Gaming Machine Monitor Counterweight for Easier Service Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic gaming machines require a mechanism to facilitate easy access and maintenance of the monitor, as existing systems often lack efficient methods for removing and reinstalling the display without causing damage or requiring extensive technical expertise.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a podium acting as a counterweight to the monitor, coupled with a drive mechanism including a biasing element, wire harness, and tensioner, allows for the monitor to be moved between open and closed positions, preventing automatic return and reducing the force needed for reinstallation, thereby enabling easier servicing and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the monitor is made removable for easy maintenance, then ease of repair is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for drive mechanisms and counterweights
Solution Approach 1:
The podium is configured as a counterweight to the monitor, creating a balanced system where the combined center of gravity remains stable. This allows the monitor to be easily removed and reinstalled without requiring complex locking mechanisms or excessive force, as the counterweight naturally assists in maintaining equilibrium during the removal and installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
A drive mechanism with a biasing element acts as an intermediary between the monitor and the podium, facilitating controlled movement during removal and installation. The biasing element provides the necessary force to overcome friction and mechanical resistance, enabling smooth operation without direct manual manipulation of complex components.
2Ease of operation
If a drive mechanism is added to control monitor movement, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The podium serves as a counterweight that automatically balances the monitor's weight, eliminating the need for complex motorized or manually-actuated positioning systems. The balanced configuration allows the monitor to move smoothly along its mounting path with minimal force, and the biasing element provides just enough additional force to overcome static friction and mechanical resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The counterweight system is self-regulating, automatically adjusting to maintain balance as the monitor is removed or installed. The biasing element self-activates when the monitor reaches certain positions in its movement path, providing force only when needed without requiring external control systems or complex actuation mechanisms.
3Productivity
If the monitor can be easily removed, then productivity of maintenance is improved, but reliability of the connection may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The podium counterweight creates a balanced system where the monitor's weight is offset during removal and installation, preventing sudden drops or uncontrolled movements that could damage connection points. The gradual, controlled movement enabled by the counterweight system ensures that connection and disconnection forces remain within safe limits, maintaining connection reliability while enabling easy removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing element provides pre-loaded force that cushions the monitor during movement, preventing impact or shock loads on connection points during removal and installation. This beforehand cushioning ensures that the connection interfaces are never subjected to excessive forces, maintaining their integrity and reliability over repeated cycles of removal and installation.
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
This solution simplifies the process of removing and reinstalling the monitor, reduces the risk of damage, and allows non-technical personnel to perform maintenance tasks more efficiently, while also reducing the overall time and complexity involved in servicing the gaming machine.
Implementation Method 1
a drive mechanism operable to selectively move the monitor relative to the pedestal between an open position and a closed position, the drive mechanism including at least one biasing element
Implementation Method 2
wherein the podium and the tensioner provide a force to control movement of the monitor between the open position and the closed position
Implementation Method 3
a tensioner, wherein the podium and the tensioner provide a force to control movement of the monitor
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic gaming machine is described. The electronic gaming machine includes a pedestal including a monitor configured to display an electronic game, a podium configured to receive user input during play of the electronic game, and a drive mechanism operable to selectively move the monitor relative to the pedestal between an open position and a closed position, the drive mechanism including at least one biasing element, a wire harness coupled to the monitor, at least one cable coupled to the podium, and a tensioner, wherein the podium and the tensioner provide a force to control movement of the monitor between the open position and the closed position.