Main > Main Forum
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. :applaud:
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. ;D
I would be very interested in the build process, and I hope you take the project on. :cheers:
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:
--- Quote from: BobA on June 21, 2012, 07:01:38 pm ---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.
--- End quote ---
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.