A slot is a thin opening or gap in something, often used to provide a connection with another component. A slot can be seen in many applications, from metal fabrication to cabinetry to mechanical systems.
The term slot is also a gaming term for the space on a slot machine that pays out credits when symbols line up on a payline. Some older machines and newer video poker machines display the payouts, called a “slot table,” above and below the area with the spinning reels or on a separate screen.
In computer science, a slot is part of the execution pipeline in a compute kernel, such as a central processing unit (CPU). A slot includes the operation issue and data path machinery that executes an instruction. Modern conventional CPUs typically have multiple execution pipelines, each with one or more slots.
The definition of slot is also used in the context of the Worldwide Airport Slot Guidelines, a process for smoothing demand and allocating runway capacity when airport infrastructure cannot meet capacity. The airlines that participate in the process buy and sell slots for their flights.
Using slots and tabs in sheet metal design creates self-fixturing, reducing the time it takes to set up and align components before welding or assembly. This saves time and money, while increasing production speed and accuracy. Moreover, adding slots and tabs reduces the risk of misalignment or distortion during assembly and welding.
On the other hand, adding too many slots and tabs can make it difficult to weld them accurately. For example, seven tabs on a 2″ flange might be overkill; three would do the trick. It is important that tabs and slots are properly sized for their intended application.
Slots and tabs are particularly useful for securing components that need to stay in place during test loads. For instance, commercially available T-slot nuts can be inserted into inverted T-slot tables and bolted to the frame of a universal testing machine to secure specimens that may otherwise eject from the test space during load. This helps ensure that the same position of the specimen is used each time the test is run, saving time and reducing errors.