Repositionable Handle Assemblies for Drop-In Gaming Machines
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The installation and maintenance of 'drop-in' bar top gaming machines are hindered by tight tolerances and the absence of handles, making handling and access to internal components cumbersome and potentially damaging to the machines.
Innovation Solution
A repositionable handle assembly is integrated into the gaming machine, allowing technicians to easily lift and support the machine during installation and maintenance by moving the handle members between obstructive and accessible positions, while ensuring the top panel can still be closed flush with the tabletop.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If handles are added to the gaming machine for easier handling, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle assembly is designed to be repositionable between an obstructive position (when not in use) and an accessible position (when handling is needed). The handle can be moved along the support wall and rotated, allowing it to adapt to different operational states. This dynamic configuration provides handling ease when needed while minimizing structural complexity and visual obstruction when not in use.
2Manufacturing precision
If the top panel is kept closed flush with the tabletop, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The handle assembly is extracted as a separate, movable component that can be positioned out of the way when maintenance access is needed. The handle can be removed from its obstructive position, allowing the top panel to be opened and accessed without interference. This separation allows the panel to maintain its flush alignment while providing easy access during maintenance operations.
3Area of stationary object
If tight tolerances are used between the gaming machine and tabletop opening, then area of the tabletop is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The handle assembly incorporates adjustable positioning parameters, allowing it to accommodate variations in installation tolerances. The handle can be positioned at different locations along the support wall and adjusted to different orientations, providing flexibility that compensates for tolerance variations. This adjustability maintains the tight overall tolerances for maximum tabletop surface area while making the installation process more forgiving and easier to manufacture.
Data Source
AI summary
A “drop-in” style bar top gaming machine that includes a support frame having at least two opposed support walls, and a top panel assembly supporting a display device. The top panel assembly is further configured to cooperate with the support frame for movement between a closed position and an open position, enabling access to the support frame. An illumination assembly is provided for interior illumination of the gaming machine.