Patent Abstract:
A cable holding element configured for attachment to either an angled frame having internal corners, or external corners or both. The cable holding element includes a base body and rows of latching projections that project from the base body to define at least one channel area for holding cable. The latching projections each have a first section and a second section. The first section and the second section form an acute angle towards the base body. A first row of latching projections opposes a second row of latching projections. The opposing latching projections cooperate to interlock without contact, in a comb-like manner to hold cable within the cable holding element and to form guiding structure that guides cable into and out from the channel area. In an alternate embodiment, the cable holding element has a flat base body capable of attachment to a planar surface.

Full Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This patent application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/152,611, filed 12 May 2016, which is a continuation of abandoned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/099,941, filed on 7 Dec. 2013, which is a continuation of expired patent application PCT/EP2012/060739, filed on 6 Jun. 2012, which claims priority to European Patent Application No. 11450072.1, filed on 8 Jun. 2011, the disclosures of these related applications are incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The invention relates to methods and devices including cable holding elements, and particularly to cable holding elements used in kiosk-style machines. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Cable guides for gaming machines are known in the current state of technology, whereby cable strands are held together with cable ties or cable spirals. The cable strands are connected to the housing of the device by retaining plates or clips. 
         [0004]    A disadvantage of known cable guides is that disconnecting and re-connecting cable strands within gaming machine housings is difficult because manipulating cable ties and spirals often requires more space than is available in such housings. 
         [0005]    What is desired is a cable holding element in which the cable strands can be readily installed, connected, and removed again. 
         [0006]    Security is another disadvantage of the current state of technology. In gaming machines, generic fixed cable harness arrangements inside the housing of a device do fix individual cables in predictable positions. With knowledge of the position of the cable, unauthorized manipulation from outside the case is possible. A hacker can drill into the case at a suitable position to access particular cables. If a person manipulating the device knows the respective position where a cable or cable strand runs, there is a danger of this person manipulating a plurality of other devices this way. 
         [0007]    A further goal of the invention is improved device security. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0008]    The present invention provides for a cable holding device (element) adapted for use within a casino-style gaming machine, for the accommodation of one or more cables. The cable holding device includes a base body as well as a number of latching projections projecting from the base body. The latching projections extend in rows that oppose each other, whereby the latching projections and base body cooperate to define a channel area for guiding the cables. The base body is L-shaped, W-shaped, or has another shape effective at defining at least one channel area. 
         [0009]    The latching projections are configured to have ends that interlock without contact, such as in a comb-like manner. The ends of a first row of latching projections oppose and extend between the ends of a second row of latching projections to define the channel area. The latching projections are flexible to enable insertion and removal of a cable into, and out from, the channel area. 
         [0010]    The latching projections are flexible to a quick change of cable from the cable holding device with relatively little effort. Further individual cable strands may be exchanged. 
         [0011]    Thus quickly or with relatively little effort a configuration or modification of the cable route of one or several cables can be achieved, whereby the cable strands are removed from the cable holding elements inside the housing of the device and are laid in other cable holding elements in the same case. Thus it is possible to remedy manipulation very easily because the cable holding elements allow a plurality of possible configurations and thereby cable strands can be laid in a more or less random position in a device. Hereby a targeted manipulation of the device is made difficult. 
         [0012]    In addition, the invention offers the advantage that an easy and flexible installation of multiple cables and cable strands in a device housing of the same electronic device is possible. A particular advantage is given by exchanging cables, such as while exchanging wired components of the device, whereby individual cables can be very easily removed from the cable holding elements through the latching projections. 
         [0013]    The cable holding element or the cable channel does not require any separate closing or locking elements, such as closing clips, through which a simple operation is allowed and the installation time is reduced. 
         [0014]    A particular aspect of the invention foresees that the latching projections confining the channel area are L-shaped, which latching projections are at a distance opposite each other, so that the channel area features a closed and/or U-shaped channel cross-section. This advantageous embodiment of the latching projections or of the channel cross-section allows the simple laying or removal of the cable strand, or the cables, into the channel area or out of the channel area. 
         [0015]    Furthermore, it can be provided that in the longitudinal direction of the channel area the latching projections are arranged in such a manner, so that these, preferably without contact, interlock in a comb-like manner, so that the end of at least one latching projection is arranged and/or protrudes between two respectively opposite latching projections. Thereby the unintentional falling out of the cables or cable strands, caused for example by shaking, from the cable channel is prevented. 
         [0016]    It can be further provided that the latching projections are constructed to be elastically bendable respectively to be resilient, so that these can be swinging against the base body of the cable holding element and after the swinging return to their initial position. Hereby the laying of cables into the cable channel is facilitated, whereby a cable can be pressed through the intermediate area between two latching projections. 
         [0017]    A particularly advantageous embodiment of the latching projections, which prevent shifting or sliding of the cable strands from the cable channel, foresees that the latching projections are developed in a curved shape, in particular in an angled-hook shape, and feature two latching projection sections, whereby the first latching projection section projects in an angle of 70°-90°, preferably 85°-90°, in particular, exactly vertically and/or normally, from the respective area and whereby the second latching projection section continues at the distant end of the respective area of the first latching projection section and projects in an angle, in particular with an angle between 70° to 110°, preferably 90°, to the first latching projection section in direction towards the latching projections, which project from the respective areas opposite each other. 
         [0018]    A constructively particular simple embodiment of the latching projections foresees that the two latching projection sections are developed integrally, in particular developed from a flat body and/or a profile rod, that features an arc between the first and the second latching projection section. 
         [0019]    So as to facilitate the penetration of the cable strands into the cable channel of the cable holding element it can be foreseen that the two latching projection sections enclose an angle of less than or equal to 90°. 
         [0020]    So as to enable a particular simple cable conduit and enable a development of longer cable holding elements with a longer extension in cable direction it can be foreseen that the two areas of which the latching projections project run parallel to another and/or lie at one level. 
         [0021]    So as to achieve a balanced pressure of the base body of the cable channel when inserting the cables or cable strands or the removal of the cables or cable strands and to achieve a simple constructive embodiment of the cable channel it can be foreseen that the respective number of latching projections, which project from both areas, deviate by no more than one from another. 
         [0022]    So as to facilitate the positioning of the cable strands into the cable channel or the cable holding element it can be foreseen that the ends of the latching projections or the ends of the second latching projection sections are inclined towards the base body. 
         [0023]    So as to prevent an unintentional shifting or sliding of the cable strands or cables, in particular by vibrations, it can be foreseen that for each latching projection, of which the end is arranged between two latching projections projecting from the respective area opposite each other, another projecting latching projection from the opposite area is foreseen, of which the end is approximated to the end of the respective latching projection and is opposite, whereby, in particular, the front sides of the ends of the other latching projection and the latching projection are opposite each other. 
         [0024]    So as to achieve a constructively simple embodiment of such a cable channel it can be foreseen that the other latching projections have each a first latching projection section, that projects from the base body in an angle, in particular an angle of 70° to 110°, preferably 90°, and feature a second latching projection section that continues the first latching projection section and projects from the first latching projection section. 
         [0025]    A simplification of the constructive development foresees that the form and/or the alignment of the first and/or second latching projection section of the other latching projections corresponds to the form and alignment of the first and/or second latching projection sections of the latching projections. 
         [0026]    A further added or alternative simplification of the construction foresees that the length of the first latching projection section of the other latching projections corresponds to the length of the first latching projection section of the latching projections. 
         [0027]    A further simplification of the structure of the cable holding element according to the invention foresees that the latching projections projecting from the first area and/or the second area are developed and/or arranged equally, and/or that all latching projections are designed equally. 
         [0028]    For the same purpose it can be additionally or alternatively foreseen that the other latching projections projecting from the first area and/or from the second area are constructed and/or aligned equally, and that all other latching projections are developed equally. 
         [0029]    For the development of longer cable holding elements, which have a longer longitudinal extension in direction of the cable it can be foreseen that latching projections project from two areas, whereby a number of first latching projections project from the first of the two areas and a number of the second latching projections project from the second of the two areas. 
         [0030]    For the prevention of shifting and sliding of cables or cable strands from the cable channel it can be foreseen that the first latching projections project from subareas of the first area, which lie on a first straight line and/or that the second latching projections project from subareas of the second area, which lie on a second straight line, whereby the first straight line and the second straight line are preferably arranged in a parallel manner to each other. 
         [0031]    Additionally or alternatively, for the same purpose it can be foreseen that a number of the other latching projections and/or from subareas of the second area project, which lie on the first straight line, and the remaining of the other latching projections project from subareas of the second area, which lie on the second straight line. 
         [0032]    So as to obtain a space-saving construction, which prevents a twisting or jamming of cables, which are placed outside the cable holding element, it can be foreseen that between each two latching projections a respective further latching projection is arranged. 
         [0033]    Thereby it can be particularly foreseen that the second latching projection section of the latching projections, if applicable, also the second latching projection sections of the other latching projections, lie at the same level. 
         [0034]    For the reduction of material requirements of the base body it can be foreseen that the base body has at least one recess in the areas opposite the latching projections. 
         [0035]    For the stabilisation of the latching projections as well as the prevention of a breaking-off of the latching projection when inserting and extracting cable strands or cables, it can be foreseen that the base body features at least one, in particular two, in particular vertically and/or normally, projecting projections from it, of which the individual latching projections and, if applicable, the other latching projections project. 
         [0036]    For a simplified guiding of the cables it can be foreseen that the channel cross-section of the channel area narrows and/or extends at least in a subarea along the longitudinal extension of the channel area. 
         [0037]    So as to achieve a simple insertion and extraction of the cables into the cable holding element or out of the cable holding element it can be foreseen that the latching projections are developed to be elastically bendable and/or to be resilient. 
         [0038]    So as to prevent a breaking-off of the latching projection when inserting or extracting the cable strands or cables it can be foreseen that the relation of the width in longitudinal direction of the cable holding element to the thickness of the latching projections is between 4:1 to 4:1.5, in particular 4:1.3. 
         [0039]    So as to guarantee a sufficient elastic bendability it can be in particular foreseen that the latching projections, if applicable the other latching projections and/or the entire cable holding element, are made from synthetic materials, in particular polyethylene PE and/or polypropylene PP. 
         [0040]    Furthermore the invention relates to a cable holding arrangement comprehending a number of cable holding elements in accordance with the invention. 
         [0041]    So as to achieve a cabling non-identifiable or non-predictable for externals it can be foreseen that the individual cable holding elements are arranged equally aligned on a common base body. 
         [0042]    So as to achieve an easy or simple fastening of the cable holding element to a device it can be foreseen that the base body features fastening devices, in particular releasable without tools, for the fastening of the cable holding to a device, in particular with a frame of device. 
         [0043]    In order to reduce the bill of materials cost it can be foreseen that the common base body has at least one recess in the areas opposite the latching projections. 
         [0044]    For the fastening of a cable holding element in corner areas of a device it can be foreseen that the common base body forms a W-shaped angle profile and, in addition, latching projections of each of the cable holding elements project from the central bow edge of the W-shaped angle profile. 
         [0045]    Hereby a particular large cable cross-section can be achieved, if projections project from the bow edge and/or the trailing edge of which the latching projections project. 
         [0046]    A particularly advantageous adjustment in the corner areas of a right-angled device is achieved if the W-shaped angle profile in the area of the central bow edge, preferably also in both trailing edges, features a right angle. 
         [0047]    For the fastening of a cable holding to evenly developed surfaces of the device it can be foreseen that the common base body is developed in a flat manner and/or even manner and the individual latching projections project from the same side of the base body. 
         [0048]    In order to achieve a plurality of different cabling possibilities and thereby counteract an intentional manipulation by third parties it can be foreseen that the individual cable holding elements are arranged equally and, if applicable, are arranged side by side and/or consecutively. 
         [0049]    For the same purpose it can be additionally or alternatively foreseen that the first and the second straight line are arranged in a parallel manner to each other. 
         [0050]    Finally the invention refers to an electronic device, in particular a betting and gaming machine or a betting and gaming device that at least comprehends a cable holding according to invention or at least a plurality of cable holding elements according to invention. Such an electronic device has a plurality of cabling possibilities, which allow the manufacturer of the device to equip his devices with different cable positions so as to prevent a manipulation occurring always in the same manner of his betting and gaming devices. 
         [0051]    In the following four embodiments of the invention are described in greater detail with the following drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0052]      FIG. 1  shows a cable holding with a W-shaped cross-section in an angled view. 
           [0053]      FIG. 2  shows the cable holding shown in  FIG. 1  from a different perspective in an angled view. 
           [0054]      FIG. 3  shows the cable holding shown in  FIG. 1  in a lateral view. 
           [0055]      FIG. 4  shows the cable holding shown in  FIG. 1  in a lateral view from the other side. 
           [0056]      FIG. 5  shows the cable holding shown in  FIG. 1  from an above view. 
           [0057]      FIG. 6  shows the cable holding shown in  FIG. 1  from a below view. 
           [0058]      FIG. 7  shows the cable holding shown in  FIG. 1  with a view of the channel area. 
           [0059]      FIG. 8  shows the interior of an electronic device, in the corner area of which a cable holding element, as shown in  FIG. 1 , is installed. 
           [0060]      FIG. 9  shows a second embodiment of the invention in an angled view. 
           [0061]      FIG. 10  shows the embodiment of the invention shown in  FIG. 9  from a different perspective in an angled view. 
           [0062]      FIG. 11  shows the embodiment of the invention shown in  FIG. 9  from the side. 
           [0063]      FIG. 12  shows the embodiment of the invention shown in  FIG. 9  from the opposite side. 
           [0064]      FIG. 13  shows the embodiment of the invention shown in  FIG. 9  with a view of the channel area. 
           [0065]      FIG. 14  shows the embodiment of the invention shown in  FIG. 9  from above. 
           [0066]      FIG. 15  shows the embodiment of the invention shown in  FIG. 9  from below. 
           [0067]      FIG. 16  shows the interior of a device with a number of cable holdings installed therein, as shown in  FIG. 9 . 
           [0068]      FIG. 17  shows a third embodiment of the invention from an angled view. 
           [0069]      FIG. 18  shows a fourth embodiment of the invention from an angled view. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0070]    In  FIG. 1  a first embodiment according to invention of a cable holding  50  with two cable holding elements  1  and  1 ′ is shown. The cable holding elements  1  and  1 ′ feature a common base body  100 , whereby two channel areas  13  and  13 ′ divided from each other are developed. The base body  100  features a W-shaped angle profile  101 , which features a central bow edge  102  as well as two trailing edges  103 . The central bow edge  102  lies parallel to the trailing edges  103  and lies with these at the same level. 
         [0071]    Both channel areas  13  and  13 ′ are each confined by one half of the W-shaped profile  101  as well as the projections  17  and  18 . The projections  17  and  18  project from the bow edge  102  and the trailing edges  103 . In one embodiment, the projections  17  and  18  project from the central bow edge  102 . In another embodiment, the lateral projections  17  and  18  project from one of the two respective trailing edges  103 . 
         [0072]    These projections  17  and  18  in the present embodiment are developed normally in an upright manner to the level determined by the central bow edge  102  as well as both trailing edges  103  and are attached to the central bow edge  102  or to the trailing edges  103  to extend the edges  102  and  103 , respectively. The projections  17  and  18  extend in a profile longitudinal direction of the W-shaped profile  101  across the entire length of the profile and stand normally at the level determined by the central bow edge  102  and the trailing edge  103 . 
         [0073]    At the respective distant end of the bow edge  102  or the respective trailing edge  103  of the respective projection  17  and  18  a surface with an area  111  and  121  is developed, from which individual projections  11  and  12  project. 
         [0074]    The first cable holding element  1  confines the first channel area  13 . The first channel area  13  is on the distant end of the trailing edge  103  of the projection  17  and  18 . The areas on the central projections  17  and  18  are referred to as areas opposite to each other  111  and  121 . Similarly, in relation to the second cable holding element  1 ′ that confines the second channel area  13 ′, the area on the distant end of the trailing edge  103  of the projection  17  and  18  and the area on the central projection  17  and  18  are referred to as areas opposite to each other  111  and  121 . 
         [0075]      FIG. 7  shows the latching projections  11  and  12 . The latching projections  11  and  12  each include a respective first latching projection section  113  and  123 , as well as a respective second latching projection section  114  and  123 . The latching projections  11  and  12  are developed in an L-shape or in an angled-hook shape and feature each two respective latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123 , and  124 . Each latching projection  11  and  12 , respectively features a first latching projection section  113  and  123  and a second latching projection section  114  and  124 . 
         [0076]    The first latching projection sections  113  and  123  stand vertically and/or normally to the areas  111  and  121  from which they project. The second latching projection sections  114  and  124  continue the first latching projections  113  and  123  at its respective distant end. 
         [0077]    The latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123 ,  124  are developed integrally and are developed from a flat body. In the present case curved profile rods are used as latching projections  11  and  12 . These profile rods or flat bodies feature between the first and the second latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123 , and  124  each have an arc  115  and  125 . The arcs  115  and  125  are developed in such a manner that the two latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123 , and  124  enclose an angle of no less than 90°. Preferably, the angle is approximately 75°. 
         [0078]    The second latching projection sections  114  and  124  project from the end of the first latching projection section in direction of the respective opposite area  111  and  121 . The individual latching projections  11  and  12  are arranged in a comb-like manner, that is they are arranged at a distance from each other and are aligned equally, whereby all latching projections  11  and  12  projecting from the same area  111  and  121  of the first cable holding element  1  and  1 ′ have the same distance to the respectively adjacently arranged latching projections  11  and  12 . 
         [0079]    The latching projections  11  and  12  project from points and/or subareas on the areas  111  and  121 , which are each arranged on a common straight line  116  and  117 . The latching projections  11  and  12  opposite each other interlock without contact, whereby the ends  110  and  120  of the latching projections  11  and  12  or the ends  110  and  120   FIG. 2 . are approximated to the second latching projections  114  and  124  without contact. 
         [0080]    Each end  110  and  120  of the respective latching projections  11  and  12  is arranged between two latching projections  11  and  12  of the respective opposite area  111  and  121  or protrudes into the intermediate area between two projecting latching projections  11  and  12  of the opposite area  11  and  12 . The individual ends  110  and  120  of the latching projections  11  and  12  or the second latching projection sections  114  and  124  are arranged so that these do not contact the projecting latching projections  11  and  12  of the opposite areas  111  and  121 . In the present embodiment all latching projections  11  and  12  are equally developed and aligned and do not contact each other. 
         [0081]    On the projections  17  and  18 , which project from the central bow edge  102 , are latching elements  11  and  12 . These latching elements  11  and  12  define the first channel area  13  and the other channel area  13 ′. The side facing away from the central bow edge  102  of the central projections  17  and  18  develops thereby an area  111  and  121  from which latching projections  11  and  12  project to define of the first channel area  13  as well as for the defining of the second channel area  13 ′. 
         [0082]    The arrangement of the latching projections  11  and  12  occurs in such a manner that the channel areas  13  and  13 ′ features a close and/or U-shaped channel cross-section. 
         [0083]    In one embodiment of the invention, both of the two cable holding elements  1  and  1 ′ of the cable holding  50  include each four first latching projections  11  and four second latching projections  12 . The ends of the second latching projection sections  123  and  124  are inclined towards the common base body  100  or to the level determined by the trailing edges  103  as well as the central bow edge  102 . 
         [0084]    Four fastening elements  107  are arranged in the area of the W-shaped profile  101 . The W-shaped profile facilitates a tool-free and releasable fastening of the cable holder  50  with a device  60  or with its frame  61 . This achieves the goal of simple assembly. 
         [0085]    A preferred arrangement of the cable holder  50  shown in  FIGS. 1 to 7  is shown in  FIG. 8 . The device in this case includes a frame  61  and multiple wall elements, which form a device housing and encloses a device interior. 
         [0086]    The individual edges of the W-shaped profile  101  of the cable holder  50  are aligned at a right angle to each other. 
         [0087]      FIG. 8 . shows the cable holder  50  mounted on an angled corner profile of the frame  61  of a device  60 , whereby the individual fastening means  107  engage into the recesses on the corner profile of the frame  61  and thus allow a releasable fastening of the cable holder  50  on the frame  61 . In addition,  FIG. 8  shows a cable  2  that is guided into one of the two channel areas  13  of the cable holder  50 . 
         [0088]    The base body  10  and  100  of the cable holder  50  features a recess at the areas opposite the latching projections  11  and  12 . Furthermore, additional recesses are foreseen in which the fastening means  107  for the fastening at the frame  61  of the device  60  are located. The channel cross-section of both channel areas  13  and  13 ′ of the embodiment of the invention shown in  FIGS. 1 to 7  remains the consistent across the entire longitudinal direction of the respective channel areas  13  and  13 ′. 
         [0089]    The latching projections  11  and  12  in the present embodiment of the invention are developed to be elastically bendable and to be resilient and consist of synthetic materials such as polyethylene. The latching projections  11  and  12  have a spring effect so that the latching projections  11  and  12  may flex and return to their initial position after their deflection and swivelling in the course of the insertion of the cables  2  into the channel areas  13  and  13 ′. The consistency of the polyethylene is thereby selected in such a manner so that the latching elements have a bending stiffness and elasticity that allow a swivelling of the individual latching elements  11  and  12  so that a cable can be inserted through pressure onto the latching elements  11  and  12  in the channel areas  13  and  13 ′. 
         [0090]    Alternatively the cable holding element  1  can also be made from polypropylene or other elastically bendable and resilient synthetic materials. In the present case not only the latching projections  11  and  12  but also the entire cable holder  50  may be developed from synthetic materials. 
         [0091]    In  FIGS. 9 to 16  a second embodiment according to invention of a cable holding  50  is shown. The second embodiment of the invention corresponds with the first embodiment of the invention with the exception of the deviations outlined below. 
         [0092]    The common base body  100  of this cable holding  50  is developed in a flat and even manner The individual latching projections  11  and  12  are also arranged on areas  111  and  121  on projections  17  and  18 , which run in a parallel manner to the level determined by the base body  100 . 
         [0093]    The common base body  100  features a number of fastening means  107  with which the cable holding  50  can be arranged at the frame  61  of a device  60  releasable without tools. The cable holding  50  defines two channel areas  13  and  13 ′, which are arranged in a parallel manner, and which are divided from each other by centrally arranged projections  17  and  18 . The three projections  17  and  18  of the base body  100  project from it and carry at the distant end to the base body  100  the individual latching projections. The form, shape and alignment of the individual latching projections  11  and  12  are otherwise identical to the first embodiment. 
         [0094]    The essential difference between the first and the second embodiment of the invention is that the base body  100  of the second embodiment features a flat and even shape. The projections are directly attached to the level of the base body  100 . Due to the form of the base body  100  the cable holding  50  as shown in the second embodiment of the invention, can be preferably used for assembly at even supports. 
         [0095]    In  FIG. 16  an interior cabling of a device  60  is represented in more detail, whereby a plurality of cable holdings, as shown in the second embodiment of the invention in  FIGS. 9 to 15 , is used. In contrast to the embodiments of cable holdings  50  shown in  FIGS. 9 to 15 , the embodiment of  FIG. 16  has cable holdings  50  having four channel areas divided from each other, and which are arranged on a common base body  10 . 
         [0096]    The cable holdings  50  are bolted via the fastening means  107  of the base plate  10  to or with housing parts of the device  60 . Alternatively, a tool-free fastening can be foreseen, for example, the fastening means  107  may be formed by a bore, into which flexible segment sections are arranged so that a rod-shaped body inserted into the bore is fixed through the segment section in a barbed-hook manner The flexible segment section can be developed from the same material as the base plate  10 . 
         [0097]    As is apparent from the area bearing the mark A in  FIG. 16  the guiding of cables  2 ,  2 ′,  2 ″, and  2 ″′ or cable harnesses in device  60  can occur in different ways. The cable holding  50  features four different channel areas  13 , whereby all of the cables  2 ,  2 ′,  2 ″, and  2 ″′ only run through two of the four channel areas  13 , while the remaining channel areas  13  of the cable holding  50  are free of cables  2 . A targeted manipulation of a device  60  would however only be possible, if a person performing a manipulation knows the exact position of the individual cables  2 ,  2 ′,  2 ″, and  2 ″′ and can conduct an effective interruption from outside. But if the cables  2 ,  2 ′,  2 ″, and  2 ″′ are during the production always guided in a different way, then an effective manipulation is made considerably difficult. Through the simple disconnecting and relaying of cables  2 ,  2 ′,  2 ″,and  2 ″′ into or out of the channel area  13  a simple new cabling is possible and a manipulation from outside of the individual cables  2 ,  2 ′,  2 ″, and  2 ″′ is made more difficult. 
         [0098]    The first as well as the second embodiment are developed symmetrically around a level which runs through the central projections  17  and  18  and stands normally at the level determined by the trailing edges. 
         [0099]    A third embodiment of the invention of a cable holding  50  is shown in  FIG. 17  and features an even and flat common base body  100 , which has four fastening means  107  for the fastening of the common base body  100  or the cable holding  50  to the frame  61  of a device  60 . On the common base body  10  there are four cable holding elements  1 , which are aligned equidistant and parallel with each other. 
         [0100]    Each of the cable holding elements  1  features two projections  17  and  18  which project from the common base body  100  almost vertically or normally. At the end of the projections  17  and  18  distant from the base body  100  latching projections  11  and  12  as well as other latching projections  15  and  16  project. As shown in the previous embodiments the latching projections  11  and  12  comprehend each a first latching projection section  113  and  114  that essentially runs normally with an angle of 70-90°, in particular 85-90°, to the base body  10 . Arcs  115  and  125  represent the curvature of the latching projections  11  and  12  and the second latching projection sections  114  and  124  run almost parallel to the base body  10 . 
         [0101]    The latching projection  11  and  12  project in a comb-like manner from the respective projections  17  and  18 , whereby the ends  110  and  120  of the respective latching projections  11  and  12  protrude or are aligned each between two opposite areas  111  and  121  or from the projection  17  and  18  opposite each other. 
         [0102]    Those areas  111  and  121  of the cable holding  50  at the end of the projections  17  and  18  distant to the base body  10  run in a parallel manner and lie at the same level. As in the two previous examples the number of latching projections  11  and  12 , which project from the areas  111  and  121 , are equal. 
         [0103]    Alternatively, it can naturally be foreseen for all embodiments of the invention that a deviation between the number of latching projection  11 , which project from the first area  111 , from the number of latching projections  12 , which project from the second area  121 , is different. It is particularly advantageous if the respective number of latching projections  11  and  12  projecting from both areas  111  and  121  preferably differ by 1. In particular, in any case a deviation no greater than 1 is possible without detriment to the functionality of the cable holding  50 . 
         [0104]      FIG. 17  shows an embodiment of the invention where all second latching projection sections  114  and  124  lie at the same level, whereby this level runs parallel to the level of the base body  10 . 
         [0105]    For each latching projections  11  and  12 , of which the end is arranged between two latching projections  11  and  12  of the respective opposite areas  111  and  121 , other projecting latching projections  15  and  16  are foreseen, upon which, the ends  151  and  161  are approximated to the end of the respective latching projections  11  and  12  and lies opposite. In the present embodiment also the other latching projections  15 ,  16  lie at the same level, which runs parallel to the base body  10 , in which also the second latching projections  123  and  124  lie. The front sides of the ends  110 ,  120   151 , and  161  of the latching projections  11  and  12  and the other latching projections  15  and  16  lie opposite each other. 
         [0106]    The other latching projections  15  and  16  feature a first latching projection section  151  and  161  that projects from the base body  10  or the projection  17  and  18  of the base body  10  essentially normally at an angle of 70°-90°, in particular 85°-90°. The second latching projections  152  and  162 , of the other latching projections  15  and  16 , extends the first latching projection section  151  and  161  at its end distant to the base body  10 . The other latching projections  15  and  16  feature an arc  153  and  163 , that connects the respective first and second latching projection sections  151 ,  152 ,  161 , and  162 , whereby the first and the second latching projection sections  151 ,  152 ,  161 , and  162  are in an almost right angle to each other. The form and alignment of the first and/or second latching projection sections  151 ,  152 ,  161 , and  162  of the other latching projections  15  and  16  corresponds to the form and alignment of the first and second latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123 , and  124  of the latching projections  11  and  12 . 
         [0107]    The length of the first latching projection sections  151  and  161  of the other latching projections  15  and  16  thereby corresponds to the length of the first latching projection sections  113  and  123  of the latching projections  11  and  12 . The form and alignment of the first and second latching projection sections  151 ,  152 ,  161 ,  162  of the other latching projections  15  and  16  correspond to the form and alignment of the first and/or second latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123 ,  124  of the latching projections  11  and  12 . The other latching projections  15  and  16  and the latching projections  11  and  12  are constructed equally and aligned equally. 
         [0108]    As with both previous embodiments, each cable holding element  1  features areas  111  and  121  on the projections  17  and  18 , respectively. The latching projections  11  and  12  extend and project from the areas  111  and  121 . Those parts of the areas  111  and  121  from which the latching projections project lie each on a straight line  116 ,  117 . Each cable holding element  1  of the cable holding  50  shown in  FIG. 17  features two projections  17  and  18 . 
         [0109]    On the first of the two projections  17  a first area  111  is foreseen on which a number of first latching projections  11  project in direction of the second opposite projection  18 . Similarly, on the second projection  18  a second area  121  is foreseen from which a number of the second latching projections  12  project in direction of the first projection  17 . All first latching projections  11  project from subareas of the first area  111 , which lie on the first straight line  116 . All of the second latching projection  12  project from subareas of the second area  121  of the second projection  18 , which lie on the second straight line  126 . 
         [0110]    All first straight lines  116  and second straight lines  126  of the cable holding elements  1  of the cable holding  50  in  FIG. 17  lie in a parallel manner to each other. 
         [0111]    Also the other latching projections  15 ,  16  project each from subareas of the first and second area  111  and  121 , which lie on the respective first of second straight line  116  and  126 . A number of the other latching projections  15  and  16 , hereinafter called the first other latching projections  15 , project from subareas of the first area  111 , which lie on the first straight line  116 . The remaining other latching projections, hereinafter called the second other latching projections  16 , project from subareas of the second area  121 , which lie on the second straight line  126 . Between two latching projections  11  and  12 , which lie adjacently on one area  111  and  121  a respective other latching projection  15 ,  16  is arranged. The second latching projection sections  114  and  124  of the latching projections  11  and  12  and the second latching projection sections  152  and  162  of the other latching projections  15  and  16  lie at the same level. 
         [0112]    The individual latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123 , and  124  are developed integrally from a flat body or a profile rod, which has between the first and the second latching projection section  113 ,  114 ,  123 , and  124  an arc  115 ,  125 . The latching projections  11  and  12  are developed to be elastically bendable and to be resilient, whereby the relation of the width in longitudinal direction of the channel or the cable holding element  1  to the thickness of the latching projections  11  and  12  is between 4:1 to 4:1.5, in the present embodiment the preferable value is 4:1.3. 
         [0113]    The entire cable holding  50  consists in the present embodiment of polyethylene. The consistency of the polyethylene is thereby selected in such a manner so that the latching elements have a bending stiffness and elasticity that allow a swivelling of the individual latching elements  11  and  12 , so that a cable can be inserted through pressure onto the latching elements  11  and  12  in the channel area  13  and  13 ′. In addition, in this particular embodiment of the invention the entire cable holding  50  is developed integrally. 
         [0114]    Alternatively, the cable holding  50  shown in  FIG. 17  can also be made from polypropylene or other synthetic materials that have a similar consistency or material property, in particular elasticity and bending stiffness. 
         [0115]    Another fourth embodiment of the invention shown in  FIG. 18  refers to a single cable holding element  1  with a base body  10 . The cable holding element  1  and  1 ′ develops a divided channel area  13 . The base body  10  is developed in a plate-shaped manner with a base plate where at the trailing edges  103 , the projections  17 ,  18  project. 
         [0116]    These projections  17  and  18  are in the present embodiment developed normally in an upright manner to the level determined by the base plate and are attached to the central bow edge  102  or to the trailing edges  103  and continue these. The projections  17  and  18  extend in profile longitudinal direction across the entire length of the cable holding element  1  and stand normally at the level determined by the trailing edges  103 . 
         [0117]    At the respective end, distant to the respective trailing edge  103 , of the respective projection  17  and  18  a surface with an area  111  and  121  is developed, from which individual latching projections  11  and  12  project. 
         [0118]    In relation to the first cable holding element  1 , which confines the first channel area  13 , the areas  111  and  121  on the distant end of the trailing edge  103  of the projection  17  and  18  and the area on the central projection  17  and  18  are referred to as areas opposite to each other  111  and  121 . 
         [0119]    In the present embodiment the latching projections  11  and  12 —as well as with the remaining embodiments—comprehend each a first latching projection section  113  and  123  as well as a second latching projection section  114  and  124 . The latching projections  11  and  12  are developed in an L-shaped or in an angled-hook shape manner and feature each two respective latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123 , and  124 . Each latching projection  11  and  12  features a first latching projection section  113  and  123  and a second latching projection section  114  and  124 . The first latching projection sections  113  and  123  stand vertically i.e. normally to the areas  111  and  121  from which they project. The second latching projection section  114  and  124  continues the first latching projection  113  and  123  at its distant end of its respective area  111  and  121 . 
         [0120]    The latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123 , and  124  are developed integrally and are developed from a flat body. In the present case curved profile rods are used as latching projections  11  and  12 . These profile rods or flat bodies feature between the first and the second latching projection section  113 ,  114 ,  123  and  124  each an angle section or an arc  115 ,  125 . This arc  115 ,  125  can be developed in such a manner that the two latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123  and  124  enclose an angle of no less than 90°, in the present case approximately 75°. 
         [0121]    The second latching projection sections  123  and  124  project from the end of the first latching projection section in direction of the respective opposite area  111  and  121 . The individual latching projections  11  and  12  are arranged in a comb-like manner, that is they are arranged at a distance from each other and are aligned equally, whereby latching projections  11  and  12  projecting all from the same area  111  and  121  of the first cable holding element  1  and  1 ′ have each the same distance to the respectively adjacently arranged latching projections  11  and  12 . 
         [0122]    The latching projections  11  and  12  project from point on the areas  111  and  121 , which each latching projection  11  and  12  are arranged on a common straight line  116  and  117 , respectively. The latching projections  11  and  12  opposite each other interlock without contact, whereby the ends  110 ,  120  of the latching projections  11  and  122  or the ends  110  and  120  of the second latching projection section  114  and  124  are approximated to each other without contact. 
         [0123]    Each end  110  and  120  of the respective latching projection  11  and  12  is arranged between two latching projections  11  and  12  of the respective opposite area  111  and  121  or protrudes into the intermediate area between two projecting latching projections  11  and  12  of the opposite area  11  and  12 . The individual ends  110  and  120  of the latching projections  11  and  12  or the second latching projection sections  114  and  124  are arranged so that these do not contact the projecting latching projections  11  and  12  of the opposite area  111  and  121 . In the present embodiment all latching projections  11  and  12  are equally developed and aligned and do not contact each other. 
         [0124]    The alignment of the latching projections  11  and  12  occurs in such a manner that the channel area  13  features a closed cross-section, or a U-shaped channel cross-section. 
         [0125]    In the present embodiment the cable holding element  1  comprehends in each case four first latching projections  11  and four second latching projections  12 . The ends of the second latching projection sections  123  and  124  are inclined towards the common base body  100  or to the level determined by the trailing edges  103 . 
         [0126]    For simple assembly two fastening elements  107  are arranged in the area of the base plate, and which facilitate the tool-free and releasable fastening of the cable holding  50  to a and/or with device  60  and/or with its frame  61 . 
         [0127]    The latching projections  11  and  12  in the present embodiment of the invention are developed to be elastically bendable and to be resilient and consist of synthetic materials, namely polyethylene. The consistency of the polyethylene is thereby selected in such a manner so that the latching elements feature a bending stiffness and elasticity that allow a swivelling of the individual latching elements  11  and  12 , so that a cable  2  can be inserted through pressure onto the latching elements  11  and  12  in the channel area  13 . After the bending the latching elements  11  and  12  return to their initial position. Alternatively, the cable holding element  1  can also be made from polyethylene or other elastically bendable and resilient synthetic materials. 
         [0128]    When inserting a cable  2  the latching projections  11  and  12  are bent by the pressure of the cable  2  in direction of the base body  10  or the common base body  11  and let the cable  2  enter the channel cross-section. If the cable is in the channel cross-section the latching elements  11  return to their initial position due to their elasticity. The latching projections  11  and  12  can thus be resiliently or elastically swivelled at one level normal to the longitudinal direction of the cable holding element  1 . 
         [0129]    The shown flat-formed latching projections  11  and  12  project from the areas  111  and  121  and confine the channel area  13 . The latching projections  11  and  12  are developed in a bent manner as profile parts and feature in their longitudinal direction a flat profile with a constant cross-section. The proceed direction of the latching projection  11  and  12  proceeds at one level normal to the longitudinal direction of the cable holding element  1 . The flat profile has in longitudinal direction of the cable holding element  1  an essentially greater extension than in a direction normal to the longitudinal direction of the cable holding element  1 . As already mentioned, a relation of 4:1 to 4:1.5, in particular 4:1.3, between the extension of the maximum dimension of the flat profile of the latching projection  11  and  12  in longitudinal direction of the cable holding element  1  and the dimension of the profile of latching projection  11  and  12  in a direction normal thereto is preferable. 
         [0130]    An advantageous embodiment is given in the form of a cable holding element  1  for the accommodation of one or multiple cables  2  comprehending a base body  10  as well as a number of latching projections  11  and  12  projecting from the base body  10 , that project from areas  111  and  121  opposite each other of the base body  10 , whereby the latching projections  11  and  12  and, if applicable, the base body  10  define a channel area  13  for the guiding of cables  2 , characterised in that the latching projections  11  and  12  preferably interlock without contact i.e. in a comb-like manner, so that the end  110 ,  120  of at least one of the latching projections  11  and  12 , which project from one area  111  and  121 , is arranged and/or protrudes between two latching projections  11  and  12  projecting from the respective opposite area  111  and  121 . 
         [0131]    A particularly advantageous embodiment is further given in the form of a cable holding element as aforesaid, characterised in that the latching projections  11  and  12  confining the channel area  13  are formed in an L-shape, which are at a distance opposite each other, so that the channel area  13  features a closed cross-section, or a U-shaped channel cross-section. In longitudinal direction of the channel area  13  the latching projections  11  and  12  are arranged in such a manner that these interlock, preferably without contact, in a comb-like manner, so that the end  110 ,  120  of at least one of the latching projections  11  and  12  is arranged/protrudes between two latching projections opposite each other  11  and  12 . The latching projections  11  and  12  are configured to be elastically bendable and to be resilient, so that these can be swivelled against the base body  10  of the cable holding element  1  and after the swivelling return to their initial position. 
         [0132]    A particularly advantageous embodiment is further given in the form of a cable holding element  1  as aforesaid, characterised in that the latching projections  11  and  12  are developed in a curved shape, in particular in an angled-hook shape, and feature two latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123 ,  124 , whereby the first latching projection section  113 ,  123  projects in an angle of 70°-90°, preferably 85°-90°, in particular exactly vertically and/or normally, from the respective area  111  and  121  and whereby the second latching projection section  114 ,  124  continues at the distant end of the respective area of the first latching projection section  113 ,  123  and projects in an angle, in particular in an angle between 70° to 110°, preferably 90°, to the first latching projection section  113 ,  123  in direction of the latching projections  11  and  12 , which project from the respective areas  111  and  121  opposite each other, and/or that the two latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123 ,  124  are developed integrally, in particular from a flat body and/or a profile rod, which feature between the first and the second latching projection section  113 ,  114 ,  123 ,  124  an arc  115 ,  125 . 
         [0133]    A particularly advantageous embodiment is further given in the form of a cable holding element  1  as aforesaid, characterised in that the two latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123 ,  124  enclose an angle of no less than or equal to 90°, and/or that the two areas  111  and  121  from which the latching projections  11  and  12  project run parallel to another and/or lie at one level, and/or that the respective number of latching projections  11  and  12 , which project from the two areas  111  and  121 , deviate by no more than one, and/or that the ends of the latching projections  11  and  12  or the ends of the second latching projection sections  123 ,  124  are inclined towards the base body  10 . 
         [0134]    A particularly advantageous embodiment is further given in the form of a cable holding element  1  as aforesaid, characterised in that for each latching projection  11  and  12 , of which the end is arranged between two projecting latching projections  11  and  12  of the respective opposite area  111  and  121 , another projecting latching projection  15 ,  16  from the opposite area  111  and  121  is foreseen, of which the end  150 ,  160  is approximated to the end of the respective latching projection  11  and  12  and lies opposite, whereby in particular the front sides of the ends  110 ,  120   150 ,  160  of the other latching projections  15 ,  16  and the latching projection  11  and  12  lie opposite each other. 
         [0135]    A particularly advantageous embodiment is further given in the form of a cable holding element  1  as aforesaid, characterised in that the other latching projections  15 ,  16  each feature a first latching projection section  151 ,  161 , that projects from the base body  10  in an angle, in particular in an angle of 70°-90°, preferably 90°, and features a second latching projection section  152 ,  162 , that continues the first latching projection section  151 ,  152  and projects from the first latching projection section  151 ,  152 , that in particular the form and/or alignment of the first and/or second latching projection section  151 ,  152 ,  161 ,  162  of the other latching projections  15 ,  16  corresponds to the form and alignment of the first and/or second latching projection sections  113 ,  114 ,  123 ,  124  of the latching projections  11  and  12 , and that in particular the length of the first latching projection section  151 ,  161  of the other latching projections  15 ,  16  corresponds to the length of the first latching projection section  113 ,  123  of the latching projections  11  and  12 . 
         [0136]    A particularly advantageous embodiment is further given in the form of a cable holding element  1  as aforesaid, characterised in that the latching projections  11  and  12  projecting from the first area  111  and/or from the second area  121  are developed and/or aligned equally, and/or that all other latching projections  11  and  12  are developed equally, and/or that the other latching projections  15 ,  16  projecting from the first area  111  and/or from the second area  121  are developed and/or aligned equally, and/or that all other latching projections  15 ,  16  are developed equally. 
         [0137]    A particularly advantageous embodiment is further given in the form of a cable holding element  1  as aforesaid, characterised in that the latching projections  11  and  12  project from two areas  111  and  121 , whereby a number of first latching projections  11  project from the first of both areas  111  and a number of second latching projections  12  project from the second of the two areas  121 , and/or that the first latching projections  11  project from subareas of the first area  111 , which lie on a first straight line  116  and/or that the second latching projections  12  project from subareas of the second area  121 , which lie on a second straight line  126 , whereby the first straight line  116  and the second straight line  126  are preferably aligned in a parallel manner to each other, and/or that a number of the other latching projections  15 ,  16  and/or form subareas of the second area  121  project, which lie on the first straight line  116 , and the remaining of the other latching projections  16  project from subareas of the second area  121 , which lie on the second straight line  126 , and/or that between each of the two latching projections  11  and  12  a respective other latching projection  15 ,  16  is arranged, and/or that the second latching projection sections  114 ,  124  of the latching projections  11  and  12 , if applicable, also the second latching projection sections  152 ,  162  of the other latching projections  15 ,  16  lie at the same level, and/or that the base body  10  features in the areas opposite the latching projections  11  and  12  at least one recess  105 . 
         [0138]    A particularly advantageous embodiment is further given in the form of a cable holding element  1  as aforesaid, characterised in that the base body  10  features at least one, in particular two, in particular vertically and/or normally, projecting projections  17 ,  18  from it, of which the individual latching projections  11  and  12  and, if applicable, the other latching projections project  15 / 16 , and/or that the channel cross-section of the channel area  13  narrows and/or extends at least in a subarea along the longitudinal extension of the channel area  13 , and/or that the latching projections  11  and  12  are developed to be elastically bendable and/or to be resilient, and/or that the relation of the width in longitudinal direction of the cable holding element  1  to the thickness of the latching projections  11  and  12  is between 4:1 to 4:1.5, in particular 4:1.3. 
         [0139]    A particularly advantageous embodiment is further given in the form of a cable holding element  1  as aforesaid, characterised in that the latching projections  11  and  12 , if applicable, the other latching projections  15 ,  16  and/or the entire cable holding element  1 , are made from synthetic materials, in particular polyethylene PE and/or polypropylene PP. 
         [0140]    A particularly advantageous embodiment is further given in the form of a cable holding  50  comprehending a number of cable holding elements  1  as aforesaid, characterised in that the individual cable holding elements  1  are arranged equally aligned on a common base body  100 , whereby preferably the base body  100  features fastening means  107  for, in particular releasable without tools, fastening of cable holdings  50  to a device, in particular with a frame  61  of a device  60 , and/or that the common base body  100  in the areas opposite of the latching projections  11  and  12  features at least one recess  105 . 
         [0141]    A particularly advantageous embodiment is further given in the form of a cable holding  50  as aforesaid, comprehending in particular two cable holding elements  1 , characterised in that the common base body  100  develops a W-shaped angle profile  101 , whereby the latching projections  11  and  12  of the two cable holding elements  1  project from the central bow edge  102  of the W-shaped angle profile  101  and, in addition, latching projections  11  and  12  of each of the cable holding elements  1  project from the trailing edges  103  of the W-shaped angle profile, and whereby, if applicable, projections project from the bow edge  102  and/or the trailing edge  103 , of which the latching projections project  11  and  12 , and/or whereby, if applicable, the W-shaped angle profile  101  features in the area of the central bow edge  102 , preferably also in both trailing edges  103 ,  104 , a right angle. 
         [0142]    A particularly advantageous embodiment is further given in the form of a cable holding  50  as aforesaid, characterised in that the common base body  100  is developed in a flat and/or even manner and the individual latching projections  11  and  12  project towards the same side from the base body  100 , and/or that the individual cable holding elements  1  on the base body  100  are arranged equally and, if applicable, are arranged side by side and/or consecutively, and/or that the first and second straight line  116 ,  117  are arranged in a parallel manner to each other. 
         [0143]    A particularly advantageous embodiment is further given in the form of an electronic device, in particular betting and/or gaming device, with a cable holding  50  as aforesaid or with a plurality of cable holding elements  1  as aforesaid.

Technology Classification (CPC): 5