Minimalist arcade cabinet concept (New design pics - June 26th)

[shponglefan]

Few years ago I was all set to build to a full-sized, traditional arcade cabinet... until I realized I had nowhere to put it.  Few years later I have the itch to build something again, but smaller, lighter and more portable.

After searching online for alternatives, I came across the Vewlix-style cabinets and decided to use that concept, albeit a little more "open concept".  Therefore, I came up with this (note: NOT to scale):



Essentially it's less of a cabinet and more of a stand.  The plan is to use a widescreen LCD monitor (27 inch most likely) and build a control panel with swappable tops (more later).  Just underneath the control panel box, I was thinking a shelf for a PC (probably mini ITX sized) and a slideout out keyboard.

Haven't figured out the audio yet, but I was thinking a couple speakers maybe just underneath the monitor or possibly beside it.  This will depend on the speakers ultimately chosen.  And if I go for a 2.1 setup, I figure the subwoofer and sit in the base in between the legs.

My main concern of this design is withstanding typical arcade use and abuse.  Obviously it will need some cross-bracing to prevent the whole thing from crashing down; but I'm not sure how much yet.

For the control panel itself, I'd previously come up with a modular design concept.  Similar to some of the modular panels, except I was planning to have the entire control panel top as a single solid piece which could detach and be replaced with another panel top.  Interfaces and button/stick wiring would be affixed underneath the top of the panel.  Only USB and/or other cables would be dangling off to connect inside the control panel box.  Obviously this means making more than one full sized panel is going to cost more; but it also allows for the typical printed graphics which other modular designs can't have.

Regarding the control panel, since I plan to have replaceable tops, i was thinking possibly a strip of buttons underneath the monitor for common functions might be useful rather than duplicating them on every panel.  Namely things like Esc, Enter, tab, pause and whatever else I can think of.

Anyway, that's currently the idea I'm tossing around.  If anyone has any suggestions or comments, they are welcome.  And are there any similar designs out there?  I've tried Google searching, but other than general Vewlix inspired cabs, can't find anything quite the same.

[ark_ader]

I like the initial design.  The problem will be starting on the build and finding out that a design change is needed for stability or adding speakers, cabling etc.

I think you are on to a pretty hot design and I think you should refrain from making it too arcade orientated and more of an oddity.  Unique designs are so refreshing.   

Your build is what you want it to be, not to please the masses.  I can see a nice 32 inch display, metal framework, a kick ass ITX mainboard or a modded Xbox that will kick out 720p.

Lots of room for controls and looks comfortable standing or sitting. 

I would be very interested in the build process, and I hope you take the project on. 

[BobA]

The design is interesting but will not be very sturdy unless you can fill the back of the open square at the front or the back.   This will give it alot more support.

[AGarv]

What about angling in the supports for more of a pyramid shape?  It may affect stability unless you add re-enforcements, but could add a lot visually.

[SavannahLion]

The design is interesting but will not be very sturdy unless you can fill the back of the open square at the front or the back.   This will give it alot more support.

If it's made out of metal none would be needed, otherwise a single cross brace, albeit ugly, will suffice if it's built well without any slop in the joints.

If you must add a back panel, it would be a good place to hide the board and other support hardware.

[shponglefan]

Thanks for the replies.

@ark_ader: I'm hoping to avoid to many build issues by spending as much time designing as possible.  I know it will need something to keep it stable, so I have still to work out the best solution for that.  That's for the support though!  Likely if I do get to construstion phase, that probably won't happen until August at the earliest.

@BobA : I agree, it definitely needs something to add support.  The idea of filling the back is a good one.  I'll keep that in mind as I hash out various structural ideas.

[mytymaus007]

I like it I would put a rotating monitor not motorized but manuelly unless your able to motorize it even better. Also are you covering the bottom front because its seems like it would get in the way when your feet gets to close unless the CP is overhanginf more otherwise I would love to see this get done. i myself have limited room but i made a caberet cabinet with hot swap panels to compensate for the limited controls. But someething like this would be good for 2 player fighter and golden tee Awsome! Ged her done!

[BadMouth]

Some ideas I'll throw out there that I'll never get around to doing myself (take them or leave 'em)

I know it's minimalist, but I think it needs some more interesting shapes.  Either in the CP, or in the shape of the legs that attach the CP to the base.
I kinda like the shape of the funglo pedestals:

http://na.suzohapp.com/amusement/gameparts/funglo.htm
You could have the side panels be one continuous piece that's an interesting shape.  
Continuous meaning that it would also serve as the side of the base and control panel.

For the speakers, consider something similar to a Gauntlet Legends showcase CP:


I've also thought it would look cool to have a monitor shroud that was an elongated octagon shape, with the speaker grills worked into the space on each side of the monitor.

[DaOld Man]

Interesting.

[shponglefan]

If it's made out of metal none would be needed, otherwise a single cross brace, albeit ugly, will suffice if it's built well without any slop in the joints.

Sadly my metal working skills are non-existant, so I'll probably go with a wood/MDF build.  At least at the start.

[PL1]

I think a simple x-shaped cross brace on the inside near the back of the uprights would add considerable strength while keeping the design very open.

Using flat metal stock, drill holes for fasteners through the black dots and make right angle bends at the lines.  Drill and tighten the red center fastener last to be sure the rest of the cab assembly is square.


Scott

[Yenome]

for some odd reason i like this design tho i never cared for the cabs like it. it reminds me of one of those cheap computer desks you buy for 40 bucks. now that i think of it hell maybe i should just do that buy one for 40 drill some holes and bam instant arcade. shame my 32 160lb monster wouldnt be held up for long on some cheap walmart furniture. but alas i ramble. love your design cant wait to see some actual building. i would also agree with the X-cross brace. it would give the most add strength while still keeping the over all design open. I could only see you needing to cut in a lil on the bottom for the legs to sit

[NIVO]

apologies for the crudeness in the quick and dirty on my part here. But BobA was on to something. Here it is with speakers on either side and the front piece housing a subwoofer. Covered either by a dark mesh or speaker cloth. Also another thing you may wanna consider, is "hiding" every single visible cable with the exception to the power cord coming off this. It will really set off the design. You can hide the cabling in the square tubing with some planning, and will look tremendously better when finished.

[Blanka]

You don't need to close the back for sturdiness. But you do need to have the 2 sidepanels to connect to the back panel of the control box over its full height. Then you have +/- 10 cm of connection, and that is more than enough for stiffness. Try to use pen-and-glue connections on that connection, and you're set.
And try to put the bars that carry the CP box INSIDE that box. not under it. It looks way nicer, and prevents sore knees.

Wonder what materials you are going to use. The side panels look roughly 40mm thick. Do you think 2 sheets of plywood there, glued together. That should be sufficient.

[shponglefan]

Thanks for all the comments.  Just a few things to maybe clarify:

1) The design is by far not final.  That was just a rough sketch in the OP.  I plan to spend the next month refining it and coming up with something that is hopefully aesthetic, functional and sturdy.

2) Materials will probably be the standard plywood and/or MDF.  As mentioned in the OP, it's not a scale drawing so don't read too much into that.

3) I plan to spend at least another month going through design concepts.  If I decide it's worth persuing a build, I'll start by prototyping before going full-blown to a finished version.  The last thing I want to do is get 3/4 of the way through the build, discover a major design flaw and have to start over.

[EightBySix]

What about angling in the supports for more of a pyramid shape?  It may affect stability unless you add re-enforcements, but could add a lot visually.

+1 makes me think of an artists easel type of design, but with a monitor instead of a painting.... Good for the space challenged - it could fold flat when not in use..

You'll have to consider cabling carefully.

[RyoriNoTetsujin]

Did someone say "space challenged?" Perhaps I can be of service...

I'm looking forward to seeing what you do with further revisions to the design, but there's one thing that I haven't seen a definitive answer for yet: is this intended for playing while standing or while seated?  You mentioned Vewlix style cabs, which are sit down, but the (not-to-scale) sketch seems to imply standing. Maybe you haven't decided yet, which of course is fine, but the answer definitely will affect how difficult it is to chunk everything together and still make stable and stylish.

I'll tell you from my experience that a 27" HD monitor is definitely comfortable for 2 players, but you also have to be aware of distance  /or angle of the monitor.  Get too close to a monitor of that size, especially on widescreen games, and it's not much fun. The closer the monitor is to the CP, the more angled it will probably need to be IMO.

Again, really looking forward to see more design work! Lots of ways to go about this, and I'm sure it will be great! 

[RyoriNoTetsujin]

Mount the TV on the wall.  Put wheels on the pedestal.  Shove to the side the 99.9% of the time you aren't playing games.

... Few years later I have the itch to build something again, but smaller, lighter and more portable.

(Emphasis mine.)

Not trying to run afoul of you PBJ (yours is a perfectly valid idea, and I'm admittedly assuming shponglefan is including the monitor in his concept of portability) but what does he do if he's in a situation like mine, i.e. renting an apartment or house where larger modifications (like anchoring a wall mount into a stud) aren't allowed?

Not for nothing, but standard cabinets, Vewlixes, candy cabs, bartops, etc., even pedestals - they've been done (and thankfully, will continue to be done.) I want to see where this one goes, even if it only gets as far as a pretty sketchup file.

[shponglefan]

I'm looking forward to seeing what you do with further revisions to the design, but there's one thing that I haven't seen a definitive answer for yet: is this intended for playing while standing or while seated?  You mentioned Vewlix style cabs, which are sit down, but the (not-to-scale) sketch seems to imply standing. Maybe you haven't decided yet, which of course is fine, but the answer definitely will affect how difficult it is to chunk everything together and still make stable and stylish.

Plan is for standing, not sitting.  Although I won't rule out using bar stools

I'll tell you from my experience that a 27" HD monitor is definitely comfortable for 2 players, but you also have to be aware of distance  /or angle of the monitor.  Get too close to a monitor of that size, especially on widescreen games, and it's not much fun. The closer the monitor is to the CP, the more angled it will probably need to be IMO.

Again, really looking forward to see more design work! Lots of ways to go about this, and I'm sure it will be great! 

Good to know about the monitor; something else I have to experiment with I suppose.

Thanks for the comments, still working on designs, I'll probably post more ideas this week.

[shponglefan]

Was doing more Google searching, and came across this (Sega Lindbergh cabinet):



That's more or less the concept I want to create.  Although I still can't find any homemade versions of anything similar.  But at least I know something similar exists.

[RyoriNoTetsujin]

Was doing more Google searching, and came across this (Sega Lindbergh cabinet)...

Gotcha. And it's intended for standing play? Totally, totally do-able! I would say the things to think about first, then, are the relative footprint and/or weight of your base. I would also think you might want to lean toward MDF as a build material, that ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- is heavy!

An extreme version of your idea would be the "Mame on a Stick" project. Take a look at that, if you haven't already, just for info's sake: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=99829.0  I know he's using steel and such, but design it right and you could get away with something not too far from that...

Design it right, and you'll probably end up with storage/display space for your swap-able panels! 

[MaxVolume]

Cool idea, and I LOVE that Lindbergh cabinet.  Can't really offer any advice, just that I like your idea.  I'm actually planning something similar for a pinball machine.  Not only do I already have two MAME cabs, but a lot of the reason I don't have a pinball machine is the size and weight, so it wouldn't make sense to go all out and make an emulator cab just as big and bulky, especially since this will be the one machine where it'll be okay to use LCD panels.  My other cabs are a cocktail and a mini, but they still take up some space.  The idea for my pinball machine is to have something that can fold up whenever I need to move it.  That shouldn't be often, but I think two cabs is my limit in terms of bulky possessions.  I've never been accustomed to even having a couch until a few years ago, so I like to be as mobile as possible.  I also plan to do some sort of driving chassis in a similar vein, although that will most likely be something already designed and sold online.

Again, great idea... I look forward to seeing how it takes shape.

[RyoriNoTetsujin]

I just had another thought about your project, this having to do with the system you plan on building to go in it. 

I love the mini-ITX form factor (my cabinet has a mini-itx mobo) but in retrospect, it's not really necessary for
anything but the smallest projects, like bartops. I'd say go with microATX or maybe even larger if you want-- give yourself a little room to expand.

Put it to you this way; looking back at the troubles I had finding a truly compatible aftermarket heatsink (just because it fits the socket doesn't mean it's not going to ---fudgesicle--- some things up on a mobo that small), the tricky bit of routing all the wires around in a cramped space, and the minor trouble I have right now with not being able to easily utilize the pci-e slot on the board -- I don't think I would do mini-ITX again if given a choice.

[shponglefan]

Gotcha. And it's intended for standing play? Totally, totally do-able! I would say the things to think about first, then, are the relative footprint and/or weight of your base. I would also think you might want to lean toward MDF as a build material, that ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- is heavy!

That's a good idea.  It feels like there's going to be some trading off between wanting it to be light enough to be portable, but also heavy enough to be stable.  Hopefully a good balance can be had.

An extreme version of your idea would be the "Mame on a Stick" project. Take a look at that, if you haven't already, just for info's sake: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=99829.0  I know he's using steel and such, but design it right and you could get away with something not too far from that...

Design it right, and you'll probably end up with storage/display space for your swap-able panels!  

Cool cab, that's very similar to what I want to do, minus the overhead section.  Too bad the cab maker never finished updating that thread, would have been neat to see the finished product (if there was one).

I love the mini-ITX form factor (my cabinet has a mini-itx mobo) but in retrospect, it's not really necessary for
anything but the smallest projects, like bartops. I'd say go with microATX or maybe even larger if you want-- give yourself a little room to expand.

Put it to you this way; looking back at the troubles I had finding a truly compatible aftermarket heatsink (just because it fits the socket doesn't mean it's not going to ---fudgesicle--- some things up on a mobo that small), the tricky bit of routing all the wires around in a cramped space, and the minor trouble I have right now with not being able to easily utilize the pci-e slot on the board -- I don't think I would do mini-ITX again if given a choice.

Yeah, I'll have to see how much space I ultimately have to work with.  I just figured mini ITX, since all I really need is a DVI connection, audio, and a few USB ports.  But Micro ATX would leave space for more options...

[shponglefan]

Flat screens are ~35lbs.  Running two lag bolts into a stud shouldn't be that hard to undo if you move. 

/just saying

35 lbs?  The monitors I was looking at were ~10 to 15 lb. 

[RyoriNoTetsujin]

Flat screens are ~35lbs.  Running two lag bolts into a stud shouldn't be that hard to undo if you move. 

/just saying

35 lbs?  The monitors I was looking at were ~10 to 15 lb. 

I'm going to guess PBJ was referring to something significantly larger than you seem to be interested in (like >32"?) My 27" is 20 lbs. at most. Probably lighter.

Going back to the form factor thing: The difference between mini-itx and microATX footprint is pretty minimal, thankfully: 6.7" square vs. 9.6" square, I believe. Unless you're really sold on squeezing every last inch out of it, you'll probably end up with room enough for either anyway!

[shponglefan]

Some new Sketchup pics.  Few notes on this design:

1) I didn't put a base panel on like in the first design/pic, but assume there will be one.  Also, assume a panel behind the monitor for mounting.
2) I incorporated a shelf just under the control panel.  This would be sized to fit the PC, depending on the size of PC case.  I'm thinking big enough for a Micro ATX home theater-style case, at least 17 inches wide and 5-6 inches high.
3) The control panel is probably a bit small in these pics.  Assuming a 27 inch monitor which is ~25 inches wide and the panel at least 36 inches wide, it would stick out a bit more on either side.  OTOH, if this is a 32 inch screen, it's probably closer to scale.
4) The box directly under the monitor is where I figured admin buttons could go, with speakers maybe on either side.

[shponglefan]

Another pic, this one with a slightly large control panel to bring it more to scale.  Also added a second shelf to see how that looks.

[shponglefan]

Looks nice but I think that screen is too close and too uncomfortable an angle from the mock up.  Maybe raise it a little?

 

A little more like this maybe?  I suppose this will be something to be hashed out in prototyping...

[shponglefan]

More internet browsing and came across another similar concept, made by Rec Room Masters.

[RyoriNoTetsujin]

Looks nice but I think that screen is too close and too uncomfortable an angle from the mock up.  Maybe raise it a little?

Definitely agree with Jim here. I might also bring the monitor and the CP forward toward the player and give yourself a flat back of the cabinet to work with. Having the back (or part of the base, if you end up with airspace behind the monitor) flush against the wall could help with stability.

More internet browsing and came across another similar concept, made by Rec Room Masters...

The ergonomics are better on that pic, but WOW is that thing butt-ugly! 

Just for giggles, I just measured the distance from my monitor (which stands at 90 degrees, no tilt) to the plane of the joysticks and came up with 16 inches at it's default position. That's pretty far away, actually -- I like it, personally, because it allows me to see more of the screen in periphery.  Moving the monitor around (thank goodness for the arm on this thing!!) I'm finding you could get away with maybe up to just 10" monitor-to-joystick before I get uncomfortable and want to start tilting the top of the monitor away from me...

Maybe split the difference, or give yourself an even 12", for comfort? Adding a slight tilt at that point (like 10 degrees? 15?) would probably make that really comfortable.

[shponglefan]

Hmmm, I suppose I could make the control panel a bit deeper.  Originally I planned ~16 inches, but maybe I'll add a couple inches.  That should give a viewing distance of ~20 inches.  One thing I do want to do is keep the top of the panel flush with the box under the monitor (i.e. I'd like to avoid any obvious gaps).  I was also thinking that if I can find or make a mounting bracket to allow the monitor to be tilted, that might be ideal.  I don't want to get too elaborate, but something going from 90 degrees upright to maybe 105 or so?

FWIW, I use a 24 inch monitor and typically have viewing distances of 17-20 inches with no issues.  Maybe a bit closer than recommended, but i haven't had any issues with it.

[apfelanni]

i would consider taking a 32 inch , unless its goin to be a mini or kiddycab . usually im not a biggerisbetterguy , but i m glad i took a 32 inch sony for my xbox 360 lcd conversion cab . in my opinion 32 inch is perfect for 2 player horizontal gaming . ud better keep the lcd / controlpanel ration near to 1:1 . monsterpanel and miniscreens may result in fatal failure. a reason for a smaller screen would be the preference of vertikal gaming .

there are a lot of vewlix / lindbergh style homemade cab projects here .  u also may check out some japanese and chinese modern lcds cabs . i see a problem with ur construction , its interfering with ur legs / feet .  

[shponglefan]

Alright, enough diarrhea fingers already.  Go cut some boards.

That's not how I roll. 

('sides as mentioned, construction wouldn't happen until August at the earliest.)

And that said, more design pics!

This version is modified as follows:

1) Moved the CP out from the monitor.  I have a feeling that flat space in between the CP and under the monitor could become a good place to put admin buttons.  As for distance, assuming the CP is 16 inches deep, this should be over 20 inches total screen distance, hopefully close to 2 feet.
2) Re-angled the monitor to even more of a 90 degree upright position.
3) Added possible speaker locations.

[shponglefan]

i would consider taking a 32 inch , unless its goin to be a mini or kiddycab . usually im not a biggerisbetterguy , but i m glad i took a 32 inch sony for my xbox 360 lcd conversion cab . in my opinion 32 inch is perfect for 2 player horizontal gaming . ud better keep the lcd / controlpanel ration near to 1:1 . monsterpanel and miniscreens may result in fatal failure. a reason for a smaller screen would be the preference of vertikal gaming .

I thought about a 32-inch, but found that 32 inch PC monitors are quite expensive and 32 inch LCD TVs seem to have lag issues.   If I can find an ideal 32 inch screen which is affordable, I may consider that.

A 32 inch would look nicer from an aesthetic POV...

there are a lot of vewlix / lindbergh style homemade cab projects here .  u also may check out some japanese and chinese modern lcds cabs . i see a problem with ur construction , its interfering with ur legs / feet .  

Hopefully moving out the control panel has solved that.

Thanks for the comments!

[RyoriNoTetsujin]

Nice. It's coming along. I don't think it's going to interfere with player's feet placement at all. It looks like you'll be able to fit a subwoofer in there if you like!

If I get a chance in the next few days to mock it up in SketchUp (unlikely), I had a design idea that I might post. I'll start a different thread for it, or just PM it to you. Don't know if you'll want to take it on, but it might be an interesting read at least.

Keep at it!

[apfelanni]

Sony KDL-32NX500 , 32 inch , very nice panel , very low input lag , protective frontglas . i took it for a homebrew lcd conversion . what do u need a pc monitor for ?

[RyoriNoTetsujin]

Sony KDL-32NX500 , 32 inch , very nice panel , very low input lag , protective frontglas . i took it for a homebrew lcd conversion . what do u need a pc monitor for ?

Don't know where you got it from (Germany?) but that panel is not sold in the US (and probably not Canada either, where the OP is located.)  I wasn't even able to find an equivalent.

[shponglefan]

Sony KDL-32NX500 , 32 inch , very nice panel , very low input lag , protective frontglas . i took it for a homebrew lcd conversion . what do u need a pc monitor for ?

From what I could research, that appears to be an older (2010?) model TV.  Unfortunately, it's not available where I live.

The reason I was leaning towards a PC monitor is that on average, PC LCD screens seem to have generally lower input lag, as well as higher native resolutions for the cost.  Then again, I suppose talking MAME games, native resolution isn't as big a deal, although I wouldn't mind using it for more modern games, too (i.e. SF IV).

Nice setup btw. Out of curiosity how far away is your screen (viewing distance)?

[shponglefan]

Nice. It's coming along. I don't think it's going to interfere with player's feet placement at all. It looks like you'll be able to fit a subwoofer in there if you like!

It's been fun designing and learning Sketchup at the same time. 

If I get a chance in the next few days to mock it up in SketchUp (unlikely), I had a design idea that I might post. I'll start a different thread for it, or just PM it to you. Don't know if you'll want to take it on, but it might be an interesting read at least.

Cool, I look forward to seeing it if you do post it.  The more ideas I can draw from the better!