Rodeo Training Device Pressure Switch Timer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for training rodeo participants are inadequate in improving reaction times, particularly in releasing the reins or rope, as they lack effective simulation and timing measurement tools.

Innovation Solution

A rodeo training device comprising a dummy horse and steer with pressure-sensitive reins that illuminate a sequence of lights and start a timer, allowing users to practice and measure their reaction time by releasing the reins when a preselected endpoint light is illuminated, and a graphical user interface application simulating a steer leaving a chute with adjustable light sequences and timing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional training methods are used, then training can be conducted without specialized equipment, but reaction time measurement and improvement are inadequate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereaction time measurementVSAvoidtraining device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a simplified copy of the actual rodeo scenario using dummy horse and steer representations with light sequences that simulate the animal's movement patterns. This allows reaction time training without requiring live animals or complex rodeo equipment, achieving precise measurement while maintaining operational simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical timing devices with electronic timing circuits and light-based signaling systems. The pressure-sensitive switch substitutes for manual timing operations, and LED light sequences replace physical cues, providing precise reaction time measurement without complex mechanical mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If realistic simulation is provided, then training effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining simulation realismVSAvoiddevice structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the simulation into discrete segments: dummy horse representation, dummy steer representation, sequential light indicators at different positions, and timing measurement components. Each segment is independently simple but collectively provides realistic training simulation, balancing adaptability with structural simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates adjustable light sequence speeds and patterns to simulate varying animal movement dynamics. The system can adapt to different training scenarios by changing light sequence parameters without requiring physical reconfiguration, providing versatility while maintaining simple device structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Loss of time

If timing measurement is implemented, then reaction time improvement can be tracked, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereaction time trackingVSAvoidtiming system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service timing system where the pressure-sensitive switch automatically starts the timer when activated, and the system automatically stops and records the time when the user releases the reins. This eliminates the need for external timing operations or complex control mechanisms, achieving effective reaction time tracking with minimal device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enhances reaction time training by providing a realistic simulation and precise measurement of reaction times, enabling users to improve their skills through practice and adjustable difficulty levels.

Implementation Method 1

reins on the first dummy in communication with a pressure switch configured to illuminate the series of steer indicator lights in a sequence and control a timer, wherein pressure applied through the reins causes the pressure switch to illuminate the series of steer indicator lights in the sequence and to start a timer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure switch: Piezoresistive Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20230211222A1Rodeo Training Device
Publication Date: 2023.07.06 CAMPER NATE
  • US20230211222A1 patent drawing
  • US20230211222A1 patent drawing
  • US20230211222A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A rodeo training device for the testing and improving of reaction speeds in rodeo events, an application for testing and improving reaction speeds, and methods for testing and improving reaction speeds, are described.