Gaming Machine Light Pipe with Dividing Reflector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gaming machines lack effective lighting features that enhance entertainment value and attract frequent play, as traditional lighting methods do not provide dynamic and engaging visual experiences.
Innovation Solution
A gaming system incorporating a light pipe structure with a dividing reflector and arms that splits light into primary and secondary portions, directing them to create distinct lighting zones, including bright and washed lighting effects, to enhance the visual appeal and player engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traditional lighting methods are used in gaming machines, then the structure remains simple, but the entertainment value and visual appeal are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is segmented into multiple light pipes, each directing light to different zones of the gaming machine. The light pipe array divides the cabinet into distinct lighting zones, allowing independent control and variation of lighting effects in different areas, thereby enhancing visual appeal without requiring a completely complex system redesign
Solution Approach 2:
Light pipes serve as intermediary elements between the light sources and the gaming machine cabinet surfaces. These light pipes transmit and distribute light to specific zones, acting as mediators that enable sophisticated lighting effects while keeping the actual light sources concealed and the control system simplified
2Area of stationary object
If light sources are positioned to provide broad illumination, then coverage area increases, but the ability to create distinct lighting zones decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is segmented into multiple light pipes, each responsible for a specific zone. This segmentation allows the system to cover a broad area through the array of light pipes while simultaneously maintaining distinct lighting zones, as each pipe can be controlled independently to create different lighting effects in different regions
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system transitions from two-dimensional broad coverage to three-dimensional zoned illumination by using light pipes that extend into the cabinet structure. This dimensional approach allows light to be distributed throughout the volume of the cabinet, creating distinct zones while maintaining overall coverage
3Illumination intensity
If multiple light sources are used to create dynamic lighting effects, then entertainment value increases, but the visibility of light sources from player position increases
Solution Approach 1:
Light pipes act as intermediaries that conceal the actual light sources while transmitting their output. The light sources are positioned inside the cabinet and are not directly visible from the player position, but they effectively illuminate various zones through the light pipe system, creating dynamic lighting effects without compromising aesthetics
Solution Approach 2:
The light pipes function as flexible light-guiding structures that can be positioned and routed to deliver light from concealed sources to visible surfaces. These light pipes allow the light to be transmitted through opaque or translucent materials, hiding the sources while maintaining lighting effectiveness
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
The system provides a dynamic and engaging lighting experience, increasing the entertainment value of gaming machines by creating contrasting lighting zones that enhance the visual appeal and player engagement, thus attracting more frequent play.
Implementation Method 1
The dividing reflector is positioned and configured to receive light projected by the one or more light sources, directing a first portion of the light through the first arm, and directing a second portion of the light through the second arm
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming system includes at least one light pipe which splits, reflects, and propagates light provided from one or more internal light sources to a plurality of external regions of the gaming system. The light sources may include sets of LEDs which deliver light via multiple light pipes or differing sections of the same light pipe, in varying configurations. Each light pipe may utilize a light splitter-reflector to receive, split, direct, propagate, and emit light from one or more sections of internally positioned light sources, simultaneously projecting decorative lighting to multiple exterior surfaces and regions of the gaming system. Light pipe assemblies may be constructed from modular pieces which include a separate light splitter-reflector, or from a single piece of uniform material which splits, directs, and emits light. Variations of direct light, indirect (reflected) light, and combinations of both enable various lighting patterns on the exterior of gaming machines.