Bus Network Node Spatial Configuration for Aquatic Timing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional timing and scoring systems for aquatic sports require complex and laborious cable connections, making setup and configuration cumbersome and prone to user error, and necessitate reconnection for changes in course configurations.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a bus network with nodes that communicate spatial knowledge to simplify connections and allow configuration through graphical representations, reducing the need for manual cable management and enabling easy changes in course setups by manipulating node representations on a control device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional timing systems use multiple cable connections for hubs and course connections, then the system can provide timing and scoring functions, but the setup and configuration becomes complex and laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate cable connections into a single integrated bus system. Instead of having separate cables for power, data, and control signals, all these functions are merged into a single bus network that connects hubs, course connections, and control devices, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining all necessary functions
Solution Approach 2:
The bus system serves multiple functions simultaneously - it provides power distribution, data communication, control signal transmission, and configuration capabilities through a single infrastructure. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated cables for each function, directly reducing connection complexity
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional systems require physical reconnection of cables for course configuration changes, then the system maintains stable connections, but the time to switch between events increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static physical connections to dynamic virtual connections through software configuration. Course configurations can be changed by manipulating graphical representations on a control device, and the system dynamically reconfigures the bus network accordingly without requiring physical cable manipulation, enabling rapid event switching
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of physically moving cables, the system creates virtual copies or representations of course configurations through software. The control device displays graphical representations of nodes and connections, allowing operators to select and configure different events by manipulating these visual representations, which instantly translates to the appropriate physical bus connections being activated
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional timing systems use extensive cable wiring for all nodes and connections, then the system can support multiple lanes and events, but the installation becomes cumbersome and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pool into modular sections with designated nodes at specific locations (starting end, turning points, finishing end). Each node is an independent unit that connects to the bus system, allowing the system to be configured for different lane configurations and event types by simply activating different segments rather than installing all possible connections physically
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary configuration actions through software before physical connections are needed. By pre-configuring course layouts, lane assignments, and event parameters in the control device, the system prepares all necessary routing and connection logic in advance, so that when installation occurs, only simple bus connections are required rather than complex point-to-point wiring
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments provide a system including connected system nodes, the system configured to provide timing and scoring for aquatic sports in pools. The spatial location of the nodes relative to the pool and pool reference points may be retrieved from the system and representations can be created. The representations may be used to first select the desired nodes for one or several sports events and then execute those sports events with the selected nodes. Electrical connections may be made from materials that withstand aggressive pool chemicals, such as titanium, Hastelloy or Inconel.