DESCRIPTION OF THE TIMESTOPPER MODEL T-IV

The function of the Timestopper Model T-IV is to objectively determine the order that cars finish in each heat of a Pinewood Derby race held on a track with as few lanes as two lanes or as many as five lanes.   Timestopper Model T-IV units are purchased accordingly with 2, 3, 4, or 5 cabled-sensors for as respectively many lanes.   The display on a Timestopper Model T-IV unit uses LED lights to indicate the order in which cars finish a race.   The order is indicated by the flash rates of the LED's, with the first-place finisher flashing at the slowest rate, and the LED's for later finishers flashing at respectively faster rates.

The Timestopper Model IV consists of a compact, hand-held control and display unit together with an integrated assembly of cabled finish-line sensors.   The sensors are used at the finish line of the track to sense when racecars cross the finish line.   The display unit incorporates a micro-processor for precisely determining the order in which cars finish each heat or a race.

The finish sensors are miniature photo-optic light sensors.   Unlike mechanical switches, these light sensors avoid the significant timing errors otherwise resulting from friction and "bounce" within mechanical switches.   These light sensors are all that need to be attached to your track.   Each light sensors should be fit snugly into a hole drilled vertically through the track at the point of intersection between the centerline of a respective lane and the finish line.   Short rubber-tubing-sleeves are provided with which to protect each of the light sensors in its repective hole.   The passage of a car across the finish line is detected by virtue of the fact that the car will at least momentarily block overhead light from reaching the sensor.   For effective operation, this requires your providing and positioning incandescent illumination directly over the finish line of the track and close enough to the track to assure ample illumination of the finish line.

One standard 9-volt battery is required, and is easily inserted in the battery compartment.

For spare parts or repairs write to or send the unit to Intelligent Automation Company.