The slant pivots the hook forward, which causes it to release the kicker.

When the handle is pulled all the way back and the kicker has passed the discs, the bottom of the hook mechanism moves up against a slanted surface. As the handle continues to move the kicker, the kicker paddles push the discs forward briefly.These hold the stoppers in place, so the discs and reels can rotate freely. As the kicker keeps moving, it pushes the stoppers against several catches on the cam plate. The control cam also pulls the stoppers away from the notched discs.When the control cam is pivoted forward, it releases a spring-mounted cam plate extending across the back of the machine.A spring pulls the control cam back to its original position, but the gear assembly slows it down considerably - the gears act as a mechanical delay. This rotates a series of gears connected to the control cam. A catch on the opposite end of the kicker grabs a control cam piece and pivots it forward.The handle rotates a hook mechanism, which grabs hold of the kicker, pulling it forward (toward the player).A coin detector initially registers that a coin has been inserted and unlocks a brake so the handle can move. A braking system brings the spinning reels to a stop, and sensors communicate the position of the reels to the payout system. This shaft is connected to a handle mechanism that gets things moving. The central element is a metal shaft, which supports the reels. The classic slot machine design works on an elaborate configuration of gears and levers. We'll also see what determines the odds of winning on a slot machine and look at some popular variations on the traditional game.

In this article, we'll find out what sets the reels in motion in modern slot machines as well as in the old mechanical models. The amount you win - the payout - depends on which pictures land along the pay line. If each reel shows the same winning picture along the pay line, you win (certain single images are sometimes winners as well). Winning or losing is determined by which pictures line up with the pay line, a line in the middle of a viewing window. The player pulls a handle to rotate a series of reels (typically three) that have pictures printed on them. The classic mechanical designs have been almost completely replaced by computer-controlled machines. The technology of slot machines has also changed a lot over the years.

How a slot machine is programmed