Patent Publication Number: US-6702093-B2

Title: Gaming device stand

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a stand for a gaming device, and more particularly to such a stand for use with a gaming device having a drop or release feature for retained coins, the stand having improved access and security features. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     In order to participate in a game presented by a gaming device, a player must place a wager or bet. Commonly, the wager or bet is evidenced by one or more coins. The coins are inserted into a coin accepting device of the gaming device. Accepted coins are routed to a coin hopper. 
     If a player is a winner of a game, the player may be paid winnings in the form of coins. In this instance, coins may be routed from the coin hopper of the gaming device to a coin tray. The player may retrieve paid coins from the tray. 
     Those coins which are not paid remain in the coin hopper. After a period of time, the coin hopper may become full. The game operator must travel to the gaming device, open the gaming device, and remove these retained coins. This process is time consuming and takes the gaming device out of play for a period of time. 
     Unfortunately, the size of a gaming device is generally limited. Therefore, the size of the slot coin hopper which may be located in the gaming device is limited and thus the number of coins which may be stored is limited. As one means of addressing this problem, gaming devices often have a coin diverter or drop feature which prevents coins from being directed to the slot coin hopper and instead causes coins to be directed to a chute which directs the coins to the bottom of the gaming device. 
     In one arrangement, the gaming device is located on a support having a hole formed in its top surface. The chute in the gaming device aligns with the hole formed in the support. Coins are dropped through the chute into a coin bucket associated with the support. In this arrangement, the coin bucket serves as an overflow to the coin hopper of the gaming device. Of course, the coin bucket must be kept secure within the support so that the coins are not lost or stolen. The game operator may on a less frequent basis travel to the gaming machine and empty the coin hopper and/or coin bucket. 
     Current supports have very limited functionality and suffer from difficulty of accessing and using internal areas thereof. An improved gaming device stand or support is desired. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is a stand for supporting one or more gaming machines or devices. In one embodiment, the stand is arranged to support at least one gaming machine of the type which dispenses or releases coins from a bottom portion thereof. 
     In one embodiment the stand has opposing first and second ends. Opposing first and second sides extend between the ends, the ends and sides generally defining a periphery of the stand. In one embodiment, the first and second ends comprise walls. 
     The stand also includes a base and a top. The base, top, ends and sides generally define an interior area. The top is adapted to support the one or more gaming machines. 
     The interior area is divided into one or more areas or compartments. In one embodiment, these areas include at least one drawer area and at least a coin compartment. 
     In one embodiment, the stand is particularly adapted to support four gaming machines. In this embodiment, the interior area includes four drawer areas. A pair of drawer areas are located at the first end and a pair of drawer areas are located at the second end of the stand. The coin compartment is located between the pairs of drawer areas. In one embodiment, one drawer area of each pair of drawer areas faces the first side, and the other of the drawer areas faces the second side of the stand. 
     A drawer is associated with each drawer area. Each drawer is mounted for movement between a closed position in which the drawer is located in the drawer area and an open position in which the drawer is at least partially extended from the stand. 
     In another embodiment the stand is particularly adapted to support a pair of gaming machines. In this embodiment, a single drawer area is located at each end of the stand. The coin compartment is located between the drawer areas. The coin compartment and drawer areas are all accessible from one of the sides of the stand. 
     In yet another embodiment, the stand is particularly adapted to support a single gaming machine. In this embodiment, a single drawer area and coin compartment are located side by side and are accessible from one of the sides of the stand. 
     In one embodiment, one or more openings are provided in the top through which coins may be directed from a gaming machine to the coin compartment. In the embodiment where the stand is arranged to support four gaming machines, four such openings are provided. 
     Means may be provided for guiding the coins through the opening to the coin compartment. In one embodiment, this means comprises a funnel, and in one or more embodiments, a tube extending from a bottom end of the funnel. 
     In one embodiment, access to the coin compartment is provided from one of the sides of the stand through a door. The door is movably connected to the stand, such as by a hinge. 
     In one embodiment, the stand includes an electrical compartment. The electrical compartment is divided from the drawer areas and coin compartment by a wall. Access is provided to the electrical compartment via a door. 
     One or more electrical openings are provided through the top. Electrical and communication wiring may be directed from a gaming machine supported by the stand through the top into the electrical compartment. 
     In one embodiment, the base of the stand is supported above ground level by legs extending along the sides of the stand and the ends of the stand. A hollow space is created under the base. Wiring and the like may be located in this space. In addition, the forks of a forklift may be passed under the base and into this hollow space for lifting and transporting the stand. 
     Further objects, features, and advantages of the present invention over the prior art will become apparent from the detailed description of the drawings which follows, when considered with the attached figures. 
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming device stand in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; 
     FIG. 2 is a top view of the gaming device stand illustrated in FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 2A is a partial cross-sectional view of the gaming device stand illustrated in FIG. 1 taken along line  2 A— 2 A therein; 
     FIG. 2B is a partial cross-sectional view of the gaming device stand illustrated in FIG. 1 taken along line  2 B— 2 B therein; 
     FIG. 3 is a top view of the gaming device stand illustrated in FIG. 2 with a top surface thereof removed; 
     FIG. 4 is a top view of a gaming device stand in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; 
     FIG. 5 is a top view of the gaming device stand illustrated in FIG. 4 with a top surface thereof removed; 
     FIG. 6 is a top view of a gaming device stand in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention, the stand illustrated with a top surface thereof removed. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention is a stand for a gaming device. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough description of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention. 
     In general, the present invention is a stand for one or more gaming devices or machines. The stand is particularly adapted to support gaming devices or machines of the type which drop or release coins from a coin hopper for secondary storage or retention. The stand includes an interior area which is divided into a plurality of compartments. One or more of the compartments house a drawer. Another compartment is a coin compartment in which coins dropped from the gaming devices are stored. 
     One embodiment of a stand  20  in accordance with the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. Referring to FIG. 1, the stand  20  has a top surface  22  upon which a plurality of gaming devices or machines  24  may be supported. These gaming devices  24  may have a variety of configurations and be arranged to present a wide variety of different games. For example, the gaming devices  24  may be slot or video type gaming devices. Preferably, one or more of the gaming devices  24  may include a coin drop or release feature for dispensing coins from a bottom or lower portion thereof. 
     The embodiment stand  20  illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 is particularly suited to supporting four (4) gaming devices or machines  24 . Referring to FIG. 1, two gaming devices  24  are located in a side-by-side relationship, these two gaming devices facing outwardly. Another two gaming devices  24  are located behind the two gaming devices illustrated, the other two gaming devices facing in the opposite direction (i.e. the two pairs of gaming machines face away from one another). 
     Referring to FIG. 2, the stand  20  has a first side  26  and an opposing second side  28 . The stand  20  also has opposing first and second ends  30 , 32  extending between the first and second sides  26 , 28 . The first and second sides  26 , 28  and first and second ends  30 , 32  generally define a perimeter of the stand  20 . In one embodiment, the first and second sides  26 , 28  are longer than the first and second ends  30 , 32 , such that the stand  20  has a generally rectangular perimeter shape. 
     In one embodiment, the stand  20  is about 56 inches long from end to end, and about 36 inches deep from side to side. Of course, the stand  20  may have a variety of dimensions, especially when considering the size of the gaming machines to be placed thereon. 
     In one embodiment, the first and second ends  30 , 32  generally comprise vertically extending walls. Each wall spans the distance between the first and second sides  26 , 28 . The walls may be constructed of one or more members, such as wood or metal panels. 
     In one embodiment, the first side  26  and second side  28  are defined in part by a supporting structure, and as described in more detail, one or more moveable members. In this regard, the term “side” does not refer to a singular element, but generally a region or area of the stand. Referring to FIG. 1, in one embodiment the first side  26  includes a facia  34  and a leg  36 . Between the facia  34  and the leg  36  are a number of elements, such as drawers and doors, as described in more detail below. Preferably, the second side  28  is similarly arranged, as seen in FIG.  3 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the stand  20  includes a generally enclosed interior area. The first and second sides  26 , 28  and first and second ends  30 , 32  generally define the outer perimeter of this area. In addition, the top  22  generally defines the upper extent of the area, and a bottom or base  44  defines a bottom or lower extent of the area. The interior area is said to be generally enclosed in that, as described in more detail below, at one or more times portions of one or both of the sides may be open, allowing access to the interior area. 
     Referring to FIG. 2, the top  22  preferably extends horizontally, and is thus generally perpendicular to the first and second sides  26 , 28  and first and second ends  30 , 32 . In a preferred embodiment, the top  22  has a plurality of openings therein. The nature of these openings, including their characteristics, are described in more detail below. The top  22  has an upper surface which generally defines the top or uppermost extent of the stand  20 . 
     Referring to FIG. 1, the bottom or base  44  is, in one embodiment, set upwardly from the lowest extent of the first and second sides  26 , 28  and first and second ends  30 , 32 . In one embodiment, the bottom or base  44  is supported at its first and second ends by the walls defining the first and second ends  30 , 32  of the stand  20 . At the front side  26  of the stand  20 , the bottom or base  40  is supported by the leg  36  which extends from end to end  30 , 32 . In the embodiment illustrated, the leg  36  is inset from the remainder of the front side  26  of the stand  20 . In one embodiment, the bottom or base  44  is also supported by another leg (not shown) which is similarly located at the second side  28  of the stand  20 . 
     In this arrangement, a hollow space is defined under the base  44 . This hollow space is bounded by the legs, ends of the stand  20 , the base  44 , and generally a support surface such as a floor upon which the stand  20  is placed. As described in more detail below, such an arrangement is useful in moving the stand  20 . 
     Preferably, the interior area is divided into a plurality of areas or compartments. As best illustrated in FIG. 3, in one embodiment, the interior area is divided into a coin compartment  46 , an electrical area or compartment  48 , a first drawer area  50 , a second drawer area  52 , a third drawer area  54  and a fourth drawer area  56 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the drawer areas  50 , 52 , 54 , 56  are located at the ends of the stand  20 . There are two (i.e. a pair of) drawer areas at the first end  30  of the stand  20  and two (i.e. a pair of) drawer areas at the second end  32  of the stand  20 . In the arrangement illustrated, the first and second drawer areas  50 , 52  are defined in part by the wall forming the first end  30  of the stand  20 , and a first inner wall  58 . The wall forming the first end  30  of the stand  20  and the first inner wall  58  form opposing sides of the first and second drawer areas  50 , 52 . 
     An end of both the first and second drawer areas  50 , 52  are defined by a common rear wall  60 . The rear wall  60  divides the first and second drawer areas  50 , 52  from one another. The rear wall  60  extends between the wall comprising the first end  30  of the stand  20  and the first inner wall  58 . 
     Preferably, each drawer area is accessible from one of the sides of the stand  20 . In one embodiment, an end of the first drawer area  50  opposite the rear wall  60  is open at the first side  26  of the stand  20 . An end of the second drawer area  52  opposite the rear wall  60  is open at the second side  28  of the stand  20 . 
     Likewise, the third and fourth drawer areas  54 , 56  are defined in part by the wall forming the second end  32  of the stand  20 , and a second inner wall  62 . The wall forming the second end  32  of the stand  20  and the second inner wall  62  form opposing sides of the third and fourth drawer areas  54 , 56 . An end of both the third and fourth drawer areas  54 , 56  are defined by a common rear wall  64 . The rear wall  64  divides the third and fourth drawer areas  54 , 56  from one another. The rear wall  64  extends between the wall comprising the second end  32  of the stand  20  and the second inner wall  62 . 
     Once again, each drawer area is accessible from one of the sides of the stand  20 . In one embodiment, an end of the third drawer area  54  opposite the rear wall  64  is open at the second side  28  of the stand  20 . An end of the fourth drawer area  56  opposite the rear wall  64  is open at the second side  28  of the stand  20 . 
     The coin compartment  46  and electrical compartment  48  are located between the sets or pairs of drawer areas. In particular, the coin compartment  46  and electrical compartment  48  are located between the first inner wall  58  and second inner wall  62 . An end of both of the compartments  46 , 48  is defined by a dividing wall  66 . The dividing wall  66  extends between the first inner wall  58  and the second inner wall  62 . 
     Access to the coin compartment  46  and electrical compartment  48  is likewise preferably provided from one of the sides of the stand  20 . In one embodiment, access is provided to the coin compartment  46  to the first side  26  of the stand  20 , and access is provided to the electrical compartment or area  48  from the opposing second side  28  of the stand  20 . 
     The sizes of the various compartments or areas may vary, especially depending upon the size of the stand  20 . In one embodiment each drawer area or compartment is about 12-16 inches wide, 18-20 inches deep and 14 inches high. The coin compartment  46  is about 28-30 inches wide and 28-30 inches deep. The electrical compartment  48  is also about 28-30 inches wide but is only about 7-8 inches deep. In this arrangement, the coin compartment  46  is larger than the electrical compartment  48 , for reasons which will become apparent below. 
     A first drawer  68  is preferably associated with the first drawer area  50 . The first drawer  68  may be of a variety of types well known to those of skill in the art. The first drawer  68  preferably has a pair of sides and ends defined by walls extending upwardly from a bottom. Thus, the first drawer  68  has an interior area which is enclosed on the sides and bottom and which is accessible from the top. In one embodiment, the front of the first drawer  68  may include a front face or cover which is large enough to extend over surrounding portions of the front side  26  of the stand  20 . In this manner, the covers provide a more aesthetically pleasing arrangement for the stand  20 . 
     In one embodiment, a handle  76  is mounted to the front face of the first drawer  68  for use by a user in opening and closing the drawer. The first drawer  68  is movable between a first open or extended position, and a second closed position. The first drawer  68  is illustrated in its closed position in FIG.  1  and in its extended or open position in FIG.  3 . In its open position, a user of the stand  20  may access the interior of the drawer and place things in or remove things from the drawer. In its closed position, the interior area of the first drawer  68  is generally inaccessible. 
     As is well known, the first drawer  68  may be mounted to the stand  20  by a set of rollers or slides. Alternatively, guides or other members may be used to aid in guided movement of the first drawer  68  into and out of the first drawer area  50 . Such guides may also limit the extent of travel of the drawer to inhibit the drawer from being removed or falling out of the stand  20 . 
     In one embodiment, a lock (not shown) is provided for selectively locking the first drawer  68  in its closed position. The lock may be of a variety of types, such as a sliding bolt or rotating latch lock. The lock may be operable only with the use of a key. 
     Preferably, a second drawer  70  is associated with the second drawer area  52  in like manner to the first drawer  68 . A third drawer  72  is associated with the third drawer area  54  and a fourth drawer  74  is associated with the fourth drawer area  56 , also in like manner. 
     In one embodiment, an opening  75  is provided in the base  44  at the location of each of the drawer areas  50 , 52 , 54 , 56 . The openings  75  are thus located under the drawers  68 , 70 , 72 , 74  when the drawers are extended into the stand  20  in their closed position. These openings  75  provide access to the hollow area beneath the stand  20 , and also reduce the weight of the stand  20  by reducing the amount of material forming the base  44 . 
     In one embodiment, means are provided for selectively controlling access to the coin compartment  46  at the first side  26 . In one embodiment, the means comprises a door  78 . The door  78  is connected to the stand  20  via one or more hinges  80 . In one embodiment, the door  78  has a top edge  82  and a bottom edge  84 . The bottom edge  84  is connected to the hinge  80 , which is in turn connected to the stand  20 . In this arrangement, the door  78  may be rotated upwardly into a closed position where access to the coin compartment  46  is prevented. The door  78  may also be rotated downwardly into the position illustrated in FIG. 3 where access to the coin compartment  46  is permitted. 
     One or more handles (not shown) may be connected to a front face or surface of the door  78  for use in opening and closing the door. In addition, one or more locks  86   a,b  or similar elements may be used to maintain the door  78  in a closed position. 
     In similar fashion, means are provided for selectively controlling access to the electrical compartment  48  at the second side  28 . In one embodiment, the means comprises a door  88 . The door  88  is connected to the stand  20  via one or more hinges (not shown). In one embodiment, the door  88  has a top edge and a bottom edge, and the bottom edge is connected to the hinge, the hinge in turn connected to the stand  20 . In this arrangement, the door  88  may be rotated upwardly into a closed position where access to the electrical compartment  48  is prevented, as illustrated in FIG.  3 . The door  88  may also be rotated downwardly into a position in which access to the electrical compartment  48  is permitted. 
     In the embodiment illustrated, a pair of handles  90  are connected to a front face or surface of the door  88  for use in opening and closing the door. In addition, one or more locks (not shown) or similar elements may be used to maintain the door  88  in a closed position. 
     In the embodiment illustrated, an opening  89  is provided in the base  44  within the electrical compartment  48 . As illustrated, the opening  89  is a generally rectangular opening. The opening  89  leads to the hollow space below the base  44 . 
     As indicated above, the top  22  has a plurality of openings therein. In general, these openings provide access from the exterior of the stand  20  through the top  22  to the interior area of the stand  20 . 
     Referring to FIG. 2, four electrical openings  92   a-d  are provided through the top  22 , one electrical opening being provided for each of the four gaming devices or machines which are to be supported by the stand  20 . The location and size of the electrical openings  92   a-d  may vary depending on the size and placement of the gaming devices  24 . In one embodiment, the electrical access to the gaming device  24  is at a bottom rear area. When the gaming devices  24  are paired side-by-side and when the pairs of devices are located back-to-back, the electrical openings  92   a-d  may be configured as illustrated in FIG.  2 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, each electrical opening  92   a-d  is provided through the top  22 . In one embodiment, each electrical opening  92   a-d  is about 17 inches long and about 3 inches wide. As indicated, the size of the openings  92   a-d  may vary. 
     Referring to both FIGS. 2 and 2B, in one embodiment, a trough  93  is provided in the top  22 . In one embodiment, the trough  93  is formed in the top  22  and extends between two of the electrical openings. The trough  93  is adapted to accept electrical, communication and/or other wiring, cabling or elements. 
     Referring to FIG. 2, four coin drop openings  94   a-d  are also provided through the top  22 . One coin drop opening  94  is provided for each of the four gaming devices or machines which are to be supported by the stand  20 . The exact location and size of the coin drop openings  94   a-d  may vary depending upon the size and placement of the gaming devices  24 . When the gaming devices  24  are arranged on the stand  20  as described above and have their coin drop openings located at a right front bottom area (when facing the machine), then the drop openings  94   a-d  are preferably configured as illustrated in FIG.  2 . 
     In one embodiment, each coin drop opening  94   a-d  is formed as a generally square opening in the top  22 . The coin drop openings  94   a-d  are located in positions corresponding to respective gaming devices  24 . In such a configuration, however, all but one of the openings  94   a-d  are located over a portion of the interior area of the stand  20  other than the coin compartment  46 . 
     In accordance with the invention, it is desired that the coins from each machine  24  be directed through the respective coin drop opening  94   a-d  to the coin compartment  46 . In this manner, all of the dropped coins are stored in a central, secure area of the stand  20 . To accomplish this, means are provided for directing the coins from the openings  94   a-d  to the coin compartment  46 . 
     In one embodiment, the coin drop openings  94   a-d  are much larger than the drop chute or other coin drop device of the gaming machine  24 . In this manner, misalignment of the gaming machine  24  with respect to the drop opening is accommodated with the coins released from the gaming machine still being directed into a respective opening. Preferably, however, means are provided for directing the coins from the larger coin drop opening to a smaller drop area. 
     The coin drop opening  94   a  is already located over the coin compartment  46 , so that only means for funneling or directing the coins into a smaller drop area is necessary. In the embodiment illustrated, this means comprises a funnel  96  and associated drop tube  98 . The funnel  96  has a top end and a bottom end. The top end is generally square in perimeter shape, matching the shape of the coin drop opening  94   a . The funnel  96  narrows from its first end to its second end, which is preferably tubular in construction. Preferably, the drop tube  98 , which comprises a generally cylindrical tube, extends downwardly from the bottom end of the funnel  96 . Of course, the funnel  96  and drop tube  98  may be integrally or separately constructed. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the drop tube  98  is generally vertically extending. 
     Preferably, the funnel  96  is securely mounted to the stand  20  so that it stays in position when heavy loads of coins are dropped from the gaming machine  24 . In one embodiment, screws or other fasteners are used to securely mount the funnel  96  to the top  22  of the stand  20 . In one embodiment, the funnel  96  may be made removable from the top and/or bottom of the top  22  of the stand  20 , such as for clearing coin jams. 
     In one embodiment, the funnel  96  and drop tube  98  are constructed of plastic, such as a heavy gauge PVC. In one embodiment, each coin drop opening  94   a-d , and thus the funnels at their top ends, are about 8 inches square. At their bottom ends, the funnels form a tubular opening which is about 3 inches in diameter. 
     The coin drop opening  94   b  is located over the second drawer area  52 . As such, means must be provided for directing coins from the opening  94   b  to the coin compartment  46 , and for funneling or directing the coins into a smaller drop area. As illustrated in FIG. 2, this means includes a funnel  100  and a drop tube  102 . The funnel  100  is similarly configured and arranged to the funnel  96  just described. The drop tube  102  preferably comprises a tube extending from the bottom end of the funnel  100  to the coin compartment  46 . In the arrangement illustrated, the drop tube  102  has a first end which is mounted to the bottom end of the funnel  100 . The drop tube  102  is sufficiently long that its second end is located in the coin compartment  46 . In the embodiment illustrated, the drop tube  102  is oriented at an angle and extends in generally directly from the funnel  100  to the coin compartment  46 . 
     The coin drop opening  94   c  is over the electrical compartment  48 . As such, means must be provided for directing coins from the opening  94   c  to the coin compartment  46 , and for funneling or directing the coins into a smaller drop area. As illustrated, this means includes a funnel  104  and a drop tube  106 . Preferably, the funnel  104  and drop tube  106  are similarly arranged to the funnel  100  and drop tube  102  just described. 
     Lastly, the coin drop opening  96   d  is located over the fourth drawer area  74 . As such, means must be provided for directing coins from the opening  94   d  to the coin compartment  46 , and for funneling or directing the coins into a smaller drop area. As illustrated, this means includes a funnel  108  and a drop tube  110 . Preferably, the funnel  108  and drop tube  110  are similarly arranged to the funnel  100  and drop tube  102  just described. 
     In one embodiment, the second or drop end of the tubes  98 , 102 , 106 , 110  are all near the top of the coin compartment  46 , as best illustrated in FIG.  1 . In this arrangement, a container may be located under the second end or outlet of the tube. In one embodiment, the coin hopper comprises a bin or bucket  99 , as is known in the art of coin collection. The bucket or bin  99  is located under the outlet of each tube  98 , 102 , 106 , 110  for collecting the coins directed through the tube. 
     It will now be appreciated that the configuration of various portions of the stand  20  is dictated by the coin drop tubes  98 ,  102 , 106 , 110 . As illustrated, the drop tube  102  associated with the second coin drop opening  94   b  passes through the second drawer area  52 . To avoid interference, the sides and end of the second drawer  70  must not extend upwardly too great a distance. Likewise, the fourth drawer  74  must be similarly configured. In the embodiment illustrated, the dividing wall  66  also includes a passage through which the drop tube  106  extends. This arrangement is illustrated in greater detail in FIG.  2 A. 
     Referring to FIG. 3, the stand  20  is specially configured to accept the one or more buckets, bins or other containers  99  for holding the coins which are directed through the tubes  98 , 102 , 106 , 110 . These buckets or bins  99  may have a wide variety of configurations. In one embodiment, each bucket or bin  99  is about 8 inches tall, 6 inches wide and about 10-14 inches long, having a rectangular cross-section. 
     In one embodiment, means are provided for securing the coin buckets or bins  99  within the coin compartment  46 . As illustrated, a first support  112  and a second support  114  extend upwardly from the bottom  44  of the stand  20 . The first and second supports  112 , 114  generally comprise walls or other generally vertically extending members. The first support  112  is spaced from the first inner wall  58  a sufficient distance to permit placement of the coin bucket or bin  99  in the space there between. Preferably, the distance is not so large, however, that the bucket or bin  99  placed therein may move out of position. 
     Likewise, the second support  114  is spaced from the second inner wall  62  a sufficient distance to permit placement of the coin bucket or bin  99  in the space there between. Once again, the distance is not so large, however, that the bucket or bin  99  placed therein may move out of position. 
     Additional features and aspects of the stand  20  will become apparent in conjunction with the description of the use of the stand  20  as described below. 
     Preferably, four gaming devices  24  are mounted upon the top  22  of the stand  20 . As described above, two gaming devices  24  are mounted side-by-side facing the first side  26  of the stand  20 . Two more gaming devices  24  are mounted side-by-side facing the second side  28  of the stand  20 . 
     Power cords, communication lines such as network cables and similar elements are extended from the electrical compartment  48  through each electrical opening  92   a-d  to the respective gaming device  24 . Primary access to these components is provided through the door  88  at the second side  28  of the stand  20 . Access is gained by unlocking, if necessary, the door  88  and then rotating the door  88  downwardly into an open position. 
     Access to the electrical compartment  48  is prevented by returning the door  88  to a closed position and locking it. At this time, the electrical compartment  48  is enclosed by the door  88 , the top  22 , bottom  44 , dividing wall  66 , and first and second inner walls  58 , 62 . In this manner, tampering with the power, networking and other support systems for the gaming machines  24  is prevented. 
     Each gaming machine  24  has a coin drop which is located over its respective coin drop opening  94   a-d . Coins may be delivered from the gaming machine  24  into any of the four coin drop openings  94   a-d . When delivered, the coins are caught by the funnel  96 , 100 , 104 , 108  and routed via the respective tube  98 , 102 , 106 , 110  to the particular coin bucket or bin  99  located in the coin compartment  46 . 
     Periodically, gaming personnel may check, and if necessary empty, the coin buckets or bins  99 . An authorized person may unlock and open the door  78  to gain access to the coin compartment  46 . 
     If necessary, a technician may access the various electrical and communication connections, such as cables, routers or other equipment which are located in the equipment compartment  48 . Again, the technician may unlock and open the door  88  to gain access to the electrical compartment. 
     Access may also be gained to one or more of the drawers  68 , 70 , 72 , 74 . The drawers  68 , 70 , 72 , 74  provide storage, such as for empty coin bins and other materials related to the gaming machines  24 . 
     Advantageously, the stand  20  is arranged into secure areas. For example, while an authorized party, such as a coin handling employee, may gain access to the coin compartment  46 , the remaining areas of the stand  20  remain secure and inaccessible from that party. Likewise, a technician may gain access to the electrical compartment  48 , but from that compartment is not permitted to access other areas, such as the coin compartment  46 . Access is also provided to each drawer  68 , 70 , 72 , 74  independent of the other areas of the stand  20 . In this manner, theft of coins, tampering with electronics and the like is minimized. 
     Another embodiment stand  220  in accordance with the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5. Illustrated therein is a particular embodiment stand  220  adapted to support a pair of gaming devices in a side-by-side arrangement. 
     In general, the stand  220  is similar in many respects to the gaming stand  20  illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 and described above. The stand  220  has a first side  226 , a second side  228 , a first end  230  and a second end  232 . In the embodiment stand  220  illustrated, the second side  228 , first end  230  and second end  232  all comprise generally upstanding wall members. 
     The stand  220  has a generally rectangular periphery. The stand  220  has an interior or internal area. This interior area is defined by the periphery, as well as a top  222  and a bottom  244 . 
     The interior area is divided into a plurality of compartments or areas. As illustrated, the interior area includes a first drawer area  250 . The first drawer area  250  is defined in part by the wall comprising the first end  230  and the wall comprising the second side  228 . In addition, a first inner or dividing wall  258  is spaced from the wall comprising the first end  230  and comprises a second side of the drawer area  250 . As illustrated, this dividing wall  258  extends generally parallel to the wall comprising the first end  230  from the first side  226  to the second side  228 . 
     The second drawer area  252  is similarly configured, with a second inner or dividing wall  262 , the wall comprising the second end  232  and the wall comprising the second side  228  generally defining the perimeter of the area. In this configuration, the first and second drawer areas  250 , 252  are located at opposing ends of the stand  220 . 
     Access is provided to the first and second drawer areas  250 , 252  from one of the sides of the stand  220 . In the embodiment illustrated, access is provided from the first side  226  of the stand  220 . 
     In one embodiment, the interior area includes a coin compartment  246  and an electrical compartment  248 . The coin and electrical compartments  246 , 248  are located between the first and second drawer areas  250 , 252 . Preferably, the two compartments  246 , 248  are divided or separated by a third inner or dividing wall  266 . The electrical compartment  248  is thus generally defined by the first and third inner or dividing walls  258 , 266  and the wall comprising the second side  228  of the stand  220 . The coin compartment  246  is generally defined by the second and third inner or dividing walls  262 , 266  and the wall comprising the second side  228  of the stand  220 . As illustrated, the coin compartment  246  is preferably dimensionally wider or larger than the electrical compartment  248 . 
     Access is provided to the coin compartment  246  and electrical compartment  248  from one of the sides of the stand  220 . Preferably, access is provided from the same side at which access is provided to the drawer areas, namely the first side  226  of the stand  220 . 
     Preferably, a first drawer  268  is located in the first drawer area  250 . The first drawer  268  may be configured in a similar manner to the drawers described above and include a handle and, in one or more embodiments, a locking mechanism. A second drawer  270  is located in the second drawer area  252 . The second drawer  270  may be similarly configured as well. 
     Means are provided for selectively providing access to the coin compartment  246 . In one embodiment, this means comprises a door  278 . The door  278  is preferably arranged in a similar manner to the door  78  of the first embodiment stand  20  described above. As illustrated, the door  278  is associated with the first side  226  of the stand  220 . 
     Means are also provided for selectively providing access to the electrical compartment  248 . In one embodiment, this means comprises a door  290 . In this embodiment, the door  290  is preferably hingedly connected to the stand  220  along an vertical edge thereof, so that the door  290  rotates about a vertical instead of horizontal axis. 
     In the embodiment illustrated, the door  290  providing access to the electrical compartment  248  is located at the front side  226  of the stand  220  as well (opposite the embodiment stand  20  illustrated and described above). This arrangement is advantageous in that the stand  220  may be located with its second side  228  against a wall or the like, and access to all interior areas of the stand  220  may be gained from the first side  226  of the stand  220 . 
     In like fashion to the stand  20  described above, a plurality of openings or access points are provided through the top  222  of the stand  220  into the interior area thereof. First, a pair of electrical openings  292   a , 292   b  are provided for the two gaming devices which the stand  220  is intended to support. Again, the size, shape and placement of the openings  292   a , 292   b  through the top  222  is substantially a function of the design or arrangement of the gaming device which the stand  220  is intended to support. As illustrated, the openings  292   a , 292   b  are located near the second side  228  of the stand  220  and spaced apart from one another. 
     In one embodiment, passages  299  or cutout areas are provided at the top of the first and second ends  230 , 232 , and the interior walls  258 , 262 , 266  near the second side  228 . These passages  299  are useful in routing wiring, such as electrical cords and networking cabling through the various portions of the stand  220 . 
     In addition, a pair of coin drop openings  294   a , 294   b  are provided. The size, shape and placement of the openings  294   a , 294   b  is again substantially a function of the design or arrangement of the gaming devices which the stand  220  is intended to support. As illustrated, in order to facilitate alignment with the coin drop areas of the gaming devices, the openings  294   a,b  may be located over other than the coin drop area  246  of the stand  220 . 
     In this arrangement, means must be provided for funneling dropped coins into a smaller area and directing them to the coin drop area  246 . A funnel  296  is associated with the first coin drop opening  294   a . Preferably, the funnel  296  is configured similar to the funnels described above in conjunction with the first embodiment stand  20 . In addition, a drop tube  302  extends from a bottom end of the funnel  296  to the coin compartment  246 . In the arrangement illustrated, this requires that the drop tube  302  pass through the third dividing wall  266 . 
     Likewise, a funnel  300  is associated with the second coin drop opening  294   b . A drop tube  304  extends from a bottom portion of this funnel  300  to the coin compartment  246 . 
     In one embodiment, the base or bottom  244  of this embodiment stand  220  is also set upwardly from the lowermost portion of the ends  230 , 232  and sides  226 , 228  of the stand. In this manner, a hollow space is again defined under the stand  220 . 
     Use of this embodiment stand  220  is similar to the stand  20  described above, except that only two gaming machines are placed on the stand  220 . 
     Another embodiment stand  420  in accordance with the invention is illustrated in FIG.  6 . Illustrated therein is a particular embodiment stand  420  adapted to support a single gaming device. 
     In general, the stand  420  has a first side  426 , second side  428 , first end  430  and second end  432 . In one embodiment, an upstanding wall generally defines each of the second side  428 , first end  430  and second end  432 . The stand  420  also includes a top (not shown) and a bottom  444 . 
     The stand  420  includes an interior space. Once again, the interior space is preferably divided into areas or compartments. In the embodiment illustrated, the interior space includes a drawer area  450  and a coin compartment  446 . The drawer area  450  is divided or separated from the coin compartment  446  by an interior or dividing wall  458 . 
     A drawer  468  is associated with the drawer area  450 . As illustrated, the drawer  468  is accessible from the first side  426  of the stand  420 . 
     A door  478  is provided for selectively providing access to the coin compartment  446 . In the embodiment illustrated, the door  478  is connected to the stand  420  via at least one hinge located along a lower edge of the door  478 . 
     As illustrated in phantom, in a preferred embodiment, a coin drop opening  494  is provided in a top (not shown) of the stand  420 . The coin drop opening  494  is again square in one embodiment, and as illustrated is located over the coin compartment  446 . 
     Means are provided for guiding dropped coins from the gaming machine into the coin compartment  446 . In the embodiment illustrated, this means comprises a funnel  496  which is mounted in the coin drop opening  494 . In one embodiment, a tube  498  extends downwardly from the bottom end of the funnel  496  for directing the coins into a bin or bucket (not shown). 
     In addition, an electrical opening  492  is provided. As illustrated, this opening  492  is provided near the second or rear side  428  of the stand  420 . The opening  492  is preferably rectangular in shape. 
     In one embodiment, passages  399  or cut-outs are provided at the top of the first and second ends  430 , 432  near the second side  428 . Again, electrical wiring, network cabling or the like may be extended through these passages  399 . 
     The gaming device stands of the invention may be configured in a variety of manners. In one or more embodiments, the size and shape of the stands, and the size, shape and placement of the various compartments or areas may vary. 
     The stands of the invention may be constructed of a wide variety of materials, such as wood or metal. In one embodiment, laminate material may be used to cover exterior and/or interior surfaces of the stand for aesthetic reasons. 
     The size, shape, and location of the various openings in the top of each stand may vary. For example, the coin drop openings may be circular or oval instead of square. In such event, the size and shape of the corresponding funnel may be similarly arranged. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the interior or dividing walls inside the stand extend between the bottom and top of the stand. In this manner, access between the various areas defined in part by those dividing walls is prohibited. In other embodiments, the walls may only be partial walls, providing mainly structural integrity and support to the stand and elements thereof. 
     Various features of the stand of the invention may be varied. For example, the handle associated with each drawer or door may be a separate element mounted to or in the drawer or door, or be formed therein, such as in the form of a cut-out. 
     The size and shape of the funnels and drop tubes may vary. For example, the drop tubes may have a larger or smaller diameter. The drop tubes preferably extend at a rather obtuse angle so that coins are aided by gravity in being directed from the gaming machine to the coin compartment. The exact angle of extension may vary, however. 
     In one or more embodiments, the sizes and shapes of the compartments or internal areas to the stand may vary. Further, the number of compartments and their locations may vary. For example, a larger number of drawer areas may be provided. In one embodiment, drawer areas may be vertically arranged, or single drawer areas filled with vertically arranged drawers. 
     The stand in accordance with the invention may be configured to support other numbers of gaming machines than specifically described above. For example, a stand may be configured to support three gaming machines, or five or more gaming machines. 
     As used herein, the term coin may have many meanings. The term coin may mean government issued currency, such as U.S. $0.25 “quarters.” The term also includes tokens and other objects. 
     As another aspect of the invention, there is provided an arrangement permitting easy transport of a gaming stand, such as a stand as described above. As described above, with respect to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, in a preferred embodiment that stand  20  is provided with a base or bottom  44  which is supported by legs and/or ends of the stand  20 . In this manner, a hollow space is provided below the base or bottom  44  of the stand  20 . Likewise, the other embodiment stands are, in one or more embodiments, similarly arranged. The hollow space is useful in accepting a lifting device, such as the forks of a forklift, hydraulic lift or the like. 
     In one embodiment, one or more cut-outs or openings are provided in one or both ends of the stand  20 . The cut-outs are sized to permit the passage of the forks of a forklift or other lifting device into the hollow area defined under the base  44  of the stand  20 . In this manner, a forklift or similar lifting device may be used to support the stand  20  from beneath the base  44 , and raise and transport the stand  20 . This is useful for moving the stand from one location to another, such as when changing the layout of a casino floor. In an embodiment of the stand such as the stand  220  or stand  420  which is arranged to be located against a wall, the second or other side which is arranged to face a wall, other stands or the like may be provided with an open area along that side below the area of the base for accepting the lifting device. 
     The base of the stand may be reinforced or otherwise particular suited to being lifted from below by a lifting device. For example, a metal plate may be provided at the bottom surface of the base of the stand for this purpose. 
     The gaming device stand in accordance with the present invention has a number of benefits. In general, a stand is provided which provides for enhanced access to interior areas thereof, improved use of space, and a high level of security for retained coins and gaming machine power, communication and other wiring/connections. 
     A particular advantage of the invention is realized as a result of the slot stand of the invention including at least one drawer. As one aspect of operation of a gaming machine, the gaming machine dispenses coins. Coins may be dispensed as winnings or when a player “cashes-out.” Frequently, the rate at which coins are dispensed is greater than at which they are received. This is especially true when the machine is arranged to accept funds for playing a game in forms other than coins, such as paper currency, tickets or credit cards. 
     In this event, the operator of the gaming machine, such as a casino employee, must obtain coins and place them in the hopper of the gaming machine for later dispensing. This would commonly entail the employee traveling from the gaming machine to a slot booth to obtain coins, and then traveling back to the gaming machine. If the gaming machine was out of coins, the gaming machine would be unusable during this time. 
     As one aspect of the invention, hopper fill bags containing coins may be securely stored in the stand. As indicated, the stand has a variety of secure compartments in which such hopper fill bags may be stored. Because these compartments are secure, coins may be stored at the location of the gaming machine instead of remotely at the slot booth. 
     More particularly, storage of the hopper fill bags in the drawer or drawers of the slot stand of the invention, in which case a great number of additional advantages are realized. First, by storing the hopper fill bags in the drawers, access to the fill bags is greatly increased. While the hopper fill bags may be located in the coin compartment, access thereto is difficult. When full of coins, the hopper fill bags are heavy. When placed in the coin compartment, a casino employee must squat down to gain entry to the compartment, and at the same time attempt to move the heavy fill bag out of the compartment. When placed in a drawer, the casino employee may easily pull the drawer outwardly and lift the fill bag directly up. Thus, when placed in the drawer, access to the fill bag is greatly improved, as is the safety of the employee. 
     Another advantage of the invention is that in one embodiment, a separate drawer is provided for each gaming machine. In this manner, hopper fill bags can be dedicated to a specific gaming machine and not be intermingled or mixed. 
     An additional advantage is realized when the hopper fill bags are stored in the drawers separate from the coin drop compartment. In particular, the accounting for coins put into the machine and taken out of the machine can more easily be reconciled. 
     It will be understood that the above described arrangements of apparatus and the method therefrom are merely illustrative of applications of the principles of this invention and many other embodiments and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.