Programmable Racing Gate Controller for Solo Start Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current racing gate technologies do not allow for self-operation by riders to practice both preset and random starts, requiring external assistance and lacking remote operation capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A portable racing gate system with a base, start bar, and programmable controller that can be actuated manually, wirelessly, or via a wired signal, allowing for preset and random start times, enabling solo operation and remote control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manual release mechanism is used for the start gate, then the gate can be operated by a rider themselves for practice, but the start timing cannot be randomized or remotely controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed to perform multiple functions: it can measure preset time periods, generate random time periods, and control the release mechanism accordingly. This allows the same device to support both practice mode (preset times) and reflex training mode (random times), eliminating the need for separate systems and enabling a single gate to serve multiple training purposes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces purely mechanical release mechanisms with an electronically controlled system. The controller uses electronic timing circuits to measure preset or random time periods, then triggers the release mechanism electronically rather than requiring direct manual intervention. This substitution enables randomized timing and remote operation while maintaining self-operation capability
2Ease of manufacture
If the start gate is designed to be portable, then it can be easily set up and moved, but it lacks the capability for electronic or remote operation
Solution Approach 1:
The start gate system is divided into distinct functional modules: a portable physical gate structure, a separate controller unit with timing capabilities, and a release mechanism. This segmentation allows the gate itself to remain simple and portable while the controller provides advanced electronic functions, enabling portability without sacrificing control system capability
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the rider's input (manual activation or remote signal) and the release mechanism. It receives various input types, processes timing requirements (preset or random), and translates them into controlled release actions. This intermediary role allows the portable gate to gain sophisticated control capabilities without increasing physical complexity
3Measurement precision
If a preset time period is used for gate release, then consistent practice timing is provided, but random start timing cannot be achieved for reflex training
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed to dynamically switch between two timing modes: preset time period measurement for consistent practice, and random time period generation for reflex training. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to change its timing behavior based on training needs, providing both precision and variability as required by different training scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the time parameter from fixed (preset) to variable (random) based on operational mode. The controller can be configured to measure a specific predetermined time period for practice, or generate random time periods within a range for reflex training. This parameter flexibility allows the same hardware to provide both consistent and variable timing
Data Source
AI summary
A race gate has a base and a start bar connected to the base, where the start bar has an elevated start position and a level finish position. A release mechanism interconnects the base and the start bar and retains the start bar in the start position. A controller governs the release mechanism. The controller may be programmable to measure a preset time period and a random time period.