PortaTrack Connect

This is a proposal of a new race and workout timing system integrated with Garmin watches. The product, called PortaTrack Connect, is a compact, briefcase-sized race timing system that can be set up on a track or cross-country course. Instead of utilizing chips or bibs to identify runners, each runner will utilize their Garmin Forerunner line watches with a specialized app developed to act as a runner ID as well as receive running data.

Runners who use Garmin brand watches often utilize the activity recording feature to obtain running data such as distance, time, heart rate, cadence, and more. This is done for the purpose of utilizing the data to improve runner form, pacing strategies, and even analyze cardiovascular health. A common practice in runners across the world is to conduct time trials or personal races to benchmark a runner’s training.

PortaTrack Connect is a compact race timing system with an integrated screen for control, collapsible race clock, and four collapsible Bluetooth receivers. The entire system’s hardware will be designed to compactly fit into a briefcase-sized container, with a handle and wheels for easy transportation. When the system is set up, the container will sit on the ground, on the side of the course, with the four Bluetooth receivers dispersed across the finish line, two receivers on each side of the finish line, with the clock displayed close to the finish line as well.

• Race Result - Their timing system is called Ubidium, and is very versatile.
• Freelap - Specializes in track timing with products such as Pack 112, Pack 212, and Pack 412.
• RFID Race Timing Systems - Their Ultra8 Timing system is designed for running events with over 500 individuals.
• Jaguar G4 from Innovative Timing Systems - Designed to withstand harsh conditions and accurately time any number of athletes from 50 to 50,000.

• The prototype of the system will utilize a timing strip laid across the finish line of the course, with inset Bluetooth receivers to measure RSSI values from each individual watch to record lap times and finish times.
• A maximum of 8 runners with Garmin watches will be able to be tracked in the prototype.
• A handheld controller wired to the system will work to control the race as well as the touchscreen.
• An external digital clock will display the time at the finish line for runners.
• Race history and results will be able to be exported for viewing on a computer, in a simple text file format.

At the beginning of the race, the race official will boot up the system, and set up the receivers and timer display. The mat will be laid across the finish line. After the race official has set up and booted the system via control on an integrated touchscreen, each runner competing or in the workout will open the PortaTrack Connect app on each of their Garmin watches, and enter their runner ID. After all runners have done so, the race official will start the timer after counting down, and the race or workout begins.

• The entire system must fit in carry-on luggage sized container.
• Overall compact dimensions should fit in a box less than or equal to 22” x 14” x 9”.
• All system components (receivers, digital clock, etc.) should be collapsible and fit compactly inside the container.
• The system should be able to run for at least 8 hours on a single battery charge.
• The system should be water resistant to be able to be used in light rain and protect the internal electrical components.
• The system should operate without major problems anywhere from 40 degrees F to 90 degrees F.
• The system will have many configuration options, including race distance, workout type, and number of laps per runner before recording a finish.
• The system should be moderately shockproof, being able to be dropped from a height of 1 foot without any internal damage.

Coaches who train athletes and do workout training often struggle to efficiently time all their athletes, either during a time trial, workout, or other track running event. Often, coaches do require their athletes to have an athletic watch of some sort, often a Garmin watch. These Garmin watches are excellent for timing and recording individual athletes during personal training, however managing multiple athletes during a workout often is tedious and requires many individuals to keep track of each athlete, or purchasing an expensive timing system, both of which do not allow for review of data on Garmin Connect.

A survey was constructed for runners who use running watches to understand how they feel about using watches to enhance data collection of running dynamics. Often, individuals who train with those running watches will do workouts or time trials, and use the manual lap feature on their watch to record split times. Each question on the survey was followed up with a question of “Why or why not?”. The survey questions are as follows:

• After a race, how often do you wish to have your exact race time immediately (as in a few seconds) after finishing?
• After completing a race, (assuming you manually stop and start your watch), do you rely on your watch or the race timing system more?
• During a track workout, time trial, or race, many runners like to manually lap their watch to track their splits and final times to review. Would you find it more beneficial to have an external system automatically lap your watch for you (with high precision), without the need for manual input?
• Would investing in a track and race timing system, capable of tracking many individuals, be worthwhile if the system were available for under $200?