Patent Publication Number: US-11043065-B2

Title: Electronic gaming machine including monitor articulation mechanism

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The field of disclosure relates generally to electronic gaming, and more particularly, to electronic gaming machines including a monitor articulation mechanism. 
     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. Video-based games generally use one or more display screens to display gaming symbols to a player during game play. 
     Some gaming machines utilize two or more display screens or monitors, for example, to provide different display screens for different modes of game play (e.g., base game play and bonus or feature game play), or to create a larger display screen. In at least some such gaming machines, access to the gaming machine cabinet may be provided by rotating or otherwise moving one or more of the monitors from a first, closed position to a second, open position to provide access to an opening in the gaming machine cabinet. As the design of multiple-monitor gaming devices evolves, improved monitor articulation mechanisms are needed to allow monitors to be moved to provide access to the gaming machine cabinet, without interfering with or being obstructed by surrounding components of the gaming machine, such as adjacent monitors, panels, etc. 
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION 
     In one aspect, an electronic gaming machine includes a cabinet defining an internal compartment and an access opening that provides access to the internal compartment, a monitor positioned within the access opening, and an articulating support frame positioned within the internal compartment and operatively coupled to the monitor. The monitor is moveable by the articulating support frame along a first, linear path of motion from a first, closed position to a second, intermediate position, and along a second, arcuate path of motion from the second position to a third, open position. 
     In another aspect, a method includes providing an electronic gaming machine that includes a cabinet defining an internal compartment and an access opening, a monitor positioned within the access opening, and an articulating support frame positioned within the internal compartment and operatively coupled to the monitor. The method further includes moving the monitor, by the articulating support frame, along a first, linear path of motion from a first, closed position to a second, intermediate position, and moving the monitor, by the articulating support frame, along a second, arcuate path of motion from the second position to a third, open position in which the monitor permits access to the internal compartment through the access opening. 
     In yet another aspect, an articulating support frame for a monitor of an electronic gaming machine is provided. The articulating support frame includes a linear guide having a proximal end configured for fixedly coupling to a cabinet of the electronic gaming machine, and a distal end configured for linear movement towards and away from the proximal end. The articulating support frame further includes a monitor mounting frame pivotably coupled to the linear guide at the distal end thereof. The articulating support frame is configured to move the monitor along a first, linear path of motion from a first, closed position to a second, intermediate position, and along a second, arcuate path of motion from the second position to a third, open position. 
    
    
     
       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 schematic diagram of a plurality of EGMs networked with various gaming-related servers; 
         FIG. 2  is a block diagram showing various functional elements of an exemplary EGM; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates, in block diagram form, an embodiment of a game processing architecture that implements a game processing pipeline for the play of a game in accordance with some embodiments described herein; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of an exemplary EGM including a first display monitor and a second display monitor; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of an exemplary monitor articulation mechanism coupled to the first display monitor and positioned within an internal compartment of the EGM shown in  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of the monitor articulation mechanism and the first display monitor shown in  FIG. 5 , where the first display monitor is shown in a first, closed position; 
         FIG. 7  is another side view of the monitor articulation mechanism and the first display monitor shown in  FIG. 5 , where the first display monitor is shown in a second, intermediate position; 
         FIG. 8  is another side view of the monitor articulation mechanism and the first display monitor shown in  FIG. 5 , where the first display monitor is shown in a third, open position; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the monitor articulation mechanism shown in  FIG. 5 , illustrated in the third, open position; 
         FIG. 10  is a side view of a linear guide of the monitor articulation mechanism shown in  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 11  is an enlarged perspective view of a linear motion latch of the monitor articulation mechanism shown in  FIG. 5   
         FIG. 12  is another perspective view of the monitor articulation mechanism shown in  FIG. 5 , illustrating additional details of the linear motion latch shown in  FIG. 11 ; and 
         FIG. 13  is a top view of a portion of the monitor articulation mechanism shown in  FIG. 5 , illustrating details of a rotational motion latch. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to monitor articulation mechanisms and, in particular, articulating support frames for monitors of electronic gaming machines. Embodiments of the articulating support frames disclosed herein allow monitors of electronic gaming machines to be moved along a path of motion with multiple, discrete motion paths such that the monitor can be moved out of an access opening to provide access to an internal compartment of the electronic gaming machine, without interfering with adjacent components of the electronic gaming machine (e.g., adjacent monitors, light bars, etc.). The articulating support frames of the present disclosure thereby allow monitors of various configurations and arrangements (including, for example, multiple curved monitors positioned adjacent one another) to be used as an access door or panel to access the internal compartment of the electronic gaming machine. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates several different models of EGMs which may be networked to various gaming related servers. Shown is a system  100  in a gaming environment including one or more server computers  102  (e.g., slot servers of a casino) that are in communication, via a communications network, with one or more gaming machines or devices  104 A- 104 X (EGMs, slots, video poker, bingo machines, etc.) that can implement one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The gaming devices  104 A- 104 X may alternatively be portable and/or remote gaming devices such as, but not limited to, a smart phone, a tablet, a laptop, or a game console. Gaming devices  104 A- 104 X utilize specialized software and/or hardware to form non-generic, particular machines or apparatuses that comply with regulatory requirements regarding devices used for wagering or games of chance that provide monetary awards. 
     Communication between the gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and the server computers  102 , and among the gaming devices  104 A- 104 X, may be direct or indirect using one or more communication protocols. As an example, gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and the server computers  102  can communicate over one or more communication networks, 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 (e.g., local area networks and enterprise networks), and the like (e.g., wide area networks). The communication networks could allow gaming devices  104 A- 104 X to communicate with one another and/or the server computers  102  using a variety of communication-based technologies, such as radio frequency (RF) (e.g., wireless fidelity (WiFi®) and Bluetooth®), cable TV, satellite links and the like. 
     In some embodiments, server computers  102  may not be necessary and/or preferred. For example, in one or more embodiments, a stand-alone gaming device such as gaming device  104 A, gaming device  104 B or any of the other gaming devices  104 C- 104 X can implement one or more aspects of the present disclosure. However, it is typical to find multiple EGMs connected to networks implemented with one or more of the different server computers  102  described herein. 
     The server computers  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, game outcomes 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 outcomes and display the results to the players. 
     Gaming device  104 A is often of a cabinet construction which 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 one or more access doors  154  which provide access to the interior of the cabinet. Access door  154  labelled on gaming device  104 A in  FIG. 1  is a top door, although it should be understood that gaming device  104 A may include any suitable number and combination of access doors including, for example and without limitation, a main door, a top door, a drop door, a belly door, and/or a stacker door 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 , an access channel for a bill validator  124 , and/or an access channel for a 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  comprising a number (typically 3 or 5) of mechanical reels  130  with various symbols displayed on them. The reels  130  are independently spun and stopped to show a set of symbols within the gaming display area  118  which may be used to determine an outcome to the game. 
     In many configurations, the gaming machine  104 A may have a main display  128  (e.g., video display monitor) mounted to, or above, the gaming display area  118 . The main display  128  can be a high-resolution LCD, plasma, LED, or OLED panel which may be flat or curved as shown, a cathode ray tube, or other conventional electronically controlled video monitor. 
     In some embodiments, the bill validator  124  may also function as a “ticket-in” reader that allows the player to use a casino issued credit ticket to load credits onto the gaming device  104 A (e.g., in a cashless ticket (“TITO”) system). In such cashless embodiments, the 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 TITO systems are used to generate and track unique bar-codes or other indicators 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 a ticket-out printer  126  on the gaming device  104 A. The gaming machine  104 A can have hardware meters for purposes including ensuring regulatory compliance and monitoring the player credit balance. In addition, there can be additional meters that record the total amount of money wagered on the gaming machine, total amount of money deposited, total amount of money withdrawn, total amount of winnings on gaming device  104 A. 
     In some embodiments, a player tracking card reader  144 , a transceiver for wireless communication with a mobile device (e.g., a player&#39;s smartphone), a keypad  146 , and/or an illuminated display  148  for reading, receiving, entering, and/or displaying player tracking information is provided in EGM  104 A. In such embodiments, a game controller within the gaming device  104 A can communicate with the player tracking system server  110  to send and receive player tracking information. 
     Gaming device  104 A may also include 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 it could also be incorporated into play of the base 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. 
     There may also be one or more information panels  152  which may be 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, the information panel(s)  152  may be implemented as an additional video display. 
     Gaming devices  104 A have traditionally also included a handle  132  typically mounted to the side of main cabinet  116  which may be used to initiate game play. 
     Many or all the above described components can be controlled by circuitry (e.g., a gaming controller) housed inside the main cabinet  116  of the gaming device  104 A, the details of which are shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     An alternative example gaming device  104 B illustrated in  FIG. 1  is the Arc™ model gaming device manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. Note that where possible, reference numerals identifying similar features of the gaming device  104 A embodiment are also identified in the gaming device  104 B embodiment using the same reference numbers. Gaming device  104 B does not include physical reels and instead shows game play functions on main display  128 . An optional topper screen  140  may be used as a secondary game display for bonus play, to show game features or attraction activities while a 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. 
     Example gaming device  104 B includes a main cabinet  116  including an access door  154  which opens to provide access to the interior of the gaming device  104 B. The access door  154  is typically used by service personnel to refill the ticket-out printer  126  and collect bills and tickets inserted into the bill validator  124 . The access door  154  may also be accessed to reset the machine, verify and/or upgrade the software, and for general maintenance operations. 
     Another example gaming device  104 C shown is the 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 provided, the landscape display  128 A may have a curvature radius from top to bottom, or alternatively from side to side. In some embodiments, display  128 A is a flat panel display. Main display  128 A is typically used for primary game play while secondary display  128 B is typically 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. In some embodiments, example gaming device  104 C may also include speakers  142  to output various audio such as game sound, background music, etc. 
     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 the depicted 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, and may be deployed for operation in Class 2 or Class 3, etc. 
       FIG. 2  is a block diagram depicting exemplary internal electronic components of a gaming device  200  connected to various external systems. All or parts of the example gaming device  200  shown could be used to implement any one of the example gaming devices  104 A-X depicted in  FIG. 1 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , gaming device  200  includes a topper display  216  or another form of a top box (e.g., a topper wheel, a topper screen, etc.) that sits above cabinet  218 . Cabinet  218  or topper display  216  may also house a number of other components which may be used to add features to a game being played on gaming device  200 , including speakers  220 , a ticket printer  222  which prints bar-coded tickets or other media or mechanisms for storing or indicating a player&#39;s credit value, a ticket reader  224  which reads bar-coded tickets or other media or mechanisms for storing or indicating a player&#39;s credit value, and a player tracking interface  232 . Player tracking interface  232  may include a keypad  226  for entering information, a player tracking display  228  for displaying 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.  FIG. 2  also depicts utilizing a ticket printer  222  to print tickets for a TITO system server  108 . Gaming device  200  may further include a bill validator  234 , player-input buttons  236  for player input, cabinet security sensors  238  to detect unauthorized opening of the 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 . 
     The games available for play on the gaming device  200  are controlled by a game controller  202  that includes one or more processors  204 . Processor  204  represents a general-purpose processor, a specialized processor intended to perform certain functional tasks, or a combination thereof. As an example, processor  204  can be a central processing unit (CPU) that has one or more multi-core processing units and memory mediums (e.g., cache memory) that function as buffers and/or temporary storage for data. Alternatively, processor  204  can be a specialized processor, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), graphics processing unit (GPU), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), digital signal processor (DSP), or another type of hardware accelerator. In another example, processor  204  is a system on chip (SoC) that combines and integrates one or more general-purpose processors and/or one or more specialized processors. Although  FIG. 2  illustrates that game controller  202  includes a single processor  204 , game controller  202  is not limited to this representation and instead can include multiple processors  204  (e.g., two or more processors). 
       FIG. 2  illustrates that processor  204  is operatively coupled to memory  208 . Memory  208  is defined herein as including volatile and nonvolatile memory and other types of non-transitory data storage components. Volatile memory is memory that do not retain data values upon loss of power. Nonvolatile memory is memory that do retain data upon a loss of power. Examples of memory  208  include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disk drives, solid-state drives, USB flash drives, memory cards accessed via a memory card reader, floppy disks accessed via an associated floppy disk drive, optical discs accessed via an optical disc drive, magnetic tapes accessed via an appropriate tape drive, and/or other memory components, or a combination of any two or more of these memory components. In addition, examples of RAM include static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), and other such devices. Examples of ROM include a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or other like memory device. Even though  FIG. 2  illustrates that game controller  202  includes a single memory  208 , game controller  202  could include multiple memories  208  for storing program instructions and/or data. 
     Memory  208  can store one or more game programs  206  that provide program instructions and/or data for carrying out various embodiments (e.g., game mechanics) described herein. Stated another way, game program  206  represents an executable program stored in any portion or component of memory  208 . In one or more embodiments, game program  206  is embodied in the form of source code that includes human-readable statements written in a programming language or machine code that contains numerical instructions recognizable by a suitable execution system, such as a processor  204  in a game controller or other system. Examples of executable programs include: (1) a compiled program that can be translated into machine code in a format that can be loaded into a random access portion of memory  208  and run by processor  204 ; (2) source code that may be expressed in proper format such as object code that is capable of being loaded into a random access portion of memory  208  and executed by processor  204 ; and (3) source code that may be interpreted by another executable program to generate instructions in a random access portion of memory  208  to be executed by processor  204 . 
     Alternatively, game programs  206  can be setup to generate one or more game instances based on instructions and/or data that gaming device  200  exchange with one or more remote gaming devices, such as a central determination gaming system server  106  (not shown in  FIG. 2  but shown in  FIG. 1 ). For purpose of this disclosure, the term “game instance” refers to a play or a round of a game that gaming device  200  presents (e.g., via a user interface (UI)) to a player. The game instance is communicated to gaming device  200  via the network  214  and then displayed on gaming device  200 . For example, gaming device  200  may execute game program  206  as video streaming software that allows the game to be displayed on gaming device  200 . When a game is stored on gaming device  200 , it may be loaded from memory  208  (e.g., from a read only memory (ROM)) or from the central determination gaming system server  106  to memory  208 . 
     The game controller  202 , including the processor  204  and the memory  208 , along with other components of the gaming device  200 , are housed within an internal compartment  244  defined by the cabinet  218 . Although only a single internal compartment  244  is shown in  FIG. 2 , it should be understood that the gaming device  200  may include more than a single internal compartment  244 , and that other components than those shown in  FIG. 2  may be housed within the internal compartments  244  of the gaming device  200 . The internal compartment  244  may be accessible via an access door of cabinet  218  (e.g., access door  154 , shown in  FIG. 1 ). 
     Gaming devices, such as gaming device  200 , are highly regulated to ensure fairness and, in many cases, gaming device  200  is 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  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 of: (1) the regulatory requirements for gaming devices  200 , (2) the harsh environment in which gaming devices  200  operate, (3) security requirements, (4) fault tolerance requirements, and (5) the requirement for additional special purpose componentry enabling functionality of an EGM. These differences require substantial engineering effort with respect to game design implementation, game mechanics, hardware components, and software. 
     One regulatory requirement for games running on gaming device  200  generally involves complying with a certain level of randomness. Typically, gaming jurisdictions mandate that gaming devices  200  satisfy a minimum level of randomness without specifying how a gaming device  200  should achieve this level of randomness. To comply,  FIG. 2  illustrates that gaming device  200  includes an RNG  212  that utilizes hardware and/or software to generate RNG outcomes that lack any pattern. The RNG operations are often specialized and non-generic in order to comply with regulatory and gaming requirements. For example, in a reel game, game program  206  can initiate multiple RNG calls to RNG  212  to generate RNG outcomes, where each RNG call and RNG outcome corresponds to an outcome for a reel. In another example, gaming device  200  can be a Class II gaming device where RNG  212  generates RNG outcomes for creating Bingo cards. In one or more embodiments, RNG  212  could be one of a set of RNGs operating on gaming device  200 . Game developers could vary the degree of true randomness for each RNG (e.g., pseudorandom) and utilize specific RNGs depending on game requirements. 
     Another regulatory requirement for running games on gaming device  200  includes ensuring a certain level of RTP. Similar to the randomness requirement discussed above, numerous gaming jurisdictions also mandate that gaming device  200  provides a minimum level of RTP (e.g., RTP of at least 75%).  FIG. 2  illustrates that gaming device  200  includes an RNG conversion engine  210  that translates the RNG outcome from RNG  212  to a game outcome presented to a player. To meet a designated RTP, a game developer can setup the RNG conversion engine  210  to utilize one or more lookup tables to translate the RNG outcome to a symbol element, stop position on a reel strip layout, and/or randomly chosen aspect of a game feature. As an example, the lookup tables can regulate a prize payout amount for each RNG outcome and how often the gaming device  200  pays out the prize payout amounts. The RNG conversion engine  210  could utilize one lookup table to map the RNG outcome to a game outcome displayed to a player and a second lookup table as a pay table for determining the prize payout amount for each game outcome. The mapping between the RNG outcome to the game outcome controls the frequency in hitting certain prize payout amounts. 
       FIG. 2  also depicts that gaming device  200  is 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, games played, time of play and/or other quantitative or qualitative measures) for individual players so that an operator may reward players in a loyalty program. The player may use the player tracking interface  232  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 a casino management system. 
     When a player wishes to play the 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 gamine 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. 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 the card reader  230 . During the game, the player views with one or more UIs, the game outcome on one or more of the primary game display  240  and secondary game display  242 . Other game and prize information may also be displayed. 
     For each game instance, a player may make selections, which 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 the player-input buttons  236 , the primary game display  240  which may be a touch screen, or using some other device which enables a player to input information into the gaming device  200 . 
     During certain game events, the 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 enjoy the playing experience. Auditory effects include various sounds that are projected by the speakers  220 . Visual effects include flashing lights, strobing lights or other patterns displayed from lights on the gaming device  200  or from lights behind the information panel  152  ( FIG. 1 ). 
     When the player is done, he/she cashes out the credit balance (typically by pressing a cash out button to receive a ticket from the ticket printer  222 ). The ticket may be “cashed-in” for money or inserted into another machine to establish a credit balance for play. 
     Although  FIGS. 1 and 2  illustrates specific embodiments of a gaming device (e.g., gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and  200 ), the disclosure is not limited to those embodiments shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . For example, not all gaming devices suitable for implementing embodiments of the present disclosure 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 bar counters or table tops and have displays that face upwards. Additionally, or alternatively, gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and  200  can include credit transceivers that wirelessly communicate (e.g., Bluetooth or other near-field communication technology) with one or more mobile devices to perform credit transactions. As an example, bill validator  234  could contain or be coupled to the credit transceiver that output credits from and/or load credits onto the gaming device  104 A by communicating with a player&#39;s smartphone (e.g., a digital wallet interface). Gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and  200  may also include other processors that are not separately shown. Using  FIG. 2  as an example, gaming device  200  could include display controllers (not shown in  FIG. 2 ) configured to receive video input signals or instructions to display images on game displays  240  and  242 . Alternatively, such display controllers may be integrated into the game controller  202 . The use and discussion of  FIGS. 1 and 2  are examples to facilitate ease of description and explanation. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates, in block diagram form, an embodiment of a game processing architecture  300  that implements a game processing pipeline for the play of a game in accordance with various embodiments described herein. As shown in  FIG. 3 , the gaming processing pipeline starts with having a UI system  302  receive one or more player inputs for the game instance. Based on the player input(s), the UI system  302  generates and sends one or more RNG calls to a game processing backend system  314 . Game processing backend system  314  then processes the RNG calls with RNG engine  316  to generate one or more RNG outcomes. The RNG outcomes are then sent to the RNG conversion engine  320  to generate one or more game outcomes for the UI system  302  to display to a player. The game processing architecture  300  can implement the game processing pipeline using a gaming device, such as gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and  200  shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , respectively. Alternatively, portions of the gaming processing architecture  300  can implement the game processing pipeline using a gaming device and one or more remote gaming devices, such as central determination gaming system server  106  shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     The UI system  302  includes one or more UIs that a player can interact with. The UI system  302  could include one or more game play UIs  304 , one or more bonus game play UIs  308 , and one or more multiplayer UIs  312 , where each UI type includes one or more mechanical UIs and/or graphical UIs (GUIs). In other words, game play UI  304 , bonus game play UI  308 , and the multiplayer UI  312  may utilize a variety of UI elements, such as mechanical UI elements (e.g., physical “spin” button or mechanical reels) and/or GUI elements (e.g., virtual reels shown on a video display or a virtual button deck) to receive player inputs and/or present game play to a player. Using  FIG. 3  as an example, the different UI elements are shown as game play UI elements  306 A- 306 N and bonus game play UI elements  310 A- 310 N. 
     The game play UI  304  represents a UI that a player typically interfaces with for a base game. During a game instance of a base game, the game play UI elements  306 A- 306 N (e.g., GUI elements depicting one or more virtual reels) are shown and/or made available to a user. In a subsequent game instance, the UI system  302  could transition out of the base game to one or more bonus games. The bonus game play UI  308  represents a UI that utilizes bonus game play UI elements  310 A- 310 N for a player to interact with and/or view during a bonus game. In one or more embodiments, at least some of the game play UI element  306 A- 306 N are similar to the bonus game play UI elements  310 A- 310 N. In other embodiments, the game play UI element  306 A- 306 N can differ from to the bonus game play UI elements  310 A- 310 N. 
       FIG. 3  also illustrates that UI system  302  could include a multiplayer UI  312  purposed for game play that differ or is separate from the typical base game. For example, multiplayer UI  302  could be set up to receive player inputs and/or presents game play information relating to a tournament mode. When a gaming device transitions from a primary game mode that presents the base game to a tournament mode, a single gaming device is linked and synchronized to other gaming devices to generate a tournament outcome. For example, multiple RNG engines  316  corresponding to each gaming device could be collectively linked to determine a tournament outcome. To enhance a player&#39;s gaming experience, tournament mode can modify and synchronize sound, music, reel spin speed, and/or other operations of the gaming devices according to the tournament game play. After tournament game play ends, operators can switch back the gaming device from tournament mode to a primary game mode to present the base game. Although  FIG. 3  does not explicitly depict that multiplayer UI  312  includes UI elements, multiplayer UI  312  could also include one or more multiplayer UI elements. 
     Based on the player inputs, the UI system  302  could generate RNG calls to a game processing backend system  314 . As an example, the UI system  302  could use one or more application programming interfaces (APIs) to generate the RNG calls. To process the RNG calls, the RNG engine  316  could utilize gaming RNG  318  and/or non-gaming RNGs  319 A- 319 N. Gaming RNG  318  corresponds to RNG  212  shown in  FIG. 2 . As previously discussed with reference to  FIG. 2 , gaming RNG  318  often performs specialized and non-generic operations that comply with regulatory and/or game requirements. For example, because of regulation requirements, gaming RNG  318  could be a cryptographic random or pseudorandom number generator (PRNG) (e.g., Fortuna PRNG) that securely produces random numbers for one or more game features. To generate random numbers, gaming RNG  318  could collect random data from various sources of entropy, such as from an operating system (OS). Alternatively, non-gaming RNGs  319 A- 319 N may not be cryptographically secure and/or be computationally less expensive. Non-gaming RNGs  319 A- 319 N can thus be used to generate outcomes for non-gaming purposes. As an example, non-gaming RNGs  319 A- 319 N can generate random numbers for such as generating random messages that appear on the gaming device. The RNG conversion engine  320  processes each RNG outcome from RNG engine  316  and converts the RNG outcome to a UI outcome that is feedback to the UI system  302 . With reference to  FIG. 2 , RNG conversion engine  320  corresponds to RNG conversion engine  210  used for game play. As previously described, RNG conversion engine  320  translates the RNG outcome from the RNG  212  to a game outcome presented to a player. RNG conversion engine  320  utilizes one or more lookup tables  322 A- 322 N to regulate a prize payout amount for each RNG outcome and how often the gaming device pays out the derived prize payout amounts. In one example, the RNG conversion engine  320  could utilize one lookup table to map the RNG outcome to a game outcome displayed to a player and a second lookup table as a pay table for determining the prize payout amount for each game outcome. In this example, the mapping between the RNG outcome to the game outcome controls the frequency in hitting certain prize payout amounts. Different lookup tables could be utilized depending on the different game modes, for example, a base game versus a bonus game. 
     After generating the UI outcome, the game processing backend system  314  sends the UI outcome to the UI system  302 . Examples of UI outcomes are symbols to display on a video reel or reel stops for a mechanical reel. In one example, if the UI outcome is for a base game, the UI system  302  updates one or more game play UI elements  306 A- 306 N, such as symbols, for the game play UI  304 . In another example, if the UI outcome is for a bonus game, the UI system could update one or more bonus game play UI elements  310 A- 310 N (e.g., symbols) for the bonus game play UI  308 . In response to the updating the appropriate UI, the player may subsequently provide additional player inputs to initiate a subsequent game instance that progresses through the game processing pipeline. 
       FIG. 4  is a perspective view of another exemplary gaming machine  400 , shown as an EDGE X™ model gaming machine manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. All or parts of the example gaming devices  104 A-X,  200  shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , respectively, could be implemented in gaming machine  400 . In the exemplary embodiment, gaming machine  400  includes a cabinet  402  that houses electronic components or circuitry of gaming machine  400  (e.g., electronic components shown in  FIG. 2 ), a first display monitor  404 , and a second display monitor  406 . 
     Each of first and second display monitors  404 ,  406  includes a display screen  408  and a housing  410  that houses or encloses electronic components of the display monitor. Each of first and second display monitors  404 ,  406  can be a high-resolution LCD, plasma, LED, or OLED panel which may be flat or curved as shown, a cathode ray tube, or other conventional electronically controlled video monitor. First and second display monitors  404 ,  406  also include respective top edges  412 , bottom edges  414 , and first and second side edges  416 ,  418  extending between top edge  412  and bottom  414 . In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first display monitor  404  and the second display monitor  406  includes a curved display screen  408  that has a curvature radius from top edge  412  to bottom edge  414 . 
     First and second display monitors  404 ,  406  are coupled to cabinet  402  in a vertically-stacked configuration in which the second display monitor  406  is positioned above and adjacent to first display monitor  404  such that bottom edge  414  of second display monitor  406  adjoins top edge  412  of first display monitor  404 . First and second display monitors  404 ,  406  thereby cooperatively form a combined curved display screen, and adjoin one another along an edge (e.g., top edge  412  of first display monitor  404  and bottom edge of second display monitor  406 ) that intersects the curved display screen. In other embodiments, first display monitor  404  may be positioned above second display monitor  406 . In yet other embodiments, first and second display monitors  404 ,  406  may be coupled to cabinet  402  in a horizontal configuration such that first and second display monitors  404 ,  406  adjoin one another along a vertical edge (e.g., first and second side edges  416 ,  418 ). 
     In the exemplary embodiment, first display monitor  404  is a main or primary display monitor typically used for primary game play, and second display monitor  406  is a secondary display monitor typically 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. In other embodiments, second display monitor  406  may be used as the main or primary display monitor, and first display monitor  404  may be used as the secondary display monitor. In yet other embodiments, first display monitor  404  and second display monitor  406  may be used in combination with one another to display GUIs and graphics for both primary game play and bonus game play. 
     In the exemplary embodiment, gaming machine  400  also includes vertical light bars  420  positioned on opposite sides of first and second display monitors  404 ,  406 . Gaming machine  400  may include other components of gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and  200  shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , respectively. For example, gaming machine  400  includes a button area or button deck  422  that is configured with input switches or buttons  424 . 
     In accordance with the present disclosure, one or both of first and second display monitors  404 ,  406  may be operable as an access door (e.g., access door  154 ) that provides access to an internal compartment  426  defined by cabinet  402 . A portion of the first display monitor  404  is cut away in  FIG. 4  to illustrate a portion of the internal compartment  426 . In particular, one or both of first and second display monitors  404 ,  406  may be moveable from their respective closed positions shown in  FIG. 4  to respective open positions in which first and second display monitors  404 ,  406  enable access to the internal compartment  426  through one or more access openings. 
     In the exemplary embodiment, first display monitor  404  is a moveable monitor, and is positioned within an access opening  428  of gaming machine  400 . The access opening  428  is sized and shaped complementary to first display monitor  404  such that, when first display monitor  404  is in a closed position (shown in  FIG. 4 ), first display monitor completely occludes access opening  428 , and prevents access to internal compartment  426 . In the illustrated embodiment, access opening  428  is defined, at least in part, by bottom edge  414  of second display monitor  406  and light bars  420 . As described further herein, first display monitor  404  is operatively coupled to a monitor articulation mechanism that enables first display monitor  404  to be moved along a first, linear path of motion and, subsequently, along a second, arcuate path of motion such that first display monitor  404  can be moved out of access opening  428  without interfering with or being obstructed by surrounding components of gaming machine  400  (e.g., second display monitor  406  and light bars  420 ). 
       FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a monitor articulation mechanism, illustrated in the form of an articulating support frame  500 , coupled to first display monitor  404 .  FIG. 6  is a side view of articulating support frame  500  coupled to first display monitor  404 , and  FIGS. 7 and 8  illustrate articulating support frame  500  moving first display monitor  404  along a first, linear path of motion (indicated by arrow  502  in  FIG. 7 ) from a first, closed position (shown in  FIGS. 4-6 ) to a second, intermediate position (shown in  FIG. 7 ), and along a second, arcuate path of motion (indicated by arrow  504  in  FIG. 8 ) from the second position to a third, open position (shown in  FIG. 8 ) in which first display monitor  404  permits access to internal compartment  426  through access opening  428 . 
     Articulating support frame  500  is positioned within internal compartment  426  of gaming machine  400 , and is operatively coupled to first display monitor  404 . In the exemplary embodiment, articulating support frame  500  includes a mounting frame assembly  506  for mounting articulating support frame  500  to cabinet  402 , a linear guide  508  for moving first display monitor  404  along first, linear path of motion  502 , and a monitor mounting frame  510 . 
     With additional reference to  FIG. 9 , mounting frame assembly  506  includes a plurality of mounting brackets  512  that are fixedly coupled to cabinet  402 . Mounting brackets  512  are tubular U-shaped brackets in the illustrated embodiment, although it should be understood that mounting brackets  512  may have any other suitable construction that enables articulating support frame  500  to function as described herein. 
     Articulating support frame  500  is fixedly coupled to cabinet  402  by mounting frame assembly  506 . In particular, linear guide  508  has a first, proximal end  514  fixedly coupled to the cabinet  402  by mounting frame assembly  506 . Linear guide  508  also has a second, distal end  516  configured for linear movement towards and away from proximal end  514  along a linear path of motion. As described further herein, linear guide  508  is moveable between a first, retracted position (shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 ) to a second, extended position (shown in  FIG. 7 ) in which distal end  516  is moved linearly away from proximal end  514 . 
     The terms proximal and distal when used with reference to articulating support frame  500  refer to the relative location or position of elements with respect to the fixed or proximal end of articulating support frame  500  (i.e., at mounting frame assembly  506 ) and the moving or distal end of articulating support frame  500 . For example, “proximal” may refer to a location or position of an element closer to the fixed end of articulating support frame  500 , whereas “distal” may refer to a location or position of an element that is further from the fixed end of articulating support frame  500  and closer to the moveable end of articulating support frame  500 . 
     Monitor mounting frame  510  is pivotably coupled to linear guide  508  at distal end  516  thereof, and is configured to rotate about a pivot axis  518  at which monitor mounting frame  510  is pivotably coupled to linear guide  508 . Monitor mounting frame  510  is also configured to move linearly as linear guide  508  moves between the retracted and extended positions. First display monitor  404  is coupled to the monitor mounting frame  510 , and is configured to move linearly and arcuately with monitor mounting frame  510 . In other words, monitor mounting frame  510  moves along first, linear path of motion  502  from the first, closed position (shown in  FIGS. 4-6 ) to the second, intermediate position (shown in  FIG. 7 ), and along second, arcuate path of motion  504  from the second position to the third, open position (shown in  FIG. 8 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 9 , in the exemplary embodiment, linear guide  508  includes a scissor support frame  520  and a sub-frame  522  coupled at distal end  516  of linear guide  508 . Scissor support frame  520  is operable to move sub-frame  522  along first, linear path of motion  502  as scissor support frame  520  moves from the retracted position (shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 ) to the extended position (shown in  FIGS. 7-9 ). 
     Scissor support frame  520  includes a plurality of cross-link assemblies  524 . With additional reference to  FIG. 10 , each cross-link assembly  524  includes first and second frame members  602 ,  604  pivotably coupled to one another at a pivot point  606 . Each first frame member  602  extends from a first, proximal end  608 , to a second, distal end  610 . Similarly, each second frame member  604  extends from a first, proximal end  612 , to a second, distal end  614 . Each first frame member  602  is pivotably coupled to a respective one of the second frame members  604  by a pivot pin  616  at a location in between the respective proximal and distal ends of each first frame member  602  and second frame member  604  such that the first and second frame members  602 ,  604  can rotate relative to one another. 
     First end  612  of each second frame member  604  is pivotably coupled to a respective first linear slider bearing  618  at proximal end  514  of linear guide  508 . Each first linear slider bearing  618  is slidably coupled to a first, proximal shaft or rod  620  at proximal end  514  of linear guide  508 , which is fixedly coupled to mounting frame assembly  506  by first and second proximal shaft supports  622 ,  624 . As shown, for example, in  FIG. 7 , first linear slider bearing  618  allows first end  612  of each second frame member  604  to move linearly in a direction parallel to first shaft  620  as scissor support frame  520  moves between the retracted position and the extended position. 
     First end  608  of each first frame member  602  is pivotably coupled to one of first proximal shaft supports  622  at proximal end  514  of linear guide  508 . Second end  610  of each first frame member  602  is pivotably coupled to a respective second linear slider bearing  626  at distal end  516  of linear guide  508 . Each second linear slider bearing  626  is slidably coupled to a second, distal shaft or rod  628  at distal end  516  of linear guide  508 , which is coupled to sub-frame  522  by first and second distal shaft supports  630 ,  632 . As shown, for example, in  FIG. 7 , second linear slider bearing  626  allows second end  610  of each first frame member  602  to move linearly in a direction parallel to second shaft  628  as scissor support frame  520  moves between the retracted position and the extended position. 
     Second end  614  of each second frame member  604  is pivotably coupled to one of first distal shaft supports  630  at distal end  516  of linear guide  508  such that second frame member  604  may rotate relative to first distal shaft support  630  as scissor support frame  520  moves between the retracted position and the extended position. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 9 , sub-frame  522  is coupled to each of the plurality of cross-link assemblies  524  at distal end  516  of linear guide  508 , and is configured to move linearly along first path of motion  502  when linear guide  508  moves from the retracted position to the extended position. For example, when a distal force is applied to first display monitor  404  (e.g., by an operator pulling on first display monitor  404 ), rotation of the first and second frame members  602 ,  604  of each cross-link assembly  524  about pivot point  606  permits linear motion of sub-frame  522 , thereby allowing first display monitor  404  to move along first path of motion  502 . 
     In the exemplary embodiment, sub-frame  522  has a substantially rectangular configuration, and includes a first side member  526 , a second side member  528 , and first and second cross-members  530 ,  532  extending from first side member  526  to second side member  528 . Sub-frame  522  is fixedly coupled to first and second distal shaft supports  630 ,  632  of each cross-link assembly  524  such that sub-frame  522  moves with first and second distal shaft supports  630 ,  632  as linear guide  508  moves from the retracted position to the extended position. In the exemplary embodiment, first distal shaft supports  630  are coupled to first cross member  530 , and second distal shaft supports  632  are coupled to second cross member  532 . In other embodiments, first and second distal shaft supports  630 ,  632  may be coupled to any suitable portion of sub-frame  522  that enables articulating support frame to function as described herein. 
     Although linear guide  508  is described and shown herein as including a scissor support frame, it should be understood that linear guide  508  is not limited to a scissor support frame, and may have any other suitable construction that enables linear guide  508  to function as described herein. In other embodiments, for example, linear guide  508  may include linear slides, rails, rollers, rods, linear actuators, and any suitable combinations thereof that enable linear guide  508  to impart linear motion to monitor mounting frame  510 . 
     Linear guide  508  may also include one or more actuators or biasing elements to facilitate movement of sub-frame  522  and, in turn, monitor mounting frame  510  along first path of motion  502  towards the second position (shown in  FIG. 7 ). In the illustrated embodiment, for example, linear guide  508  includes first biasing elements  534  configured to bias sub-frame  522  and monitor mounting frame  510  towards the second position (shown in  FIG. 7 ). The illustrated embodiment includes two first biasing elements  534 , although other embodiments may include more than or less than two first biasing elements  534 . First biasing elements  534  can generally comprise any suitable biasing element that enables articulating support frame  500  to function as described herein, including, for example and without limitation, gas springs (also known as gas struts and gas shocks), mechanical springs (e.g., coil springs), pneumatic pistons, hydraulic pistons, screws, linear gear systems, and combinations thereof. In the exemplary embodiment, first biasing elements  534  are gas springs having a first end  536  coupled to mounting frame assembly  506 , and a second, opposite end  538  coupled to sub-frame  522 . In the exemplary embodiment, first biasing elements  534  are positioned on opposite sides of sub-frame  522 , although in other embodiments first biasing elements  534  may be located at any suitable position that enables linear guide  508  to function as described herein. 
     Linear guide  508  is configured to move sub-frame  522 , monitor mounting frame  510 , and first display monitor  404  by a linear distance sufficient for first display monitor  404  to be moved completely out of access opening  428  and clear of (and therefore not interfere with or be obstructed by) second display monitor  406 . In the exemplary embodiment, linear guide  508  is configured to linearly move sub-frame  522 , monitor mounting frame  510 , and first display monitor  404  by a distance of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm, at least 50 mm, at least 75 mm, at least 90 mm, at least 100 mm, at least 110 mm, at least 120 mm, at least 150 mm, at least 200 mm, at least 250 mm, at least 300 mm, at least 350 mm, at least 400 mm, and up to 550 mm. In other embodiments, linear guide  508  may be configured to linearly move sub-frame  522 , monitor mounting frame  510 , and first display monitor  404  by a distance less than 10 mm, or more than 550 mm. 
     Monitor mounting frame  510  is pivotably coupled to sub-frame  522  at pivot axis  518  via one or more pivot pins  540 . Pivot pins  540  may include any suitable bearing components that enable monitor mounting frame  510  to rotate about pivot axis  518  with respect to sub-frame  522 , as described herein. As shown in  FIG. 8 , monitor mounting frame  510  and, in turn, first display monitor  404  are configured to rotate upward and away from sub-frame  522  when monitor mounting frame  510  moves along second path of motion  504  from the second position to the third, open position. In other embodiments, monitor mounting frame  510  and first display monitor  404  may rotate in any suitable direction with respect to sub-frame  522 . 
     Monitor mounting frame  510  and, in turn, first display monitor  404 , are configured to rotate by a sufficient amount to allow an operator or service technician to access internal compartment  426  of gaming machine  400  via access opening  428  (shown in  FIG. 4 ). In the exemplary embodiment, monitor mounting frame  510  and, in turn, first display monitor  404 , are configured to rotate by an angle  542  of about 60° from the second position to the third position. In other embodiments, monitor mounting frame  510  and first display monitor  404  may rotate by any suitable angle that enables the articulating support frame  500  to function as described herein. In other embodiments, for example, monitor mounting frame  510  and first display monitor  404  may rotate by an angle  542  of between 20° and 270°, between 40° and 190°, between 40° and 140°, between 80° and 180°, between 45° and 135°, between 60° and 150°, between 90° and 180°, between 60° and 120°, between 90° and 150°, between 120° and 180°, between 75° and 105°, between 90° and 120°, and between 105° and 135°. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 9 , monitor mounting frame  510  has a substantially rectangular configuration in the exemplary embodiment, and includes a first side member  544 , a second side member  546 , and first and second cross members  548 ,  550 . First and second side members  544 ,  546  each include mounting ears or tabs  552  for receiving pivot pins  540  to pivotably couple monitor mounting frame  510  to sub-frame  522 . First side member  544  of monitor mounting frame  510  is pivotably coupled to first side member  526  of sub-frame  522  at the top thereof, and second side member  546  of monitor mounting frame  510  is pivotably coupled to second side member  528  of sub-frame  522  at the top thereof. In other embodiments, monitor mounting frame  510  may be coupled to sub-frame  522  at any suitable location(s) that enables the articulating support frame to function as described herein. 
     First display monitor  404  is coupled to monitor mounting frame  510  using any suitable fasteners that enable the articulating support frame  500  to function as described herein. In some embodiments, first display monitor  404  is coupled to monitor mounting frame  510  via slotted fasteners (e.g., pins, bolts, etc.) received in key holes  554  defined in monitor mounting frame  510  (specifically, in first and second side members  544 ,  546 ) such that first display monitor  404  can be de-coupled and removed from monitor mounting frame  510  by sliding first display monitor  404  relative to monitor mounting frame  510 . In one exemplary embodiment, first display monitor  404  includes a plurality of studs or shoulder washers protruding from a rear surface thereof, and each of the shoulder washers is received in a corresponding key hole  554  defined in monitor mounting frame  510 . 
     Articulating support frame  500  may also include one or more actuators or biasing elements to facilitate rotation of monitor mounting frame  510  and, in turn, first display monitor  404  along second path of motion  504  towards the third position (shown in  FIG. 8 ). In the illustrated embodiment, for example, articulating support frame  500  includes second biasing elements  556  configured to bias monitor mounting frame  510  and first display monitor  404  towards the third position (shown in  FIG. 8 ). 
     Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment, second biasing elements  556  are configured to resist or inhibit rotational motion of monitor mounting frame  510  and first display monitor  404  from the third position to the second position under the weight of the first display monitor  404 . For example, the biasing force (e.g., spring constant, pressure, etc.) of second biasing elements  556  is selected to withstand the combined weight of monitor mounting frame  510  and first display monitor  404  such that monitor mounting frame  510  and first display monitor  404  will not rotate from the third position to the second position without an external applied force. The second biasing elements  556  thereby reduce the risk of the articulating support frame  500  unintentionally closing, for example, while gaming machine  400  is being serviced. 
     The illustrated embodiment includes two second biasing elements  556 , although other embodiments may include more than or less than two second biasing elements  556 . Second biasing elements  556  can generally comprise any suitable biasing element that enables articulating support frame  500  to function as described herein, including, for example and without limitation, gas springs, mechanical springs (e.g., coil springs), pneumatic pistons, hydraulic pistons, screws, linear gear systems, and combinations thereof. In the exemplary embodiment, second biasing elements  556  are gas springs having a first end  558  coupled to sub-frame  522 , and a second, opposite end  560  coupled to monitor mounting frame  510 . In the exemplary embodiment, second biasing elements  556  are positioned on opposite sides of monitor mounting frame  510  and sub-frame  522 , although in other embodiments second biasing elements  556  may be located at any suitable position that enables linear guide  508  to function as described herein. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, second biasing elements  556  have the same configuration as first biasing elements  534 . In other embodiments, second biasing elements  556  may have a different configuration than first biasing elements  534 . 
     Articulating support frame  500  may also include one or more locks or latches to control motion of first display monitor  404  along first path of motion  502  and second path of motion  504 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , for example, articulating support frame  500  includes a linear motion latch  562  and a rotational motion latch  564 . Linear motion latch  562  is configured to prevent linear motion of first display monitor  404  along first path of motion  502  when linear motion latch  562  is in a latched state, and rotational motion latch  564  is configured to prevent rotational motion of first display monitor  404  along second path of motion  504  when rotational motion latch  564  is in a latched state. When linear motion latch  562  is released from the latched state, first biasing elements  534  move or urge sub-frame  522 , monitor mounting frame  510 , and first display monitor  404  linearly along first path of motion  502  from the first position to the second position. When rotational motion latch  564  is released from the latched state, second biasing elements  556  move or urge monitor mounting frame  510  and first display monitor  404  rotationally along second path of motion  504  from the second position to the third position. In the exemplary embodiment, linear motion latch  562  and rotational motion latch  564  operate independently of one another. For example, linear motion latch  562  is configured to be released prior to rotational motion latch  564  such that first display monitor  404  may be moved linearly along first path of motion  502  and out of access opening  428  before rotational motion latch  564  is released. Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, rotational motion latch  564  is inaccessible when first display monitor  404  is in the first position. In other words, rotational motion latch  564  cannot be accessed prior to first display monitor  404  being moved from the first position to the second position. Having rotational motion latch  564  inaccessible when first display monitor  404  is in the first position reduces the risk of inadvertent or mistaken rotation of first display monitor  404  while in the first position, which may otherwise cause damage to first display monitor  404  or surrounding components. In other embodiments, articulating support frame  500  may include a dual-function latch that operates to restrict both linear and rotational motion of first display monitor  404 . 
     Linear motion latch  562  and rotational motion latch  564  may generally comprise any suitable latch mechanisms that enable the articulating support frame  500  to function as described herein. In the exemplary embodiment, each of linear motion latch  562  and rotational motion latch  564  includes a rotary latch, details of which are shown in  FIGS. 11-13 . More specifically, with additional reference to  FIGS. 11-12 , linear motion latch  562  includes a pair of identical rotary latches  700  coupled to respective support brackets  566  of mounting frame assembly  506 . A linear motion latch pin  702  fixedly coupled to sub-frame  522  is received within a slot  704  defined by each rotary latch  700 , and is restricted from movement when rotary latch  700  is in the latched state. Rotary latch  700  includes a release button  706  that, when depressed, actuates internal components of rotary latch  700  to release linear motion latch pin  702  from rotary latch  700 . Linear motion latch  562  also includes a latch handle  708  (also shown in  FIG. 12 ) that includes bumpers  710  for engaging release button  706  of rotary latch  700 . Latch handle  708  is moveable from a first position (shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 ) in which bumpers  710  are spaced apart from release button  706  to a second position (not shown) in which bumpers  710  engage release button  706  and thereby disengage rotary latch  700 , permitting movement of linear motion latch pin  702  out of slot  704  and linear motion of sub-frame  522  and components connected thereto. 
     With additional reference to  FIG. 13 , rotational motion latch  564  includes a rotary latch  800  having the same configuration as rotary latches  700  of linear motion latch  562 . Specifically, as shown in  FIG. 13 , rotary latch  800  is fixedly coupled to sub-frame  522 , and defines a slot (not shown) that receives a rotational motion latch pin  802  (also shown in  FIG. 9 ) fixedly coupled to monitor mounting frame  510 . Rotational motion latch pin  802  is restricted from movement when rotary latch  800  is in the latched state. A release button  804  of rotary latch is accessible by an operator by hand, for example, by reaching underneath and behind second cross member  550  of monitor mounting frame  510 . When release button  804  is engaged, rotary latch  800  is disengaged and permits movement of rotational motion latch pin  802  out of the slot and, in turn, rotational motion of monitor mounting frame  510  and first display monitor  404 . In the exemplary embodiment, when rotational motion latch  564  is released, second biasing elements  556  move monitor mounting frame  510  and first display monitor  404  along the second path of motion  504  to the third position. 
     The configuration of articulating support frame  500  allows first display monitor  404  to be moved out of access opening  428  without interfering with or being obstructed by surrounding components of gaming machine  400 . In particular, articulating support frame  500  is configured to move first display monitor  404  along first, linear path of motion  502  such that first display monitor  404  is moved completely out of access opening  428  without interfering with or being obstructed by second display monitor  406  or light bars. Articulating support frame  500  is further configured to move first display monitor  404  along second, arcuate path of motion  504  such that first display monitor  404  is rotated out of the way of and permits access to access opening  428 . Moreover, articulating support frame  500  does not require certain biasing elements commonly used in other door hinge assemblies, such as torsion springs or counter-weights. That is, articulating support frame  500  is free of counter-weights and torsion springs. 
     In operation, to move first display monitor  404  out of access opening  428  to access internal compartment  426  of gaming machine  400 , linear motion latch  562  is initially released or disengaged by actuating or pulling latch handle  708 . Pulling latch handle  708  causes bumpers  710  to engage release button  706  of rotary latches  700 , thereby releasing linear motion latch pin  702  and allowing linear guide  508  to move from the retracted position (shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 ) to the extended position (shown in  FIGS. 7-9 ). Once linear motion latch  562  is released, first biasing elements  534  urge or move sub-frame  522 , monitor mounting frame  510 , and first display monitor  404  along first path of motion  502  from the first position (shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 ) to the second position (shown in  FIG. 7 ). In embodiments where first biasing elements  534  do not move sub-frame  522 , monitor mounting frame  510 , and first display monitor  404  automatically, an external force (e.g., an operator pulling on first display monitor  404 ) may be applied to first display monitor  404  or other components of articulating support frame  500  to effect movement of first display monitor  404  along first path of motion  502 . As first display monitor  404  moves from the first position to the second position along first path of motion  502 , articulating support frame  500  inhibits rotation of first display monitor  404  to avoid contact or interference with adjacent components of gaming machine  400  (e.g., second display monitor  406  and light bars  420 ). 
     After first display monitor  404  is moved to the second position and is clear of second display monitor  406  and light bars  420 , rotational motion latch  564  is released by depressing release button  804  of rotary latch  800 . Depressing release button  804  of rotary latch  800  releases rotational motion latch pin  802 , thereby allowing monitor mounting frame  510  and first display monitor  404  to rotate along second path of motion  504  from the second position to the third position (shown in  FIG. 8 ). Once rotational motion latch  564  is released, second biasing elements  556  urge or move monitor mounting frame  510  and first display monitor  404  along second path of motion  504  from the second position (shown in  FIG. 7 ) to the third position (shown in  FIG. 8 ). In embodiments where second biasing elements  556  do not move monitor mounting frame  510  and first display monitor  404  automatically, an external force (e.g., an operator pulling on first display monitor  404 ) may be applied to first display monitor  404  or other components of articulating support frame  500  to effect movement of first display monitor  404  along second path of motion  504 . 
     In some embodiments, first display monitor  404  may be removed from articulating support frame  500 , for example, after first display monitor  404  is moved to the third position. In such embodiments, first display monitor  404  may be decoupled from monitor mounting frame  510  by sliding first display monitor  404  relative to monitor mounting frame  510  to disengage slotted fasteners, and subsequently removing first display monitor  404  from monitor mounting frame. 
     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.