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US 4,070,988 AGranted
Starting apparatus for rodeo events
OwnerArthur C. Smithinventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A latching device detachably holds a flexible barrier across the exit opening of a contestant's stall. In response to a signal, the latching device releases the barrier and a timing device is activated. Disengagement of the barrier by the contestant prior to the signal activates a penalty indicating device.
Claims3
A starting system for use in combination with a rodeo structure, which structure includes a first stall for releasably retaining an animal and a second stall for detaining a contestant, and for initiating the activity of said contestant relative to movement of said animal from said first stall, said starting system comprising:
- a. means for detecting the arrival of said animal at a predetermined distance from said second stall and for emitting a first signal in response thereto;
- b. a releasable barrier for closing said second stall and including,
- i. latch means for detachably holding said barrier and for releasing said barrier in response to said first signal, and
- ii. switch means for emitting a second signal in response to release of said barrier prior to reception of said first signal by said latch means;
- c. a first perceptible signalling device activated in response to said first signal;
- and
- d. a second perceptible signalling device activated in response to said second signal,
- whereby said contestant is started when said animal arrives at said predetermined distance, and
- whereby notification is given if said contestant starts before said animal arrives at said predetermined distance.
6 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.