BACKGROUND OF INVENTION Various timekeeping systems have been previously developed for remotely controlling a timekeeping device such as a clock. The systems are particularly useful for remotely turning on and off a clock of the type typically used for athletic or sporting events. However, none of these previous systems has been found to be fully satisfactory. In particular, these systems may be prone to external interference and may not be particularly reliable.

For instance, United States of America Patent No. 3,651,507 issued March 21,1972 to Abbott is directed at a remote controlling device including a control circuit which drives external apparatus, such as a scoreboard clock. The control circuit is remotely actuated by a portable transmitter which generates an electrical signal in response to an input stimulus. The input stimulus is an input pressure signal supplied by an air switch which is integrally combined with the transmitter. More particularly, the air switch is provided with an air tube such that blowing into the air tube activates the air switch, thereby sending a signal actuating the external apparatus such as the clock. Preferably, the air tube is coupled to a whistle which simultaneously actuates the air switch and emits an audible signal.

Thus, the transmitter-air switch combination may be carried by an operator, such as for example, a referee at a hockey game to control the scoreboard clock.

United States of America Patent No. 4,215,856 issued August 5,1980 to Schmall et. al. is also directed at an apparatus for controlling the playing time of a game. Interruptions in the playing time of the game are recorded by the

transmission of acoustic signals by the referee at the beginning and end of each interruption. More particularly, a wireless receiver is connected with a time measurement device or clock which includes an actuator input for the interruption and re-starting of the time measurement. A portable transmitter is carried by the referee for providing signals to the receiver. Finally, a switch device operable by the referee is provided for the activation of the transmitter and for the transmission of the signals which interrupt and re-start the time measurement. Specifically, the whistle of the referee is connected through a thin pipe with a compressed air switch in such a way that the switch is closed on actuation of the whistle.

Further, the receiver includes at least one playing area reception conductor laid on or in the playing area, and preferably looped about the playing area, for receiving the signals of the referee transmitted by the transmitter. Thus, interference may be suppressed by locating the referee within the playing area and thus, within the reception conductor loop. In addition, to prevent interference by signals other than those of the referee, interference receiving conductors may be located outside the playing area and/or around the spectator stands and seats.

Signals received from the interference receiving conductors are suppressed by comparison with the signals emitted within the playing area and received by the playing area reception conductor. Alternately, interference may be suppressed by providing for the transmission of two separate signals by the referee, the characteristics of which are compared with those of predetermined signals. Elapsed time is recorded only when the signal characteristics coincide with the predetermined signals.

United States of America Patent No. 5,293,354 issued March 8,1994 to Costabile is directed at a remotely actuatable sports timing system which responds to a whistle blown by a sports official. More particularly, a radio control signal is generated by a portable radio transmitter carried by the sports officials. The radio control signal is generated in response to the blowing of a whistle by the official. The radio control signal is transmitted to one or more stationary radio receivers connected to a timer. Specifically, the radio control signal is in the form of

electromagnetic radio waves. The receivers are responsive to the radio control signal to generate a switching signal to automatically operate the timer. To minimize interference, each of the radio transmitters of the officials may be tuned to a different carrier frequency and the correspondingly tuned radio receivers may be positioned and spaced about the playing area.

Finally, United States of America Patent No. 5,065,251 issued November 12,1991 to Shuhart, Tr. et. al. relates to a method and apparatus for marking an audiovisual record of a sports event, such as an instant replay recording, with a graphic indication of an official's whistle signal. Particularly, an audio input device, including at least one mobile transmitter to be worn by one or more of the officials, picks up the whistle tone together with ambient sounds. Each of the officials may be provided with a whistle generating a unique audio frequency.

However, preferably, the officials have identical whistles, the respective sensing levels of the officials'transmitters being set such that only a very close nearby whistle will produce a sufficient audio level to activate the transmitter of that official.

The transmitter produces a radio frequency signal which is received by a receiver and in turn, produces an audio output signal. The audio output signal of the receiver which is sensitive to the radio frequency of the mobile transmitter is discriminated for the official's whistle signal. The receiver audio output signal then triggers an encoder to produce a marker which is impressed on the input to the audiovisual recording device such that the marker appears in the audiovisual recording. The marker is readily noticeable in a playback of the recording.

Thus, there remains a need in the industry for a reliable timekeeping system, which system is particularly suited for remotely controlling a timekeeping device such as a clock.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a timekeeping system comprising at least one signalling device, at least one receiving device, a central controller device which is linked with the receiving device, and a time clock interface device which is controlled by the central controller device and which provides an interface between the timekeeping system and a time clock device. The system may further comprise other devices which are linked with the central controller device in order to receive information from the central controller device and/or send information to the central controller device.

The timekeeping system is especially suited for use in situations where the operation of a time clock device must be periodically interrupted. As a result, preferably the timekeeping system of the present invention is used in conjunction with sporting events such as hockey games, basketball games, soccer games and football games etc. which are held on a"stop-time"basis. The invention may, however, also be used for purposes unrelated to sporting events.

In one aspect, the system consists of one or more self-contained portable signalling devices, each signalling device being capable of causing radio transmissions to be transmitted for reliable interception by one or more radio receivers which in turn signal a central controller device of events to occur on demand, such as stopping and starting a time clock device, display of appropriate timing information or actuation of other optional ancillary devices. The non portable devices of the system may be interconnected as appropriate with a wired or wireless signalling or communication network so as to facilitate the exchange of commands or information among the individual devices for the proper execution of the system functions.

The interchange of data among the devices is orchestrated by a central controller device which is the nerve center of the system. The various devices may be interconnected with the central controller device by means of a direct wired method or by means of a networked method, as appropriate for the particular installation. The networked method may take the form of a cabled network or

wireless network. In certain cases a combination of direct wired, cabled network and wireless network may be employed.

The system may include ancillary devices such as a timekeeper panel device for facilitating manual input for timekeeping functions and/or providing timekeeping information to game officials, a whistle generating device for generating audible sounds based upon outputs from the timekeeping system, and a system monitoring computer with appropriate application software for the local or remote configuration, monitoring, recording, analyzing, communication and printing of game statistics and possibly to manage the operation of the whole system.

The signalling device is preferably included as part of a small, self- contained variation of a conventional whistle of the type usually carried by a referee.

The signalling device is comprised of a sensor for sensing a signalable event as well as a transmitter/modulator for generating an RF carrier, modulating the RF carrier with the data stream to be transmitted, and transmitting the modulated RF signal.

The signalling device, preferably being portable and self-contained, is also comprised of a power source for powering the signalling device.

The signalling device may be further comprised of any additional components or combination of components which are effective to facilitate and enhance the signalling function. Preferably the signalling device is further comprised of a signalling device controller for confirming the validity of the sensed event, orchestrating the coding of a secure data stream, timing and synchronizing data transmission, monitoring and transmitting the proper operating status of the signalling device and monitoring and managing the power requirements of the signalling device. The signalling device may also be comprised of an antenna for enhancing the transmission of the modulated RF signal.

The receiving device is comprised of a receiver for reception of transmitted RF signals from the signalling device. Preferably the receiver converts the RF signals to levels which are compatible with a demodulator.

The receiving device may be further comprised of any additional components or combination of components which are effective to receive transmitted RF signals from the signalling device and provide an interface with the central controller device. Preferably the receiving device is further comprised of a demodulator for extracting the data stream from transmitted RF signals from the signalling device, a receiving device controller for interpreting the extracted data stream, determining the course of action to be taken according to the content of the data stream received, passing the appropriate information from the data stream to a receiving device communication interface, receiving commands and cause action according to those commands from other devices connected to the receiver (whether wired directly to the receiving device or via a network), a receiving device communication controller for passing data and information between the receiving device and devices connected to the receiving device, and a power regulator for adapting the power to levels suitable for proper operation of the receiver. The receiving device may also be comprised of a suitable antenna for facilitating or enhancing the interception of transmitted RF signals from the signalling device.

The central controller device controls the interaction of the various elements of the timekeeping system. The central controller device is therefore comprised of a system controller which is preferably comprised of an embedded processor.

The central controller device may be further comprised of any additional components or combination of components which are effective to facilitate or enhance the function of the central controller device. The central controller device is preferably comprised of a power supply for its own power requirements as well as for the distribution of power to other devices connected to the system network, a central communication interface for exchanging information

with a system monitoring computer and other devices connected to the system network, display and diagnostic indicators for the convenient confirmation of proper operation, and communication interfaces for communication with other devices such as a time clock interface device, a time clock device, a timekeeper panel device, and a whistle generating device.

The system monitoring computer may be comprised of any suitable computing device, including a conventional personal computer (PC) with appropriate application software. The monitoring computer may be used to monitor the proper operation of the system and record detailed statistical information about the timekeeping issues during an event. It may be connected either directly to the central controller device via an appropriate serial data link, or to the system network in those cases when a system network is employed. The system monitoring computer may also be used to activate specific signalling devices for the event at hand, to configure certain elements of the timekeeping system and to gather system operational information for storage, analysis and remote reporting.

The timekeeper panel device may be comprised of a timekeeper panel controller and a timekeeper panel communication interface for exchanging information between the timekeeper panel device and the central controller device.

The timekeeper panel device may be further comprised of any additional components or combination of components which are effective to facilitate or enhance the functions of the timekeeper panel device. For example, the timekeeper panel device may be further comprised of a timekeeper panel display to provide a visual indication of some of the operations of the timekeeping system and a timekeeper control panel to facilitate manual input to the timekeeping system from the timekeeper panel device.

The whistle generating device presents an audible signal (at varying levels as determined by ambient noise level conditions) via a whistle emitter such as a public address (PA) system or some other audio system. The whistle generating device may be comprised of a whistle generating device communication interface to

facilitate interaction with other devices in the timekeeping system such as the central controller device, to which it may communicate its operational status, and from which it may receive commands such as the triggering of the audible signal to the public address system or the adjustment of operational parameters such as duration, level ranges, ambient noise sensitivity and tone selection of the whistle signal.

The time clock interface device may be integrated with the central controller device or may be a separate device. Furthermore, the time clock device may be integrated with the time clock interface device or it may be a separate device.

The purpose of the time clock interface device is to provide an interface between the timekeeping system and the time clock device so that the time clock device will respond to instructions from the central controller device or the timekeeper panel device. The time clock device is responsible for timekeeping functions and responds to input from the central controller device or the timekeeper panel device via the time clock interface device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a block diagram of a networked configuration of a timekeeping system according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Figure 2 is a block diagram of a direct wired configuration of a timekeeping system according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Figure 3 is a block diagram of a signalling device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Figure 4 is a block diagram of a receiving device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Figure 5 is a block diagram of a central controller device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Figure 6 is a block diagram of a timekeeper panel device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Figure 7 is a block diagram of a time clock interface device and time clock device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Figure 8 is a block diagram of a whistle generating device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Referring to Figure 1 there is depicted a block diagram of a timekeeping system (10) in a networked configuration. Referring to Figure 2 there is depicted a block diagram of the timekeeping system (10) in a direct wired configuration. The two configurations depicted in Figures 1 and 2 are exemplary only, and the timekeeping system (10) of the invention may be provided in alternate configurations including networked, direct wired, or wireless connections or a combination of different types of connections for the various devices and components.

In the preferred embodiments, the timekeeping system (10) includes one or more signalling devices (12), one or more receiving devices (14), a central controller device (16), a system monitoring computer (18), a timekeeper panel device (20), a time clock interface device (21), a time clock device (22) and a whistle generating device (23). The timekeeping system (10) is preferably used in conjunction with sporting events such as hockey games, basketball games, soccer games, football games etc., but could be used for non-sporting event purposes as well.

Referring to Figure 1, in a preferred embodiment of a networked configuration the signalling devices (12) provide information directly to the receiving devices (14) via a wireless communication link (24). The receiving devices (14) are connected into a system network (26) and exchange information with the system network (26) via a communication link (28). The central controller device (16) is connected into the system network (26) and exchanges information with the system network (26) via a communication link (30) and may also provide power to the timekeeping system (10) via system network (26) from a power source (32) which is associated with the central controller device (16). The system monitoring computer (18) is connected into the system network (26) and exchanges information with the system network (26) via a communication link (34). The timekeeper panel device (20) is connected into the system network (26) and exchanges information with the system network (26) via a communication link (36). The time clock interface device (21) is connected into the system network (26) and exchanges information with the system network (26) via a communication link (38). The time clock device (22) is linked with the time clock interface device (21) and exchanges information with the time clock interface device (21) via a communication link (39) or on a direct connection basis depending upon the type of time clock device (22). The whistle generating device (23) is connected into the system network (26) and receives information from the system network (26) via a communication link (25).

Referring to Figure 2, in a preferred embodiment of a direct wired configuration the signalling devices (12) provide information directly to the receiving devices (14) via a wireless communication link (24). The receiving devices (14) are all linked with the central controller device (16) by a main communication link (40) and exchange information with the central controller device (16) via the main communication link (40). The system monitoring computer (18) is linked directly to the central controller device (16) and exchanges information with the central controller device (16) via a communication link (42). The timekeeper panel device (20) is linked directly with the central controller device (16) and exchanges information with the central controller device (16) via a communication link (44).

The time clock interface device (21) is linked directly with the central controller device (16) and exchanges information with the central controller device (16) via a communication link (46). The time clock device (22) is linked with the time clock interface device (21) and receives information from the time clock interface device (21) via a communication link (47) or on a direct connection basis depending upon the type of time clock device (22). The central controller device (16) may distribute power to the timekeeping system (10) from the power source (32) by means of the communication links. The whistle generating device (23) is linked directly with the central controller device (16) and receives information from the central controller device (16) via a communication link (49).

As indicated in the preferred embodiments depicted in Figure 1 and Figure 2, power is preferably provided to the various components of the timekeeping system (10) via the power source (32) which is associated with the central controller device (16). Alternatively, power may be provided to one or more components in the timekeeping system (10) via some source or sources of power which is not associated with the central controller device (16), or each component in the timekeeping system (10) may be provided with an independent source of power.

Other features of the timekeeping system (10) and the manner of operation of the timekeeping system (10) are described in the discussion that follows with reference to the specific features of the various components of the timekeeping system (10).

Signalling Device (12 ! Referring to Figure 3, in the preferred embodiment the signalling device (12) is a complete integrated unit of a whistle (48) and electronic circuitry which is designed to rapidly transmit to the receiving devices (14) by wireless techniques the fact that the whistle (48) has been blown or otherwise actuated.

A sensor (50) senses that the whistle (48) has been blown. The sensing function may be accomplished by sensing a variety of different parameters and using a variety of sensing techniques, the choice of which may depend on the particular application being addressed. For example, the sensor (50) may be comprised of a thermal dissipation sensor by which the voltage across an element in the air stream of the whistle (48) changes with the amount of air passing the element, or by means of a pressure sensor which senses a change of air pressure in a passage or chamber of the whistle (48), or by means of a microphone embedded in the signalling device (12) which senses the sound of the whistle (48), or by a vibration sensor directly coupled to the whistle (48). In any event, the sensor (50) produces a sensor signal (not shown) which represents the blowing of the whistle (48). Any sensed parameter or sensing technique which provides a reliable representation of the blowing of the whistle (48) may be used in the invention.

Depending on the sensing technique used, the sensor signal may require amplification before it is forwarded to a signalling device controller (52) preferably for filtering and determination of spectral content to verify that the sensor signal has the correct attributes to be considered to represent a valid event (the blowing of the whistle (48)). These determinations are preferably performed digitally by means of an embedded microprocessor utilizing software algorithms appropriate to the sensing technique used. Valid sensor signal signature parameters may include the level, duration and frequency components making up the sensor signal. In this manner, false determinations that the whistle (48) has been blown are minimized.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the signalling device controller (52) measures the time which elapses from the determination that a valid sensor signal has been detected or received by the signalling device (12) and data pertaining to this time measurement is transmitted by the signalling device (12). The purpose of this time measurement is to facilitate a time correction to account for errors or discrepancies caused by delays in stopping the time clock device (22) after the sensor signal has been verified. Such delays may be due to interference,

momentary loss of signal, or data packet corruption. This time correction is achieved by delaying or adjusting the re-start of the time clock device (22) at the beginning of the next play segment by the amount of time which elapses from the beginning of the time measurement by the signalling device controller (52) until the time clock device (22) is stopped by the timekeeping system (10). In this fashion the play time for the event is more correct and accurate.

Once a valid sensor signal has been determined, the signalling device controller (52) will preferably assemble appropriately coded communication data packets for transmission by a transmitter (54). The coding may include such data as the packet serial number, device serial number, a number identifying the event being timed, identification of the type of transmission, the elapsed time since occurrence of the event which generated the sensor signal, security information to guard against communication errors occurring during the transmission, as well as housekeeping data and other internal status and timing information.

Although many choices of bit length and bit timing of each packet is possible, a length of between about 32-64 bits at a rate of between about 4800-9600 bits per second is preferred as a balance between speed and reliability. For improved reliability and simultaneous transmissions from multiple signalling devices (12), each packet is sent numerous times. The types of transmission from the signalling device (12) could be simply"housekeeping"information such as battery voltage, synchronization messages, other performance related data, or, of course, the sensing of the whistle event.

When the appropriate data packet or packets have been assembled, they are sent by the signalling device controller (52) to the transmitter (54) for radio (RF) transmission. Any type of RF transmission may be utilized in the invention.

Preferably, however, the RF transmission will be of a type which provides sufficient capacity to transmit reliably the sensor data and the time measurement data from the signalling device (12), as well as any desired

authentication and security data which may be utilized by the timekeeping system (10) to ensure the secure and reliable operation of the timekeeping system (10) without being compromised by accidental or intentional interference.

In addition, preferably the type of RF transmission utilized by the invention provides a measure of security which minimizes the likelihood of interception of transmitted signals or tampering with the timekeeping system (10) by transmission and reception of unauthorized data.

As a result, in the preferred embodiment the transmitter (54) preferably utilizes high frequency transmission consistent with available and authorized bands as determined by the appropriate regulating agencies since such high frequency transmissions provide sufficient bandwidth for the purposes of the invention.

Furthermore, within the boundaries specified by those agencies, the methods of RF transmission preferably provide a measure of security by utilizing one or a combination of on/off keying, amplitude shift keying, frequency shift keying or phase shift keying and could also take the form of broad spectrum (i. e. spread spectrum) transmission.

Broad spectrum transmissions are preferred over narrow band transmissions because narrow band transmissions are more vulnerable to intentional and accidental interference from other RF sources in the frequency proximity of the signal of interest than are broad spectrum transmissions. The requirement to be able to separately and reliably receive and identify data packets from more than one whistle simultaneously poses a problem for narrow band transmissions if they are performed at the same RF frequency.

In the preferred embodiment the data transmission performed by the signalling device (12) utilizes a broad spectrum communication system, allowing multiple data transmissions to occur at the same time and at the same RF frequency. Although other bands are possible, the preferred band is the 902 to 928 MHz ISM band. Any form of broad spectrum communication system may be utilized for the

invention. For example, the broad spectrum communication system may be a direct sequence system, a frequency hopping system, a chirp system or a hybrid system.

The preferred broad spectrum system is a direct sequence system which is favoured for reasons of simplicity in implementation as compared to other broad spectrum systems. Naturally, the receiving devices (14) need to be compatible and capable of reception of such simultaneous broad spectrum transmissions.

Although other choices could be used, in the preferred embodiment a small patch antenna (56) is integrated into the signalling device (12), and is designed to provide an effective match to the RF amplifier of the transmitter (54).

Each signalling device (12) preferably transmits idle status confirmation data packets at preset intervals in order to confirm its proper operation. Failure of reception of such packets by the receiving devices (14) will indicate a problem with or failure of the signalling device (12) identified by the particular serial number. The problem with or failure of the signalling device (12) may then be communicated to the game officials by the central controller device (16).

The signalling device (12) is preferably portable and thus preferably incorporates a power source (58) such as a small battery to power the various components of the signalling device (12). The voltage provided by the power source (58) is preferably monitored by the signalling device controller (52), which causes appropriate alarm data packets to be transmitted by the signalling device (12) in the case of low voltages. The power source (58) preferably includes a power regulator (not shown) for regulating the power which is provided by the power source (58) to the signalling device (12).

The signalling device (12) may function as a receiver as well as a transmitter and thus enable an official who is using the signalling device (12) to receive transmissions which provide information concerning the operational status of the signalling device (12) or the timekeeping system (10) or about the event for which the timekeeping system (10) is being used.

Receiving Device (14) Referring to Figure 4, the receiving device (14) is responsible for intercepting RF signals transmitted from one or more signalling devices (12), perhaps simultaneously, and passing received data on to the central controller device (16). The receiving device (14) may decode and/or validate the signals before passing them on to the central controller device (16) or alternatively the signals may be decoded and/or validated by the central controller device (16).

The receiving devices (14) may function as a transmitter as well as a receiver and may thus be capable of transmitting signals to the signalling devices (12) concerning the operational status of a particular signalling device (12) or the timekeeping system (10) or about the event for which the timekeeping system (10) is being used.

In the preferred embodiment the receiving device (14) is comprised of an antenna (60) for intercepting the signals emanating from the signalling devices (12), a receiver (62) for receiving and demodulating the RF signals, a receiver controller (64) for processing and managing the demodulated signals, a receiving device communication interface (66) for facilitating communication between the receiving device (14) and the central controller device (16) and a power regulator (68) for regulating the power that is supplied to the receiving device (14).

As indicated, the antenna (60) intercepts the signals emanating from the signalling devices (12) which are in use. Depending on the physical constraints and requirements of the particular installation, a suitable antenna (60) must be selected from the plethora of models available to provide an appropriate signal for the application.

The antenna (60) and receiver (62) of the receiving device (14) match the frequency, modulation mode and broad (or narrow as the case may be)

transmission mode of the signalling device (12). The receiving device (14) is controlled by the receiver controller (64) which is preferably equipped with appropriate software to effect the sequencing of simultaneous transmissions from multiple signalling devices (12).

When data packets have been received and demodulated by the receiver (62), the event and the data contents are preferably validated and then coded by the receiver controller (64) into a data packet for transmission to the central controller device (16). The receiving device (14) in turn is preferably continually polled by the central controller device (16). Alternatively, the receiving device (14) may transmit data to the central controller device (16) on its own initiative.

As previously indicated, the timekeeping system (10) can be directly wired from the central controller device (16) to each receiving device (14) as depicted in Figure 2, indirectly as in a local area network as depicted in Figure 1, or even in a wireless RF, infrared, or optical manner. For convenience and cost, certain applications will favor one approach over the others, but all are possible.

In each case the required data is retrieved from all receiving devices (14) in the timekeeping system (10) preferably by each receiving device (14) responding to an inquiry poll with its specific device address from the central controller device (16). Regardless of the communication method chosen, receptions and transmissions of data packets are serial in nature at data rates commensurate with the length and type of transmission medium selected. Although many data coding methods are possible the preferred implementation in all cases is Manchester coding with packet lengths as required to convey the data to be communicated. Security data is preferably included in the data packets to ensure the reliable conveyance of the data.

The receiving device (14) preferably does not generally interpret the content of the data in the packet received from the signalling device (12) other than as necessary to validate and/or code the data for transfer to the central controller

device (16). The receiving device (14) does however preferably monitor the strength of the RF signal received from each signalling device (12) and when polled passes this information on to the central controller device (16) for analysis and recording either by the central controller device (16) or by the system monitoring computer (18).

For convenience and certainty of supply, the receiving device (14) in the preferred embodiment draws its power by a receiving device power link (69) from the central controller device (16) via the connected cables when connected directly to the central controller device (16), or when connected to a wired local area network (26). The receiving device (14) may of course be supplied with power from other sources if appropriate for the particular installation. The receiving device (14) preferably utilizes the power regulator (68) to regulate as necessary the power which is delivered (71) to the receiving device (14).

Central Controller Device (16) The central controller device (16) is the nerve center of the timekeeping system (10). The central controller device (16) is preferably able to communicate, over channels as appropriate, with each of the other components of the timekeeping system (10), and orchestrates the collection of all data available and required for proper operation of the timekeeping system (10), including its own functions. A local display is preferably provided at the timekeeper panel device (20) or elsewhere to indicate the proper or abnormal operation of the whole timekeeping system (10) or any component of the timekeeping system (10).

In Figure 5 there is depicted the central controller device (16) configured for use in the direct wired embodiment of the timekeeping system (10) as depicted in Figure 2. As a result, in Figure 5 the timekeeper panel device (20), the time clock interface device (21) and the system monitoring computer (18) are shown linked directly with the central controller device (16) instead of to the system network (26) as depicted in Figure 1.

Referring to Figure 5, in the preferred embodiment the central controller device (16) is comprised of a system controller (70) for processing data and information received by the central controller device (16) and originating from the central controller device (16), a central communication interface (72) for facilitating communication between the central controller device (16) and the other components of the timekeeping system (10), the power source (32) for supplying power to the components of the timekeeping system (10), and a power regulator (74) for regulating the power that is delivered (75) to the central controller device (16).

In the direct wired configuration as depicted in Figure 2, the power regulator (74) may also regulate the power that is delivered to other components of the timekeeping system (10), such as the timekeeper panel device (20), the time clock interface device (21) and the system monitoring computer (18). Alternatively, the power delivered to these components may be delivered by the power source (32) without regulation by the power regulator (74). In either case, the various components of the timekeeping system (10) which receive power from the power source (32) may be further equipped with power regulators of their own.

In the networked configuration as depicted in Figure 1, the power from the power source (32) may either be regulated by the power regulator (74) or delivered (77) directly to the system network. In either case, the various components of the timekeeping system (10) which receive power from the power source (32) may be further equipped with power regulators of their own.

As previously indicated, the central controller device (16) preferably includes the power source (32) for its own consumption as well as for distribution to other system devices connected with the central controller device (16) either directly or via a local area network. The proper operation of the power source (32) is preferably monitored by the system controller (70).

The system controller (70) preferably embodies an embedded microprocessor and includes appropriate software to effect the various system functions desired.

In the preferred embodiment of the timekeeping system (10) for use in the direct wired configuration as depicted in Figure 2, the central communication interface (72) is comprised of more than one communication interface for interchanging data with other devices in the timekeeping system (10). Data is preferably exchanged in serial format at varying data rates and various message lengths as appropriate for the particular installation. All messages preferably include message serial numbers as well as structure and security data so as to ensure the integrity of the data interchange. The physical medium for data interchange can be in the form of one or more of directly connected links to other system components, of a local area network, of fiber optical nature, of wireless infra-red, of wireless laser link, or of wireless radio link.

The system controller (70) sequentially assembles data packets for transmission to the other devices in the timekeeping system (10). The packets are coded to contain instructions to the addressed device to respond in some manner.

In the case of addressing the receiving devices (14) in the timekeeping system (10), the instructions include those which will cause the receiving device (14) to respond by transmitting to the central controller device (16) data packet transmissions forwarding data received from the signalling devices (12) in the timekeeping system (10). The instructions may also include those which cause the receiving device (14) to make adjustments to its own settings affecting the operation of the receiving device (14). Other possible instructions are those which cause the receiving device (14) to respond with status and alarm information about its own operation and integrity, including the performance and quality of the communication network.

On receipt of data from the receiving devices (14) that the signalling device (12) has transmitted the occurrence of an event intended to stop the time clock device (22), the central controller device (16) preferably analyzes the data.

Preferably the central controller device (16) will seek to determines that at least a specified minimum number of receiving devices (14) indicate the same occurrence.

If so, then the occurrence is deemed to be valid and a signal may be communicated by the central controller device (16) to the time clock device (22) via the time clock interface device (21) and possibly to other interested devices in the timekeeping system (10) that a valid stoppage in play has occurred. Each device may then react in a manner as it has been programmed for in the case of such an event. Conversely, the signal might also be the occurrence of an event to commence timing of play, and starting or resumption of timing by the time clock device (22).

Failure of the central controller device (16) to receive idle status data packets for a predetermined period of time from any of the signalling devices (12) or receiving devices (14) in the timekeeping system (10), or failure to receive major operational, status or alarm information from any device in the timekeeping system (10) may be made to cause an appropriate alarm indication to be posted on the timekeeper panel device (20), the time clock device (22), the signalling devices (12) when they include receiver functions, or elsewhere.

Other determinations for actions may also be made by the central controller device (16) according to the data received from other devices in the timekeeping system (10) and features implemented for the particular facility. On detection of the occurrence of such conditions, the central controller device (16) may also be made to address the required devices in the timekeeping system (10) to take some appropriate action in response to such determinations.

In the case of addressing the time clock interface device (21), the instructions may include those to stop, start or otherwise adjust the time clock device (22). Instructions to retrieve status and alarm information relating to the proper

operation of or adjustment to the operation of the time clock device (22) may also be provided by the central controller device (16).

In the case of addressing the timekeeper panel device (20), instructions from the central controller device (16) may include the setting of values on a timekeeper panel display as well as setting alarm and status displays on the timekeeper panel device (20), and retrieving operational commands from a timekeeper control panel of the timekeeper panel device (20) when so fitted.

Instructions to retrieve status and alarm information relating to the proper operation of or adjustment to the operation of any ancillary timekeeper panel devices (not shown) may also be provided by the central controller device (16).

In the case of addressing the system monitoring computer (18), the instructions from the central processor device (16) may include the storing away in the system monitoring computer (18) of relevant operational, statistical, alarm and status information gathered by the central controller device (16) from the other devices in the timekeeping system (10), including those of the central controller device (16) itself. The instructions may also include the retrieval from the system monitoring computer (18) of the serial numbers of the devices which are permitted to be connected to the timekeeping system (10), including those of the signalling devices (12). In this manner unauthorized devices intentionally or accidentally connected to the timekeeping system (10) will not be permitted to affect the proper operation of the timekeeping system (10).

In the case of addressing the whistle generating device (23), the instructions from the central controller device (16) may include those which trigger the transmission of an audible signal through the PA system or through some other audio system. Instructions to retrieve status and alarm information relating to the proper operation of or adjustment to the operation of the whistle generating device (23) may also be provided by the central controller device (16).

System Monitoring Computer (18)

In the preferred embodiment the system monitoring computer (18) is comprised of a conventional personal computer (PC) with appropriate software to effect the data recording, retrieval, analysis, display, printing and configuration of the timekeeping system (10).

The system monitoring computer (18) preferably has the capability for communication with the central controller device (16). Referring to Figure 1, this communication may be via the system network (26) in the case of a network configuration of the timekeeping system (10). Referring to Figure 2, this communication may be via the communication link (42) with the central controller device (16) in the case of a direct wired configuration of the timekeeping system (10).

In the preferred embodiment the system monitoring computer (18) communicates with the central controller device (16) and stores all data as instructed by the central controller device (16). Preferably the timekeeping system (10) as a whole may be configured by means of human intervention through the system monitoring computer (18). The system monitoring computer (18) preferably stores information as to authorized devices which are permitted to interact in the timekeeping system (10) such that unauthorized devices are ignored from operational activities but are noted when detected. This aids to eliminate tampering with the timekeeping system (10).

Timekeeper panel device (20) The timekeeper panel device (20) preferably provides the official timekeeper with limited operational data and the ability to effect changes to the time clock device (22) or to the operation of the timekeeping system (10) during use.

Referring to Figure 6, in the preferred embodiment the timekeeper panel device (20) is comprised of a timekeeper panel controller (76) for controlling the operations of the timekeeper panel device (20), a timekeeper panel display (78)

for displaying information related to the operation of the timekeeping system (10) and the timekeeper panel device (20), a timekeeper control panel (80) for facilitating timekeeper input into the operations of the timekeeping system (10), a timekeeper panel communication interface (82) for facilitating communication with other components of the timekeeping system (10) and a power regulator (84) for regulating power which is delivered to the timekeeper panel device (20).

The timekeeper panel device (20) preferably has the capability for communication with the central controller device (16) via the timekeeper panel communication interface (82). In the case of direct or network connection, the timekeeper panel device (20) draws its power from the connected cables via a timekeeper panel device power link (85). Otherwise the timekeeper panel device (20) may be separately powered. In each case the timekeeper panel device (20) utilizes the power regulator (84) to regulate the power which is delivered (87) to the timekeeper panel device (20).

Preferably the timekeeper panel controller (76) is equipped with appropriate software to enable the timekeeper panel display (78) to display to the timekeeper the running duration of clock time since the resumption of timing since the last stop in timing. This facilitates the convenient adjustment of the timekeeper panel display (78) and/or the time clock device (22) via the time clock interface device (21) either manually by the timekeeper or automatically in those cases where adjustments need be made due to false starts of play or where there is inconsistency between the time clock device (22) and the timekeeper panel display (78).

The timekeeper panel device (20) preferably will also provide game officials with urgent system alarm and status information on the timekeeper panel display (78) as received from the central controller device (16), such as the failure or gross mis-operation of devices in the timekeeping system (10), including failure or low battery condition of the signalling devices (12). In this manner, urgent issues can be dealt with in a timely and appropriate manner thereby eliminating or minimizing disruption of normal play.

The timekeeper panel controller (76) also monitors the proper operation of the timekeeper panel device (20), including the power supplied to the timekeeper panel device (20), and data from this monitoring is passed on to the central controller device (16) either when the timekeeper panel device (20) is polled by the central controller device (16) or on its own initiative.

Time Clock Interface Device (21) and Time Clock Device (22) The time clock interface device (21) is the device that provides an interface between the timekeeping system (10) and the time clock device (22), and operates according to instructions received from the central controller device (16) or the timekeeper panel device (20). The time clock device (22) performs timekeeping functions and preferably provides a visual clock display for participants, spectators and officials.

The time clock device (22) may be a component of the time clock interface device (21) or it may be an independent device. In the preferred embodiment the time clock device (22) is an independent device and is preferably comprised of the existing time clock device (22) in the facility in which the timekeeping system (10) is used.

Referring to Figure 7, in the preferred embodiment the time clock interface device (21) is comprised of a time clock interface controller (86) for controlling the operations of the time clock interface device (21), a time clock interface device communication interface (88) for facilitating communication with other components of the timekeeping system (10) and a power regulator (90) for regulating power which is delivered to the time clock interface device (21). Figure 7 also depicts the time clock device (22).

The time clock interface device (21) has the capability for communication with the central controller device (16). In the case of direct or

network connection, the time clock interface device (21) draws its power from the connected cables via a time clock interface device power link (91). Otherwise the time clock interface device (21) may be separately powered. In each case the time clock interface device (21) utilizes the power regulator (90) to regulate the power delivered (93) to the time clock interface device (21).

The time clock interface controller (86) also monitors the proper operation of the time clock interface device (21), and accordingly communicates improper operation to the central controller device (16) either upon polling by the central controller device (16) or on its own initiative.

Whistle Generating Device (23 ! The whistle generating device (23) provides a mechanism for an audible signal to be heard in the facility where the timekeeping system (10) is being used. This audible signal may be comprised of a whistle, horn, bell or any other sound and may be provided via the facility public address (PA) system, an independent system, or by any other apparatus by which the audible signal can be delivered.

Referring to Figure 8, in the preferred embodiment the whistle generating device (23) is comprised of a whistle generating controller (92) for controlling the operations of the whistle generating device (23), a whistle emitter (94) for producing an audible signal on command from the whistle generating controller (92), a whistle generating device communication interface (96) for facilitating communication with other components of the timekeeping system (10) and a power regulator (98) for regulating power which is delivered to the whistle generating device (20). The whistle emitter (94) may be comprised of the facility public address (PA) system or it may be an apparatus separate from the PA system.

The whistle generating device (23) has the capability for communication with the central controller device (16). In the case of direct or

network connection, the whistle generating device (23) draws its power from the connected cables via a whistle generating device power link (99). Otherwise the whistle generating device (23) may be separately powered. In each case the whistle generating device (23) utilizes the power regulator (98) to regulate the power delivered (100) to the whistle generating device (23).

Preferably the whistle generating controller (92) is equipped with appropriate software to enable the whistle generating device (23) to retrieve from its memory a synthesized digital representation of a desired whistle, or other sound if so equipped. The digitized signal is converted to analog form, filtered and amplified to levels specified by the central controller device (16), and fed to the whistle emitter (94). Preferably a sensing mechanism (102), such as a microphone, associated with either the central controller device (16) or the whistle generating device (23) will sense the ambient noise level at the facility and adjust the level presented to the whistle emitter (94) accordingly. In this manner, as crowd noise increases the whistle emitter (94) has a greater likelihood of being heard by participants, spectators and officials.

The whistle generating controller (92) also monitors the proper operation of the whistle generating device (23), and accordingly communicates improper operation to the central controller device (16) either upon polling by the central controller device (16) or on its own initiative.