Lifted Button Deck Assembly for Bartop Gaming Service Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic gaming machines (EGMs) require manual removal of the button deck for servicing, which is cumbersome and disrupts gameplay, especially when access to the interior is needed for cleaning or maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A bartop gaming device with a lift assembly that includes a lift frame, an arm pivotally connected to a track, and an actuator with a piston, allowing the button deck to be raised or lowered relative to the housing, providing access to the interior without removing the deck.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the button deck is manually removed for servicing, then access to the interior is achieved, but gameplay is disrupted and operation becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The button deck is transformed from a static fixed component to a dynamic movable component. The lift assembly enables the button deck to move between a lowered playing position and a raised servicing position, allowing the same component to serve different functions based on operational needs without permanent structural changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The button deck is separated from the main housing as an independent serviceable component. The lift assembly creates a distinct mechanical subsystem that can operate independently, allowing the button deck to be raised and lowered without affecting the structural integrity of the housing or requiring complete disassembly of the device.
2Ease of repair
If the button deck is removed for cleaning, then interior access is improved, but operational downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The button deck transitions from a static barrier to a dynamic accessible component. During normal operation, the deck remains lowered for gameplay. When cleaning is needed, the lift assembly quickly raises the deck, enabling maintenance personnel to access the interior without removing the deck entirely, thus minimizing operational downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The lift assembly enables the button deck to be easily raised and lowered by maintenance personnel without requiring complex disassembly procedures. The mechanical advantage provided by the lift system allows for quick and simple servicing operations, reducing the time required for cleaning and maintenance activities.
3Ease of repair
If manual removal of button deck is used, then servicing is possible, but the process becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The lift assembly acts as an intermediary mechanical system between the housing and the button deck. Instead of requiring direct manual manipulation of the button deck during servicing, the lift assembly provides a controlled interface that simplifies the raising and lowering process, reducing the complexity of the servicing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical advantage provided by the lift assembly transforms the servicing process from a complex manual removal and reinstallation procedure to a simpler controlled lifting operation. The system uses mechanical principles to reduce the effort and complexity required for routine maintenance activities.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates easy access to the interior of the gaming device for servicing without disrupting gameplay, enhancing maintenance efficiency and reducing operational downtime.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator includes a piston coupled to the lift frame that is moveable relative to the track to move the button deck assembly
Implementation Method 2
an arm pivotally coupled to the lift frame and extending to a track
Data Source
AI summary
A bartop gaming device includes a housing base; a button deck assembly having one or more buttons for receiving player inputs during game play on the gaming device; and a lift assembly for raising or lowering the button deck assembly relative to the housing to service the button deck or an area of the gaming device covered by the button deck. The lift assembly includes a lift frame supporting the button deck assembly, an arm leg pivotally connected to the lift frame and extending to a track, and an actuator that includes a piston coupled to the lift frame.