Whistle Detection System for Automated Game Clock Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional manual systems for managing game clocks in sporting events are prone to inaccuracies and health hazards, particularly due to human error and the potential for disease transmission through whistle blowing, which complicates time management and safety during events.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for remote control of game clocks using whistle detection technology that eliminates the need for multiple human operators, integrates with existing scoreboard systems, and includes whistle-less options to prevent saliva aerosol transmission, allowing for real-time accuracy and safety enhancements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual systems with multiple human operators are used to manage game clocks, then flexibility and adaptability in handling various game situations are improved, but human error and inaccuracies in time management increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in handling game situationsVSAvoidaccuracy in time management
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an automated whistle-detecting device as an intermediary between the referee's whistle and the scoreboard system. This device automatically detects the whistle frequency and sends signals to control the game clock and shot clock, eliminating manual operation errors while maintaining the referee's authority to make timing decisions. The intermediary device bridges the gap between human judgment and precise automated execution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of operators physically operating clock controls with an automated electronic system that detects acoustic signals (whistles) and automatically controls the clocks. This substitution eliminates human reaction time delays and manual errors in clock operation while preserving the adaptive decision-making of the referee through the whistle signal.

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

2Speed

If multiple human operators are positioned near the scoreboard to manually control clocks, then real-time control and responsiveness are improved, but health hazards from disease transmission through whistle blowing increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresponsiveness in clock controlVSAvoiddisease transmission risk
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an automated whistle-detecting device as an intermediary that captures the acoustic signal of the whistle remotely and transmits it electronically to the scoreboard system. This eliminates the need for operators to be physically positioned near the scoreboard to hear and respond to whistles, reducing exposure to saliva aerosols while maintaining real-time responsiveness through automated signal detection and transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical system of human operators physically hearing and manually responding to whistles with an automated electronic acoustic detection system. This substitution allows the system to respond to whistle signals with electronic speed and precision without requiring human operators to be in close proximity to the source of potential disease transmission.

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

3Measurement precision

If automated whistle detection technology is implemented, then accuracy in time management and safety are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy in time managementVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the automated whistle-detecting device to perform multiple functions: detecting the whistle frequency, determining whether the clock should start or stop based on the game situation, and sending appropriate control signals to the scoreboard system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated devices for each function, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity while achieving high accuracy and safety.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the automated detection device continuously monitors the acoustic environment for whistle signals and automatically adjusts clock control based on detected signals. The system receives feedback about game conditions through the whistle detection and autonomously makes timing decisions, reducing the need for complex manual control systems while maintaining high accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 solution provides accurate, efficient, and safe time management, reducing human error and disease transmission risks, while enabling seamless integration with existing systems and enhancing fairness and safety in sporting events.

Implementation Method 1

a microphone adapted to detect a frequency of the referee's whistle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWhistle detection: Sound

Data Source

PatentUS11484768B2Event management system, time management system, and method of use
Publication Date: 2022.11.01 CHAU DUNG
  • US11484768B2 patent drawing
  • US11484768B2 patent drawing
  • US11484768B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An event management system and/or time management system is presented. The present disclosure relates generally to management of a sporting event. More specifically, the present disclosure is a system and method for the management of a sporting event reducing risks associated with inaccuracies and health hazards. In the present disclosure an event management system and method for implementing controls to protect workers and athletes from identified health hazards. Additionally, and without limitation, the present disclosure provides a system which is more accurate than conventional manual controls and provides real time evaluations of accuracy and reporting of the event.