Patent Publication Number: US-2022234386-A1

Title: Retractable wheel assembly for raising and lowering a gaming machine cabinet

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/004,799, filed Aug. 27, 2020, which is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/010,023, filed Jun. 15, 2018, the entire contents and disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The field of disclosure relates generally to electronic gaming, and more particularly to an electronic gaming machine that can be raised and lowered on a set of retractable wheel assemblies for transport or movement within a casino. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Electronic gaming machines (EGMs), or gaming devices, provide a variety of wagering games such as, for example, and without limitation, slot games, video poker games, video blackjack games, roulette games, video bingo games, keno games, and other types of games that are frequently offered at casinos and other locations. Play on EGMs typically involves a player establishing a credit balance by inserting or otherwise submitting money and placing a monetary wager (deducted from the credit balance) on one or more outcomes of an instance, or play, of a primary game, sometimes referred to as a base game. In many games, a player may qualify for secondary games or bonus rounds by attaining a certain winning combination or other triggering event in the base game. Secondary games provide an opportunity to win additional game instances, credits, awards, jackpots, progressives, etc. Awards form any winning outcomes are typically added back to the credit balance and can be provided to the player upon completion of a gaming session or when the player wants to “cash out.” 
     Slot games are often displayed to the player in the form of various symbols arranged in a row-by-column grid, or “matrix.” Specific matching combinations of symbols along predetermined paths, or paylines, drawn through the matrix indicate the outcome of the game. The display typically highlights winning combinations and outcomes for ready identification by the player. Matching combinations and their corresponding awards are usually shown in a “pay-table” that is available to the player for reference. Often, the player may vary his/her wager to included differing numbers of paylines and/or the amount bet on each line. By varying the wager, the player may sometimes alter the frequency or number of winning combinations, the frequency or number of secondary games, and/or the amount awarded. 
     Typical games use a random number generator (RNG) to randomly determine the outcome of each game. The game is designed to return a certain percentage of the amount wagered back to the player, referred to as return to player (RTP), over the course of many plays or instances of the game. The RTP and randomness of the RNG are fundamental to ensuring the fairness of the games and are therefore highly regulated. The RNG may be used to randomly determine the outcome of a game and symbols may then be selected that correspond to that outcome. Alternatively, the RNG may be used to randomly select the symbols whose resulting combinations determine the outcome. Notably, some games may include an element of skill on the part of the player and are therefore not entirely random. 
     Many EGMs are very heavy and may be difficult to move or relocate within a casino. For example, modern EGMs may weigh greater than five-hundred pounds and may, in addition, be top heavy and/or otherwise quite tall and susceptible to tipping during transport. One common solution has been to install a fixed set of wheels or rollers on an underside of an EGM to facilitate transport and movement within a casino. 
     However, many of today&#39;s casinos locate their EMGs on carpeted or tile flooring, either of which may make the use of permanent and/or fixed wheels or rollers problematic. For example, the weight of an EGM may, over time, bury a set of fixed wheels deep into a carpeted floor, making extraction of the EGM at some later time quite difficult, if not unsafe. In addition, placement of an EGM having fixed wheels or rollers on a tile floor may lead to a variety of unsafe conditions, such as, for example, as a result of the fact that fixed-wheel EGMs are always capable of rolling and jostling on such smooth surfaces. 
     An electronic gaming machine that can be raised and lowered for transport or movement within a casino is therefore desirable. More particularly, an electronic gaming machine that can be raised and lowered on a set of retractable wheel assemblies for transport or movement on one or more flat surfaces within a casino is desirable. 
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION 
     In one aspect, an electronic gaming machine is provided. The electronic gaming machine includes a cabinet and a pair of retractable wheel assemblies mechanically coupled to the cabinet. Each retractable wheel assembly includes a first retractable wheel and a second retractable wheel. The first retractable wheel and the second retractable wheel of each retractable wheel assembly are movable, independently of one another, between a retracted position, in which the pair of retractable wheel assemblies allow the cabinet to contact an external surface, and an extended position, in which the pair of retractable wheel assemblies support the cabinet above the external surface. 
     In another aspect, a system of retractable wheel assemblies for raising and lowering an electronic gaming machine cabinet is provided. The system of retractable wheel assemblies includes a plurality of retractable wheel assemblies configured to be mechanically coupled to the gaming machine cabinet. Each of the plurality of retractable wheel assemblies includes a first retractable wheel and a second retractable wheel. The first retractable wheel and the second retractable wheel of each of the plurality of retractable wheel assemblies are movable, independently of one another, between a retracted position, in which the retractable wheel assemblies allow the cabinet to contact an external surface, and an extended position, in which the retractable wheel assemblies support the cabinet above the external surface. 
     In yet another aspect, a method of using a system of retractable wheel assemblies to raise an electronic gaming machine cabinet is provided. The method includes mechanically coupling a first retractable wheel assembly to the electronic gaming machine cabinet, and mechanically coupling a second retractable wheel assembly to the gaming machine cabinet. The first retractable wheel assembly includes a first retractable wheel and a second retractable wheel movable independently of the first retractable wheel, and the second the second retractable wheel assembly includes a third retractable wheel and a fourth retractable wheel movable independently of the third retractable wheel. The method further includes actuating the first retractable wheel, the second retractable wheel, the third retractable wheel, and the fourth retractable wheel, independently of one another, to move the electronic gaming machine cabinet from a lowered position into a raised position on the first retractable wheel assembly and the second retractable wheel assembly. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       An example embodiment of the subject matter disclosed will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
         FIG. 1  is a diagram of exemplary EGMs networked with various gaming-related servers; 
         FIG. 2  is a block diagram of an exemplary EGM; 
         FIG. 3  is a front perspective view of an exemplary gaming machine cabinet, as shown in  FIG. 1 , that includes a plurality of retractable wheel assemblies for raising and lowering the gaming machine cabinet; 
         FIG. 4  is a rear perspective view of the gaming machine cabinet shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of an exemplary retractable wheel assembly, as shown in  FIG. 3  and  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of the retractable wheel assembly shown in  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 7  is an enlarged view of a portion of the gaming machine cabinet shown in  FIG. 3 , in which the plurality of retractable wheel assemblies are attached to an internal frame of the gaming machine cabinet; and 
         FIG. 8  depicts a flowchart illustrating a process for raising the gaming machine cabinet shown in  FIG. 3  on first and second retractable wheel assemblies. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     A retractable wheel assembly is described. The retractable wheel assembly may include a first pusher plate coupled between a first wheel and an elongated structural member, and a second pusher plate coupled a second wheel and the elongated structural member. A first pusher member and a second pusher member may be extended and retracted through the elongated structural member, such as threadably rotated through the member, to engage and disengage a respective engagement surface of each pusher plate. When the pusher plates are engaged by a corresponding pusher member, the pusher plates may extend and retract about respective pivot locations or pivot axes, to push the first and second wheels into retracted and/or extended positions. In addition, a pair of such retractable wheel assemblies may be mounted on an underside of a gaming machine cabinet to raise and lower the cabinet as desired. In raised position, the cabinet may be movable or rollable on the wheels and capable of transport. In a lowered position, the cabinet may be stable and relatively stationary and secure on a support surface, such as a casino floor. 
       FIG. 1  is a diagram of exemplary EGMs networked with various gaming-related servers in a gaming system  100 . Gaming system  100  operates in a gaming environment, including one or more servers, or server computers, such as slot servers of a casino, that are in communication, via a communications network, with one or more EGMs, or gaming devices  104 A- 104 X, such as EGMs, slot machines, video poker machines, or bingo machines, for example. Gaming devices  104 A- 104 X may, in the alternative, be portable and/or remote gaming devices such as, for example, and without limitation, a smart phone, a tablet, a laptop, or a game console. 
     Communication between gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and servers  102 , and among gaming devices  104 A- 104 X, may be direct or indirect, such as over the Internet through a web site maintained by a computer on a remote server or over an online data network including commercial online service providers, Internet service providers, private networks, and the like. In other embodiments, gaming devices  104 A- 104 X communicate with one another and/or servers  102  over wired or wireless RF or satellite connections and the like. 
     In certain embodiments, servers  102  may not be necessary and/or preferred. For example, the present invention may, in one or more embodiments, be practiced on a stand-alone gaming device such as gaming device  104 A and/or gaming device  104 A in communication with only one or more other gaming devices  104 B- 104 X (i.e., without servers  102 ). 
     Servers  102  may include a central determination gaming system server  106 , a ticket-in-ticket-out (TITO) system server  108 , a player tracking system server  110 , a progressive system server  112 , and/or a casino management system server  114 . Gaming devices  104 A- 104 X may include features to enable operation of any or all servers for use by the player and/or operator (e.g., the casino, resort, gaming establishment, tavern, pub, etc.). For example, a game outcome may be generated on a central determination gaming system server  106  and then transmitted over the network to any of a group of remote terminals or remote gaming devices  104 A- 104 X that utilize the game outcome and display the result to the player. 
     Gaming device  104 A is often of a cabinet construction that may be aligned in rows or banks of similar devices for placement and operation on a casino floor. The gaming device  104 A often includes a main door  117  that provides access to the interior of the cabinet. Gaming device  104 A typically includes a button area or button deck  120  accessible by a player that is configured with input switches or buttons  122 , a bill validator  124 , and/or ticket-out printer  126 . 
     In  FIG. 1 , gaming device  104 A is shown as a Relm XL™ model gaming device manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. As shown, gaming device  104 A is a reel machine having a gaming display area  118  including a plurality of mechanical reels  130 , typically 3 or 5 mechanical reels, with various symbols displayed there on. Reels  130  are then independently spun and stopped to show a set of symbols within the gaming display area  118  that may be used to determine an outcome to the game. 
     In many configurations, gaming machine  104 A may have a main display  128  (e.g., video display monitor) mounted to, or above, gaming display area  118 . Main display  128  may be, for example, a high-resolution LCD, plasma, LED, or OLED panel that may be flat or curved as shown, a cathode ray tube, or other conventional electronically controlled video monitor. 
     In certain embodiments, bill validator  124  may also function as a “ticket-in” reader that enables the player to use a casino-issued credit ticket to load credits onto gaming device  104 A (e.g., in a cashless TITO system). In such cashless embodiments, gaming device  104 A may also include a “ticket-out” printer  126  for outputting a credit ticket when a “cash out” button is pressed. Cashless ticket systems are well known in the art and are used to generate and track unique bar-codes printed on tickets to allow players to avoid the use of bills and coins by loading credits using a ticket reader and cashing out credits using ticket-out printer  126  on gaming device  104 A. 
     In certain embodiments, a player tracking card reader  144 , a transceiver for wireless communication with a player&#39;s smartphone, a keypad  146 , and/or an illuminated display  148  for reading, receiving, entering, and/or displaying player tracking information can be provided. In such embodiments, a game controller within gaming device  104 A communicates with player tracking server system  110  to send and receive player tracking information. 
     Gaming device  104 A may also include, in certain embodiments, a bonus topper wheel  134 . When bonus play is triggered (e.g., by a player achieving a particular outcome or set of outcomes in the primary game), bonus topper wheel  134  is operative to spin and stop with indicator arrow  136  indicating the outcome of the bonus game. Bonus topper wheel  134  is typically used to play a bonus game, but could also be incorporated into play of the base game, or primary game. 
     A candle  138  may be mounted on the top of gaming device  104 A and may be activated by a player (e.g., using a switch or one of buttons  122 ) to indicate to operations staff that gaming device  104 A has experienced a malfunction or the player requires service. The candle  138  is also often used to indicate a jackpot has been won and to alert staff that a hand payout of an award may be needed. 
     In certain embodiments, there may also be one or more information panels  152  that may be, for example, a back-lit silkscreened glass panel with lettering to indicate general game information including, for example, a game denomination (e.g., $0.25 or $1), pay lines, pay tables, and/or various game related graphics. In some embodiments, information panels  152  may be implemented as an additional video display. 
     Gaming device  104 A traditionally includes a handle  132  typically mounted to the side of main cabinet  116  that may be used to initiate game play. 
     Many or all of the above described components may be controlled by circuitry (e.g., a gaming controller) housed inside main cabinet  116  of gaming device  104 A, the details of which are shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     Not all gaming devices suitable for implementing embodiments of the gaming systems, gaming devices, or methods described herein necessarily include top wheels, top boxes, information panels, cashless ticket systems, and/or player tracking systems. Further, some suitable gaming devices have only a single game display that includes only a mechanical set of reels and/or a video display, while others are designed, for example, for bar tables or table tops and have displays that face upwards. 
     Exemplary gaming device  104 B shown in  FIG. 1  is an Arc™ model gaming device manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. Where possible, reference numeral identifying similar features of gaming device  104 A are also identified in gaming device  104 B using the same reference numerals. Gaming device  104 B, however, does not include physical reels  130  and instead shows game play and related game play functions on main display  128 . An optional topper screen  140  may be included as a secondary game display for bonus play, to show game features or attraction activities while the game is not in play, or any other information or media desired by the game designer or operator. In some embodiments, topper screen  140  may also or alternatively be used to display progressive jackpot prizes available to a player during play of gaming device  104 B. 
     Gaming device  104 B includes main cabinet  116  having main door  117  that opens to provide access to the interior of gaming device  104 B. Main door  117 , or service door, is typically used by service personnel to refill ticket-out printer  126  and collect bills and tickets inserted into bill validator  124 . Main door  117  may further be accessed to reset the machine, verify and/or upgrade the software, and for general maintenance operations. 
     Exemplary gaming device  104 C shown in  FIG. 1  is a Helix™ model gaming device manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. Gaming device  104 C includes a main display  128 A that is in a landscape orientation. Although not illustrated by the front view illustrated in  FIG. 1 , landscape display  128 A may include a curvature radius from top to bottom. In certain embodiments, display  128 A is a flat panel display. Main display  128 A is typically used for primary game play while a secondary display  128 B is used for bonus game play, to show game features or attraction activities while the game is not in play, or any other information or media desired by the game designer or operator. 
     Many different types of games, including mechanical slot games, video slot games, video poker, video black jack, video pachinko, keno, bingo, and lottery, may be provided with or implemented within gaming devices  104 A- 104 C and other similar gaming devices. Each gaming device may also be operable to provide many different games. Games may be differentiated according to themes, sounds, graphics, type of game (e.g., slot game vs. card game vs. game with aspects of skill), denomination, number of paylines, maximum jackpot, progressive or non-progressive, bonus games, Class II, or Class III, etc. 
       FIG. 2  is a block diagram of an exemplary gaming device  200 , or EGM, connected to various external systems, including TITO system server  108 , player tracking system server  110 , progressive system server  112 , and casino management system server  114 . All or parts of gaming device  200  may be embodied in game devices  104 A- 104 X shown in  FIG. 1 . The games conducted on gaming device  200  are controlled by a game controller  202  that includes one or more processors  204  and a memory  208  coupled thereto. Games are represented by game software or a game program  206  stored on memory  208 . Memory  208  includes one or more mass storage devices or media housed within gaming device  200 . One or more databases  210  may be included in one or more databases  210  for use by game program  206 . A random number generator (RNG)  212  is implemented in hardware and/or software and is used, in certain embodiments, to generate random numbers for use in operation of gaming device  200  to conduct game play and to ensure the game play outcomes are random and meet regulations for a game of chance. 
     Alternatively, a game instance, or round of play of the game, may be generated on a remote gaming device such as central determination gaming system server  106 , shown in  FIG. 1 . The game instance is communicated to gaming device  200  via a network  214  and is then displayed on gaming device  200 . Gaming device  200  executes game software to enable the game to be displayed on gaming device  200 . In certain embodiments, game controller  202  executes video streaming software that enables the game to be displayed on gaming device  200 . Game software may be loaded from memory  208 , including, for example, a read only memory (ROM), or from central determination gaming system server  106  into memory  208 . Memory  208  includes at least one section of ROM, random access memory (RAM), or other form of storage media that stores instructions for execution by processor  204 . 
     Gaming device  200  includes a topper display  216 . In an alternative embodiment, gaming device  200  includes another form of a top box such as, for example, a topper wheel, or other topper display that sits on top of main cabinet  218 . Main cabinet  218  or topper display  216  may also house various other components that may be used to add features to a game being played on gaming device  200 , including speakers  220 , a ticket printer  222  that prints bar-coded tickets, a ticket reader  224  that reads bar-coded tickets, and a player tracking interface  232   a . Player tracking interface  232   a  may include a keypad  226  for entering player tracking information, a player tracking display  228  for displaying player tracking information (e.g., an illuminated or video display), a card reader  230  for receiving data and/or communicating information to and from media or a device such as a smart phone enabling player tracking. Ticket printer  222  may be used to print tickets for TITO system server  108 . Gaming device  200  may further include a bill validator  234 , buttons  236  for player input, cabinet security sensors  238  to detect unauthorized opening of main cabinet  218 , a primary game display  240 , and a secondary game display  242 , each coupled to and operable under the control of game controller  202 . 
     Gaming device  200  may be connected over network  214  to player tracking system server  110 . Player tracking system server  110  may be, for example, an OASIS® system manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. Player tracking system server  110  is used to track play (e.g., amount wagered and time of play) for individual players so that an operator may reward players in a loyalty program. The player may use player tracking interface  232   a  to access his/her account information, activate free play, and/or request various information. Player tracking or loyalty programs seek to reward players for their play and help build brand loyalty to the gaming establishment. The rewards typically correspond to the player&#39;s level of patronage (e.g., to the player&#39;s playing frequency and/or total amount of game plays at a given casino). Player tracking rewards may be complimentary and/or discounted meals, lodging, entertainment and/or additional play. Player tracking information may be combined with other information that is now readily obtainable by casino management system server  114 . 
     Gaming devices, such as gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and  200 , are highly regulated to ensure fairness and, in many cases, gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and  200  are operable to award monetary awards (e.g., typically dispensed in the form of a redeemable voucher). Therefore, to satisfy security and regulatory requirements in a gaming environment, hardware and software architectures are implemented in gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and  200  that differ significantly from those of general-purpose computers. Adapting general purpose computers to function as gaming devices  200  is not simple or straightforward because (1) regulatory requirements for gaming devices, (2) harsh environments in which gaming devices operate, (3) security requirements, and (4) fault tolerance requirements. These differences require substantial engineering effort and often additional hardware. 
     When a player wishes to play gaming device  200 , he/she can insert cash or a ticket voucher through a coin acceptor (not shown) or bill validator  234  to establish a credit balance on the gaming machine. The credit balance is used by the player to place wagers on instances of the game and to receive credit awards based on the outcome of winning instances of the game. The credit balance is decreased by the amount of each wager and increased upon a win. The player can add additional credits to the balance at any time. The player may also optionally insert a loyalty club card into card reader  230 . During the game, the player views the game outcome on game displays  240  and  242 . Other game and prize information may also be displayed. 
     For each game instance, a player may make selections that may affect play of the game. For example, the player may vary the total amount wagered by selecting the amount bet per line and the number of lines played. In many games, the player is asked to initiate or select options during course of game play (such as spinning a wheel to begin a bonus round or select various items during a feature game). The player may make these selections using player-input buttons  236 , primary game display  240 , which may include a touch screen, or using another suitable device that enables a player to input information into gaming device  200 . 
     During certain game events, gaming device  200  may display visual and auditory effects that can be perceived by the player. These effects add to the excitement of a game, which makes a player more likely to continue playing. Auditory effects include various sounds that are projected by speakers  220 . Visual effects include flashing lights, strobing lights, or other patterns displayed from lights on gaming device  200  or from lights behind information panel  152 , shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     When the player wishes to stop playing, he/she cashes out the credit balance (typically by pressing a cash out button to receive a ticket from ticket printer  222 ). The ticket may be “cashed-in” for money or inserted into another machine to establish a credit balance for play. 
       FIG. 3  is a front perspective view of an exemplary gaming machine cabinet, such as main cabinet  116  (shown in  FIG. 1 ).  FIG. 4  is a rear perspective view of cabinet  116 . In the exemplary embodiment, and with combined reference to  FIG. 3  and  FIG. 4 , cabinet  116  includes a plurality of feet, such as a first foot  302  and a second foot  304  disposed opposite first foot  302  and extending substantially parallel to first foot  304 . Feet  302  and  304  may be excluded from cabinet  116 ; however, where they are included, feet  302  and  304  may extend forward of cabinet  116 , such as parallel to the z-axis, and may function to balance cabinet  116 , particularly where cabinet  116  is somewhat tall, top-heavy, and/or otherwise susceptible to tipping. 
     Cabinet  116  may also include an internal frame  306 . Internal frame  306  may comprise a generally rectangular support structure that includes an upper surface  308  and a lower surface  309  disposed opposite upper surface  308 . Internal frame may, in addition, include a first edge  310 , a second edge  312 , a third edge  314 , a fourth edge  316 , and a cross-beam  317  disposed substantially centrally of first edge  310  and second edge  312  and joining third edge  314  and fourth edge  316 . In various embodiments, internal frame  306  may include any suitable shape and/or structure, such as any other polygonal shape and/or any other solid planar and/or non-solid or lattice-shaped structure. 
     In various embodiments, cabinet  116  may also include a base or base-stand, such as, for example, a base-stand  318 , which may extend parallel to the y-axis a distance, D, from lower surface  309  of internal frame  306 . For example, base-stand  318  may include a perimeter  321  that supports cabinet  116  and extends the distance, D, between internal frame  306  and a support surface, such as a casino floor. In some embodiments, base-stand  318  may also include a plurality of leveling feet (not shown), which may be used to make small adjustments to the orientation of cabinet  116  on a support surface (e.g., to level cabinet  116  if, for example, the support surface is uneven). 
     Thus, base-stand  318  may raise internal frame  306  off a casino floor by the distance, D. As described in greater detail below, this configuration may facilitate the attachment of a plurality of retractable wheel assemblies to internal frame  306 , each of which may extend, in an extended or raised position, from internal frame  306  towards the support surface by at least the distance, D, to retractably raise cabinet  116  off the support surface. In some embodiments, one or more retractable wheel assemblies may be permanently coupled to internal frame  306 , rather than removably coupled thereto. Both of these options are contemplated by and within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Accordingly, to facilitate transport, a plurality of retractable wheel assemblies may be mechanically coupled to cabinet  116 . Specifically, a first retractable wheel assembly  320  and a second, identical, retractable wheel assembly  322  may be mechanically coupled to cabinet  116 . As described herein, each retractable wheel assembly  320  and  322  may be configured to move between a retracted position, in which cabinet  116  is allowed to rest on a support surface, and an extended position in which cabinet  116  is raised, such as by the distance, D (or slightly greater than the distance, D), away from the support surface. 
     More particularly, first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  may be mechanically coupled to internal frame  306  of cabinet  116 . For example, first retractable wheel assembly  320  may be mechanically coupled, at least in part, between third edge  314  and fourth edge  316  and parallel to first edge  310  of internal frame  306 , and second retractable wheel assembly  322  may be mechanically coupled, at least in part, between third edge  314  and fourth edge  316  and parallel to second edge  312 . 
     In some embodiments, first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  may be attached to internal frame  306 , such that each retractable wheel assembly  320  and  322  is aligned with and runs substantially parallel to a respective edge  310  and  312  of internal frame  306 . In this way, first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  may be arranged under internal frame  306  of cabinet  116  in a configuration suitable for transport or movement of cabinet  116  on each retractable wheel assembly  320  and  322 . Additional details related to the mechanical coupling between each retractable wheel assembly  320  and  322  and internal frame  306  are provided below with reference to  FIG. 7 . 
       FIG. 5  is a perspective view of an exemplary retractable wheel assembly  500 , such as either or both of first retractable wheel assembly  320  and/or second retractable wheel assembly  322 .  FIG. 6  is a side view of retractable wheel assembly  500 . As shown with combined reference to  FIG. 5  and  FIG. 6 , retractable wheel assembly  500  may generally include an elongated structural member  502 , a first pusher plate  504 , a first wheel  506 , a second plusher plate  508 , and a second wheel  510 . Retractable wheel assembly  500  may also include a first pusher member  512 , such as a first bolt, and/or a second pusher member  514 , such as a second bolt. 
     In the exemplary embodiment, elongated structural member  502  may be generally L-shaped in cross-section and includes a first end  516 , a second end  518 , and a body  520  extending therebetween. As shown, body  520  includes a receiving surface  522 . A plurality of mounting pins, such as a first mounting pin  524 , a second mounting pin  526 , a third mounting pin  528 , and a fourth mounting pin  530 , may extend orthogonally away from receiving surface  522 . As described below (e.g., with reference to  FIG. 7 ), mounting pins  524 - 530  may be used to mechanically couple or attach retractable wheel assembly  500  to internal frame  306  of cabinet  116 . 
     In various embodiments, elongated structural member  502  may be approximately as long as an edge or side of cabinet  116 . For example, elongated structural member  502  may be approximately equal in length to first edge  310  and/or second edge  312  of internal frame  306 , such that elongated structural member  502  is capable of fully supporting either edge  310  and/or  312  on receiving surface  522  when coupled or mounted under the edge  310  and/or  312 . In other embodiments, elongated structural member may be longer or shorter than an edge  310  and/or  312  of internal frame  306 . 
     At first end  516 , elongated structural member  502  may include a first U-shaped portion  532  having a first flange  534  and a second, opposing, flange  536 . First flange  534  and second flange  536  may be separated by a first flange distance, D F1 . Similarly, at second end  518 , elongated structural member  502  may include a second U-shaped portion  538  having a first flange  540  and a second, opposing, flange  542 . First flange  540  and second flange  542  may also be separated by the first flange distance, D F1 . In some embodiments, elongated structural member  502  may also include a flared or angled portion  544 , which may extend at an angle, such as at an angle of approximately forty-five degrees, from body  520  towards second end  518 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment, first U-shaped portion  532  and second U-shaped portion  538  are inverted or turned down, away from receiving surface  522 . More particularly, first U-shaped portion  532  and second U-shaped portion  538  are turned down, such that the flanges  534 ,  536 ,  540 , and  542  of each U-shaped portion  532  and  538  extend generally downwards towards a support surface, such as a casino floor. 
     First pusher plate  504  may comprise a unitary or integral structure and may include a first flange  546 , a second flange  548 , and an engagement surface  550  extending therebetween. First flange  546  and second flange  548  may be separated by a second flange distance, D F2 . Similarly, second pusher plate  508  may comprise a unitary or integral structure and may include a first flange  552 , a second flange  554 , and an engagement surface  556  extending therebetween. First flange  552  and second flange  554  may also be separated by the second flange distance, D F2 . In some embodiments, first pusher plate  504  and second pusher plate  508  are forks for mounting a wheel, such as first wheel  506  and/or second wheel  510 , respectively. Specifically, in some embodiments, first pusher plate  504  and second pusher plate  508  are caster forks (e.g., any of a number of commercially available caster forks). 
     In the exemplary embodiment, first pusher plate  504  may be slotted or inserted within first U-shaped portion  532 . Specifically, the first flange distance, D F1 , separating the flanges  534  and  536  of first U-shaped portion  532  may be slightly greater than the second flange distance, D F2 , separating the flanges  546  and  548  of first pusher plate  504 . In particular, D F2  may be sufficiently less than D F1  to facilitate insertion of first pusher plate  504  within first U-shaped portion  532  without unnecessary play or wiggle between components. 
     Likewise, second pusher plate  508  may be slotted or inserted within second U-shaped portion  538 , as above, such that the first flange distance, D F1 , separating the flanges  540  and  542  of second U-shaped portion  538  is slightly greater than the second flange distance, D F2 , separating the flanges  552  and  554  of second pusher plate  508 . In particular, D F2  may be sufficiently less than D F1  to facilitate insertion of second pusher plate  508  within second U-shaped portion  538  without unnecessary play or wiggle between components. 
     To couple first pusher plate  504  to first U-shaped portion  532 , a first shaft  558  may pivotably couple first pusher plate  504  to first U-shaped portion  532  at a first pivot axis or pivot location  560 . Specifically, first shaft  558  may extend through a plurality of apertures or holes formed in first pusher plate  504  and first U-shaped portion  532 , all of which may be aligned to receive first shaft  558 . In various embodiments, first shaft  558  may be threaded and secured on first U-shaped portion  532  by a nut and/or another threaded fastener. 
     To couple second pusher plate  508  to second U-shaped portion  538 , a second shaft  562  may pivotably couple second pusher plate  508  to second U-shaped portion  538  at a second pivot axis or pivot location  564 . Specifically, second shaft  562  may extend through a plurality of apertures or holes formed in second pusher plate  508  and second U-shaped portion  538 , all of which may be aligned to receive second shaft  562 . In various embodiments, second shaft  562  may be threaded and secured on second U-shaped portion  538  by a nut and/or another threaded fastener. 
     As described above, first pusher plate  504  may be, in the exemplary embodiment, forked to receive first wheel  506 . Accordingly, to mount or couple first wheel  506  within first pusher plate  504 , a first axle  566  may be inserted through apertures in first pusher plate  504  and first wheel  506 , all of which may be aligned to receive first axle  566 . First axle  566  may be threaded and secured on first pusher plate  504  by a nut and/or another threaded fastener. 
     Similarly, second pusher plate  508  may be forked to receive second wheel  510 . In addition, to mount or couple second wheel  510  within second pusher plate  508 , as described above, a second axle  568  may be inserted through apertures in second pusher plate  508  and second wheel  510 , all of which may be aligned to receive second axle  568 . Second axle  568  may be threaded and secured on second pusher plate  508  by a nut and/or another threaded fastener. 
     Further, as described above, retractable wheel assembly  500  may, in various embodiments, include a first pusher member  512 , such as a first bolt, and/or a second pusher member  514 , such as a second bolt. First pusher member  512  may be configured to be inserted through, and threadably engage with, a first threaded aperture or hole (not shown) in elongated structural member  502 , which may in some embodiments, include a first reinforcing or securing nut  570 . Likewise, second pusher member  514  may be configured to be inserted through, and threadably engage with, a second threaded aperture or hole (not shown) in elongated structural member  502 , which may, in some embodiments, include a second reinforcing or securing nut  572 . 
       FIG. 7  is an enlarged view of a portion of gaming machine cabinet  116  (shown in  FIG. 3 ), and illustrates, in additional detail, the attachments between first retractable wheel assembly  320 , second retractable wheel assembly  322 , and cabinet  116 . Specifically, the attachment between first retractable wheel assembly  320  and cabinet  116  is shown, and the attachment between second retractable wheel assembly  322  and cabinet  116  is partially shown (owing to the perspective orientation of the Figure). Although the attachment between second retractable wheel assembly  322  and cabinet  116  is only partially shown, it will be appreciated that the attachment between second retractable wheel assembly  322  and cabinet  116  is identical to the attachment between first retractable wheel assembly  320  and cabinet  116 , except as to the mounting location on internal frame  306 . 
     Accordingly, in the exemplary embodiment, first retractable wheel assembly  320  extends between third edge  314  and fourth edge  316  of internal frame  306  and runs substantially parallel to first edge  310 . In at least one embodiment, lower surface  309  of internal frame  306  rests on and is supported by receiving surface  522  of elongated structural member  502 . In addition, first retractable wheel assembly  320  may be mechanically coupled to (e.g., clamped or fastened on) internal frame  306  by one or more fasteners or mounting plates. 
     For example, in at least one embodiment, a first mounting plate  702  may be mechanically coupled or fastened on both of upper surface  308  of internal frame  306  at third edge  314  and receiving surface  522  of elongated structural member  502 , such that first mounting plate  702  joins and secures internal frame  306  and elongated structural member  502  at third edge  314 . Specifically, first mounting plate  702  may be clamped or bolted on first elongated structural member  502  at first mounting pin  524  and second mounting pin  526 , each of which may extend through corresponding holes or apertures in first mounting plate  702 . Each mounting pin  524  and  526  may secure first mounting plate  702  using one or more fasteners, such as one or more nuts. Likewise, first mounting plate  702  may be clamped, riveted, bolted, or otherwise secured on upper surface  308  of third edge  314  of internal frame  306 . Thus, first mounting plate  702  may mechanically couple and secure first retractable wheel assembly  320  to internal frame  306  at third edge  314  of internal frame  306 . 
     In addition to first mounting plate  702 , elongated structural member  502  of first retractable wheel assembly  320  may also be mechanically coupled to internal frame  306  at fourth edge  316  of internal frame  306  by a second mounting plate  704 . Second mounting plate  704  may be mechanically coupled or fastened on both of upper surface  308  of internal frame  306  at fourth edge  316  and receiving surface  522  of elongated structural member  502 , such that second mounting plate  704  joins and secures internal frame  306  and elongated structural member  502  at fourth edge  316 . Specifically, second mounting plate  704  may be clamped and/or bolted on first elongated structural member  502  at third mounting pin  528  and fourth mounting pin  530 , each of which may extend through corresponding holes or apertures in second mounting plate  704 . In addition, as shown, internal frame  306  may rest, at least partially, on flared or angled portion  544  of elongated structural member  502  for additional structural support. 
     As above, each mounting pin  528  and  530  may secure second mounting plate  704  using one or more fasteners, such as one or more nuts. Likewise, second mounting plate  704  may be clamped, riveted, bolted, or otherwise secured on upper surface  308  of fourth edge  316  of internal frame  306 . Thus, second mounting plate  704  may mechanically couple and secure first retractable wheel assembly  320  to internal frame  306  at fourth edge  316  of internal frame  306 . 
     In addition, as described above, second retractable wheel assembly  322  extends between third edge  314  and fourth edge  316  of internal fame and runs substantially parallel to second edge  312  as well. Second retractable wheel assembly  322  may also be mechanically coupled to and secured on internal frame  306  in the same manner as first retractable wheel assembly  320 , as described above. Accordingly, specific details of the mechanical coupling between second retractable wheel assembly  322  and internal frame  306  are not provided herein. Rather, it will be understood that the mechanical coupling between second retractable wheel assembly  322  and internal frame  306  is accomplished in the same way that the mechanical coupling between first retractable wheel assembly  320  is accomplished, as described above. 
     In operation, first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  may be mounted under and mechanically coupled to internal frame  306 , as described in detail above. For example, in some embodiments, first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  are not permanently coupled to internal frame  306  but may be removably attached, such as prior to deployment of cabinet  116  within a casino. In other embodiments, however, first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  are permanently coupled to internal frame  306 . In such a case, first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  may be attached to internal frame  306  during manufacture or assembly of cabinet  116 . 
     In either embodiment, cabinet  116  may rest upon and be supported by first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322 . In addition, and as described herein, first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  may be retracted in a first or retracted position, such that cabinet  116  is lowered. Likewise, first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  may be extended or raised in a second or extended position, such that cabinet  116  is raised. 
     When first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  are in the first or retracted position, cabinet  116  may rest on base-stand  318 , and first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  may be retracted or stowed. For example, the wheels (e.g., wheels  506  and  510 ) of first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  may be retracted, such that each wheel  506  and  510  extends less than the distance, D, away from lower surface  309  of internal frame  306 . As a result, cabinet  116  may rest on base-stand  318  in a lowered position. 
     On the other hand, when first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  are in the second or extended position, cabinet  116  may be raised off of base-stand  318 , such that cabinet  116  rests on the wheels (e.g., wheels  506  and  510 ) of each retractable wheel assembly  320  and  322 . More particularly, in at least some embodiments, the wheels  506  and  510  of each retractable wheel assembly  320  and  322  may be extended, as described below, such that each wheel  506  and  510  extends at least the distance, D, away from lower surface  309  of internal frame  306 . In some embodiments, each wheel  506  and  510  of each retractable wheel assembly  320  and  322  may extend approximately 0.1-6.0 inches beyond the distance, D. As a result, and in an extended position, the wheels  506  and  510  may raise cabinet  116  off of base-stand  318 , such that cabinet  116  rests on and is rollably supported on wheels  506  and  510  of each retractable wheel assembly  320  and  322 . 
     To move a retractable wheel assembly  500  (e.g., either of first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322 ) between a retracted and extended position, first pusher member  512  and second pusher member  514  may be extended through elongated structural member  502 , as described above. For example, in the case that first pusher member  512  and second pusher member  514  are threaded bolts, each pusher member  512  and  514  may be rotated through a threaded portion of elongated structural member  502 , such as through first securing nut  570  and second securing nut  572 , respectively. As each pusher member  512  and  514  rotates through a respective securing nut  570  and  572 , the pusher member  512  and  514  may slowly extend towards a corresponding engagement surface  550  and/or  556  of a respective pusher plate  504  and/or  508 . 
     As pusher members  512  and/or  514  extend into contact with each corresponding engagement surface  550  and  556 , pusher plates  504  and  508  may be driven by the action of each pusher member  512  and  514  into an extended position. More particularly, first pusher plate  504  may pivot about first pivot location  560 , as described above, such that a range of motion of first pusher plate  504  is generally in the direction of the arrow marked A. Likewise, second plusher plate  508  may pivot about second pivot location  564 , as described above, such that a range of motion of second pusher plate  508  is generally in the direction of the arrow marked B. As each pusher plate is engaged and driven by a respective pusher member  512  and  514 , respectively, each corresponding wheel  506  and  510  is, in turn, moved into an extended position. 
     For illustrative purposes, and with reference to  FIG. 5  and  FIG. 6 , first wheel  506  is shown in an extended position (e.g., in which first pusher member  512  is fully extended and engaged with first pusher plate  504 ). Likewise, second wheel  510  is shown in a retracted position (e.g., in which second pusher member  514  is fully retracted and disengaged from or only topically engaged with second pusher plate  508 ). 
     Although in  FIG. 5  and  FIG. 6 , first pusher member  512  is shown in an extended position and second pusher member  514  is shown in a retracted position, it will be appreciated, as described herein, that both pusher members  512  and  514  may be retracted and extended together (or substantially together) to coordinate the retraction and extension of wheels  506  and  510 . In other words, in practice, a user or casino technician may, substantially at the same time, in small increments, and/or sequentially, extend and/or retract each pusher member  512  and  514  to coordinate the extension and/or retraction of wheels  506  and  510 . 
       FIG. 8  generally illustrates a high-level process for raising cabinet  116  on first and second retractable wheel assemblies  320  and  322 . Accordingly, in the exemplary embodiment, first retractable wheel assembly  320  may be mechanically coupled to internal frame  306  of cabinet  116  (step  802 ). Likewise, second retractable wheel assembly  322  may be mechanically coupled to internal frame  306  of cabinet  116  (step  804 ). Moreover, first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  may be actuated, such as by a casino technician using an impact wrench to drive or extend first and second pusher members  512  and  514 , to raise cabinet  116  on the first retractable wheel assembly  320  and second retractable wheel assembly  322  (step  806 ). In various embodiments, each wheel  506  and  510  of each retractable wheel assembly  320  and  322  may be actuated independently and/or a technician may incrementally and iteratively raise each wheel  506  and  510  to maintain cabinet  116  is an essentially level position during raising and lowering. 
     In some embodiments, a casino technician may not be required to manually actuate first retractable wheel assembly  320  and/or second retractable wheel assembly  322 . Rather, in at least some embodiments, extension and/or retraction of first retractable wheel assembly  320  and/or second retractable wheel assembly  322  may be automated, such as, for example, by a pushbutton (not shown) that is actuable by a casino technician. In response to actuation of the pushbutton, a control signal may be provided to one or more systems or devices for automatically extending and retracting wheel assemblies  320  and/or  322 . For example, when the pushbutton is actuated, a control signal may be provided to one or more motors (not shown) configured to rotate (and extend and/or retract) one or more pusher members, such as pusher members  512  and  514 . 
     Thus, a retractable wheel assembly is described. The retractable wheel assembly may include a first pusher plate coupled between a first wheel and an elongated structural member, and a second pusher plate coupled a second wheel and the elongated structural member. A first pusher member and a second pusher member may be extended and retracted through the elongated structural member, such as threadably rotated through the member, to engage and disengage a respective engagement surface of each pusher plate. When the pusher plates are engaged by a corresponding pusher member, the pusher plates may extend and retract about respective pivot locations or pivot axes, to push the first and second wheels into retracted and/or extended positions. In addition, a pair of such retractable wheel assemblies may be mounted on a gaming machine cabinet to raise and lower the cabinet as desired. In raised position, the cabinet may be movable or rollable on the wheels and capable of transport. In a lowered position, the cabinet may be stable and relatively stationary and secure on a support surface, such as a casino floor. 
     While the invention has been described with respect to the figures, it will be appreciated that many modifications and changes may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. Any variation and derivation from the above description and figures are included in the scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.