Electronic Whistle Optical Sensor Timing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing whistle systems in sports games rely on audible signals that can lead to timing errors due to the need for officials to hear the whistle clearly, and they are not operable in adverse weather conditions, requiring a more precise and weather-resistant solution for starting and stopping game clocks.
Innovation Solution
An electronically activated handheld whistle system with a transmitter and receiver that transmits a coded signal to instantly start or stop game clocks, featuring a membrane switch, optical sensor, and flexible antenna to ensure accurate and reliable operation in all weather conditions, allowing officials to use both hands and maintain accurate timing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an audible whistle signal is used to control the game clock, then the official can indicate stop/start of play, but timing errors occur because the timekeeper must hear the whistle clearly and there is a delay in reaction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the acoustic whistle signal with an electronic optical signal system. The electronic whistle contains an optical sensor and transmitter that send coded light signals directly to the game clock, eliminating the need for auditory processing and reducing reaction delay. This substitution of acoustic mechanism with optical-electronic mechanism directly addresses the timing precision problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electronic intermediary system consisting of the optical sensor, coded signal transmitter, and receiver. This intermediary translates the official's whistle action into an electronic signal that directly controls the game clock, removing the human reaction time bottleneck in the signal transmission chain.
2Reliability
If a traditional whistle with moving parts is used, then the whistle can produce sound, but it cannot operate reliably in adverse weather conditions such as rain or snow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical whistle components (pea, ball, moving parts) with an electronic system containing an optical sensor and circuit board. This electronic system is sealed within a weatherproof housing, eliminating the vulnerability of mechanical parts to water and weather conditions while maintaining whistle functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a sealed electronic housing that protects the internal circuitry and optical components from water intrusion. The housing acts as a protective barrier, allowing the device to operate reliably in rain, snow, and other adverse weather conditions without water damage to internal components.
3Reliability
If a pea-less electronic whistle design is used, then the whistle can operate in all weather conditions, but the internal electronics must be protected from water intrusion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a sealed electronic housing with integrated gaskets and sealing elements to protect the internal electronics. The housing design incorporates weatherproofing features that prevent water ingress while maintaining a compact structure suitable for handheld use by officials.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The electronic whistle system significantly reduces timing errors by stopping or starting game clocks within milliseconds, ensuring precise timekeeping and operability in various weather conditions, with the pea-less design preventing water intrusion and maintaining accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
the opposite end of the vane occludes the optical sensor beam in the transmitter module
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic whistle system pertains to an electronically activated handheld whistle with a transmitter and receiver modules, for use at various sports games, is disclosed. The transmitter module is configured to send a serialized pulse signal to the receiver module for regulating the start and stop of the game clock. The transmitter module comprises an optical sensor on the opposite side of a vane, which occludes an optical sensor beam when the whistle is blown. A microcontroller sends a serialized pulse signal from the transmitter module to the receiver module. The receiver module intercepts the received signal on the detection of correct serial number, the receiver module will send a STOP pulse to the game clock via a cable. The electronic whistle system is designed to dramatically reduce the errors in the timing aspect of various games.