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  • arduino
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Pinewood Derby Timer

Former Member
Former Member over 9 years ago

Hey Ben,

 

Well its getting to be that time of year again for Scouts.  There is still plenty of time before most of the pack races, but it would be fun to feature a start gate/race timer for the pinewood derby. I'm sure there are some groups out there that could benefit form an automated timer, plus it would be fun for some of the older boys to help out in the build and learn a little coding and electronics in the process. I think it would be fun to use something like an Arduino nano, or even a Raspberry Pi.

 

Thanks,

 

Heath

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Top Replies

  • william_hoffer
    william_hoffer over 9 years ago +1
    Funny you posted thi. I just saw this last night on Instructables. Here is the web page. Arduino Pinewood Derby Timer
  • Workshopshed
    Workshopshed over 9 years ago +1
    There were some good timers on the race track for the Power Tools Drag Race at the NYC Maker Faire, they might be able to help you with some ideas. http://wiki.hive13.org/view/Power_Tool_Drag_Racing You…
  • william_hoffer
    william_hoffer over 9 years ago

    Funny you posted thi. I just saw this last night on Instructables. Here is the web page. Arduino Pinewood Derby Timer

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  • Workshopshed
    Workshopshed over 9 years ago

    There were some good timers on the race track for the Power Tools Drag Race at the NYC Maker Faire, they might be able to help you with some ideas.

     

    http://wiki.hive13.org/view/Power_Tool_Drag_Racing

     

    You need to be careful with things like the Pi as the operating system is not real time so could cause variations in timing. I'm not sure if your races are inside or out but if they are outside then you need to ensure you have a really bright / high contrast display.

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  • willemvl
    willemvl over 9 years ago

    Hi,

    I have created an Arduino UNO based pinewood derby timer that interfaces with Graphical User Interface (GUI) software running on a PC (Laptop). My design approach was to minimize the amount of hardware (i.e. no numeric displays & LEDs) so as to keep the build process simple and affordable. Please see my YouTube video online at: https://youtu.be/g7ddm4JIcMs

    I have free versions of my "minimal Hardware" design with software available for 2, 3, 4 and 6 lane tracks. If you're interested in my design approach visit my website at https://www.BillvsDerbyTimers.weebly.com or shoot me an email at billv923@outlook.com and I'll gladly send all the info your way.

    Cheers.

    W. van Leeuwen

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