Gaming Machine Overhead Display Mounting Hardpoints

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Solution Overview

Problem

The rearrangement and relocation of overhead displays in gaming establishments is time-consuming and labor-intensive due to the lack of standardized mounting systems for gaming machines, which hinders operational efficiency and aesthetic consistency.

Innovation Solution

A mounting apparatus for gaming machines that includes standardized mounting hardpoints and adjustable configurations, allowing for secure attachment of overhead displays in various geometric arrangements, and optional electrical connectivity for power and communication, utilizing the mechanical strength of the gaming machine cabinets.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If overhead displays are mounted using non-standardized methods (suspended from ceiling, mounted on free-standing stands), then displays can be positioned above gaming machines, but the rearrangement and relocation of displays becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEase of display mountingVSAvoidTime for display rearrangement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The gaming machine cabinet is designed with integrated mounting hardpoints that serve dual purposes: structural support for the machine itself and standardized mounting locations for overhead displays. This universal mounting system allows displays to be easily attached and detached from any machine in the bank using standard hardware, eliminating the need for custom mounting solutions at each location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting hardpoints are pre-installed on the gaming machine cabinets during manufacturing, positioned at optimal locations for display attachment. This preliminary preparation of mounting locations eliminates the need for on-site installation work when displays need to be mounted or relocated, significantly reducing labor time and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Strength

If displays are independently mounted on free-standing stands or suspended from ceiling, then displays can be positioned above gaming machines, but the mechanical strength of gaming machine cabinets cannot be utilized

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveMounting system strengthVSAvoidMounting system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system merges the gaming machine cabinet structure with the display support function. The cabinet's inherent mechanical strength is directly utilized through integrated hardpoints, eliminating the need for separate free-standing stands or complex ceiling suspension systems. This combination reduces overall system complexity while maximizing structural strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If gaming machines are rearranged or relocated within a bank, then operational flexibility is improved, but overhead displays must be taken down, repositioned, or remounted

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveMachine relocation flexibilityVSAvoidEase of display repositioning
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The standardized mounting hardpoints are identical across all gaming machines in the bank, creating a universal interface for display attachment. This allows displays to be quickly transferred from one machine to another during rearrangements without requiring technical expertise or special tools, maintaining ease of operation while enabling full operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10055933B2Gaming machine mounting apparatus and system for supporting an overhead display
Publication Date: 2018.08.21 INCREDIBLE TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • US10055933B2 patent drawing
  • US10055933B2 patent drawing
  • US10055933B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and apparatus for mounting an overhead display device to gaming machines. The system and apparatus featuring mounting elements securable to a display device at a selected distance and mounting hardpoints on one or a plurality of gaming machines. The hardpoints having a recess with a size and shape corresponding to that of the mounting elements. Wherein the display is securable to gaming machines in an overhead configuration when the mounting elements are secured to hardpoints and where the distance between the mounting elements corresponds to the distance between the hardpoints to which they are respectively secured.