flat to the item/surface to be engaged (ie a scratch card covering element in the Figure).

Preferably the writing tip 14 of the writing arrangement is retractable. This is shown/suggested clearly in Figures 1 to 4 (and is also present, though not seen, in Fig. 7), and is best shown in Fig. 3. The writing tip 14 of Fig. 3 is shown retracted (in the mode shown). However, there is shown a user means 20 to facilitate interchangeably retracting and advancing the writing tip. In the example, the user means is provided by way of/comprises a depressible element 20. Thus the example user means 20 is depressible. Thus in the example shown in Fig. 3, the user means 20 can be used (ie pressed down, in the example), which advances the writing tip 16. The writing tip then protrudes from the device, so that it can be used for writing. The user means 20 can then preferably again be depressed, to retract the writing tip back into the device. Thus, in the example, the writing tip can be interchangeably retracted and advanced, using the user means 20.

Preferably, (as best shown in Fig. 3, and also present or shown in all of Figures 1 to 4, and Fig. 7) the writing tip 16 is retractable through a portion or a whole of the removing surface 14.

This is best shown in the exploded view of Fig. 4. In the example of Fig. 4, there is shown an aperture 22 in the removing surface 14. Thus it is clear the writing tip (as shown in Fig. 3, for example) is able to advance through (a portion or a whole of) the removing surface 14, so that it (and thus the device) can be used to write with. Thus, in the example of Fig. 3, the user means 20 can be depressed, and the writing tip 16 thus advanced through the removing surface 14, via travelling through the aperture 22.

Thus, preferably, the device is operable in a first or a second mode, wherein, in the first mode, the writing tip 16 is retracted, not usable, and the removing surface 14 is usable for scratching; and wherein, in the second mode, the writing tip 16 is extended, usable for writing, and the removing surface 14 is not usable for scratching, (ie Preferably when the writing tip is advanced, for use in operational mode for writing, the removing surface 14 cannot be used (preferably due to the projection of the writing tip 16).

Preferably the user means 20 to facilitate interchangeable retraction and advancing of the writing tip is provided at a rear end 24 of the device.

The example devices 10 of Figures 1 to 4 and Fig. 7 are shown comprising a front portion 26; a holding portion 28; and a rear portion 30. Any of these portion(s) may be provided as separate portions, attached together (by any method- eg at manufacturing). Or, for example, such portions 26, 28, 30 may come as one piece. In the examples of Figures 1 to 4, the portions 26, 28, 30 are provided as separate pieces, attached/brought together at manufacture, to form the device. In the examples shown in Figures 2, 3 and 4, the rear portion 30 itself comprises a first portion 30a and a second portion 30b. The second portion, in the example, is the end-most portion.

There may, in some embodiments, be provided a release mechanism to release any portion(s) of the device. For example, in Figs. 2, 3 and 4, there is shown a release feature 29 (which, in the example, is provided by way of/comprises a press point 29, which can be pressed into) to facilitate release of the second portion 30b (ie the end-most portion) in the example. This can, for example, allow access to an ink cartridge (if one is provided as part of the writing arrangement), which can be useful to put in a (preferably new) refill cartridge, (or to refill ink in any way). This (a press point and/or feature that can be pressed, to release and/or open and/or detach a part of the device) is just one example of a release mechanism/feature, but any mechanism/feature may be provided to release (and/or open and/or detach) any portion/part (not limited to the portion(s) shown in the examples) of the device. A basic example of a release mechanism, for example, would be a threaded connection, eg where a portion of the device can be removed by being unscrewed. Any solution/arrangement may be provided to gain access to an ink cartridge and/or to any internal part(s) or feature(s) of the device. Any said solution/arrangement need not require removal of any internal part(s)/feature(s) (or removal of any portions/parts of the device at all) - it may, for example, simply provide access (eg via opening the device).

(Not limited to the above disclosure and/or example(s), in a preferred embodiment, in general terms, a rear part of the device is removable. This can facilitate access to internal part(s), such as an ink cartridge, for example, which internal part(s) may, or may not, be removable.)

An exploded view is shown in Figure 4 showing one example of how the device may be manufactured/come together, with reference to the portions (and showing other features). The holding portion 28, in the example, is shown having a lower layer portion 32, and a higher layer portion 34. The higher layer portion 34 may be flexible. The higher layer portion 34 may be made of plastic(s) and/or rubber, etc or the like (eg silicone and/or rubbery silicone). This, in the example, is intended to allow the higher layer portion 34 to be stretched, and placed on top of the lower layer portion 32 of the holding portion 28. Thus the higher layer portion 34, in the example, may be stretched over the first portion 30a of the rear portion, and over the lower layer portion 32 of the holding portion 28. However, this may be challenging in terms of manufacturing and/or execution; thus it is feasible the upper layer portion 32, rather than being provided as shown in Fig. 4, may be sprayed (eg spray painted/applied) onto the lower layer portion 32 (or may be provided on top of the lower layer portion 32 by any means/in any way).

The portions 26, 28, 30, as stated in one example, may themselves comprise a plurality of portions, which portions may be separate portions.

Preferably the holding portion 28 comprises at least one feature to facilitate holding of the device. For example, in the preferred embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4 and Fig. 7, the holding portion is enlarged. Preferably the holding portion, as seen in Figures 1 to 4 and Fig. 7, is broadened. This is seen most clearly in Figs. 1, 2 and 3, where it is clearly shown that the holding portion 28 bulges/is enlarged/broadened. In the example, the holding portion bulges/is broadened, forming a substantially oval shape. In the example, the holding portion is substantially flat on two of its sides, and is broadened on the other two of its sides. In Fig. 7, the holding portion 28 can be seen being gripped at its flat sides by a user (including one of the flat sides being gripped by a thumb 36 of a user. It can then be seen (in the example) bulging/broadened (and, by way of example, forming a substantially oval shape) on the other two sides of the holding portion.

Another example of a feature to facilitate holding (and/or better holding) of the device is a recess. Thus preferably the holding portion comprises a recess 38 to facilitate holding. This is best shown in all of Figures 1 to 4. Preferably there is provided such a recess on opposing (ie both) sides of the holding portion. Usefulness of the recess is best shown in Fig. 7 (where the recess 38 is obscured, (and therefore not visible), by the thumb 36 of the user). Thus the thumb can sink into the recess 38, which can make the device more comfortable (and/or easier) to hold. Similarly, if a recess 38 is also provided on an opposing (ie reverse) side of the device, a finger(s) of a user, on the other side of the device, when the device 10 is being held, can also sink into the second/other recess, which again can make the device more comfortable (and/or easier) to hold.

The holding portion 28 may (or may not) be shaped in any way to aid holding of the device, not limited to being substantially oval or to the examples shown (and not limited to being broadened). Any or both of a shaped/enlarged/broadened holding portion; and a recess(es) 38 may be provided. These are just examples of feature(s) to aid handling, and it is obvious the holding portion may comprise any feature(s) to aid holding, whether or not such example feature(s) are provided.

In a preferred embodiment, a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface 14 is magnetic. This maybe useful if the covering element(s) that the device is removing are made of materials such as metals (or in any way comprise metal(s) material(s)), as it may help the covering element material adhere magnetically to the removing surface 14 once it is removed. It will be well known that when foil, etc is removed from scratch cards (or any covering element material), it tends to leave mess (eg ‘scratchings’ or ‘bits’/’fragments’ of the covering element/foil), which may then need to be cleared up. This can be particularly annoying for shops that sell scratch cards, where users may remove the covering elements on a surface such as a shop till/desk, which may then constantly need to be cleaned. As stated, if the covering element(s) contain/comprise material that is magnetically attracted to a magnet, a portion or a whole of the removing surface 14 being magnetic may allow for the part(s)/fragment(s) (or a whole) of the covering element removed to stick to the removing surface 14 (instead of creating a mess), at which point, they (the part(s)/fragment(s)/whole) can then be disposed of easily, without creating a mess.

Alternatively, (or in combination), an area near the covering element removing surface may be magnetic. Thus it is feasible, rather than a portion or a whole of the removing surface 14 being magnetic, the removing surface 14 may remove the covering element(s), and an area near the covering element removing surface may be magnetic, thus having much the same result, allowing for the part(s) /fragment(s)/whole of the covering element removed to stick to (ie magnetically be attracted to) the removing surface 14 (instead of creating a mess). Thus, preferably, at least one of the following is magnetic: a portion or a whole of the removing surface 14; an area near the covering element removing surface.

This is just one embodiment of wherein here is provided a 'magnetic relationship’ between a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface (and/or an area near the covering element removing surface), and the/a covering element(s) of a scratch card. It is feasible the covering element(s) may itself be magnetic, in which case, a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface (and/or an area near the covering element removing surface) may be opposingly magnetic to the covering element(s), and/or may be of/comprise material(s) attracted to the magnetic covering element(s) (eg metallic/metal(s)). Thus, more broadly speaking, there may be provided (including within its scope any of the aforementioned examples/embodiments where magnetism is concerned) a 'magnetic relationship’ between a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface (and/or an area near the covering element removing surface), and a covering element(s) of a scratch card. Thus a portion or a whole of the removing surface 14 of the device (and/or an area near the removing surface) may facilitate a magnetic relationship with the/a covering element(s) of a scratch card. As stated, this can help avoid mess when covering element(s) are removed. (Scratch cards wherein there is a magnetic relationship between covering element(s) of the scratch card, and a portion or a whole of the removing surface 14 of the device (and/or an area near the removing surface) may further be provided. Such scratch cards may be provided by the provider of the device. Such scratch cards may be provided by a third party).

In the examples shown, the writing tip 16 comprises a point 40.

In the examples shown, a whole of the writing tip 16 is provided at a same half of the device as a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface 14. If, in an operational mode (ie in a mode fit for writing), the whole of the writing tip 16 is at a same half of the device as a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface 14, then it is said to be within the scope of the writing tip 16 being provided at a same half of the device as a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface 14, irrespective of where the writing tip is in a non-operational (ie non-writing) mode (if a non-operational (ie non-writing) mode is provided)).

In Fig. 4 (and to some extent in Fig. 3) an example writing arrangement is shown. The exploded view of Fig. 4 shows an example writing arrangement comprising any or all of: an ink cartridge/reservoir/unit 42; a stopper 44 for the ink cartridge/reservoir/unit (preferably to stop the ink cartridge/reservoir/unit from protruding too far); an alternative part 46 (which is an alternate to a spring, as spring(s) tend to be used as standard on such devices), (but a spring(s) may be provided instead); and a user means 20 (provided by way of example as an up and down movable element, usable to extend or retract the ink cartridge/reservoir/unit and/or writing arrangement and/or writing tip). These feature(s) are shown by way of example only. It will be obvious there are many possible feature(s) and combination of features for a writing arrangement.

As shown in Fig. 3, the example writing arrangement of Fig. 4 (or any writing arrangement provided) is preferably provided internally to the device. (The writing arrangement feature(s) being shown in dashed lines in Fig. 3 signifies that they are internal to the device. (The user means 20 is partially or wholly external- therefore it could be said that the writing arrangement is preferably mostly or fully internal to the device).

In a preferred example, the device is shown comprising a linking feature 50. In the examples, the linking feature 50 comprises an aperture 52. This can facilitate attachment of a link 54. A link 54 can be useful to attach the device to a position/thing. In the example shown in Figs. 1 to 4, the link is provided by way of/comprises a loop 55. The link may, alternatively, (or in combination), comprise a key ring, for example. In a preferred example as shown in Fig. 7, the link is provided by way of/comprises a wristband 56 (which is an embodiment of a wrist-surrounding element). Preferably the wristband is flexible. The wristband may be rubbery. The wristband 56, as can be seen/suggested by Fig. 7, can go around a hand and/or wrist of a user. By being able to go around a wrist of a user, it makes the device easily transportable for a user. It also allows the device to be ‘to hand’ immediately, whenever needed. (A ‘wrist-surrounding element’ is any element for wearing around a wrist).

In the preferred examples of Figures 1 to 4 (as well as Fig. 5, Fig. 7 and Fig. 8), there is provided a covering element removing part 58 (which is shown comprising the covering element removing surface 14). In examples which comprise a said covering element removing part 58, the covering element removing part 58 may, or may not, be a separate piece to rest of the device/body. For example, it is clear from the exploded view of Fig. 4, that the covering element removing part 58 is a separate piece. It is a separate piece, for example, to the portion of the device (which is portion 26, in the example) to which it is attached (preferably at manufacture).

Fairly advanced preferred embodiments have been described (with reference to Figures 1 to 4 and Fig. 7). However, the device 10 may be provided in (extremely) basic embodiments. Examples of basic embodiments are shown in Figures 5, 6 and 8, for example.

The writing arrangement/tip, in the preferred embodiments, is of a biro-type pen. This is simply a preferred embodiment.

In Fig. 5, the device 10 comprises a basic arrangement of a body 60, and a writing instrument 62 (ie a writing arrangement comprising a writing instrument). The writing instrument 62, in the example, is provided by way of a pencil. However, the writing instrument may be provided by way of any writing instrument (eg pen, biro, etc) of any shape and/or type. Thus the writing arrangement of the embodiment of Fig. 5 comprises a writing instrument 62.

The body 60, in the example, comprises the removing surface 14. The body 60, in the example, comprises a covering element removing part 58, which, in the example, comprises the removing surface 14. In the example, the covering element removing part 58 and surface 14 are shown provided at a corner of the body 10. In the example, the covering element removing part 58 and surface 14 are shown extending from the body 10.

In the example, there is provided (and thus the device 10 comprises) an attachment arrangement 64 for attaching the writing arrangement/instrument to the body 60. The attachment arrangement, in the example, may attach the writing arrangement/instrument permanently, or the writing arrangement/instrument may be removably attachable. In the example, the writing arrangement/instrument is removably attachable. In the example, the attachment arrangement (which may also be defined as an attachment feature(s)) wraps around the writing arrangement/instrument partially or fully. This can help attach the writing arrangement/instrument. In the example, the attachment arrangement 64 wraps around the writing instrument 62 partially, comprising a surround portion 66 that is shown partially surrounding the writing arrangement/instrument. This grips the writing arrangement/instrument, to hold it. The writing arrangement/instrument can then be pulled out of the surround portion 66 by a user to remove it, and can then be placed back into the surround portion 66 to re-attach it. Thus, in the example, the writing arrangement/instrument is removably attachable.

Referring to the embodiment of Fig. 6, the embodiment of Fig. 6 is identical to the embodiment of Fig. 5, other than the embodiment of Fig. 6 does not comprise a covering element removing part 58, and instead just has a covering element removing surface 14, formed, in the example, by a sharpened edge 14 of the body. Thus the sharpened edge 14, in the example, is an example covering element removing surface 14. It should also be noted that a covering element removing surface does not need to be sharp or sharpened.

Thus, for example, the covering element removing surface may simply be formed as part of and/or from a body of the device (not limited to the body/example shown in Fig. 6).

The difference denoted in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 is that, for covering element removing, Fig. 5 comprises a part 58 that extends, or 'juts out’, from the/a body of the device. Fig. 6, in the example shown, may not or does not comprise a part 58 that extends from the/a body of the device.

A covering element removing surface does not have to be shaped/sharpened in any particular shape. For example, a covering element removing surface may be provided by way of/comprise any feature/part of the device, provided for removing of covering element(s).

As previously stated, the term 'device body’, in the present application/claims, simply refers to the general mass of the device, rather than any particular ‘piece’ of the device, and is thus an extremely broad term that is as broad as 'the device’. For example, in the examples of Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, the device body includes/comprises all that is shown, including the example writing instrument 62, the example body 60, and the example attachment arrangement/feature 64 to attach the writing instrument and the body 60 (and all other feature(s) shown). Similarly, the device body includes/comprises all that is shown in all the other Figures. (The term 'device body’ 12, however, is not considered to include links, such as, for example, wristbands, loops, etc).

Referring to another (extremely) basic embodiment of the device 10, in Fig. 8, there is shown a more stubby embodiment of the device. Whereas the example of Fig. 7 is clearly shown being elongate in so far as how it is used (and generally being holdable/usable similar to how a pen, for example, may be held/used), the example of Fig. 8 is shown being more stubby in dimension.

Such dimensioning may make an embodiment such as Fig. 8 far less easy to hold and use (particularly for writing). The example shown comprises a singular body. The writing tip 16 is shown extending from the body. The writing tip, in the example of Fig. 8, may or may not be retractable. (It should be clear that any feature(s) or combination of features disclosed with reference to any one embodiment(s), in the present application, may be afforded to any other embodiment(s) disclosed in the present application (or to any other embodiments at all, whether shown or not), whether or not such feature(s) or combination of features are mentioned directly in relation to the other embodiment(s). This will be obvious, and any combination of feature(s), for any embodiment, may be claimed).

In all the examples shown, the writing tip and the covering element removing surface are each usable, without the writing arrangement and/or covering element removing arrangement removed.

In all the examples shown, the device can be used in covering element removing mode (ie for removing covering element(s)), without requiring that the writing tip 16 be removed. The 'in use’ example of Fig. 7 shows the embodiment shown in covering element removing mode (in process of removing a covering element(s)). The writing tip 16 (not visible in the view of Fig. 7) is not removed; it is simply retracted, in the shown embodiment (ie retracted in a position similar, for example, to the writing tip 16 of Fig. 3)In a preferred embodiment, the removing surface 14 (and, more preferably, also a portion or a whole of the/a covering element removing part 58 which comprises the removing surface 14) (best shown in Fig. 4) is preferably substantially rubbery and/or deformable. It may only be slightly deformable (or may be more significantly deformable). Any deformability or ‘rubbery-ness’ falls within a scope of the term 'substantially rubbery and/or deformable’. This may aid removing of covering element(s). For example, with reference to Fig. 7, where the device is shown in use, it has been found that, if the removing surface 14 (and, more preferably, also a portion or a whole of the/a covering element removing part 58 which comprises the removing surface 14, (if such a part 58 is provided)) is substantially rubbery and/or deformable, it can allow better the action that is seen in Fig. 7, where the removing surface 14, rather than having to be used in a 'scratching' action (eg back and forth), can simply be moved along the covering element(s) in one direction (eg in Fig. 7, left to right), to remove the covering element(s) in one action. This can also be beneficial because the covering element(s) then tends to come off in one piece (or substantially in one piece), which tends to gather on one side of the removing surface 14, and is therefore more easily disposed of. (In some preferred embodiments, as aforestated, a portion or a whole of the removing surface 14 (and/or an area near the covering element removing surface, which area may comprise a portion or a whole of the/a covering element removing part 58 which comprises the removing surface 14) is preferably magnetic. These features (of being substantially rubbery and/or deformable, and also being magnetic) may co-exist (ie both be provided for the device). Thus, in one preferred embodiment, for example, the covering element removing part 58 which comprises the removing surface 14 is deformable, and magnetic.

It has been stated that (and shown that) in some preferred embodiments, the writing tip 16 is retractable through a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface 14. It should be stated that, for the sake of the present application, the term 'the writing tip is retractable through a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface’ is intended to mean wherein any part of the writing tip is retractable through any part of the covering element removing surface, and includes all such embodiments within its scope. As can be seen particularly clearly in Fig. 4, in a preferred embodiment, a whole of the writing tip 16 is retractable through the covering element removing surface 14.

It will be obvious, simply by looking at the embodiments shown in Figs. 5, 6 and 8 that the device can be used in writing mode (ie for writing), without requiring that the covering element removing surface 14 be removed. In Fig. 9, there is shown the exact same embodiment (and view) as shown in Fig. 1. The example user means 20 has now been depressed, which has moved the writing tip 16 through the covering element removing surface 14. The example embodiment of the device 10 is now in writing mode. Preferably, the example user means 20 can then again be depressed, which preferably then releases it to its original position (as shown in Fig. 1, for example), and retracts the writing tip 16 back through the covering element removing surface 14, back to the position as shown in Fig. 1, for example. The example embodiment can then be used in covering element removing mode, as shown, for example, in Fig. 7.

In Use

An example(s) will now be described in use, described by way of example only, referring to a particularly preferred embodiment, and in no way limiting a scope of the invention. (The example will be described particularly with reference to Fig. 7, which shows a user using the device for covering element removing).

Thus, referring in use (by way of example) to a particularly preferred example, there is shown in Fig. 7 an example of a user 26 using the device 10. The user is holding the device 10, much like a person may hold a pen/writing instrument. In the example, the device comprises a retractable writing tip 16 (not visible as the device is not being shown in writing mode). There is shown a scratch card 68. The scratch card comprises a general area with, in the example, dollar symbol areas/annotations 70. The dollar symbol areas/annotations and/or general area, in the example, are covering element(s), which, in the example, are foil covering element(s). The device 10 is being used by the user to remove some or all of the covering element(s). This is being done by using the covering element removing surface 14 of the device.

An underneath area 72 has been uncovered by removing the covering element(s). In the example, removing the covering element(s) is being achieved by moving the removing surface 14 along/across the covering element(s), in one movement. The removing surface 14 may be made of (preferably hard) rubber-type materials, which may help remove the covering element(s). The device may thus not require a ‘scratching’ movement in order to remove the covering element(s), and preferably simply requires a user move the removing surface 14 over/across the covering element(s). This may have a further benefit of lessening the chance of damage being done to the scratch card and/or underneath area (eg by excessive scratching, eg with a coin, or sharp item, for example).

Information (which may come in any form, such as but not limited to annotation(s), letter(s), number(s), image(s), code(s), icon(s), etc) is shown provided/revealed on the underneath area 72. The information revealed reads ‘3T20X6’.

The holding portion 28 and preferable recess(es) 38 (not visible under the thumb 36 of the user, or on the other side of the device due to angle of view) make the device easier (and more comfortable) to hold. The device has a wristband 54, 56 attached to it. This is an embodiment of a wrist-surrounding element. Thus the user, if they’ve previously bought the device, may simply wear the device 10 about their wrist, via use of the wristband. This can be useful either for regular purchasers of scratch cards, and/or can be useful for shop keepers and/or staff who may have to scratch cards regularly. It may be useful for any other person(s)/party(s) who may regularly use scratch cards.

The wristband 54, 56, in the example, is shown being flexible. The wristband 54, 56 is shown flexibly going around the hand, with the user (for one reason or another) having it extend around their thumb and fingers. This may have to be done, when using the device, as it may be that the wristband (or any wrist surrounding element), when worn around the wrist of the user, would otherwise make it difficult to use the device. Thus the wrist-surrounding element/wristband being elastic (eg rubber) can be useful/important.

It will be obvious the user, after use, may simply fit the wristband 56 back around their wrist, and leave the shop/location they are using the scratch card at. Thus the device can be kept around their wrist, so that they can, for example, return and buy/use a scratch card at a later date, and have quick access to the device, to use.

If the user has a winning card, one use of the device, in a writing mode, may be to sign a winning card (eg with their name and/or signature). In the example of Fig. 7, this can be done by a retractable writing tip, which can be advanced through the removing surface

14. (It will be obvious that ‘signing’ (for a winning card) (and any writing done with the device) may be carried out on a different item(s)/place(s), not limited to being carried out on a/the winning scratch card).

Thus a preferred embodiment has been described, in use, by way of example, and in no way limiting a scope of the invention.

The embodiments described above are provided by way of example only, and various other modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Broader And/Or Different Invention (s) May Be Claimed (And Are Supported)

The appended claims define limited inventions. However, it should be recognized and understood that the disclosure of the present application includes a vast array of inventions, not limited to inventions set out in the appended claims and/or any statement(s) of invention.

For example, if the present disclosure of the present application (inclusive of drawing(s) and/or description) discloses features a to z, it should be recognized and understood that any invention may be claimed, comprising any feature(s) out of features a to z. Thus if the appended claim 1 defines the invention claimed as comprising essential features a, b, and c, it should be understood that an invention may be claimed comprising solely feature a, or solely feature b, or solely feature c, or any combination of features a, b, and

c. Furthermore, it should be understood that an invention may be claimed comprising any of feature(s) d to z, whether or not also comprising any of features a, b, or c.

Furthermore, no feature disclosed is limited to only being set forth in a claim when used in conjunction with other particular feature(s) it is disclosed with in the specification, but may be claimed with any other feature or combination of features disclosed in the present application. Thus if a feature is disclosed ‘clustered’ with several other feature(s) when disclosed in the specification, the applicant(s) nevertheless reserves the right to ‘extract’ that feature(s) from the several other feature(s) it is disclosed with, and set it forth in a claim, combined with any other feature(s) disclosed in the present application, which other feature(s) may, or may not, also be ‘extracted’ from any other feature(s) they are clustered with in the disclosure of the present application. Thus any permutation/combination of features may be claimed for patent in a future claim and/or patent application.

A final claim is appended which serves to signify that I reserve the right to claim any invention (ie ‘thing’), comprising any feature, or combination of features, disclosed in the present application (inclusive of drawing(s) and/or description). This statement (and/or final appended claim), if so desired, should be seen as a statement of invention, stating any invention (ie ‘thing’), comprising any feature, or combination of features, disclosed in the present application (in any permutation/combination). The applicant(s) reserves the right to claim any (such) invention (ie ‘thing’), and considers an objection by a patent office/examiner (stating that such an invention is not supported by/disclosed in the present application) to be in direct conflict with this statement of invention. Thank you to the relevant patent office/examiner for taking note of this. It is intended (or plausible) that such invention(s) may be claimed in a future application(s) which claims benefit of priority of the present application, or, for example, in future filed claims of the present application. The present disclosure of the present application supports such invention(s)/claim(s).

Adjectival And Adverbial Use, In The Present Application, Is Innately Optional

In the present application, adjectival definition of a noun in no way limits the ability to claim the noun, without the adjective. Thus if a 'curved edge’ is disclosed, it should be understood that it is disclosed simply by way of example, as an embodiment of 'an edge’, and that an invention may be claimed, comprising an 'edge', and not limited to comprising a 'curved edge’, even if the only disclosure in the specification is of a 'curved edge’. This goes for every single adjective example in the present application, and also applies to adverbs in the same way, with reference to how they limit a broader verb/action, which verb/action/characterizing feature may be included in a claim (and is supported), not limited by the adverb that further defines it.

The Title Of The Present Application Does Not Limit What May Be Claimed

The title of the present application (and the claims presented) do not limit what may be claimed futurely, based upon (and supported by) the present application. For example, if the title is 'Pet Cleaning Apparatus’, even if all disclosure in the patent application relates to a pet cleaning apparatus (as do the claims), nevertheless, a 'cleaning apparatus’ may be claimed (not limited to being for pets), as it is clear a ‘pet cleaning apparatus’ is an embodiment of a 'cleaning apparatus’. As stated previously, in the present application, adjectival definition of a noun in no way limits the ability to claim the noun, without the adjective. This also applies to the title. Furthermore, an invention may be claimed comprising any feature, or combination of features, disclosed in the present application.

Thus, in line with the above statement(s), a broad statement of invention is herein included, of a scratch card device, comprising a device body. All other feature(s) and/or combination of feature(s) disclosed in the present application are optional with regards to this broad statement of invention. Furthermore, any feature (not limited to being provided with/clustered with any other feature(s) disclosed in the present application (even when disclosed together ‘essentially’ with regard to any other (statement of) invention in the present application) may be claimed in dependent fashion with regard to this broad statement of invention, and are deemed preferable and/or optional feature(s). This broad statement of invention should in no way affect searching and examining of any more narrow appended claims, and in no way affects the scope of such appended claims, which are likely to be far narrower in scope than the broad statement of invention provided in this paragraph. Such a device, with reference to this broad statement of invention in this paragraph, may, for example comprise a writing arrangement and/or a covering element removing arrangement, but is not limited to comprising both, and may comprise neither. Such a device, with reference to this broad statement of invention in this paragraph, may, for example comprise a covering element removing arrangement comprising a covering element removing surface, wherein at least one of: a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface; an area near the covering element removing surface, is magnetic. This is just one embodiment of a scratch card device, comprising a device body (as stated in the present paragraph), which may be claimed. It is even feasible that the covering element(s) of a scratch card may be magnetic (ie comprise any magnetic material(s)). In such a case, a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface of the device (and/or an area near the covering element removing surface) may be magnetic (eg opposing magnetic force to the covering element(s)), or may be of material(s) that are attracted to the magnetic covering element(s) (eg a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface (and/or an area near the covering element removing surface) may be metallic, for example). To define any such arrangements/relationships broadly, the term 'magnetic relationship’ may be used. Thus there may be a 'magnetic relationship’ (of any sort) between the device (ie a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface and/or an area near the covering element removing surface) and the scratch card covering element(s). (This may also be claimed). Thus a portion or a whole of the removing surface 14 of the device (and/or an area near the removing surface) may facilitate a magnetic relationship with the/a covering element(s) of a scratch card. (This may also be claimed). As stated, this can help prevent mess when covering element(s) are removed by the device. In such embodiments, scratch cards that have covering element(s) of material(s) that form part of/facilitate the magnetic relationship may be provided. The scratch cards may be provided by the provider of the scratch card device. The scratch cards may be provided by a third party.

(Furthermore, it is feasible a device may be claimed (comprising any or all of the disclosed feature(s) in the present application), not limited to being a scratch card device. For example, a device may be claimed, comprising a device body. All other feature(s) and/or combination of feature(s) disclosed in the present application are optional with regards to this broad statement of invention. In such an invention, what is disclosed as the 'scratch card covering element removing surface’ may simply be provided/used as a removing and/or scratching surface, not limited to being for scratch card covering elements, or to covering elements of any sort).

Claims

Claims:

1. A scratch card and scratch card covering element removing device, comprising:

a scratch card comprising a covering element; and a scratch card covering element removing device, the device comprising:

a device body; and a scratch card covering element removing arrangement comprising a scratch card covering element removing surface;

wherein there is a magnetic relationship between the covering element of the scratch card and at least one of:

a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface;

an area near the covering element removing surface.

2. A scratch card and scratch card covering element removing device as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of:

the portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface is magnetic;

the area near the covering element removing surface is magnetic.

3. A scratch card and scratch card covering element removing device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the covering element is magnetic.

4. A scratch card and scratch card covering element removing device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the scratch card comprises a plurality of said covering elements.

5. A scratch card and scratch card covering element removing device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the scratch card covering element removing device comprises a writing arrangement.

6. A scratch card and scratch card covering element removing device as claimed in claim 5, wherein a writing tip of the writing arrangement, and a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface, are provided at a same half of the scratch card covering element removing device.

7. A scratch card and scratch card covering element removing device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the scratch card covering element removing device is elongate.

8. A scratch card and scratch card covering element removing device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the covering element removing surface is substantially deformable.

9. A scratch card covering element removing device, comprising:

wherein at least one of:

a portion or a whole of the covering element removing surface is magnetic;

an area near the covering element removing surface is magnetic.

10. A scratch card covering element removing device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the covering element removing surface is substantially deformable.

11. Any novel subject matter or combination including novel subject matter disclosed herein, whether or not within the scope of or relating to the same invention as claimed in any of the preceding claims.

Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No: GB1714720.8