Timer system for rodeo related events

Abstract

Rodeo and / or equestrian event competition timing systems and associated devices and methods are disclosed. The competition may be an equestrian or rodeo event, including livestock riding and roping including break-away roping. Methods, devices and systems for timing such events are provided. Methods replacing manual and human-eye based event timing for at least one of event starting, event stopping, or both, with automated methods are explained.

Description

[0001] TIMER SYSTEM FOR RODEO RELATED EVENTS

[0002] CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 725,063 filed November 26, 2024, titled TIMER SYSTEM FOR RODEO RELATED EVENTS, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Event timing using human interaction can introduce error in a variety of ways. In competitive and fast-occurring events, the human interaction with a timer introduces inaccuracy. Examples include equestrian sports such as bull dogging and roping, including team roping, calf roping and / or breakaway roping. Each of these events are examples of sports that rely on humans to manually start and / or stop the timer. For these and other events, timing often relies on a judge or flagger who sees an indication or action that causes them to start or stop the clock, typically by waving a flag to yet another person to start or stop the clock. Equestrian events are just an example, and similar issues arise in various other contexts.

[0006] In some such events, the time differences between competitors may be in the tenths of seconds or less. Human errors and / or variations in the response time of the judge or flagger can therefore have a significant impact on race outcomes. New methods and / or systems to enhance event timing precision for human or animal events are desired.

[0007] OVERVIEW

[0008] The present inventors have recognized, among other things, that a problem to be solved is the need for new and / or alternative ways to determine when a race task is completed. One particular context is that of equestrian events or rodeo events. Such events may include: bull riding, bronc riding, bull dogging, steer wrestling, team roping, calf roping (tie down roping), and break-away roping events.

[0009] An illustrative and non-limiting example takes the form of a system for event timing in an equestrian or rodeo event, comprising: a housing configured to hold a chute pin for use on a chute used to start timing the event, and having a pin sensor for detecting removal of the chute pin from the housing; a base station comprising a first communications circuit and having or being in communication with a pin sensor for detecting removal of the chute pin from the housing; a saddle timer unit configured to attach to a saddle and including a rope sensor and a second communication circuit, the rope sensor configured to detect release of a rope from the saddle; and

[0010] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 1 of 41 a timing controller configured for determining a time from when the pin sensor detects removal of the chute pin from the housing to a time the rope sensor detects release of the rope.

[0011] Additionally or alternatively, the timing controller is contained in the saddle timer unit; the timing controller is operably coupled to the rope sensor to receive a signal indicating release of the rope; and the timing controller is operably coupled to the second communications circuit to communicate with the first communication circuit and obtain timing data from the pin sensor.

[0012] Additionally or alternatively, the timing controller is contained in the base station; the timing controller is operably coupled to the pin sensor; and the timing controller is operably coupled to the first communications circuit to communicate with the second communication circuit and obtaining timing data from the rope sensor.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, the housing holds the chute pin so that the chute pin also couples with a barrier rope, such that the barrier rope drops when the chute pin is removed.

[0014] Another illustrative and non-limiting example takes the form of a saddle timer unit comprising: a holding mechanism for holding the saddle timer unit to a saddle; a housing containing electronics including a transmitter and a power source; and a rope sensor configured to detect pulling of a rope, the rope sensor including a moveable member and a detector that detects movement of the moveable member, wherein the detector is electrically coupled to the electronics; wherein the moveable member is a spring biased lever positioned so that a string, attached to the rope at a first end and attached to the saddle at a second end, compresses the moveable member until the rope is pulled and the spring breaks, such that the rope sensor detects breaking of the string to detect pulling of the rope.

[0015] Another illustrative and non-limiting example takes the form of a saddle timer unit comprising: a holding mechanism for holding the saddle timer unit to a saddle; a housing containing electronics including a transmitter and a power source; and a rope sensor configured to detect pulling of a rope, the rope sensor including a moveable member and a detector that detects movement of the moveable member, wherein the detector is electrically coupled to the electronics; wherein the moveable member is configured to receive a pull tab coupled to an end of the rope, such that pulling of the rope removes the pull tab from the moveable member; optionally, wherein the pull tab is connected to the end of the rope by a cable which is secured to the rope by a rope clamp surrounded by a heat shrink tube.

[0016] Another illustrative and non-limiting example takes the form of a saddle timer unit comprising: a holding mechanism for holding the saddle timer unit to a saddle; a housing containing electronics including a transmitter and a power source; and a rope sensor configured to detect pulling of a rope, the rope sensor including a moveable member and a detector that detects movement of the moveable member, wherein the detector is electrically coupled to the

[0017] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 2 of 41 electronics; wherein the moveable member is configured to receive a rope coupler which is adapted to be tied to a filament of the rope or a string coupled to the rope.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively to these illustrative saddle timer units, the detector may be a force sensor. Additionally or alternatively to these saddle timer units, the detector may be an electrical sensor which detects at least one of the following in response to movement of the moveable member: a change in impedance; a change in capacitance; breaking of a circuit; or making of a circuit.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively, to these illustrative saddle timer units, the detector may be an optical sensor.

[0020] Another illustrative and non-limiting example takes the form of a saddle timer unit comprising: a holding mechanism for holding the saddle timer unit to a saddle; a housing containing electronics including a transmitter and a power source; and a rope sensor configured to detect pulling of a rope, the rope sensor configured to receive the rope therein and detect removal of the rope therefrom using an optical detector.

[0021] Another illustrative and non-limiting example takes the form of a livestock timer unit comprising: a housing configured to attach to a livestock chute, the housing configured to receive a chute pin; a release sensor that detects removal of the chute pin; and a transmitter that transmits a signal when the chute pin is removed.

[0022] Additionally or alternatively, the release sensor may be an electrical sensor which detects at least one of the following in response to removal of the chute pin: a change in impedance; a change in capacitance; breaking of a circuit; or making of a circuit.

[0023] Additionally or alternatively, the release sensor may be an optical sensor.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, the housing receives the chute pin such that a first end of the chute pin extends from a first side thereof, and a second end of the chute pin extends beyond the housing to allow a barrier rope to be secured over a portion of the chute pin between the housing and the second end of the chute pin.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, the chute has a plurality of gate rings thereon; and the housing is shaped and sized to fit inside of at least one gate ring.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively, a system may comprise any one of the preceding livestock timer units and any one of the preceding saddle timer units, further comprising a timing controller configured to use the livestock timer unit to determine a start time to an equestrian or rodeo event, and the saddle timer unit to determine an end time to the equestrian or rodeo event.

[0027] Another example may be a method comprising detecting an end time of an equestrian or rodeo event using a saddle timer unit of any of the preceding examples, and using the end time to calculate a duration of a task performed by a participant in the equestrian or rodeo event.

[0028] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 3 of 41 Additionally or alternatively, the method may include detecting a start time of the equestrian or rodeo event manually, and using the start time with the end time to calculate the duration of the task performed by the participant in the equestrian or rodeo event.

[0029] Another example may be a method comprising detecting a start time of an equestrian or rodeo event using a livestock timer unit as in any of the preceding examples, and using the start time to calculate a duration of a task performed by a participant in the equestrian or rodeo event.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, the method may include detecting an end time of the equestrian or rodeo event manually, and using the start time with the end time to calculate the duration of the task performed by the participant in the equestrian or rodeo event.

[0031] Another example may be a method of determining a duration of an equestrian or rodeo event comprising: detecting a start time of the event using a livestock timer unit as in any of the preceding examples, and detecting an end time of the event using a saddle timer unit of any of the preceding examples.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, the step of detecting a start time includes starting a clock or timer. Additionally or alternatively, the step of detecting a start time includes recording a start time stamp. Additionally or alternatively, detecting an end time includes stopping a clock or timer. Additionally or alternatively, detecting an end time includes recording an end time stamp.

[0033] Another illustrative and non-limiting example takes the form of a timing system for timing an equestrian or rodeo event, comprising: a release sensor to indicate release of an animal from a chute; a timing controller having a first communication circuit configured for determining a first time of the event when the animal is released from the chute and determining a second time of the event; wherein the timing system is configured to receive input from a saddle timer unit located on the saddle of a competitor in the event.

[0034] Additionally or alternatively, the saddle timer unit includes a rope sensor configured to detect a change in position of a rope and a second communication circuit to provide input to the timing controller to determine the second time of the event.

[0035] Additionally or alternatively, the timing system is configured to receive input from a photoelectric detector and a third communication circuit to provide input to the timing controller to determine the second time of the event.

[0036] Additionally or alternatively, the release sensor comprises a chute pin configured for use on the chute to indicate release of the animal from the chute.

[0037] Additionally or alternatively, the chute pin is held in a housing secured to a post or ring of the chute.

[0038] Additionally or alternatively, the system may also include a base station comprising a fourth communication circuit for communicating with the timing controller.

[0039] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 4 of 41 Additionally or alternatively, the release sensor may be a photoelectric sensor or an optical sensor.

[0040] This overview is intended to introduce the subject matter of the present patent application. Many of the timer systems disclosed herein may be used as an alternative or in combination with known human operated systems to improve the accuracy of the results of timed events. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation. The detailed description is included to provide further information about the present patent application.

[0041] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.

[0043] Figure 1 shows an illustrative event timer system;

[0044] Figure 2A shows a prior art saddle horn with wrap and breakaway rope;

[0045] Figures 2B-2E show an illustrative component set for a saddle timer unit.

[0046] Figures 3A-3C show prior art chute and barrier rope systems;

[0047] Figures 4A-4G show an illustrative chute switch and timing system;

[0048] Figure 5 shows another illustrative chute switch and timing system;

[0049] Figures 6-9 show further illustrative chute switch and timing systems;

[0050] Figures 10A-10D show another illustrative chute switch and timing system;

[0051] Figures 11 A-l IB show illustrative post mounts;

[0052] Figures 12A-12C show illustrative saddle timer units and rope release detectors;

[0053] Figures 13A-13B show further details for a saddle timer unit base;

[0054] Figures 14A-14C show an illustrative saddle timer unit base and rope release detector;

[0055] Figures 15A-15B show a rope release detector with a cherry switch;

[0056] Figures 16A-16B show an optical rope release detector;

[0057] Figures 17A-17B, 18A-18C, 19A-19B and 20 show illustrative rope release detectors;

[0058] Figures 21A-21E show an illustrative example with a pull tab secured to a rope, and a force sensor;

[0059] Figures 22A-22D show an illustrative chute switch and timing system;

[0060] Figures 23 A-23D show an illustrative method in a block flow diagram;

[0061] Figures 24-25 show illustrative event timer systems; and

[0062] Figure 26 show an illustrative arena-based event timer system.

[0063] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 5 of 41 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] Various automated timing and threshold crossing methods are known. An electronic “eye” for example may use an emitter and a receiver to pass an optic beam parallel to a threshold. A common household use is as a safety mechanism for a garage door opener, in which the electronic eye is used to ensure that the path for the garage door to close is not obstructed, and similar technology has been used for race and other event timing as well. When an obstruction interrupts the optic beam, the receiver notes the interruption of the beam and identifies the physical intrusion. For a footrace, for example, an electronic eye can determine when the finish line is crossed. The electronic eye can be coupled to a camera that captures an image of the finish line being crossed to aid determination of who won in a race having multiple simultaneous competitors. Barrel racing, in the rodeo context, may rely on the use of an electronic eye to automatically detect crossing of the start or finish line.

[0065] Race chips and mats are also known. A race chip can take the form of an RFID tag carried in a wrist or ankle wrap. A common use is in triathlon and distance running competitions. One or more mats are placed at locations along the course, including the start line, finish line, and intermediate points of interest (halfway point, or a transition zone between events of the triathlon, for example). When the competitor goes over the mat, the RFID tag is detected, allowing the race system to determine the time at which the competitor crosses over the mat.

[0066] However, for a competition that lacks a fixed start or finish line location, these known electronic eye and / or race chip / mat solutions are not useful. In addition, some events are not amenable to starting and / or stopping the event clock using, for example, an electronic eye, because the action that triggers the clock starting may not occur at a single location or may not be well suited to detection by an electronic eye. Accordingly, new and alternative solutions are desired.

[0067] Some embodiments are directed to a system for timing a sporting event with a higher level of accuracy than currently available. In some examples, the sporting event may be an equestrian or rodeo event. In an example, the system can be used to time a rodeo event including livestock riding, roping, breakaway roping, etc.

[0068] Breakaway roping is a timed rodeo event, and is a variation of calf roping where a calf is roped, but not thrown and tied. In breakaway roping, a calf is released from a chute. The competitor, sitting on his or her horse, waits behind a barrier (a barrier rope may be used) in an area referred to as a box. The calf is released from the gates of the chute and, when the calf gets enough distance from the chute, the chute pin is pulled, the barrier is released, and the competitor and horse exit the box to chase the calf. The competitor throws a first end of a rope over the calf s neck, with a second end of the rope including an attached flag and string that ties the second end of the rope to the saddle. When the first end of the rope is looped around the calf s neck, the rider

[0069] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 6 of 41 stops the horse and the calf continues to run. Once the calf s distance from the horse exceeds the length of the rope, the string breaks, releasing the flag and the second end of the rope from the saddle. Event timing relies on a judge or flagger, who sees the flag released and, typically, waves a flag to signal another person to activate a switch (e.g. a button on a timer) to stop the event clock.

[0070] Further discussion of breakaway roping, as well as several examples of timing systems appear in PCT Publication WO2023 / 049193, published March 20, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Following are examples of timing systems and timing system components, configurations and methods. In embodiments, components of systems include mechanical, magnetic, electric, and / or optical features useful to trigger one or both of a start time (release of the animal) and stop time for calf events (e.g., stopping, restraining, roping, tying, of the calf) or livestock riding events (e.g. bull riding, bronc riding) in an automatic system. Some examples may provide automatic starting of the clock, and others may provide automatic stopping of the clock. In some examples, both the start time and the stop time are determined automatically. Remote activation switches to stop or start the clock are also disclosed.

[0071] As used herein, a chute pin is a pin configured to be received by a structure at the chute, which is used in timing the event. The chute pin does not have to be a pin that releases an animal. For example, in the breakaway roping context, the animal is released by opening the chute gate, and the chute pin is attached to the rope which the animal pulls while exiting the chute. A chute pin may, for example with bull riding, be coupled to or the same as a pin that releases the animal in other examples. However, as used herein, the chute pin is a pin that is used to start the event timing, and is not necessarily a physical release pin (though it may be in some examples).

[0072] Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment of a timer system. A saddle timer unit 100 is present on the rider’s horse, attached to the saddle, for example, with a rope thereat. For breakaway roping, the saddle timer unit 100 can determine when the rope has been pulled away from the horse, indicating the end of the roping event. This would occur, for example, when the rider has successfully roped the calf, and stopped the horse while the calf continues running, thereby pulling the rope with sufficient force to end the event. The saddle timer unit 100 is configured to automatically detect the end of the event, for example, when the rope detaches from the saddle. In prior competitions, the end of the event was judged by one or more timer judges or flaggers, introducing a high likelihood of error and / or inaccuracy.

[0073] In embodiments, the saddle timer unit 100 can receive a signal at the start of the event such as when the gate on the chute opens releasing the calf or other animal. This signal may come from an electronic eye; electrical, mechanical, infra-red, magnetic or other switch on the gate; a human activated signal from an electrical switch or other means. In embodiments, the saddle timer unit includes a clock that tracks the time between the signal indicating the opening of the gate and the

[0074] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 7 of 41 detected time of the end of the event (eg. the rope coming off the saddle). In preferred embodiments, human activated signals are not used.

[0075] The base station 110 can be located anywhere that allows it to provide its information transmission function as disclosed herein. In embodiments, the base station 110 can be near the box and / or chute which are the starting location for some events.

[0076] In an embodiment of breakaway roping, prior to starting the event, a calf is present, behind a barrier or in a chute, and the rider and horse are present in a “box”, adjacent the chute behind a barrier rope or other barrier. To start the event, the calf is released from the chute. When the calf gets a predetermined distance from the chute a pin (or other type of connector) may be pulled from the chute to release the barrier, allowing the rider and horse to exit the box to chase the calf. In embodiments, pulling the pin from the chute can activate a switch on the chute (chute switch 115). The time at which the pin is pulled and / or the chute switch is activated is the event start time. In some embodiments, the chute switch 115 starts a clock in the saddle timer unit 100, as indicated.

[0077] In embodiments, the base station 110 can receive a signal from the chute switch 115 indicating that the pin has been released causing the base station to start an internal clock, send a signal to the saddle timer unit 100 to start the clock therein and / or send a signal to start a clock in the scoring console 120. In an embodiment, the chute switch 115 can include power, electronics and signal transmission capabilities (e.g. Bluetooth, electrical, infra-red, etc.) to signal the start of the event to a clock in the saddle timer unit 100, base station 110, and / or scoring console 120. In embodiments, the chute switch 115 can send a signal to the base station 110 via wire (e.g. an electrical signal) or wirelessly (e.g., RF, Bluetooth, infra-red, etc.) to signal the start of the event.

[0078] The base station 110 may then start an internal clock and / or or send a signal to start a clock in the saddle timer unit 100 or scoring console 120. In embodiments, a human activated switch, or other currently used system in the art can be used to signal the start of the event (e.g. the release of the chute pin or the calf exiting the gate of the chute) and the system may determine a stop time for the event using the automatic stop signal systems disclosed herein.

[0079] In embodiments a chute switch 115 can be used to signal the start time of the event and a saddle timer switch 125 on the saddle timer unit signals the stop time. In embodiments the saddle timer switch 125 on the STU (saddle timer unit) can include a rope release detector as further described herein. In embodiments the chute timer switch 115 and saddle timer switch 125 can start and stop a clock, respectively in the STU. The STU can then transmit the elapsed time from the clock in the STU to the base station, chute switch and / or scoring console.

[0080] In embodiments, a remote timer switch 118 may be used to stop the clock on a saddle timer unit 100, base station 110, chute switch 115, or scoring console 120 or other clock location. The remote timer switch 118 may be wired or include electronics and communication capabilities to

[0081] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 8 of 41 wirelessly send a signals as needed. As indicated above, the wired and wireless switches disclosed herein can be used alone or combined with human actions and still improve the accuracy of timing over current human activated timing system.

[0082] The scoring console may include a score board 124 that provides a visual read out of the time. Alternatively, a score board 124 may be located remote from the scoring console 120 and be connected via wire or wirelessly to the scoring console 120, base station 110, etc.

[0083] The saddle timer unit 100 and the base station 110 can each or alternatively be configured and constructed to report event timing to the scoring console 120, such as by wire or wireless communication. The scoring console 120 and the base station 110 may, if desired, be co-located and form a single unit in the system. Alternatively, as shown, the scoring console 120 may be remote from the base station. Any suitable form of communication can be used, including wire, Bluetooth, RF and / or WiFi communication.

[0084] The scoring console 120 may be linked to each of a human operator 122 and a scoreboard 124, for example when the system is used during an actual competition or exhibition. The scoring console 120 serves as the user interface for a human operator running the system and / or event. The scoring console 120 may be, for example, embodied in a computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, etc. The scoring console 120 may include a memory and / or database to store rider, horse and / or event information as desired. The scoring console may be a scoreboard operating system, having added thereto software in the form of machine readable instructions on nontransient storage media for performing the methods disclosed herein for obtaining and / or receiving messages and data indicating start or stop times, or other event timing information.

[0085] An event timing system as disclosed herein may also be used, as indicated at 126, for training use. The timer systems disclosed herein can also be advantageously combined with currently available chutes having gates that open to release calf upon receipt of a wireless signal (eg. RF, Bluetooth, etc.) followed by pulling of the chute pin when then gets to the predetermined distance from the chute as disclosed herein.

[0086] In embodiments, information regarding rider name, horse name, run times, or other information can be archived or retrieved, such as by communicating data to an application operable on a rider’s personal (user) device (such as a smartphone, tablet or computer), and / or to the cloud. In some embodiments, a user device may determine event timing information using signals and / or messages obtained from other components in the system, and the event time is then transmitted between the saddle timer unit 100, base station 110 or scoring console 120 via Bluetooth or other suitable wireless and / or wired communication system.

[0087] A controller may be used in any of the saddle timer unit 100, the base station 110, chute switch 115, and / or the scoring console 120. The controller in the preceding systems may take

[0088] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 9 of 41 many forms, including, for example, a microcontroller or microprocessor, coupled to a memory storing readable instructions for performing methods as described herein, as well as providing configuration of the controller for the various examples that follow. The controller may include one more application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC) to provide additional or specialized functionality, such as, without limitation a signal processing ASIC that can filter received signals from one or more sensors using digital filtering techniques. Logic circuitry, state machines, and discrete or integrated circuit components may be included as well. The skilled person will recognize many different hardware implementations are available for a controller.

[0089] For a system as shown in Figure 1, the scoring console 120, in an example, includes a microprocessor and associated memory in the form of, if desired, a laptop, tablet, or other computer. The saddle timer unit 100, base station 110 and chute switch 115 may use simpler configurations for the controller, such as having a microcontroller and / or ASIC, desirably placed in a rugged housing to accommodate rough handling or use. This description is merely for illustration.

[0090] Figure 2A shows a prior art breakaway roping system. In the illustration, saddle horn 700 has a wrap 702 thereabout. The wrap 702 is optional. String 704 wraps around the horn 700. String 704 is secured to the end of rope 706 and carries a flag. In use, as described previously, a spotter or judge controls a timer switch and visually observes when the flag is released, indicating release of the string, and manually depresses or otherwise actuates the timer switch to input to an electronic system the stop time for the breakaway roping event. The current disclosure provides improvements over this prior art system.

[0091] Figures 2B-2E show an illustrative saddle switch component 150 set for a saddle timer unit shown illustratively as a saddle electronics box 222 in Figure 2C. The saddle electronics box 222 may be, for example, positioned behind or at the back of the rider, in wired or wireless communication with the saddle switch component 150. The electronics unit may be, for example and without limitation, located behind the cantie of the saddle. In embodiments, the saddle switch component 150 and saddle electronics box 222 can be integrated into a single unit.

[0092] Suitable electronics for an electronics unit may include a microcontroller, for example (but not as limitation) which can be operatively associated with a memory and power supply (often a battery, without limitation). The electronics unit may include additional sensors, including a global positioning system or other location sensor, a gyrometer or accelerometer to detect movement. The electronics unit may also include diagnostic sensing features for sensing animal status, including for example, temperature, heart rate, etc., and / or may communicate with sensors for providing these details of the animal’s state and performance. For example, accelerometer

[0093] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 10 of 41 data can be used to determine gait characteristics of a horse, to allow identification of injury and / or anomaly, or to identify behaviors that may be sub-optimal or possible to correct.

[0094] The electronics / electronics unit may be provided in the saddle electronics box 222, to perform system functions including timing, identifying a change in signal generated by the switch component 150, determining a time at which such change takes place, and communicating with other parts of the system illustratively shown in Figure 1. In the examples of saddle timer units and rope release detectors on the saddle that follow herein, the saddle electronics are often not shown but should be understood as being present. In combination, the saddle electronics box 222 holding an electronics unit, and saddle-borne switch component form a saddle timer unit (STU) as referenced below.

[0095] The switch component 150 is configured to be secured to a saddle or saddle horn 700. In Figure 2B, a strap 200 is provided for attaching the STU to the saddle horn 700, and is threaded through a base 202. Other ways of attaching the STU and / or switch component 150 to the saddle or saddle horn may include cables, clips, carabiners, or any other suitable device for securing one item to another, preferably reversibly but not necessarily so. A detector 204 is positioned on the base 202, and a removable snap 210 is also present.

[0096] Figure 2C shows the saddle switch component 150 set in another angle. The strap 200 can be seen threaded through the base 202, wrapping around the saddle horn 220. The removeable snap 210 is attached to a string 212 that may in turn attach to the rope used by a rider, such as in a break-away roping event. The snap 210 has opposing arms that wrap around contact member 205, as visible in Figure 2C. In embodiments, the snap may be configured to directly connect to the rope without use of string 212.

[0097] Figure 2D illustrates how the contact member 204 can be designed in an example. Two contact strips, rings or plates 204a and 204b, which can be of any conductive material including, without limitation, stainless steel, copper, or similar material, are spaced apart as shown.

[0098] Referring to Figure 2E, an inner surface 211 of the snap 210 includes a conductive material, e.g. conductive piece 219 that extends in a transverse (vertical) direction relative to the configuration shown in Figure 2E, making contact with the contact plates 204a and 204b of Figure 2D, completing a circuit. In this example, breaking the made circuit can be detected electronically and used to determine a time at which the snap 210 is removed from the contact member 204 by force exerted on the rope (not shown) and transferred to the snap 210 by via string 212.

[0099] Going back to Figure 2D, base 202 has two openings for receiving a pin or bolt 206, with the contact member 204 having corresponding openings. One portion of the contact member 204 may have a flattened side / edge 205, to allow placement that prevents rotation, so that wires (not shown) attached to the contact member 204 do not receive strain from any such rotation. Electrical

[0100] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 11 of 41 contacts are illustratively shown at 204a and 204b. The wires may lead to an electronics unit 208, having, for example, a state machine, application specific integrated circuit, and / or microcontroller, as well as a power supply (often batteries) and communication circuitry (such as Bluetooth or any other commercial, off-the shelf or custom communications circuit, including an antenna and associated electronics), to allow the breaking of the circuit described above to be sensed, a time at which such breaking of the circuit occurs to be determined, and communications to be generated, along with other functions described herein.

[0101] Referring again to Figure 2E. the example shows one illustrative version of the snap 210, having arms 214, a coupler 216 for the string / rope, and a slot 218 for receiving a conductive piece 219 therein. The conductive piece 219 is used to make the circuit that is broken to determine release of the snap 210. The conductive piece 219 may be secured in place by adhesive, snap fit, or friction fit, or by any other suitable manner, as desired. Rather than a conductive piece 219, the entire snap 210 may be conductive. More than one slot 218 may be included, as desired. This design is one of several that may be used.

[0102] Figures 3A-3C shows prior art calf chutes commonly in use for rodeo events. Chute 290 includes a post 300, a plurality of parallel rings 302 A, 302B are attached, often by welding but bolts or other securing means can be used. In some prior art systems a third ring 302 C may be present. Each of the post 300 and rings 302AC may be metal in some examples. In other examples, the post 300 may be wooden, and the rings 302A-C are attached using screws or bolts extending therethrough, or by any other suitable attachment structure including bands that wrap about the post 300.

[0103] A chute pin 310 is positioned through the rings 302A / 302B. The chute pin 310 may also pass through a grommet 313 or other construction that can attach to the barrier rope 314. The chute pin 310 is typically attached to a rope 312 attached to the animal that is to be chased and captured, such as a calf, sheep, pig, etc. In use, when the animal is released, the rope 312 is pulled until the animal pulls the chute pin 310 from the rings 302A / 302B. With the chute pin 310 removed, the grommet 313on the barrier rope 314 is released, causing the barrier rope 314 to fall and allowing the rider to then chase the animal. With this standard system, timing may be performed manually, allowing significant error to arise in a sport where winners and losers are separated by tenths (or less) of a second.

[0104] The following disclosure provides embodiments of chute switches that may be used to mount to pre-existing chute pin release systems for livestock chutes and for sensing that the chute pin has released for starting the timer clock of a rodeo event. The examples are not meant to be limiting to a particular system, but rather illustrate the variations that may be used to configure

[0105] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 12 of 41 the chute switch. A chute switch according to the disclosure can be mounted to the chute in any suitable means to allow it to serve the herein disclosed functions.

[0106] Figures 4A-4G show an illustrative chute switch 315. A body 320 defines therein each of slots 322a and 322b and a channel opening 324. The slots 322a and 322b are designed to house springs 332a and 332b and contacts 330a and 330b, extending into the channel opening 324 under spring pressure. The contacts 330a, 330b are conductively coupled to wires 334, 338 which in turn extend to an electronics unit similar to those described above and which may be a component of the chute switch 315, base station 110 or scoring console 120. Such conductive coupling may be direct (wires 334, 338 attached to contacts 330, 336) or may be indirect, such as through the springs 332, which can be conductive if desired.

[0107] As seen in Figure 4A, a system disclosed herein may be configured with a shape to fit with existing post / ring designs, if desired, though this need not be the case. For example, the outer profile may be sized and shaped for engagement within the opening defined by existing post / ring structures. Alternatively, the outer profile may be sized and shaped without consideration for existing post / ring structures.

[0108] In embodiments, the chute pin 326 is typically formed of conductive material, for example, steel. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the chute pin itself need not be made of conductive material. In some examples, the chute pin 326 provides an electrically conductive piece that completes an electrical circuit, and a detector to determine when the chute pin 326 is removed detects breaking of the electrical circuit. In other examples, the pin may be a non- conductive piece that prevents an electrical circuit form being completed, and so removal of the pin allows conductive contacts to meet and complete a circuit, wherein the detector determines when the circuit is completed to identify removal of the chute pin 326. If a visual detection system (laser, infrared, etc.) is used, the chute pin 326 may block light emitted at a source from reaching a light sensitive element, and the detector determines when the pin is removed when light reaches the light sensitive element. In still other examples, a magnetic switch can be used, with the pin being a permanent magnet which, once removed, causes detection of a change in magnetic field (such as with a Reed switch or Hall effect sensor). Thus, in various examples, removal of the chute pin 326 is detected by various means for detecting chute pin removal, which may take several forms including optical sensors, magnetic sensors, and electrical sensors, for example and without limitation.

[0109] Such sensors and / or means for detecting chute pin removal are coupled in turn to an electronics unit and / or circuit, which will be battery powered in some examples, configured to determine a time at which the sensor or means for detecting is triggered by removal of the chute pin. The electronics unit and / or circuit, in turn, may be coupled to one or more processors,

[0110] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 13 of 41 controllers, and / or memory circuits, as well as a communications circuit such as a Bluetooth or other wireless communications circuitry including without limitation other IEEE 802.11 communication standard circuits, as well as non-standard communications circuitry. RF communication may be used, for example, in any of a wide range of forms, wavelengths and form factors, as desired and as are suitable to the purpose as the skilled artisan would recognize.

[0111] At the start of an event run (that is, prior to animal release), the chute pin 326 (which corresponds to chute pin 310 of Figure 3) is positioned through the body 320 in channel opening 324. With the chute pin 326 thus placed, the contacts 330a, 330b are physically pressed outwardly, at least partly into slots 322a and 322b. With the chute pin 326 being conductive, this will complete an electrical circuit. When the chute pin 326 is removed, the circuit is broken and that breaking of the circuit can be electronically detected. Thus, an electronic “start” to the event can be more precisely and repeatably determined.

[0112] Figure 4B shows another example. In this embodiment, body 340 includes three contacts, shown at 342, with wire coupling thereto, so that the wire need only extend out of one side body 340, simplifying other aspects of design. The contacts 342 may be POGO pins, that is, spring loaded electrical connectors which are widely available and known for durability. The contacts 342 extend into the opening 344. In addition the body 340 is shown including through-holes 346 that may be used to allow a plurality of side-by-side pieces to be positioned relative to an existing post / ring, with a bolt passed through the holes 346 to secure in place.

[0113] Figure 4C shows another example, with body 350 housing two contacts at 352 relative to body 350. A spring coupling 354 is positioned on the opposite side of opening 356 from the contacts at 352, providing force against a contact pin that may be passed into the opening 356.

[0114] Figure 4D shows another version, somewhat differently shaped overall. The body 360 defines plural slots 362 on one side of the opening 366, and one slot 364 on the opposite side. Slot 364 may be closed at one end, for holding a spring, for example, to provide pressure against a contact pin located in the opening 366. The other slots 362 are open at each end, allowing wires to pass to associated electronics unit as described previously. Any suitable material, preferably non-conductive if an electrical circuit is to made / broken by the pin removal, may be used for body 360, which may be molded, cast, milled or otherwise manufactured in any suitable manner. Some examples may have a polymer that is relatively stiff or rigid, with high impact resistance, and which is molded to the shape shown.

[0115] Figure 4E shows an example with stacking of three bodies 360a, 360b and 360c. This allows redundancy to be achieved, if desired. In an example, two or three bodies having slots are sandwiched inside of one or more additional body layers that are sized / shaped to hold the center bodies inside of a ring connected to a post.

[0116] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 14 of 41 Figure 4F shows another example, with a body 380 having a double-sided design, carrying slots on each of the front and back sides thereof. Again, through holes 386, 388 may receive bolts or other securing devices therethrough.

[0117] Figure 4G shows an example in which the body (multiple layers if desired) is secured relative to ring 394, mounted to post 390, with an end piece as shown at 398 covering portions of the ring 394, thereby holding the body in place. Opening 398 has therein one or more of the contacts shown above, which would be displaced with a chute pin positioned therein, making at least one circuit (redundant sensor circuits can be used if desired). Removal of the chute pin would be identified by the circuit being broken. Through holes 396 receive bolts or screws to secure the multiple layers therein.

[0118] Referring back to Figures 4B-4C, in some examples, the contacts, such as at 342 or 352 are themselves sensors rather than forming part of a circuit conducting a current. In these examples, the sensors are used to detect the tip of the pin connector being depressed by the chute pin in the opening 344 / 356, to thereby make or break an internal circuit, or to change a value of an electrical or other parameter, as desired. This approach avoids the difficulty of using the chute pin in the opening 344 / 356 as part of the circuit, since the pin may get dirty or become corroded over time. In an embodiment the chute pin need not be a conductive material.

[0119] Figure 5 shows another illustrative chute switch system. In Figure 5, the body 400 is configured such that a thicker portion 401 of the body can reside inside an existing ring structure, with an opening at 402 for receiving a chute pin. The body 400 has an outer, relatively thinner portion 404 that would extend outside of the ring. The threaded through holes 405 can receive machine screws or bolts for holding two parts (or more) together with one on either side of the ring. An outer ridge 406 is thus defined to reside against an inner surface of the ring that is mounted to the post. To accommodate variations in size, foam 408 or other compressible, elastic, or expandable material can be applied to at least one of the outer surfaces of the body 400, here, the foam 408 would rest against the post that the ring is mounted to. More foam layers can be included, such as surrounding the outer ridge 406 to cushion the interior of the ring and / or allow adjustability around the post, for example and without limitation. Such foam layers can dampen any vibration and reduce noise, for example, as well as limiting any damage in the event of contact with an animal.

[0120] Figures 6-9 show further illustrative chute switch system constructions. Starting with Figure 6, the example shown is different from those above in that the chute pin attached to the calf rope is located outside the rings mounted on the post. The view of Figure 6 is looking at sectioned ends (425a, 425b, 427a, 427b) of the radiused portions of forward ring 426, and rearward ring 428. The body here includes a forward insert mount 430 which rests inside of forward ring 426 and

[0121] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 15 of 41 holds a forward arm 432 that extends therefrom, as well as a rearward insert mount 431 resting inside the rearward ring 428 having a rearward arm 433 that extends therefrom. An attachment bolt 435 secures the forward insert mount 430 and rearward insert mount 431 to the forward and rearward rings 426, 428 in a desired position (foam layers are not shown but can be included). The chute pin 436 is held by the forward arm 432 and rearward arm 433, with the barrier rope437 which may or may not be connected through a barrier rope grommet 439, as shown. Embodiments for detecting removal of chute pin 436 are further discussed.

[0122] Figure 7 illustrates body 450 including four spring contact pins 451a, 451b, 451c, 45 Id each positioned using a set screw (452a-452d, respectively) to provide desired depth of insertion of the spring contact pins 45 la-45 Id. Electrical contacts are provided for each of the four spring contact pins 451a-d. The spring contact pins thus complete one or more electrical circuits. In an example, there may be an anode and cathode in each of the forward and rearward arms (432-433 in Figure 6), so that a separate circuit is present for each of the arms; this is not required and other configurations can be used. The chute pin 450 displaces and contacts each of the spring contact pins, completing or making the electric circuits for each arm. When the chute pin is pulled, the spring contact pins do not contact the chute pin, and these may be positioned further to prevent contact with one another by maintaining spacing even with no chute pin present. With each spring contact no longer touching the chute pin, the circuits are broken / opened, and the associated electronics unit detects breaking of the circuit to determine the removal of the chute pin. The set screws 452a-452d are used to adjust the depth of penetration of the spring contacts / pins which extend into the chute pin hole.

[0123] Referring back to Figure 3C, there is shown an illustrative release system. Post 300 includes 302A and 302B which hold a chute pin 310 attached to a calf rope 312. The calf pulls on rope 312, as described above, pulling out the chute pin 310. This may release the barrier rope 314, which is attached to a grommet 313 that is held in place by chute pin 310 prior to the start of the event.

[0124] Figure 8 illustrates a top mount chute switch. Here, using the same setup as Figure 3C, a sensor 464 is positioned on the post 460, above the rings 462a and 462b. A sensing arm 466 extends into the gap 462c between rings 462a and 462b, as best seen in the side view. With the chute pin 467 in position, the sensing arm 466 is displaced. Displacement of the sensing arm 466 is sensed at the sensor 464, which may contain or be linked to an electronics unit as described above. When the calf pulls the calf rope 469, the chute pin 467 is pulled from rings 462a and 462b, moving the sensing arm 466 which the electronics unit in the sensor 464 will detect to start the event timer. Once again, the barrier rope 468 may also be released when the chute pin 467 is pulled.

[0125] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 16 of 41 Figure 9 shows a side mount chute switch. In this example, the sensor 484 is mounted on the post 480, at the side of the ring 482a. When the chute pin 487 is positioned in the rings 482a- 482b, the chute pin 487 also extends into the sensor 484, which can use contacts to detect the position of the chute pin 487 therebetween. Thus the sensor is effectively a switch in this example. When the calf rope 489 is pulled, the chute pin 487 is pulled out, and the electronics unit coupled to or in the sensor 482 will detect the removal of the chute pin 487 to start the event timer. The barrier rope 488 may be released at the same time as the chute pin 487 is removed.

[0126] Figures 12A-12D show illustrative sensor systems for detection of removal of the chute pin. As shown in Figure 12A, a base mount 624 can be provided to attach to a housing 620 for the electronics unit, with the straw extending as shown at 622. In Figure 12B, the base mount 624 can be seen in use to attach to an irregularly shaped post, for example if there is weld slag 627 from the attachment of the ring 630 thereto. A chute pin 628 is illustratively shown, abutting the straw 622 and showing how the components can interact. To accommodate the irregular post surface, a filler material such as foam layer or layers (not shown) may be used as well.

[0127] Figures 12C and 12D are top views of the post 62 and rings 630, and highlight how weld slag 627 on the post 626, which can result from attachment of the rings 630 to the post 626, can interfere with mounting of the chute switch or components thereof. With no weld slag, the attachment location is clean as shown in Figure 12C, with the base mount 624 unit resting directly on the post 626, around the upper ends of the rings 630. Figure 12D shows how weld slag 627 next to the rings 630 can interfere with and change the angle of attachment for the base mount 624. A filler material such as a foam layer or spacer, may be added to accommodate any variation due to weld slag.

[0128] It may be noted that in some examples, a switch can be mounted in the vicinity of the chute pin on a post or chute, with wired connection to an electronics unit in a separate box. Several examples herein illustrate that the switch and electronics, which may include a power source, microcontroller, ASIC, state machine, memory and / or communications circuitry and antenna, can be integrated into a single unit. Either configuration or layout may be used in various examples. It may be, for example, desirable to position electronics in a separate housing or enclosure at a distance from the moving parts of the chute to avoid interference with such movement and / or to shield the electronics unit from the elements or contact during use. If so, then wires may run from the switch / sensor to the electronics unit. Alternatively, to avoid having to position and secure wires in position, an integrated switch / sensor and electronics unit can be used.

[0129] Figures 11 A-l IB show illustrative post mounts. Here, a magnet is provided, for example as shown covering a portion of the mount 640 at 642 in one example. The magnet may cover a larger area as shown at 652 for mount 650. A magnet, rather than permanent attachment, may

[0130] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 17 of 41 allow the timer unit to be positioned in use for only certain events and removed easily or quickly when not needed.

[0131] Referring again to Figure 2A of a prior art breakaway roping system with saddle horn 700 and string 704 secured to the end of the break-away rope 706. Competitors in breakaway roping events are generally accustomed to this setup. Accordingly, several embodiments are directed to implementing a saddle timing system without changing the basic set up for current systems.

[0132] Figures 12A-12C illustrate a component saddle switch 705 of a saddle timer unit 700. In Figure 12A, mounting strap 714 is wrapped around the saddle horn 710. A housing 716 is attached to the mounting strap 714 and carries a switch sensor unit shown at 712 that includes a slidable base 713 that may be activated by a spring 724 or other biasing system. Figure 12B shows how a rope 722 and string 720 may be held in place relative to the switch sensor unit 712, which is now in the engaged or compressed position. A switch sensor unit, such as any of several herein with mechanical components or buttons, can be used to detect the release of the rope 722 and / or string 720. Here, the string 720 may be used to tie and hold the rope 722 as shown at 720a, where the string 720 wraps around the saddle horn 710, compressing the spring 724 of switch sensor unit 712.

[0133] Figure 12C shows a side views of an implementation of the switch sensor unit 712 of Figures 12A-12B. When the string is tied snugly to the saddle horn it forces the slidable base 713 toward the buckle structure 726. This compresses the spring 724 and opens a circuit between, such as by having contacts built into the housing 716 that only touch the slideable base 713 when the spring is not compressed. When the string is broken by the force of a calf pulling on the rope, the spring 724 expands and forces the slidable base 713 forward to thereby close a circuit; the reverse orientation may be used instead if desired. Associated electronics can detect this closing of the circuit using well known techniques for detecting a change in electrical parameters (drop in impedance, increase in current or voltage, etc.) providing instantaneous and accurate timing. The base 713 may slide within guards 728, as desired.

[0134] Figures 13A-13B show further details for a saddle timer unit. Here, a housing 750 is shown with a buckle structure 754 for receiving a mounting strap (such as 714, shown above) and having a curved face 756 for positioning against a saddle horn 710 or saddle horn wrap (if used). An upper bracket 758 and lower bracket 760 define a space 762 for receiving a switch sensor unit therein. The lower bracket 760 may, in the example, carry electrical contacts 752a, 752b. The electrical contacts 752a, 752b can be omitted in some examples.

[0135] Figure 13B shows another example for a saddle timer unit housing. The housing 770 again includes the buckle and face for attachment to a saddle horn using a mounting strap. The housing 770 incudes a bracket 772 which has a sensor cavity at 774 for holding a sensor and electronics

[0136] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 18 of 41 unit. Optionally, instead, the structure of Figures 13 A-13B may be connected by wire to a separate housing, such as one positioned behind the saddle, that would in turn contain electronics for detecting the change in position of the rope based on movement or signal from the connection or disconnection of the electrical contacts. That is, as with the chute sensing systems shown previously, the saddle units may include an integrated sensing and detection unit having electronics adapted for each of detecting a change at the sensor (i.e., rope removal), identifying the time at which such change occurs, and storing and / or communicating data related to the time of a sensed change in rope position for each of this and other examples. Alternatively, a separately positioned electronics unit may be provided that is coupled by wire to a switch sensor unit that is sensitive to the removal of the rope, generating or changing a signal, capacitance, impedance, connection, etc. in response to removal of the rope, with the wire connected to electronics in a separately positioned housing having therein electronic circuitry that can detect the generated or changed signal, capacitance, impedance, connection etc., associate such a detected event with a time of occurrence, and communicate related data to other parts of a timer system. A force sensor may be used as well, which may change in resistance / impedance and / or capacitance.

[0137] Figures 14A-14C illustrate an embodiment of a switch sensor unit. Here, a housing 800 has an activator arm 802 therein, the activator arm 802 attached to a rope pad 804, which is positioned over a rope ledge at 806, with a rope slot at 808. As shown at Figure 14C, the rope 810 can be positioned at the opening of the rope slot 808, pressing the rope pad 804 while resting on the rope ledge 806. When the rope 810 is pulled by the calf, the rope will be removed from the slot 808 and ledge 806, releasing the rope pad 804 and activator arm 802.

[0138] Figures 15A-15B show a switch sensor unit with a switch. The switch may be, for example, a cherry switch. Cherry switches are well known in the field of keyboards for detecting depression of an attached key. Here, a cherry switch is shown at 820, is held by a housing 810 having a base 812 that would be positioned against the saddle horn. The housing 810 has a chamber 814 for holding an electronics unit at 816. Bracket 828 holds the cherry switch 820. The cherry switch 820 has an extension 822 that is positioned to contact the rope 824 when the rope is positioned on rope ledge 826. As shown in Figure 15B, when the rope is removed, the extension 822, which is spring loaded, extends further downward from the cherry switch. The integrated or separately provided electronics unit powers the cherry switch and will detect the status of the extension 822 to determine whether the rope is present or has been pulled.

[0139] Optionally, a light indicator may be provided as shown at 828, such as an LED. The indicator 828 can be used to indicate the state of the rope detecting unit, using, for example, color coding or simple on / off For example, green may indicate that the rope is detected in position and the system is ready to start the event, and red may indicate that the rope is released. Yellow or a

[0140] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 19 of 41 flashing status may indicate an error, not ready, etc. Other uses for the light indicator are discussed below.

[0141] Figures 16A-16B show an optical rope release detector. Here, the housing 830 has a base at 832 for securing against the saddle horn. The housing 830 includes a chamber 834 that contains the electronics unit 836 (assuming an integrated sensor and electronics; as before, the electronics may instead be separately housed), which is coupled to a light generator 842 and a light detector 844 carried, respectively, on the bracket 840 and rope ledge 846. The generator 842 may be, for example, an LED, and the detector 844 may be an electronic eye or other light detector, preferably tuned to the wavelength of the LED. With the rope 846 present, the light detector 844 cannot detect the emitted light, as shown in Figure 16A. When the rope is removed, as shown in Figure 16B, the light detector senses the incident light and provides a signal to the electronics unit, which in turn determines that the rope has been removed. The housing 830 may also have an indicator light thereon, as shown at 848.

[0142] Figures 17A-17B illustrate embodiments of the switch sensor unit of a saddle timer unit. While some embodiments herein detect the presence of the rope, other embodiments detect the presence of the string that is attached to the rope. Figure 17A shows a switch sensor unit 850, that detects the presence of the string. String 854 (which is in turn attached to the rope, not shown, used to capture the animal during a rodeo event) is positioned in the slot 852. When the rope is pulled, the string breaks and exits the slot 852. Mechanical sensing or optical sensing of the presence or absence of string 854 may be used, as desired.

[0143] Figure 17B illustrates a mechanical detector. The housing includes a slot 852. Slot 852 has a base 853 that includes a pair of housing contacts 854a and 854b. An activator flap 855 is housed within the slot and has a lower edge 856 that includes an electrical contact 857. When a string 858 is placed into the slot and tied snuggly it shifts the electrical contact 857 of the activator flat 855 away from the pair of housing contacts 854a and 854b and opens the circuit. When the string 858 is broken by the force of a calf pulling on the rope, the activator flap 855 moves forward by spring or other biasing force, such that electrical contact 857 and housing contacts 854a and 854b come into contact and close the circuit therebetween which is detected by the electronics unit which may, as before, be integrated in the housing and / or may be separately provided.

[0144] Figures 18A-18C show illustrative saddle timer units. In Figure 18A, the switch sensor unit 900 is shown and will again be configured for securing to the saddle horn with a mounting strap. The housing 902 holds the electronics unit (if an integrated system is used; otherwise, the electronics unit may instead be located elsewhere as previously discussed) and an electrical switch sensing arm 904 having a C-shaped slot 906 for receiving a string, the string being attached as before to the rope used to capture the animal in a rodeo event. Figure 18A shows the switch

[0145] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 20 of 41 sensing arm 904 in a released position. Figure 18B shows the switch sensor unit 900 now secured to the saddle horn 910. A string 912 is shown in slot 906, compressing the switch sensing arm. As shown in Figure 18C, the removal of the string 912 releases the switch sensing arm 904. Such movement would then be detected by the electronics unit housed by the switch sensor unit 900.

[0146] Figures 19A-19B show another illustrative saddle timer unit. The saddle horn 930 is shown on the right, with a strap 932 securing a strap bracket 934 to the saddle horn 930. The illustration shows a device without a housing and / or electronics in order to visualize the mechanism. A lever 936 is coupled to a spring 938, which biases the lever 936 as shown by Figure 19A. In Figure 19B, the housing 940 is added, which may contain a power source, control and sensing electronics and communication circuitry, for example and without limitation. The lever 934 is now held by string 942, compressing the spring 938.

[0147] In use, the string 942 is wrapped as shown around the saddle horn 930 to entrap the lever 934 as shown in Figure 19B. When the rider ropes a target, for example, the string 942 can be coupled to an end of the rope, and breaks when the rope is tensioned, releasing the lever 934 to return to the position of Figure 19A. The sensing electronics may sense any of a strain on the lever 936, contact of the lever 936 with a sensing device on the housing 940, a position of the pivot point of the lever 934, contact of the lever with a sensing apparatus (electrode, force sensor, cherry switch, etc.) adjacent the spring 936, or any other mechanism that would detect a change in position of the lever 934 as between the spring biased position of Figure 19A, and the string 942 restrained position of Figure 19B. Use of the string would allow use of existing and commercially available ropes for breakaway roping, if desired.

[0148] Figure 20 shows another illustrative example. Here, the timer device 954 is attached to the saddle horn 950 by a strap 952. The internal electronics are represented with an RF chip as shown at 956 and a control circuit board at 958. In this example, a rope coupler is shown at 962, and is to be held or secured relative to the timer device by arms 960, which are spring-loaded to compress together and secure the rope coupler 962. The rope coupler 962 is shown in a format that would be attached to a filament of the rope and / or to a string on the rope; use of the string format would allow use of existing breakaway roping ropes, if desired. The spring forcing arms 960 together may exert a force of several pounds, and so release buttons 964 are provided to help pull the arms 960 apart to allow the rope coupler 962 to be positioned. In use, the removal of the rope coupler 962 may be detected by, for example, detecting force on the arms 960 with a strain sensor, separation of the arms 960 (such as by breaking a circuit), force on the spring holding the arms 960, or any other suitable approach for detecting removal.

[0149] Figures 21A-21E show another illustrative example. Starting with Figure 21A, a tab assembly for attaching a pull tab 970 to the end of a rope 974 is shown. A cable 972 having barrel

[0150] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 21 of 41 ends attaches to the pull tab 970 on one end, and is secured to the rope 974 at the other end. A two part rope clamp 976a and 976b is used by first placing the end of the cable 972 next to the rope 974 and positioning the halves of the clamp 976a / b thereover. A heat shrink tube 978 is then positioned over the clamp halves 976a / b, and heat is applied causing the heat shrink tube to contract and secure the clamp halves 976a / b on the rope 974 to thereby secure the cable 972 on the rope 974.

[0151] Figure 2 IB shows the pull tab 970 received in a saddle horn timer apparatus. The timer apparatus includes upper jaw 980 and lower jaw 982. A spring 984 biases the jaws 980, 982 together to thereby secure the pull tab 970 as shown. A force sensor 986 is positioned at one end of the spring 984 where the upper jaw 980 is coupled to the spring 984. When the pull tab 970 is subjected to a force that removes it from the jaws 980, 982, this exerts a force that is detected by the force sensor 986. Figure 21C shows the force sensor 986 in isolation, and is can be seen that the force sensor has first and second electrical wires coming therefrom; the force sensor may be, for example, a resistive or capacitive force sensor having electrical characteristics that change in response to an applied force. Such sensors are capable of operation for thousands of force interactions and are can be obtained relatively cheaply with highly durable packaging. A similar force sensor can be used in various other examples herein.

[0152] The spring force applied in the example of Figure 2 IB can be relatively high, in the range of tens of pounds for example, or more. Thus a release tab 990 may be included in the design as shown in Figures 21D-21E. In Figure 2 ID, the design can be appreciated as including a saddle horn buckle 988 as well as the release tab 990. Figure 2 IE shows how the release tab 990 can be rotated to separate the upper and lower jaws 980, 982, allowing the pull tab 970 to be removed or placed, depending on what is needed by the user.

[0153] Figures 22A-22D show another illustrative gate and pin timing device. As shown in Figure 22A, the device 500 is a flat-sided cylinder with a slot 502 extending therethrough; the construction may be of a hard polymer, for example. Figure 22B shows a section view, illustrating that the slot 502 opens into a chamber 506, and a through hole 504 is opposite the slot. The device 500 includes side channels 508 that are used to position conductors therethrough.

[0154] Figure 22C shows an assembly of the device 500 including leaf springs 512 and 514 that serve as electrical contacts for a low voltage (less than 10 Volts; less than 3 volts in some examples) system for detecting removal of a pin from the chamber 506 via the slot. The leaf springs 512, 514 couple to respective conductors 510, 516 that exit the device on opposite sides, and would then be coupled to an electronics unit (not shown).

[0155] A use configuration is shown in Figure 22D. The device 500 is attached using screws 524 and plate 526 to the gate rings 520, 522 on the chute. The device 500 can be seen to fit inside at

[0156] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 22 of 41 least one of the gate rings 520, 522; in this instance, the device 500 has a flat-sided cyclindrical shape to accommodate the rings with the cylindrical side, and the post with the flat side. The calf pin 530 is coupled via rope 532 to the calf (or other animal depending on the event). The pin 530 can be seen position in the device 500 and interacting with the leaf springs 512, 514, which apply a limited amount of force to hold the pin in place. In various examples, different approaches to detecting the pin in position and pin removal can be used, including having the pin complete a circuit (assuming a metal pin) between the leaf springs, or using a force sensor on the leaf springs to detect the pin being present, or using an optical sensor to detect the pin blocking an optical path, among others discussed herein; any of the examples discussed herein can be integrated. The pin has the calf rope attached at one end, while the other end is used to hold a ring attached to the end of the barrier rope 534. The configuration shown detects the barrier rope 534 being dropped when the calf rope 532, thereby providing precise timing on an event start.

[0157] In other examples a larger flange may be used to avoid positioning the screws 524, 526 across the gap where the barrier rope ring is positioned around the pin 530.

[0158] Several of the preceding examples use a timing device attached to the chute to detect when the animal reaches a certain distance away from the starting location. The timing device may instead be coupled to a different device in the vicinity, or may be part of a stand-alone device that is, for example, sufficiently heavy to withstand the pulling force effected by the animal to remove the pin.

[0159] Figures 23 A-23D show an illustrative system and method in a block flow diagram. This method can be used for managing participation in a competition, exhibition or training, for example and without limitation. The block flow diagram refers to a “rider,” but it will be understood that any participant may be substituted for a rider within the method. Starting in Figure 23 A, a rider registers for the event as indicated at 1000, such as by pre-registering before an event, or by registering on-site, for example. When registering, the rider’s STU information may be entered by any suitable fashion, such as by entering a serial number, by Bluetooth linking procedure, by scanning a QR code or bar code on the STU, by linking using tap near field communication (in which case each of the STU and a device linked to the scoring console and / or base station at an event facility would have near field communication capabilities), or by any other suitable method for transferring the rider’s STU identity to the event facility system. The event facility system may refer, for example, to one or more of the scoring console 120 and base station 110, as shown in Figure 1, for example, and / or to a device that is operably linked (such as by wired or wireless communication) to such devices. For example, a check-in table at an event may have a staff person present with a tablet computer or smartphone that can be used to register 1000

[0160] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 23 of 41 participants in the event and establish links to and obtain information about the STU for each participant / rider.

[0161] Once registered, the system provides for a rider’s STU to communicate with the event’s scoring console. The data for a rider can be generated and stored for later use, and may include, for example, the rider’s personal information, past performances, past performance characteristics (e.g. collected from wearable, or any other data sources), chosen event to participate in, etc. The STU may be provided by and controlled by the event management group, or may be personal to the rider, who may own their STU rather than receiving one from the event.

[0162] When the rider arrives at the event and first activates the STU at block 1002, an indicator light on the STU flashes red as indicated at 1004. It should be noted that for this discussion the specific indicators, colors, flashing patterns, etc. are for explanatory purposes only. Alternative indicators (e.g. light, sound, tactile, etc) that deliver different outputs (e.g. color, sounds, or patterns) are within the scope of the invention. If the STU does not start flashing red at block 1004, the rider and / or event check-in or registration personnel should note this and it may be necessary to charge the STU (if rechargeable) or replace a battery thereof, as indicated at 1003.

[0163] After activation of the STU, standard wireless communications methods are performed to allow the scoring console to pair with the STU, identify the rider using prestored information (from block 1000, for example, though the information may be entered instead at block 1002, for example if the rider registers on sight, linking a particular STU to a rider’s name). The pairing can be initiated by the STU, which would seek to pair with the scoring console upon being activated. The event facility system may have one or more devices continuously scanning, as indicated at 1001, for any STU in range of the wireless communication system (often Bluetooth but not limited to such). Alternatively, the scoring console may initiate pairing when instructed to do so by event management, in response to the rider arriving at and checking into the event.

[0164] The rider’s name is then added to a screen or list of event participants who are at the event as indicated at 1006. If the rider’s STU is linked / paired at 1006, after activation by the rider, and the rider is not found in the list of riders registered for the event, the rider may be denied entry and / or may be required to register as indicated at 1005.

[0165] With pairing completed, the STU now indicates a flashing blue, as indicated at 1008. The rider can thus readily confirm that the STU is paired with the scoring console. It should be noted that a network or mesh approach can be used for this wireless communication, so that “pairing” with the scoring console may be indirect, as through use of a mesh network having multiple access points spread out in a given facility, where each access point is in communication, whether wireless or wired, with the scoring console. The present invention is not limited to a specific

[0166] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 24 of 41 wireless communications architecture, frequency band, or protocol, and the details provided regarding wireless communication are for illustration, not limitation.

[0167] Proceeding to Figure 23B, when the rider’s event is coming up, the scoring console operator will select the rider’ s name from those listed on the scoring console UI to inform the rider that they are on-deck (or some other appropriate time before the rider’s run), as indicated at 1010. On-deck means the rider will be up next after a preceding rider completes the event. Once selected on the scoring console the STU LED becomes solid blue 1012, indicating that the rider is selected and is connected to the base station. The scoring console may show that the competitor has been selected and it is waiting for the rider to be staged (i.e. STU switch activated). In embodiments, the scoring console UI can give the option to select a new competitor at this point if needed.

[0168] The “STU switch” refers to the switch in the saddle timer unit that is used to detect removal of the rope or string from the STU. This switch can be activated or set by the rider simply preparing the STU for use. For example, positioning the rope or string so that the associated switch on the STU is moved into a “ready” position allowing detection of removal of the rope or switch in the subsequent rodeo event. The STU switch can be activated at any suitable point in time; many riders will choose to activate the STU switch prior to arrival at the event and / or prior to being call to the on-deck position during competition.

[0169] The rider may also receive indications, such as audible or visual indications, of the on- deck status. The rider then can enable or activate the switch on the STU by tying the string and / or putting the rope into position., as indicated at 1014. The rider enters the box and the chute pin is correctly positioned (and barrier rope secured if being used), as indicated at 1016. The LED on the STU shows solid green, and the base station shows the rider is ready (again, possibly using color coding if desired) as shown at 1018. The base station showing all is ready may include one or more of determining by sensing / detecting location of the STU that the rider is in position, receiving an input from the rider or event personnel that the rider is in position, confirming with wireless communication to the STU that the STU is ready, visually confirming the LED status on the STU, communicating with the sensor for the chute pin to confirm that the pin is determined to be correctly positioned, and / or visually confirming that the chute pin and any associated items, such as the barrier rope, are correctly positioned.

[0170] In the event that the chute pin is not in position, the scoring console user interface (UI) will give a message that the chute pin is not in place. Likewise, if the STU switch is not activated the scoring console UI will give a message that the saddle timer unit is not yet ready. Either way, the system prompts the method to go to block 1017 to perform the appropriate check. Visual cues (flashing red, yellow, etc.) on the STU and / or scoring console UI may be used, for example. In an example, if the STU switch is not activated the saddle timer indicator will be blue rather than

[0171] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 25 of 41 green, and the base station indicator light will not be green. In embodiments, if either the chute pin is not in position or the STU switch not activated, the scoring console UI can give the option to abort the run and / or select another competitor.

[0172] In an example, a solid green status indicates that the STU and base station are ready for the rider to start. The scoring console UI will now indicate that the rider is staged and waiting to start. In embodiments, the scoring console UI can give the option to abort the run and select a new competitor if needed. When all is connected and the saddle timer indicator light and base station indicator light are solid green, the rider can call for release of the calf. Turning to Figure 23 C, the rider, having confirmed the STU status, then indicates to the person controlling the chute to release the animal as indicated at 1020. In many events the animal exits the chute with a rope (the calf rope) of a predetermined length around its neck. Once the calf has run out the length of the rope, the rope pulls the chute pin out of the chute at 1022 and then the rope breaks from the calf s neck. With the chute pin pulled, the barrier drops, allowing the rider to exit the box and pursue the animal.

[0173] The base station senses when the chute pin is pulled out at 1024, and communicates the event start to the STU to start the STU clock and the scoring console clock at 1026. The LED on the STU goes off as indicated at 1027. In some examples, the communication causes one or both of the STU and / or scoring console clocks to start counting up from zero. This step 1026 may occur later, if desired, and the base station may simply generate and store a time data packet indicating the time at which the gate pin was pulled. With wireless communication having already been established, the devices can all determine a synchronized clock and / or offset, so storing time data in each device which is then communicated to a central device (which may be the STU, the base station, the scoring console, or any other desired device in the system) may be adequate to determine accurate timing.

[0174] For purposes of a live event, however, the crowd in attendance is often accustomed to seeing an “unofficial” event timer on a scoreboard. Turning to Figure 23D, in this example, at 1028 the scoring console can use the indication of event start from the base station to start a clock counting up, which is shown on the scoreboard. Normally, at least for break-away roping, the rider ropes the calf and the calf pulls the rope from the STU at 1030. Once the rope reaches its full extent and is pulled from the saddle, the STU senses that the rope has been pulled at 1032, causing the STU clock to stop, and the indicator light on the STU may begin to flash red. The STU may record a time at which the rope pull is sensed, and communicate such data to the scoring console, in some examples. When the STU detects the rope pull from the STU, in an example, a communication to the base station and / or scoring console is issued, and the scoring console stops the unofficial clock shown on the scoreboard.

[0175] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 26 of 41 Once an official time is calculated, the scoring console will update the unofficial time shown initially with an official time. For example, the “official time” may be that determined by the STU using the start time communicated to it when the chute pin is detected as having been removed, and the end time detected at the STU at which the rope has been released, for example and without limitation. In some embodiments, the scoring console UI can provide for the operator to add a penalty, call a no time or other action as determined appropriate. Thus, in an example, at block 1036, the STU sends the run time of the event which is calculated in the STU using the time at which the chute pin was released and detected as withdrawn, communicated to the STU by the base station, as the start time. The stop time is directly detected by the STU when the rope is pulled. The duration from the start time to the end time may be calculated at the STU

[0176] Alternatively, the “official time” may be calculated by the base station or scoring console using the detected time of chute pin withdrawal, and a time communicated by the STU for the rope having been pulled, corrected to account for synchronization of the different clocks in each device in the system. For example, the STU may have an internal clock, and records withdrawal of the rope when the STU clock has time “XSTU”. The STU then communicates to the base station at a subsequent time, identified on the STU clock as time, “YSTUI”, that the rope pull occurred at STU clock time XSTU; if retries are needed to get the communicated message through each message would occur at a subsequent time Ysrun. The base station then receives that message or retry, and uses the timestamp on the message and the content of the message to determine, according to the base station clock, when the event detected at STU clock time XSTU occurred. Meanwhile, a similar process would be used to allow the base station to also determine, according to its own clock, and using timestamps of messages and message content from a chute pin detector circuit / electronics, when the chute pin was pulled. Such an approach provides a deterministic outcome and accuracy in the millisecond to microsecond range.

[0177] However the official time is calculated, and by which device, at the end, the method concludes with posting the official time on the scoring console and scoreboard at 1038. After all riders have completed their runs of the event, a winner can be determined from the official times.

[0178] If multiple runs are performed, the method can revert to block 1010, and the STU, once it receives a communication of “on deck” will switch back to the solid blue color. Alternatively, the reversion may be to block 1002, or anywhere between 1002 and 1012, as desired.

[0179] Going back through the method, the process may be restated in another example. A rider arrives at the event facility. The rider’s STU becomes associated with the rider’s name either as part of pre-registering before arrival at the event, or as part of the arrival / registration / check-in process. A base station or mesh network of access devices will scan for the STU of any person arriving at the location. Such scanning may omit actual pairing with any given device. It may be

[0180] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 27 of 41 noted that each STU may advertise using standard Bluetooth processes with a combination of device type and device identifier, and only those devices of the correct type (STU devices) may be counted by the base station, access point or on-site network.

[0181] The on-site base station, access points or network thus “sees” and identifies all the STU devices that arrive. Pairing with the devices may be performed at check-in, if desired, but is not needed until the rider is ready to run. Thus there may be an initial pairing procedure at registration / check-in, for example, in which the on-site system may query the STU to confirm it is operating a correct software version and is operable, that is, has sufficient battery capacity and has not been tampered with, for example. After the initial pairing the link may be terminated to preserve battery.

[0182] When the rider is on-deck, an operator (human) at a scoring console selects the rider, and pairing with the STU is performed. This may be a simple process of selecting the rider’s STU on a UI. If desired, a near-field communication tap step can be used to prompt the STU to enable pairing with the base station, scoring console or other on-site network. If the scoring console UI does not show the rider as present, an ERROR message is generated on the UI, and the rider is called such as by loudspeaker, cell phone, etc. to troubleshoot any problems, such as low battery on the STU or malfunction of the STU, or failure to check-in or complete all registration steps, for example and without limitation. The base unit or scoring console UI may include a configuration screen allowing all riders that are registered to be listed, and the status of each rider. If an unregistered STU is present, the system may also list that as an unregistered STU on site. In some examples, the scoring console UI may show riders in the event as one of PRESENT, NOT CHECKED IN, or ERROR (checked in but not communicatively available to the on-site network or system. Any such ERROR may be resolved by calling the rider, for example, and determining what is wrong by direct inspection / inquiry.

[0183] While the rider is waiting, the saddle will show flashing BLUE (not yet selected but ready). Switches to flashing RED if the saddle timer unit (STU) has an error, such as low battery, loss of communication, etc. When the rider is selected on the scoring console UI, the STU will show an error if the rider’s STU is not ready, and this is also shown on the scoring console UI. When the rider is selected, if the chute pin is not ready, the scoring console UI will also show an error which indicates which component is in error.

[0184] At the chute, event personnel (a judge or technician for example) confirms the chute pin is properly placed. When correct placement is achieved, an electronics unit associated with the chute pin sensor may include a visual indicator or light to indicate whether the chute pin is correctly positioned. If chute pin is not in, the scoring console UI may also indicate the issue.

[0185] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 28 of 41 Once the rider and STU are in position and the chute pin is ready, a steady BLUE indicator can be show on the UI for the scoring console as well as on the STU on the rider’s saddle. The scoring console can be configured to only allow one rider to have BLUE indicator at a time. An event official may also visually confirm that the correct rider is in the box such as by personal recognition, name, etc., and / or using the blue light on the rider’s saddle. Judge makes an input to the scoring console UI the LED on the chute goes GREEN. In some examples, a rather larger light is positioned in / near the chute to allow the rider, judge and technicians at site, or other arena personnel, to know that all is ready and / or not ready

[0186] Once all is ready, the rider indicates assent to start the event. The calf is released from the pen, gets to end of the rope, and pulls the chute pin out. The barrier rope drops, and the base unit will signal the STU to start its timer and / or record an event start time in some examples. At the same time, the scoring console or base unit triggers the scoreboard at the arena to start counting up on an unofficial time clock. When the rider ropes the calf, and the rope is pulled out, the STU detects the rope pull and stops its internal clock counting up, or records a time at which the rope pull is detected. The packet of information (start time, and stop time, or simply the duration therebetween) can be sent to the base station and scoring console.

[0187] Other events can also be timed. For tie down roping, team roping, bull dogging, etc., for example, release of the chute pin can be used to enhance the accuracy of the timing by improving precision of the start time. In embodiments, rather than stopping timing of the event by an STU, an event judge may operate a “remote control” or “remote switch” to stop the timing of the event. In embodiments, the remote control would be as described for the STU described above, and replacing the rope detection system with a button, toggle switch, or other mechanism that can be manually operated by the judge to indicate stop time of the event. This would further improve accuracy of timing by eliminating the need for a flagger to signal the person running the clock to stop the clock. Instead, the flagger would stop the clock directly.

[0188] In embodiments, for events like bull riding, the time at which the animal is released from the chute, for example when removing the release pin, can be more accurately detected using a system including a switch at the release pin as described herein for chute pins, that sends an electronic wired or wireless signal to the timer clock, such as the base station, when the gate is opened. In embodiments, the rough stock chute releases the animal laterally. Often times the release pin is larger than a chute pin used for roping events and is actually the mechanism that latches the gate of the chute that keeps the animal in. Once the clock is started it can then automatically count down the preset amount of time for the ride to stop the event. Typically, for example, the time duration may be eight seconds.

[0189] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 29 of 41 Figure 24 illustrates an embodiment of a timer system 1500. As illustrated, a clock 1502 in the base station 1503 can receive a signal to start timing an event from a chute switch 1510 positioned on a chute 1512 and receive a signal from a human operated remote switch 1520 to stop the clock 1502. As an example, the clock 1502 could automatically start when the gate 1514 opens or when the calf 1516 reaches the end of the calf rope and pulls the chute pin. In embodiments, the clock 1502 could start when receiving a signal from an electric eye or other system used to detect the start of the event.

[0190] The signal to the base station resulting from the gate opening or the chute pin being withdrawn may be sent via wire or wirelessly, e.g. via Bluetooth, RF infrared, etc. The base station 1503 can be located anywhere in proximity to the event that allows it to provide its information transmission function. In embodiments, the base station 1503 can be near the chute 1512 which is the starting location for some events. To start the event, the calf 1516 is released from the chute 1512. In some rodeo events, the chute pin (discussed above) is pulled from the chute indicating the start time of the clock 1502. For break-away roping described in some examples above, the start time can be when the animal reaches the end of a rope attached to the chute pin and pulls the chute pin out which starts the clock. In other rodeo or equestrian events, when the gate on the chute opens, the clock is started. Thus, for events where opening gate of the chute starts the timer, a “gate switch” triggered when the gate latch is moved can start the clock. The various chute switches disclosed herein can be configured for use as a gate switch. In embodiments, after the gate is open there may be an electric eye that is activated as the calf moves through and sends a signal to start the clock.

[0191] The signal between the chute switch 1510 (or gate switch, electric eye, etc.) and base station 1503 may be sent via wire (e.g. electrical signal) or via RF, Bluetooth or other wireless method. In embodiments the chute switch 1510 may include electronics and communication capabilities to send a signal directly to the base station 1503 or a scoring console 1530, electrically or wirelessly. Other activity within the art can be selected to indicate the time that the chute switch signals the base station or scoring console to start the clock. In embodiments the remote switch 1520 may start or stop the clock. The remote switch 1520 may include electronics having communication capabilities that can send a wireless signal to start and / or stop the clock on base station, scoring console or other timer location.

[0192] The electrical and wireless switches disclosed herein can be used alone or combined with some human actions as well to improve the precision of timing over current human activated timing systems. In embodiments, a chute switch 1510 located on chute 1512 can send a signal to base station 1503 to indicate the start of an event and start the clock and the remote switch 1520 can be used to send a signal to the base station 1503 to stop the clock. Such a configuration

[0193] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 30 of 41 may be particularly beneficial for rodeo events such as calf roping, team roping and bull dogging to improve accuracy of the starting the clock for the event as well as improve accuracy for stopping the clock for the event by reducing the number of humans currently involved to wave a flag and manually stop the clock by another human after seeing the flag waved.

[0194] In embodiments, when the remote switch is activated to stop the clock it may also activate a speaker, light, or other indicator for spectators to know that the remote switch has been activated. A scoreboard 1532 may be used as before to provide unofficial and official event times, as well as any other suitable data. An app 1534 and / or cloud storage 1536 may, respectively, allow riders to perform their own scoring / timing if desired (the app being stored on a smartphone for example having Bluetooth or other communication capabilities, and cloud storage 1536 can be used to store event data in archival fashion and / or to allow further analysis of event times and any desired metrics.

[0195] Cloud communication may allow data to be mined and / or compared in many different ways. An individual rider’s statistics can be reviewed, for example, to identify improvements made by the rider and correlate to any suitable inputs, including changes in equipment, training methods, etc. Review of statistical inputs may include looking at additional metrics of animal behavior and performance. For example, the STU may include an accelerometer, which may allow a determination of when the horse begins to take off at the start of the event. Some riders will stay toward the rear of the box behind the barrier rope, and try to anticipate when the barrier rope will fall by staring their horse ahead of the time at which the barrier rope drops, for example. An accelerometer on the STU can provide a time at which forward movement started, and because the STU can also receive timing data from the chute timer switch, the STU can give an indication of best practices for when the horse should start moving. Additional data can be obtained and used as well, such as determining trends over time for how quickly the rider is able to complete the event, how fast the horse accelerates, etc.

[0196] Timing accuracy for rough stock events, such as bull or bronc may also be improved by embodiments herein. Figure 25 illustrates an embodiment of a timer system 1600. In embodiments, a clock 1602 in base station 1604 can receive a signal to start the clock to time the event, such as when the gate release 1616 on gate 1610 of chute 1612 opens to release a calf, or rough stock (bulls, broncos). In embodiments, rough stock chutes may be configured differently than calf chutes in that the animal is released laterally rather than through the front of a chute, a chute switch 1614 according the disclosure can be configured for gate release 1616 to send a signal to be base station 1604 when the gate release 1616 is moved to open the gate. The signal from the gate switch 1614 can be sent via wire or wirelessly (eg. via Bluetooth, RF, infrared, etc.) to the clock 1602 of base station 1604.

[0197] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 31 of 41 The base station may be located within the arena of the event in a location that allows the base station 1602 to perform its herein disclosed function. In embodiments, the base station 1602 can be near the chute 1612. In embodiments, once the clock 1602 is started it may then automatically stop without further human intervention after counting down a pre-determined amount of time. The amount of time that the clock runs, for example, can be selected by the operator on the user interface of the scoring console. In embodiments, such a timer system can improve the accuracy of human activated clock systems by ensuring that the start time is the same for each contestant based on the pre-set configuration and arrangement of the gate switch 1614 connected to the gate release 1616. The event timing data can be used as before with the scoring console 1620, scoreboard 1622, etc., as desired.

[0198] Figure 25 may also include a data feed to a stadium or arena video system, as indicated at 1630. Many rodeo events are captured live with video. The timing systems disclosed herein may be synchronized to a video feed to allow video review to be used to determine with high precision how long a particular rodeo event takes, including, for example, in tie-down roping. While it is known in some sports to synchronize two video feeds, one observing a player (such as in basketball) and another observing a clock (again, basketball being a good example), to determine whether the player completes a task (releasing the ball for example) before expiry of the clock, the rodeo events discussed herein do not have an official clock that the video feed could synchronize to. Instead, the official clock, as disclosed in various examples herein, may be on a saddle timer unit or in the base unit, and starts counting up from zero at a very precisely determined time, that is, when a chute pin is pulled (which may indicate release of an animal or may indicate the animal has reached a certain distance from a starting place. A synchronized relationship among the electronic device clocks can be implemented (such as a master / slave relationship) so that one master clock synchronizes all other clocks. With the system clocks all synchronized, a video feed system may be able to synchronize with timing inputs received from the timer system shown in Figure 25 and / or other timer systems and devices disclosed herein. Then, during review of the video feed, the time at which a competitor completes a task may be determined using slow motion replay review, even on a frame-by-frame basis. The synchronized clocks allow determination of the duration of the event, from a sensed start time derived from a chute timer switch, to an observed completion time obtained from video review.

[0199] In embodiments, any one or more of the timer systems disclose herein may be included in a single timer arrangement with a single UI that allows for selection of one or more of the herein disclosed timer systems. That is, for example, a plurality of separate programs can be stored in the scoring console and / or base station allowing use with different configurations for different event types. In embodiments, timer systems disclosed herein may be connected to the internet

[0200] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 32 of 41 directly or indirectly (eg. via Bluetooth to another device) where access to the timer system and components is managed through optional pay for service fee arrangements that are assessable on a recurring basis or a one-time set up fee.

[0201] Figure 26 shows an arena in diagrammatic fashion. The arena will have a physical boundary as shown at 1700, such as a fence or wall. A scoreboard 1702 is used inform the audience and competitors of various facts regarding the ongoing event, such as event results, upcoming events, and current competitors, for example and without limitation. A scoring table is shown at 1704, next to but outside of the boundary 1700, and may have a scoring console as indicated. A base station is provided near the chut 1706 and the roping box 1708. The calf waits in the chute for the chute to open, while the rider and her horse wait in the roping box for the event to begin. These details can be used in any of the preceding examples.

[0202] In some embodiments a timer system of the invention can include electronic hardware and software for an electronic eye, e.g. a photo-electric type switch having an emitter and receiver to pass a beam parallel to a threshold and includes known single light beam systems or light curtains (aka: light fence). In the example shown in Figure 26, a first photo-electric detector and switch could be used in place of the chute switch and a second photo-electric switch could be used in place of the barrier rope. In such an embodiment the first photo-electric detector and switch is positioned to pass a first beam in the arena, for example 10 feet in front of the chute, such that when the calf passes 10 feet from the chute after being released from the chute it breaks the first beam and starts the clock in the STU. This is represented in Figure 26 by the spacing of an optical source or detector at 1710, and an optical detector or source at 1712. Other positioning, and more than two sensors / detectors, may be used if desired.

[0203] The second photo-electric system can be placed to position a second beam along the threshold at the front of the box such that when the horse crosses the threshold of the box the second beam is broken. This second beam can pass between an optical source detector shown at 1714, and an optical detector / source shown at 1716. The times of the calf breaking the first beam and the horse breaking the second beam can be compared to confirm that the horse did not leave the box before the calf broke the first beam.

[0204] In embodiments the described photo-electric systems can be included in the herein disclosed timer systems. In embodiments the clock in the STU can be started when the calf crosses the first beam (by a direct signal to the STU or indirect through the base station) and the clock in the STU is stopped when it detects the rope pull as described previously. It will be appreciated that photo-electric systems described can alternatively be used with a herein described remote switch to stop a clock.

[0205] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 33 of 41 In embodiments a timer system can include electronics for operating an electronic eye system independent of other timer functions. Such timer systems provide the versatility of timer for previously described rodeo events as well as for rodeo events such as barrel racing. Barrel racing typically uses a single photo-electric beam across a single threshold that starts a scoring console or other clock when the horse crosses the beam upon entering the arena and stops the clock after completing its run and exiting the arena. In embodiments, the photo-electric sensor system can provide multiple beams creating a light curtain / fence, as desired.

[0206] Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or can be combined in various permutations or combinations with one or more of the other examples.

[0207] The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0208] In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls.

[0209] In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” Moreover, in the claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0210] Method examples described herein can be machine or computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples can include a computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of such methods can include code, such as microcode, assembly language code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code can include computer readable instructions for performing various methods. The code may form portions of computer program products. Further, in an example, the code can be tangibly stored on one or more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible computer-readable media, such as during execution or at other times. Examples of these tangible computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic or optical disks, magnetic cassettes,

[0211] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 34 of 41 memory cards or sticks, random access memories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the like.

[0212] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description.

[0213] The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, innovative subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the protection should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0214] Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 35 of 41

Claims

1. CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system for event timing in an equestrian or rodeo event, comprising: a housing configured for use on a chute used to start timing the event, the housing including a pin sensor for detecting removal of the chute pin from the housing; a base station comprising a first communications circuit and having or being in communication with the pin sensor for detecting removal of the chute pin from the housing; a saddle timer unit configured to attach to a saddle and including a rope sensor and a second communication circuit, the rope sensor configured to detect release of a rope from the saddle; and a timing controller configured for determining a time from when the pin sensor detects removal of the chute pin from the housing to a time the rope sensor detects release of the rope.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein: the timing controller is contained in the saddle timer unit; the timing controller is operably coupled to the rope sensor to receive a signal indicating release of the rope; and the timing controller is operably coupled to the second communications circuit to communicate with the first communication circuit and obtain timing data from the pin sensor.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein: the timing controller is contained in the base station; the timing controller is operably coupled to the pin sensor; and the timing controller is operably coupled to the first communications circuit to communicate with the second communication circuit and obtaining timing data from the rope sensor.

4. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the housing holds the chute pin so that the chute pin also couples with a barrier rope, such that the barrier rope drops when the chute pin is removed.

5. A saddle timer unit comprising: a holding mechanism for holding the saddle timer unit to a saddle; a housing containing electronics including a transmitter and a power source; andAttorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 36 of 41a rope sensor configured to detect pulling of a rope, the rope sensor including a moveable member and a detector that detects movement of the moveable member, wherein the detector is electrically coupled to the electronics; wherein the moveable member is a spring biased lever positioned so that a string, attached to the rope at a first end and attached to the saddle at a second end, compresses the moveable member until the rope is pulled and the spring breaks, such that the rope sensor detects breaking of the string to detect pulling of the rope.

6. A saddle timer unit comprising: a holding mechanism for holding the saddle timer unit to a saddle; a housing containing electronics including a transmitter and a power source; and a rope sensor configured to detect pulling of a rope, the rope sensor including a moveable member and a detector that detects movement of the moveable member, wherein the detector is electrically coupled to the electronics; wherein the moveable member is configured to receive a pull tab coupled to an end of the rope, such that pulling of the rope removes the pull tab from the moveable member; optionally, wherein the pull tab is connected to the end of the rope by a cable which is secured to the rope by a rope clamp surrounded by a heat shrink tube.

7. A saddle timer unit comprising: a holding mechanism for holding the saddle timer unit to a saddle; a housing containing electronics including a transmitter and a power source; and a rope sensor configured to detect pulling of a rope, the rope sensor including a moveable member and a detector that detects movement of the moveable member, wherein the detector is electrically coupled to the electronics; wherein the moveable member is configured to receive a rope coupler which is adapted to be tied to a filament of the rope or a string coupled to the rope.

8. The saddle timer unit of any of claims 5-7, wherein the detector is a force sensor.

9. The saddle timer unit of any of claims 5-7, wherein the detector is an electrical sensor which detects at least one of the following in response to movement of the moveable member: a change in impedance; a change in capacitance; breaking of a circuit; orAttorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 37 of 41making of a circuit.

10. The saddle timer unit of any of claims 5-7, wherein the detector is an optical sensor.

11. A saddle timer unit comprising: a holding mechanism for holding the saddle timer unit to a saddle; a housing containing electronics including a transmitter and a power source; and a rope sensor configured to detect pulling of a rope, the rope sensor configured to receive the rope therein and detect removal of the rope therefrom using an optical detector.

12. A livestock timer unit comprising: a housing configured to attach to a livestock chute, the housing configured to receive a chute pin; a release sensor that detects removal of the chute pin; a transmitter that transmits a signal when the chute pin is removed.

13. The livestock timer unit of claim 12, wherein the release sensor is an electrical sensor which detects at least one of the following in response to removal of the chute pin: a change in impedance; a change in capacitance; breaking of a circuit; or making of a circuit.

14. The livestock timer unit of claim 12, wherein the release sensor is an optical sensor.

15. The livestock timer unit of any of claims 12-14, wherein the housing receives the chute pin such that a first end of the chute pin extends from a first side thereof, and a second end of the chute pin extends beyond the housing to allow a barrier rope to be secured over a portion of the chute pin between the housing and the second end of the chute pin.

16. The livestock timer unit of any of claims 12-15, wherein: the chute has a plurality of gate rings thereon; and the housing is shaped and sized to fit inside of at least one gate ring.Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 38 of 4117. A system comprising a livestock timer unit as in any of claims 12-16, and a saddle timer unit of any of claims 5-11, further comprising a timing controller configured to use the livestock timer unit to determine a start time to an equestrian or rodeo event, and the saddle timer unit to determine an end time to the equestrian or rodeo event.

18. A method comprising detecting an end time of an equestrian or rodeo event using a saddle timer unit of any of claims 5-11, and using the end time to calculate a duration of a task performed by a participant in the equestrian or rodeo event.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising detecting a start time of the equestrian or rodeo event manually, and using the start time with the end time to calculate the duration of the task performed by the participant in the equestrian or rodeo event.

20. A method comprising detecting a start time of an equestrian or rodeo event using a livestock timer unit as in any of claims 12-16, and using the start time to calculate a duration of a task performed by a participant in the equestrian or rodeo event.

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising detecting an end time of the equestrian or rodeo event manually, and using the start time with the end time to calculate the duration of the task performed by the participant in the equestrian or rodeo event.

22. A method of determining a duration of an equestrian or rodeo event comprising: detecting a start time of the event using a livestock timer unit as in any of claims 12-16; and detecting an end time of the event using a saddle timer unit of any of claims 5-11.

23. A method as in any of claims 19-22, wherein the step of detecting a start time includes starting a clock or timer.

24. A method as in any of claims 19-22, wherein the step of detecting a start time includes recording a start time stamp.

24. A method as in any of claims 18-19 or 21-22, wherein detecting an end time includes stopping a clock or timer.Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 39 of 4125. A method as in any of claims 18-19 or 21-22, wherein detecting an end time includes recording an end time stamp.

26. A timing system for timing an equestrian or rodeo event, comprising: a release sensor to indicate release of an animal from a chute; a timing controller having a first communication circuit configured for determining a first time of the event when the animal is released from the chute and determining a second time of the event; wherein the timing system is configured to receive input from a saddle timer unit located on the saddle of a competitor in the event.

27. The timing system of claim 26 wherein the saddle timer unit includes a rope sensor configured to detect a change in position of a rope and a second communication circuit to provide input to the timing controller to determine the second time of the event.

28. The timing system of claim 26 wherein the timing system is configured to receive input from a photoelectric detector and a third communication circuit to provide input to the timing controller to determine the second time of the event.

29. The timing system of claim 26 wherein the release sensor comprises a chute pin configured for use on the chute to indicate release of the animal from the chute.

30. The timing system of claim 26 wherein the chute pin is held in a housing secured to a post or ring of the chute.

31. The timing system of claim 26 further comprising a base station comprising a fourth communication circuit for communicating with the timing controller.

32. The timing system of claim 26, wherein the release sensor is a photoelectric sensor or an optical sensor.Attorney Docket No. 1513.1007111 Page 40 of 41

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