NZ529517A - Portable gaming machine - Google Patents

Abstract

A control console for operating a portable gaming machine; the gaming machine comprising the control console and a display screen unit in communication with the console; wherein the console includes operating means which allows a player to remotely control the operation of games of chance on the gaming machine screen, wherein the console has means to enable detachable engagement with the screen unit thereby enabling the console to be moved between a first state in which the console lies against the screen and a second state in which the console is disengaged from the screen unit.

Description

529517 PORTABLE GAMING MACHINE BACKGROUND The present invention relates to gaming and slot machines and more particularly relates to an alternative to the known gaming machines by providing a portable gaming machine. More particularly the invention relates to a gaming machine having a physical shape and configuration which resembles the appearance and general size of a lap top computer and which is capable of convenient relocation or reorientation by the user. 10 The invention further provides a lightweight portable gaming machine in which a display may be moved relative to a gaming control console for folding and storing and ) for remote operation by said console. The invention also provides a portable gaming machine capable of location in a docking station base or stand.

PRIOR ART There are already in existence a wide variety of gaming and slot machines constructed in a cabinet which houses a control panel and a display and machine intelligence including game software and jackpot electronics. In order to achieve an edge over 20 competitors, game producers provide special game features in the hope of attracting ^ player interest and which provide players with novel alternatives. In gaming, it is usually those features associated with jackpots or increased probability of winning which are likely to attract player interest. Typically a player will be attracted by such features as types of prizes, the number of pay lines, and feature games and free games. 25 In the past the main developments in gaming machine technology have concentrated more on the software or game mid jackpot aspects than on the hardware. Typically a conventional gaming machine comprises an upright ground engaging cabinet which has the inherent disadvantage of requiring a significant footprint and console which might typically be about 0.4 square meters, and in addition can weigh in excess of 30 120Kg, The light weight characteristics of the gaming machine according to the fU fi 2 h MAY 2H0F -ill* ■ - \ f ■: ;invention will enable use in diverse environments which have not been available in the past such as Planes, Buses hotel rooms homes and the like. The floor standing prior art machines, which can collectively take up a considerable amount of floor space, house an electronic display, internal game software which may be contained on game chips or 5 other media, game controller boards, money handling components, a control console including buttons for wagering and, once the bet regime has been established, for playing the game. Thus the conventional gaming machine hardware is physically large and heavy, takes up significant floor space and is intended to remain in one location once established in position and commissioned. Licensing regulations place #0 limitations on the movement of gaming machines from licensed premises or floor areas and relocation to alternative venues requires compliance and regulatory approval. In the past, manufacturers have attempted to attract player interest with game variations and perceptions of winning. Except insofar as game presentation appears on the machine face the machine configuration has been a secondary aspect of hardware design. 15 Generally, poker machines games are structured so that the odds of winning are increased commensurate with the number of credits bet per line and the number of lines selected by the player. An electronic poker machine display will usually include a screen display having spinning reels which display symbols on the screen and a set pf ^ control buttons. The player can select lines according to a player wager with the ;20 chances of winning increasing according to the amount wagered and the number of lines selected. In addition to the symbols display, the typical electronic machines display will include indicia for the benefit of the player relating to the number of credits the player has, the amount wagered, the amount won, and periodic instructions which tell the player what the status of play is or what the player is to do next. Players 25 generally know that by increasing the amount of credits wagered and the number of lines played the probability of gaining a jackpot or reward increases. Within this framework, game providers have sought ways to make games more attractive to the player which ensure that player interest will be maintained, but at the same time there has been very little change in the hardware and particularly in relation to the ;I ;presentation cabinets which house gaming machines. Generally, development has focused on design of game architecture and more particularly monetary return or at least perceptions of monetary return. Historically there have not been major developments over the years in the fundamental form of ground mounted gaming 5 machines. More recently, there have been modest developments in the physical appearance of gaming machines. These developments involved changes in the conventional upright gaming machine cabinets. One such change was the provision in a gaming machine of an integral sloped console and display so that instead of the player whilst seated viewing the display with the head facing essentially forward and tilted )o slightly upwards, the player was now able to tilt the head and cast the eyes downwards. ;The manufacturers thought a sloped console might be more ergonomically favourable for the player as it simulated a posture as if working at a desk. The sloped console also provided a lower overall machine height and created a more open atmosphere for venues than traditional upright machines. Another development in the upright cabinets 15 was to combine the display and control console all on a larger display screen. This change did not impact on the conventional operation of the machine and users' ergonomic position. ;None of these developments, however, had any impact on the traditionally large ^ footprint area, nor contributed to increased portability, versatility or improvements in ;20 ergonomics of the machine. A large footprint per machine requires large and usually expensive floor areas, and this is magnified when machines are located en masse as is often the case. ;There is a need to provide wider access to gaming machines within a variety of establishments. Also there is a need to make gaming machines portable to the extent 25 that owners of establishments in which gaming machines are located may move them readily to different locations within the establishment. Also, a portable gaming machine will potentially widen the accessibility to gaming machines and types of establishments and locations in which they may be played. There is also a need to provide a gaming console which is readily portable and which may be operated with an integral screen or ;3 ;intellectual property CT!!?? ;r:: - - z ;2 4 MAY 2005 ;when the screen is remote from the console. ;INVENTION ;The present invention provides an alternative to the known gaming machines by providing a new machine configuration and general presentation. More particularly, the invention provides a gaming machine having a physical shape and configuration which resembles the appearance and general size of a lap top computer and which is capable of convenient relocation or re-orientation by the user. The invention further provides a gaming machine having a display screen whose orientation can be moved relative to a gaming control console for folding and storing and for remote operation by said console. The gaming machine according to a preferred embodiment, may incorporate the traditional game functionality and architectures of a ground / or console engaging cabinet gaming machine in a new and unique compact modular casing. Due to the unique characteristics of the gaming machines according to the invention to be described below, it is well adapted for use in desk top and personal applications including the club, casino and hotel markets for in-room gaming. ;The invention also provides a portable gaming machine capable of location in a docking station base or stand, wherein the docking station may contain additional hardware devices, note acceptors, coin acceptors, printers, displays and other similar equipment to enhance the functionality of the gaming device if so required. ;The present invention in all its embodiments retains the conventional game characteristics of the known gaming machines but provides these in a portable and personalized machine having increased hardware versatility and portability without compromise to traditional software and game characteristics and features including linking of machines. ;The gaming machine retains traditional feature awards such as free games and feature games.. Gaming machine feature play can be retained in the portable machine as with bets per line, number of lines and the same probabilities of achieving a jackpot ;J intellectual property c! ;4 OF N.Z. ;2 4 MAY 2005 ;In one broad form the present invention comprises: ;a control console for operating a portable gaming machine; the gaming machine comprising the control console and a display screen in communication with the console; wherein the console is capable of operating games displayed on said screen irrespective of whether the screen is physically connected to the console or remotely located relative to the console. ;Preferably, the console includes operating buttons which allow a player to selectively wager on an outcome of a game played on the gaming machine. The control console comprises a housing which retains said buttons and which defines a space which retains therein electronic control circuitry and software which enables play of said games. The software may be contained on a chip. The screen display is in electronic communication with the console. In one embodiment, the screen may be attached to the console and is adapted to move between a folded state in which the screen is concealed from view and an unfolded state in which the screen is visible to an operator. The screen is preferably pivotally attached to the console. When the screen is in the folded state it opposes an upper surface of the console. ;According to an alternative embodiment, the screen is remote from but in electronic communication with the console so that a game may be remote controlled. In one embodiment a screen appears on a remote television unit. According to one embodiment the electronic communication between the console and the screen is a hard wired connection. In another embodiment, the electronic communication between the console and the screen is a wireless connection such as but not limited to a radio, bluetooth or infra red signal. According to a preferred embodiment, the console and screen take on the general size and appearance of a potable computer such as a lap top computer. ;In another broad form the present invention comprises: ;a portable gaming machine including a control console for enabling play of a game and a display , wherein the gaming machine is of small proportions so that it is capable of ;portability by a user of the machine. In one embodiment a game console and display are mutually detachable from each other such that the display may be operated remotely by the game control console. ;In another broad form the present invention comprise: ;5 a two piece portable gaming machine comprising a game control console detachably connected to a display for displaying a game; wherein the display may be operated remote from said game control console; wherein the game control console and display are arranged so that they co operate to allow interfitting or folding for stowage of the gaming machine. ;|o A portable display for use in a gaming machine wherein the display includes game control means for operating a game on the display; wherein the gaming machine is capable of hand held use by a user. ;In an alternative embodiment, the present invention provides a portable game control console for use in operating a portable gaming machine; the gaming machine 15 comprising said game control console and a display integral with or remote from said game control console. ;In another broad form the present invention comprises; ;a portable gaming machine including a display screen unit and control console for ^ enabling play of a game of chance and for displaying game indicia on the display ;20 screen in electronic communication with the control console and, wherein the console is capable of operating said games of chance on said screen and wherein the console includes operating means which allows a player to remotely control the operation of games on the gaming machine screen, wherein the console further comprises means to enable detachable engagement with the screen unit thereby enabling the console to be 25 moved between a first state in which the console lies against the screen and a second state in which the console is disengaged from the screen unit. ;In another broad form the present invention comprises a portable gaming machine, comprising a control console, a display in communi ;2 4 MAY .?0°" ;: Vf ' ;•ECTUAL PROPERTY"! OF N.Z. ;6 ;with said control console; the control console having buttons for enabling a user to wager on and play a game; ;wherein the control console and display are contained in separate housings; wherein the display housing may be adjusted relative to the control console so that the gaming machine is foldable for stowage and /or personal carriage. ;In another broad form the present invention comprises: ;a control console for operating a portable gaming machine; the gaming machine comprising the control console and a display screen unit in communication with the console; wherein the console includes operating means which allows a player to remotely control the operation of games of chance on the gaming machine screen, wherein the console has means to enable detachable engagement with the screen unit thereby enabling the console to be moved between a first state in which the console lies against the screen and a second state in which the console is disengaged from the screen. ;In another broad form the present invention comprises: ;a gaming machine having a control console and a display capable of articulating adjustment relative to the game console wherein the game console and display together have the general appearance of a portable lap top computer and wherein the display may be folded between a working open state and a closed or folded non working state. ;In another broad form the present invention comprises; ;a gaming machine including a display having a screen which displays a game layout associated with a main game on which there are displayed game symbols; a control console in communication with the display for manipulating the display; characterized in that the control console and display are integrated so that the gaming machine can be carried. ;According to one embodiment, the console and display are integrally ;7 ;held in a body intellectual property cic?1 ^ '< Z | ;2 4 MAY 2005 ;which includes a display screen which includes control means to enable a player of the machine to control a game by interacting with the screen. In this embodiment, the machine control is effected by touch screen technology. According to this embodiment, the gaming machine may be easily carried, and relocated and used as a desk or table model. This would be an advantage in clubs and hotels as the proprietor can bring or loan machines to patrons wherever they are seated in the venue rather than requiring patrons to go to a cabinet machine which remains on predetermined floor space. ;In an alternative embodiment, the gaming machine comprises a display screen in communication with a game console wherein the display screen is adjustable relative to the control console. Preferably, the game console comprises a keyboard with buttons for betting options and game play. The display preferably includes an LCD screen which may be folded back on the control console so that the screen opposes the console and the gaming machine assumes an appearance of a small portable suitcase or portable lap top computer. Preferably, the display screen when assuming an open configuration is retained in position by a support, which integrates the control console with the screen to enable articulation of the display relative to the screen. This allows the screen to be disposed at any angle within almost 180 degrees relative to the general plane of the game console. ;According to a preferred embodiment, the gaming machine display includes reel symbols or sets of symbols for game play. Game options and architecture are essentially the same as conventional games played on the known large cabinet gaming machine. ;In another broad form the present invention comprises; ;a system of linked portable gaming machines; wherein each gaming machine includes a control console and a display having a screen which displays a game layout associated with a main game on which there are displayed game symbols, the control console in communication with the display for manipulating the display; characterized in that the control console and display are integrated so that the gaming machine can be carried as ;8 intellectual property cr"icf j ;2 h MAY 200c ;if it were a suitcase or lap top computer. ;In another broad form the present invention comprises; ;a system of linked portable gaming machines; wherein each portable gaming machine includes a control console and a display having a screen which displays a game layout associated with a main game on which there are displayed game symbols, the control console in communication with the display for manipulating the display; characterized in that the control console and display may be separated to allow the control console to communicate with an alternative screen display such as a television screen. ;Preferably, the gaming machine can be carried as if it were a suitcase or lap top computer. ;In another broad form according to a method aspect, the present invention comprises: a method of playing a portable gaming machine comprising a control console, the gaming machine comprising the control console and a display screen unit in communication with the console; wherein the console includes operating means which allows a player to remotely control the operation of games of chance on the gaming machine screen, wherein the console has means to enable detachable engagement with the screen unit thereby enabling the console to be moved between a first state in which the console lies against the screen and a second state in which the console is disengaged from the screen; ;wherein the display and control console mutually co operate so the display may operate remote from the console or be folded against the control console for personal carriage; the method comprising the steps of. ;a) establishing a player identification/ registration through communication with a central controller; ;b) verifying player identity and establishing a billing regime with the central controller; for enabling a player to operate the portable gaming machine. ;According to a preferred embodiment, the central controller supplies a predetermined ;■ a ;2 h MAY 2005 ;level of access and credit to enable the player to operate the machine. ;Preferably unexpended credit is redeemable at the termination of play of the gaming machine at a central location.. ;DETAILED DESCRIPTION ;The present invention will now be described in more detail according to a preferred but non limiting embodiment and with reference to the accompanying illustrations; wherein shows a perspective view of a portable gaming machine according to one embodiment of the invention. ;Figure 2 shows a front elevation of the gaming machine of figure 1 ;Figure 3 shows a side elevation of the gaming machine of figure 1 ;Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the machine of figure 1 in the folded state. ;Figure 5 shows a side view of the folded machine of figure 4 ;Figure 6 shows a portable gaming machine interfaced to a television screen according to an alternative embodiment. ;Figure 7 shows a gaming machine according to one embodiment mounted on a floor-mounted stand. ;Figure 8 shows a portable desk model gaming machine according to an alternative embodiment. ;Throughout this description a reference to the term portable or portability will be taken to mean the ability of a person such as a proprietor of the machine or player to carry the machine from location to location without the aid of mechanical lifting apparatus and in a similar manner to that of a lap top computer, small suitcase or the like. ;Referring to figure 1 there is shown a portable gaming machine 1 according to a preferred embodiment. Gaming machine 1 comprises a game control console 2 which is in communication with display screen 3. Display screen 3 is attached to control ;10 inlellc.cthal property ctice ;'-*■ m 2 h MAY 2005 console 2 via an arm 4 which is capable of permitting articulation of screen display 3 relative to control console 2. Gaming machine 1 is capable of moving between an open working state and a closed non working state. In the open or closed working state the gaming machine may be mounted on a desk top, table or the like for use by a player. Gaming control console 2 includes control buttons 5 for game play in a conventional manner. The display screen 3 of game control console 2 is, when the gaming machine is in a working state, preferably reposed at an angle > 90 degrees to the control console and ideally at an angle within the range of 90 to 130 degrees.

Figure 2 shows a front elevation of the gaming machine of figure 1 and Figure 3 shows a side elevation of the gaming machine of figure 1 both with corresponding numbering.

Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the machine of figure 1 in the folded state and Figure 5 shows a side view of the folded machine of figure 4.

In the non working state the gaming machine will be folded by rotation of the display 3 in the directions of arrow 6 towards game control console 2. This allows the gaming machine to assume a size and appearance of a small portable suitcase or lap top computer. The portability of the gaming machine allows the versatility of placing the machines in locations which do not require the large foot print space . For example the portable gaming machines are particularly suited for personal use as an accessory for in-room gaming or entertainment. According to one embodiment, as shown in figure 6 control console 10 may be operated remotely from the display screen. 11 Alternatively, the control console 2 may be interfaced with a television screen to enable a player to remotely operate the gaming machines in comfort from a bed, chair or the like. Display screen 3 is detachably connected to game console 2 via arm 4 which allows articulation of screen 3 relative to game console 2. This allows rotation of screen 3 through an arc of at least 180 degrees. The portable gaming machine according to the invention is preferably minimalist in construction in that it is preferably constructed without some traditional features normally found in floor mounted space consuming 11 T&lec'-ial. property cr ' 7 2 h MAY 200" gaming cabinets. As the portable gaming machine is cashless and therefore operable without coins, there is no need for a coin mechanism or note acceptor for money handling. As the display screen 3 is an LCD there is no space consuming Cathode Ray Tube assembly. Preferably, there is no artwork on the portable gaming machines which would normally take up significant space on a conventional cabinet type machine.

Figure 2 shows a gaming machine comprising a game console interfaced into a television screen.

According to this embodiment, there is provided a portable gaming machine 10 including a control console 11 which is in electronic communication with a television screen 12 which comprises the machine display. Gaming console 11 is adapted for operation of screen 12 via a remote control port which may be via a directional infra red, bluetooth or similar wireless connection and communicates with receiver 14. Alternatively the connection is hard wired via cable 15. In the arrangement of figure 5, the gaming machine intelligence is wholly contained in gaming control console 2. Thus a player can sit in a chair or lie on a bed and operate the games on television screen 12. Control console 11 may be converted back to the gaming machine described in figures 1 - 5 by reconnecting a compatible display console ( not shown).

According to the system aspect of the invention there are provided a plurality of linked portable gaming machines in separate locations such as separate rooms in a hotel. In this case, each room guest has access to a separate portable gaming machine. Each machine will preferably be linked to the front desk of the hotel or operated standalone via a smart card or other secure media and all billing would be authorised via a control center at the front desk. The player can initiate play in room with billing taking place at the front desk. The player may still, depending upon system set up, receive rewards credits and jackpots as with conventional machines but in new gaming environments.

According to the system aspect of the invention, there is at least one portable desk top 12 INTELLECTUAL property c cf n.z. 2 h MAY 2005 gaining console at a potentially unlimited number of locations. An arrangement of an in house gaming system allows participation by a potentially unlimited number of remote participants such as but not limited to club patrons or hotel guests. The linked system comprises a central controller which is in communication with one or more said portable desk top gaming consoles at said plurality of remote locations. By way of example, the central controller may be located at a hotel billing center and communicates with each and every gaming console which may be located in hotel rooms. Communication with the controller is enabled upon completion of predetermined initiation steps carried out by individual players for access to the system for in room gaming. Typically, a player will transmit a login for billing signal and, on approval by the central controller, player participation may commence. At the remote location, which may be in room gaming, the player can elect to play the gaming machine remotely by communication between gaming console and the in room television screen or by direct communication with a gaming machine screen console which is physically linked to the gaming console. In the former case, the inherent portability of the gaming machine allows a player to sit remotely from the screen (such as on a bed in a hotel room) and operate the gaming machine privately but as if the player was in a club. Billing for operation of the machine is handled at the central controller so the remote participant can play the in house machine at any time following an initiation log in. The portable gaming machine will be provided with means to enable the player to detach the gaming control console from a screen display and elect to play the machine by remote control. Thus a player has an option to either play a self contained gaming machine where a gaming console and display are mutually connected, or detach the display and operate that remotely or link the control console into a television screen and operate that remotely via wireless or hard wire connection.

According to one method aspect the method includes a series of player enabling steps to establish a billing regime for the player or to provide the player with redeemable credit. According to one embodiment, the portable gaming machine may be located in each 13 2 4 MAY 200" room of a hotel. Should a room guest elect to play the in room gaming entertainment, the player must enroll with a central controller. The player is provided with an amount of credit, which may be contained on a smart card readable by a smart card reader in the game console. The smart card also contains a personalized ID which may be encrypted and disclose player location (which may be room number or other geographic locator). The player inserts the smart card into the gaming machine for verification of the integrity of the data relating to the player and once verification is completed the card will transfer the credits to the game control console.

The player then selects the game of choice. On completion of game play, the player transfers any credits by activating a collect button whereupon the credits would be transferred back to the smart card . Any other relevant information may be likewise transferred to the smart card such as metering information, date and time. When all player credits have been expended this will be reflected on the card, which will require revalidation for future' play. Where credits remain on the card the player may recommence play at a later time at the players election. Alternatively, where credits remain, the player can redeem them from the central controller. In the case of in room gaming, the redemption can take place at the front desk by insertion of the card into the central controller and, upon verification of card holder ID, credits on the card may be transferred back to the holder and the card cancelled. The above method steps may be executed via a system network where there are a large number of portable gaming machines linked to a central controller or in a standalone configuration. In a linked configuration each participating player may verify ID and receive and redeem credits via a central controller without use of an individual smart card. In that case the ID verification and supply of player funds may be effected electronically direct from each game console. This may be effected by use of a player PIN number.

The architecture of the portable gaming machine hardware will be typified by its unique appearance, size and fold ability. In general terms, the gaming machine will approximate the size of a lap top computer or small brief case. According to one 14 "^flOPERTY 2 h MAY 2005 embodiment the physical size of the machine will be, but not limited to, in the order of 320mm x 320mm x 50mm ( height). Despite its relatively small size the gaming machine is suitably robust for noimal wear and tear. Facility is also provided on the portable gaming machine for attachment of a high strength security cable which can be fastened and locked to a secure fixture in the room or venue to prevent unauthorized removal of the machine. Additional security devices such as proximity sensors and memory erase circuits can also be included in the machine to deter tampering or theft. The gaming machine intelligence will be sealed to prevent tampering and to comply with all relevant regulatory requirements. Due to the portability of the machine it may be easily relocated from desk to desk, table to table, room to room or to a ground-engaging stand.

Figure 7 shows a gaming machine according to one embodiment mounted on a floor mounted stand. In another embodiment the floor mounted stand or pedestal is effectively a docking station whereby the docking station provides additional functionality to the portable gaming device such as note or coin acceptors, ticket printers, hoppers, larger displays or any other device that may enhance the gaming experience. The portable gaming machine is easily attached to the docking station by a locking mechanism and uses a hot swap style connector on the rear of the portable unit to interface to the docking station electronics. The floor mounted stand or docking station can be designed in a variety of ways to suit venues specific and/or ergonomic requirements.

Figure 8 shows a portable gaming machine suitable for in room gaming according to a preferred embodiment.

According to one embodiment, the player can adapt the machine for play on a television screen rather than on a screen display connected to a game console. This effectively makes the gaming console a hand held unit. In an alternative embodiment, the gaming machine may be adapted with an integral screen capable of folding against the game console, wherein the gaming machine can be mounted on a desk or stand and ^ 2 4 MAY 2GC with foldable display.

The portable gaming machine according to the non-limiting embodiments described has a number of advantages over the known machine hardware.

Firstly, its small physical size and weight allows wide versatility for relocation. The smaller footprint allows venues to increase the number of gaming machines in an establishment without major renovation. Thus the gaming machines may now fit conveniently into smaller available spaces in establishments rather than arranging large floor spaces to fit traditional gaming machines. The portable gaming machine may be set up in places not previously possible due to the size and configuration of typical floor mounted machines.

The portable gaming machines may therefore be played 24 hours a day and without a player having to attend a traditional gaming establishment such as a club, hotel or casino. This allows wider game options which may not normally be playable in public due to legal restrictions such as restricted games.

Gaming rooms may be redesigned to be more ergonomic and to allow more machines in a predetermined floor space. The smaller machine requires less power, has reduced heat output, low maintenance, and a small foot print in comparison to the cabinet type floor mounted machines. Also, the use of a smart card with the machine allows restrictions on the amount of player credit and can help with harm minimization issues. The gaming machine may have all the traditional known game characteristics and may be connected to known Ethernet, broadband (including fibre optic, satellite and ADSL) or wireless networks for implementation in the new establishment of such game concepts as linked progressives, player bonuses, game download, game tournaments with a potentially unlimited number of players, player tracking and reward points. In addition, classic floor games such as roulette, poker, and keno can be participated in by way of interfacing with the portable gaming machine. It will be appreciated that there may be any number of conventional or new game types, symbol types, patterns or combinations displayed on the portable machine. 16 2 4 MAY Wlc intellectual property c" OF NX It will be recognized by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the invention as broadly described herein without departing from the overall spirit and scope of the invention. 17

Claims (6)

1. THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS: 1 A control console for operating a portable gaming machine; the gaming machine comprising the control console and a display screen unit in communication with the console; wherein the console includes operating means which allows a player to remotely control the operation of games of chance on the gaming machine screen, wherein the console has means to enable detachable engagement with the screen unit thereby enabling the console to be moved between a first state in which the console lies against the screen and a second state in which the console is disengaged from the screen unit.
2. 2 A control console according to claim 1 wherein the operating means includes buttons which allow a player to selectively wager on an outcome of a game played on the gaming machine.
3. 3 A control console according to claim 2 wherein the control console comprises a housing which retains said buttons.
4. 4 A control console according to claim 3 wherein the housing defines a space which retains therein electronic control circuitry.
5. 5 A control console according to claim 4 wherein the control console further comprises software contained on a micro chip, which enables play of said games.
6. 6 A control console according to claim 5 wherein the screen display is in electronic communication with the console 7 A control console according to claim 6 wherein when the screen unit is physically attached to the console it is adapted to move between a folded state in which the screen is concealed from view and an unfolded state in which the screen is visible. 8 A control console according to claim 7 wherein, when the screen unit is in the folded state it opposes an upper surface of the console. 9 A control console according to claim 8 wherein the screen is held in a housing which is pivotally attached to said console. I intellectual property crn?r OF N.Z. 18 2 h MAY m 10 A control console according to claim 9 wherein, the screen appears on a remote television unit. 11 A control console according to claim 10 wherein the screen is remote from but in electronic communication with the console. 5 12 A control console according to any of the forgoing claims, wherein the electronic communication between the console and the screen is a hard wired connection. 13 A control console according to claim 11 wherein the electronic communication between the console and the screen is a wireless connection. 0LO 14 A control console according to claim 11 wherein the electronic communication between the console and the screen is effected by radio signal. 15 A control console according to claim 11 wherein the electronic communication between the console and the screen is effected by infra red signal. 16 A control console according to any of the foregoing claims wherein the 15 console aid screen take on the general size and appearance of a lap top computer. 17 A portable gaming machine including a display screen unit and control console for enabling play of a game of chance and for displaying game indicia on the display screen in electronic communication with the control console and, wherein the 20 console is capable of operating said games of chance on said screen and wherein the console includes operating means which allows a player to remotely control the operation of games on the gaming machine screen, wherein the console further comprises means to enable detachable engagement with the screen unit thereby enabling the console to be moved between a first state in which the console lies against 25 the screen and a second state in which the console is disengaged from the screen unit. 18 A portable gaming machine according to claim 17 wherein the console includes operating means which allows a player to control the operation of the gaming machine. fwitLLECTUAL property cr-- OF NZ ' 19 i 2 k may 19 A portable gaming machine according to claim 18 wherein the operating means includes buttons which allow a player to selectively operate said gaming machine. 20 A portable gaming machine according to claim 18 wherein the operating means includes buttons which allow a player to selectively wager on an outcome of a game of chance played on the gaming machine. 21 A portable gaming machine according to claim 20 wherein the control console comprises a housing which retains said buttons. 22 A portable gaming machine according to claim 21 wherein the housing defines a space which retains therein electronic control circuitry for the control console. 23 A portable gaming machine according to claim 22 wherein the housing further comprises software which enables play of said games of chance. 24 A portable gaming machine according to claim 23 wherein said software is contained on a chip. 25 A portable gaming machine according to claim 24 wherein, the screen unit is detachable attached to the control console and is adapted to move between a folded state in which the screen is concealed from view and an unfolded state in which the screen is visible. 26 A portable gaming machine according to claim 25 wherein when the screen unit is in the folded state it opposes an upper surface of the console. 27 A portable gaming machine according to claim 26 wherein the screen is pivotally attached to said console. 28 A portable gaming machine according to claim 27 wherein the screen is remote from but in electronic communication with the console. 29 A portable gaming machine according to claim 28 wherein the screen appears on a remote television unit. 30 A portable gaming machine according to claim 29 wherein the electronic communication between the console and the screen unit is a hard wired connection. 31 A portable gaming machine according to claim 29 wherein the electronic 20 p^HlEamFRbPERTY "CHIC" 2 4 MAY 2005 f communication between the console and the screen unit is a wireless connection. 32 A portable gaming machine according to claim 29 wherein the electronic communication between the console and the screen unit is effected by radio signal. 33 A portable gaming machine according to claim 29 wherein the electronic 5 communication between the console and the screen is effected by infra red or bluetooth signal. 34 A portable gaming machine according to any of the foregoing claims wherein the console and screen unit combined have the general size and appearance of a lap top computer. |t0 35 A portable gaming machine according to claim 34 wherein the screen is retained in a screen housing forming the screen unit. 36 A portable gaming machine according to claim 35 wherein, the screen is pivotally attached to the console via one edge of the screen housing. 37 A portable gaming machine, comprising a control console, a display in 15 communication with said control console; the control console having buttons for enabling a user to wager on and play a game of chance; wherein the control console and display are contained in separate housings which are mutually detachable; wherein the control console and display housing have engaging ^ means which allow the display to be folded so that it opposes the console; wherein 20 when the gaming machine is folded it approximates the size of a small case or lap top computer so that the gaming machine may be carried by a user. 38 A portable gaming console according to claim 3 wherein the buttons compri se a touch screen. 25 39 A portable gaming machine according to claim 17 wherein the screen is a touch screen. 40 A gaming machine according to claim 1 or 17 wherein, the display is capable of rotational movement relative to the control console through up to 180 degrees. 21 2 4 may ws 41 A portable display screen according to any of the forgoing claims, wherein the display is an LCD screen. 42 A portable gaming machine according to claim 1 capable of location in a docking station base or stand, wherein the docking station contains one or more of 5 additional hardware devices, note acceptors, coin acceptors, printers, displays. 43 A portable gaming machine according to claim 42 wherein a central controller controls billing and /or gaming activity. 44 A portable gaming machine according to claim 43 wherein the display is housed in a television monitor remote from said control console. lo 45 A portable gaming machine according to claim 44 wherein the central controller supplies a predetermined level of access and credit to enable a player to operate the machine. 46 A method of establishing a billing regime for a portable gaming machine, the gaming machine comprising a control console and a display screen unit in 15 communication with the console; wherein the console includes operating means which allows a player to remotely control the operation of games of chance on the gaming machine screen, wherein the console has means to enable detachable engagement with the screen unit thereby enabling the console to be moved between a first state in which | the console lies against the screen and a second state in which the console is disengaged 20 from the screen; wherein the display and control console mutually co operate so the display may operate remote from the console or be folded against the control console for personal carriage; the method comprising the steps of: a) establishing a player identification/ registration through communication with a 25 central controller; b) verifying player identity and establishing the billing regime with the central controller, thereby enabling a player to operate the portable gaming machine. intellectual property office i of n.z. 18 JUL 2005 22 ocQjr'y 30/20 39Vd saitfioossy aw hsiwi t>68ZZSS6-2-I9+ IT: IT 9003/^0/81