GB2346224A - Reaction timer - Google Patents

Abstract

A stop-watch incorporates a reaction timer having a single key for initiating a random time delay to a time measurement start moment, at which moment a start signal is made and the key is depressed again to stop the time measurement. The reaction time of both hands can be measured and a computer version is envisaged.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE SPECIAL TIMER To a normal stop-watch is added a special facility to enable it to be used for the self-measurement of reaction times.

A random number generator or suitable alternative device is used to cause a random delay of between say five and twentyfive seconds between pressing the start button and the actual start of the time count. The time count will continue until the stop button is pressed or released to show the reaction time. The start of the time count may be signalled by a change in the count display, and/or a noise such as a chime or click, or lights going off or on, or a mechanical movement. The purpose of the unpredictable delay is to enable the user to measure their reaction time by stopping the count as fast as they can. A dedicated reaction time stop-watch would need only one button key, the start, stop and reset functions being executed in sequence. Each time the key is activated the next function is executed.

Alternatively the run key could be held down until the start of the count is signalled and then released to stop the count. (See Figures 1 and 2).

This dedicated model could switch itself off after, say, a minute without use. It may also be possible to make the initial constant delay (5 seconds) and the random delay (0-20 seconds) alterable by, say, an internal adjustment control.

An alternative to the dedicated stop-watch would be to add the reaction time measurement facility described above to an otherwise normal stop-watch, the additional facility being obtained by, say, a special setting of the operating keys or a mode key.

Any computer may be programmed to simulate the reaction timer described above. The computer would have the added advantage of allowing sequential reaction times to be counted, listed, and averaged with separate lists for left and right hands.

Separate keys may also be used for left and right hand stop buttons, which when used together will give separate time counts for each hand. A dedicated non-programmable computer may be made for use as a specialist reaction timer.

Claims (3)

1. CLAIMS FOR THE SPECIAL TIMER Claim 1. Any stop watch that incorporates any electronic or mechanical system that will produce an irregular, erratic or random delay to follow the activating of the start key and to precede the start of the timing count; the purpose of the delay is to enable the user to find his reaction time needed to stop the clock once it has started. The start of the timing count may be signalled by a sound, such as a chime or click, a light or a change in the clock's display or a mechanical movement. Controls may be provided to change the length of the shortest and longest delay.
2. Claim 2. Any commercial computer program designed to make the computer simulate the reaction timer described in Claim 1 above. The computer program also may be designed to list, number, total and average the sequential reaction times obtained for each hand separately. A separate stop key or keys may be used for left and right hands, and used together to give different times for each hand.
3. Claim 3. Any non-progammable computer dedicated to carry out Claims 1 and 2.