|
| United States Patent
|
6,129,549 |
| Thompson |
October 10, 2000 |
Computer system for trapshooting competitions
Abstract
A computer system utilizing a local area network and multiple
computers used in association with a trapshooting competition of the
type wherein each entrant in each event is, at one of multiple
squad-assignment stations, assigned to a squad (of particular
entrants) scheduled for shooting at a specific time and place. This
system's operators, software, and hardware efficiently manage the
competition, including computer-assisting assignment of each entrant
to a position in a squad. The computer system has a method for
temporarily restricting access to an entrant list for a squad of an
event to a particular computer workstation, enabling efficient
assigning of an additional entrant to a temporarily-restricted
entrant list, as well as handling functions like handicapping,
scoring, fees, prizes, etc.
| Inventors: |
Thompson; Clyde H.
(Glendale, AZ) |
| Appl. No.:
|
08/918,549 |
| Filed: |
August 22, 1997 |
| Current U.S.
Class: |
434/16 ;
273/371; 434/11; 463/2 |
| Current
International Class: |
F41J
1/18 (20060101); F41J 1/00 (20060101); G09B 9/00 (20060101);
F41A 033/00 (); F41G 003/26 (); G09B 019/00 () |
| Field of
Search: |
473/131,407,409
700/91,92,93 463/2 273/371 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent
Documents
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4695058 |
September 1987 |
Carter, III et al. |
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4744761 |
May 1988 |
Doerfel et al. |
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4948371 |
August 1990 |
Hall |
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5083271 |
January 1992 |
Thacher et al. |
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5215464 |
June 1993 |
Marshall et al. |
|
5281142 |
January 1994 |
Zaenglen, Jr. |
|
5320358 |
June 1994 |
Jones |
|
5562550 |
October 1996 |
Chartrand |
|
5641288 |
June 1997 |
Zaenglein, Jr. |
|
5716216 |
February 1998 |
O'Loughlin et al. |
|
5816817 |
October 1998 |
Tsang et al. |
|
5823779 |
October 1998 |
Muehle et al. |
|
Primary Examiner: Cheng; Joe H.
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
Stoneman; Martin L.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. In association with a trapshooting competition of the type
wherein each entrant in each event is, at one of multiple
squad-assignment stations, assigned to a squad of particular said
entrants scheduled for shooting at a specific time and place, a
computer system for assisting assignment of each said entrant to a
position in one said squad, comprising:
a. multiple first computer workstations each respectively situated
at one said squad-assignment station;
b. a local area network, including a central server, connected with
each said first computer workstation;
central computer storage means for storing event data linking each
said squad of each said event to an entrant list of said particular
entrants assigned to said squad;
d. computer software means for, during a particular time,
temporarily permitting access to one said entrant list of said
particular entrants for any one said squad of any one said event to
a user-selected one said first computer workstation while
temporarily barring all other said first computer workstations from
access to said entrant list of said particular entrants for said one
squad of said one event in order to prevent overfilling of said one
squad; and
e. computer software means for assigning, at said particular first
computer workstation, during said particular time, an additional
entrant to one said entrant list of said particular entrants for
said one squad of said one event.
2. A computer system according to claim 1 further comprising:
computer storage means for storing event handicap data for a large
list of potential said entrants to said trapshooting competition;
and
computer software means for assigning to each said entrant for each
said event an event handicap from said handicap data.
3. A computer system according to claim 2 further comprising:
a second computer workstation, connected to said local area network,
situate at a handicap-assignment station; and
computer software means for assigning, at said second computer
workstation, to each said entrant for each said event an event
handicap from said handicap data.
4. A computer system according to claim 1 further comprising:
computer storage means for storing fee payment data of fees paid by
each said entrant for each said event; and
computer software means for assigning to each said entrant for each
said event said fee payment data.
5. A computer system according to claim 1 further comprising:
computer storage means for storing scoring data for each said
entrant for each said event; and
computer software means for assigning to each said entrant for each
said event said scoring data.
6. A computer system according to claim 5 further comprising
computer software means for providing scoreboard-type information to
a scoreboard.
7. A computer system according to claim 5 further comprising
computer software means for computing prize allocations among
entrants in said trapshooting competition.
8. A computer system according to claim 1 further comprising
computer software means for restoring said access to said entrant
list for said squad of said event to any said first computer
workstation.
9. A computer system according to claim 1 further comprising
computer storage means for storing an event data record for each
said position of each said squad, each said event data record
comprising data fields for holding shooting data relevant to said
event of said trapshooting competition;
each said event data record being ordered according to successively
numbered positions on successively numbered squads; and
computer software means for providing indexing showing the location
of each said event data record.
10. A computer system according to claim 1 further comprising
computer storage means for storing an ordered-name data file for
showing the said events entered by each said entrant; and
computer software means for temporarily restricting data-writing
access to said ordered-name data file to a particular said first
computer workstation until said data-writing is complete, whereby
said data file may be efficiently maintained in order.
11. A computer system according to claim 1 further comprising
computer software means for enabling a computer operator at at least
one said first computer workstation to back up one screen at a time
for efficient error correction.
12. In association with a trapshooting competition of the type
wherein each entrant in each event is, at one of multiple
squad-assignment stations, assigned to one squad of particular said
entrants scheduled for shooting at a specific time and place, a
computer system for assisting assignment of each said entrant to a
position in said one squad, comprising the steps of:
a. for each said event, using a computer, making a set of event data
records for storing event data for each said position of each said
squad, each said event data record comprising data fields for
holding shooting data relevant to said event of said trapshooting
competition, each said event data record being ordered according to
successively numbered positions on successively numbered squads;
b. using one of a set of first computer workstations connected to a
server in a local area network, temporarily restricting access to
said event data records for a particular one of said squads of only
one said event to a particular said first computer workstation; and
c. using said particular first computer workstation, assigning an
additional entrant to said temporarily-restricted particular one
squad event data records in order to prevent overfilling of said
particular one squad.
13. A computer system according to claim 12 further comprising the
steps of:
storing in said computer system event handicap data for a large list
of potential said entrants to the trapshooting competition; and
computing in said computer system and assigning to each said entrant
for each said event an event handicap from said handicap data.
14. A computer system according to claim 13 further comprising the
step of:
using said particular first computer workstation, unblocking
restricted access to said temporarily-restricted squad event data
records, whereby any said first computer workstation may access said
temporarily-restricted squad event data records.
15. A computer system according to claim 14 further comprising the
step of
using said particular first computer workstation, computing a fee
due from an entrant and issuing a receipt for said fee due.
16. A computer system according to claim 15 further comprising the
step of
writing, to said event data records, scoring data for each said
entrant to said event.
17. A computer system according to claim 16 further comprising the
step of
providing to a monitor of a second computer workstation scoring data
in the form of a scoreboard-leaderboard.
18. In a computer system of the type wherein multiple computer
workstations are linked in a local area network, and for use in
association with a clay sporting competition of the type wherein
each entrant in each event is assigned to a position on a squad of
particular said entrants, computer means for assisting the running
of said clay sporting competition comprising:
a. computer software means for making, for each said event, a set of
event data records for storing event data for each said position of
each said squad, each said event data record comprising data fields
for holding shooting data relevant to said event of said clay
sporting competition;
b. computer storage means for storing said set of event data
records;
c. computer software means for reading data from and writing data to
said event data records, including scoring data for each said
entrant in each said event; and
d. computer software means for temporarily restricting access to
said event data records for a particular said squad of one said
event to a particular said computer workstation in order to prevent
overfilling of said particular squad.
19. Computer means according to claim 18 further comprising
computer software means for computing a handicap for the entrant
from data supplied for potential entrants by a large organization
overseeing rules and regulations of said clay sporting competition;
and
computer software means for providing a storage record, for said
large organization overseeing rules and regulations of said clay
sporting competition, of final data from said clay sporting
competition.
20. Computer means according to claim 19 further comprising
computer software means for assigning, at said particular computer
workstation, an additional entrant to said temporarily-restricted
squad event records.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This application contains Microfiche Appendix consisting of Five (5)
slides and 311 frames.
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to providing a computer system for
trapshooting competitions. More particularly, this invention
concerns computer systems, including both means and method, for
assisting in the overall management of clay sporting competitions,
including trapshooting.
The microfiche appendix filed herewith and incorporated by reference
herein shows the source code for software for a preferred embodiment
of the present invention; and such incorporation is not intended by
applicant to waive or take away applicant's copyright rights in such
source code or software.
2. Description of the Prior Art
The sport of clay target shooting has been around for many years.
Organized competitive shooting was started years ago as a way of
simulating the hunting of game birds after the close of the hunting
season. From this basic concept, the sport has grown to many
variations of the original idea of tossing a glass ball into the air
and breaking it by shooting it with a shotgun. The largest
organization which presently oversees the rules and regulations of
tournament trap shooting is the Amateur Trapshooting Association
(ATA) located in Vandalia, Ohio. This organization is worldwide, but
principally sanctions tournaments in the United States and Canada.
There are other similar clay sporting games, such as Skeet, Sporting
Clays, International Trapshooting, etc.
Basically, the modern game of trapshooting utilizes a target made of
a mixture of clay and tar, four inches in diameter, that is tossed,
upon command of the contestant (shooter), from a machine (called a
TRAP) located in a bunker house (TRAPHOUSE) in a safe direction away
from the shooter. The objective of the shooter is to break the clay
target by shooting it with a shotgun. The nature of the game
requires that safety be paramount. Therefore, a well-defined method
of shooting, scoring and processing of large numbers of contestants
is imperative. Only a maximum of five shooters (called a SQUAD) at
any one time are allowed to participate in the shooting of targets
from one trap-traphouse combination (called a FIELD). They must
shoot singly, i.e. one at a time in turn.
The number of contestants in a tournament determines the number of
fields utilized. There are three variations of the sport. These are
called: 1) Sixteen Yard or Singles; 2) Handicap; and 3) Doubles. An
ATA tournament consists of one or more of these variations. Each
such variation is called an EVENT and generally consists of each
entrant shooting at 100 or more targets. Typically there are from
three to fifteen EVENTS comprising a tournament. Each event (having
100 or more targets) is generally shot in groups of 25 or 50 targets
per shooter per field. As the names suggest, in the singles
variation, one target at a time is thrown in the air with the
shooter standing a distance of 16 yards from the traphouse. In the
handicap variation, one target at a time is thrown in the air with
the shooter standing at a distance varying from 19 yards to 27 yards
from the traphouse. Handicap is based on the contestant's skill; the
more skilled have to shoot from further back. Doubles is shot at 16
yards from the traphouse, but two targets are thrown in the air
simultaneously with the shooter being required to break both targets
with two shots before the target(s) hit the ground.
The game is further organized such that the contestants are
competing against others of similar skill levels. The singles and
doubles have up to five classifications which are based on the
contestant's average scores for breaking targets in each of these
games. Further complicating the game is that for each event there
are trophies and money awards for many categories. For example,
there may be as many as a dozen trophies which may be won by all
contestants while only those contestants paying an additional entry
fee are eligible to win money.
Trapshooting and like tournaments, by their nature, present a
tournament organizer with a lot of variables that cannot be
predicted before the day of the tournament. For example, the number
of players and thus the number of squads are unknown before the
arrival of the players. There are usually long lines of entrants
waiting to be assigned to squads and to pay fees, etc. The usual
approach is now to use paper-driven systems, with scorecards,
records run to each event and back to the scoring table, and so
forth. Results may be greatly delayed for the reason of lost records
or just an overwhelming amount of records hitting the scoring table
at once. A more efficient method, reducing or eliminating paper and
speeding up scoring results, etc., is sorely needed.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
A primary object of the present invention is to fulfill the
above-mentioned need by the provision of a computer system for
assisting in the management of trapshooting tournaments and the
like. A further primary object of the present invention is to
provide such a computer system which is efficient, inexpensive, and
handy. Other objects of this invention will become apparent with
reference to the following invention descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, this
invention provides, in association with a trapshooting competition
of the type wherein each entrant in each event is, at one of
multiple squad-assignment stations, assigned to a squad (of
particular such entrants) scheduled for shooting at a specific time
and place, a computer system for assisting assignment of each such
entrant to a position in a such squad, comprising: multiple first
computer workstations each respectively situate at a such
squad-assignment station; a local area network, including a server,
connected with each such first computer workstation; computer
storage means for storing event data linking each such squad of each
such event to an entrant list of such particular entrants; computer
software means for temporarily restricting access to a such entrant
list for a such squad of a such event to a particular such first
computer workstation; and computer software means for assigning, at
such particular first computer workstation, an additional entrant to
a such temporarily-restricted entrant list. It also provides such a
computer system further comprising: computer storage means for
storing event handicap data for a large list of potential such
entrants to a such trapshooting competition; and computer software
means for assigning to each such entrant for each such event an
event handicap from such handicap data.
Furthermore, this invention provides such a computer system further
comprising: a second computer workstation, connected to such local
area network, situate at a handicap-assignment station; and computer
software means for assigning, at such second computer workstation,
to each such entrant for each such event an event handicap from such
handicap data. And it provides such a computer system further
comprising: computer storage means for storing fee payment data of
fees paid by each such entrant for each such event; and computer
software means for assigning to each such entrant for each such
event such fee payment data; and, further, further comprising
computer storage means for storing scoring data for each such
entrant for each such event, and computer software means for
assigning to each such entrant for each such event such scoring
data; and, further, computer software means for providing
scoreboard-type information to a scoreboard; and, further, computer
software means for computing prize allocations among contestants in
said trapshooting competition. Also, it provides such a computer
system further comprising computer software means for restoring such
access to such entrant list for such squad of such event to any such
first computer workstation.
Moreover, the present invention provides such a computer system
further comprising computer storage means for storing an event data
record for each such position of each such squad, each such event
data record comprising fields for holding shooting data relevant to
such event of such trapshooting competition; each such event data
record being ordered according to successively numbered positions on
successively numbered squads; and computer software means for
providing indexing showing the location of each such event data
record. It also provides such a computer system further comprising:
computer storage means for storing an ordered-name data file for
showing the such events entered by each such entrant; and computer
software means for temporarily restricting data-writing access to
such ordered-name data file to a particular such first computer
workstation until such data-writing is complete, whereby such data
file may be efficiently maintained in order. And it provides such a
computer system further comprising computer software means for
enabling a computer operator at a such first computer workstation to
back up one screen at a time for efficient error correction.
In addition, according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, this invention provides, in association with,a
trapshooting competition of the type wherein each entrant in each
event is, at one of multiple squad-assignment stations, assigned to
a squad (of particular such entrants) scheduled for shooting at a
specific time and place, a computer system for assisting assignment
of each such entrant to a position in a such squad, comprising the
steps of: for each such event, using a computer, making a set of
event records for storing event data for each such position of each
such squad, each such event data record comprising fields for
holding shooting data relevant to such event of such trapshooting
competition, each such event data record being ordered according to
successively numbered positions on successively numbered squads;
using one of a set of first computer workstations connected to a
server in a local area network, temporarily restricting access to
such event records for a particular such squad of a such event to a
particular such first computer workstation; and using such
particular first computer workstation, assigning an additional
entrant to such temporarily-restricted squad event records. And it
provides such a computer system further comprising the steps of:
storing in such computer system event handicap data for a large list
of potential such entrants to a such trapshooting competition; and
computing in such computer system and assigning to each such entrant
for each such event an event handicap from such handicap data.
Additionally, this invention provides such a computer system further
comprising the step of using such particular first computer
workstation, unblocking free access to such temporarily-restricted
squad event records, whereby each such first computer workstation
may access such temporarily-restricted squad event records; and,
further, the step of, using such particular first computer
workstation, computing a fee due from an entrant and issuing a
receipt for such fee due; and, further, the step of writing to such
event records scoring data for each such entrant to such event; and,
further, the step of providing to a monitor of a second computer
workstation scoring information in the form of a scoreboard-leaderboard.
Even further, in accordance with a preferred embodiment thereof,
this invention provides, in a computer system of the type wherein
multiple computer workstations are linked in a local area network,
and for use in association with a clay sporting competition of the
type wherein each entrant in each event is assigned to a position on
a squad (of particular such entrants), computer means for assisting
the running of such clay sporting competition comprising: computer
software means for making, for each such event, a set of event
records for storing event data for each such position of each such
squad, each such event record comprising fields for holding shooting
data relevant to such event of such clay sporting competition;
computer storage means for storing such set of event records; and
computer software means for reading data from and writing data to
such event records, including scoring data for each such entrant in
each such event. And it provides such a computer system further
comprising: computer software means for computing a handicap for a
such entrant from data supplied for potential entrants by a large
organization overseeing rules and regulations of such clay sporting
competition; and computer software means for providing a storage
record, for such large organization overseeing rules and regulations
of such clay sporting competition, of final data from such clay
sporting competition. And it also provides such a computer system
further comprising: computer software means for temporarily
restricting access to such event records for a particular such squad
of a such event to a particular such computer workstation; and
computer software means for assigning, at such particular computer
workstation, an additional entrant to such temporarily-restricted
squad event records.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a diagram of a typical network configuration, according to
a preferred embodiment of the computer system of the present
invention, for a typical trapshooting competition.
FIG. 2 illustrates a preferred Setup Menu according to the
illustrated preferred embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a Program flow chart for the Setup program for a New
Tournament.
FIG. 4 is a Program flow chart for the Setup program for Changes to
Events.
FIG. 5 is a Program flow chart for the Setup program for Add/Delete
Options or Events.
FIG. 6 illustrates the PROGRAM.TBL field structure/format.
FIG. 7 illustrates the EVENT## field structure/format.
FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a Program flow chart for the Squadding/Cashiering
program.
FIG. 9 is a Program flow chart for the Squadding/Cashiering program
illustrating the Find Squad Display.
FIG. 10 illustrates a preferred Cashiering/Squadding Main Menu.
FIG. 11 illustrates a typical Cashiering/Squadding entry screen.
FIG. 12 illustrates a typical Cashiering/Squadding Handicap screen.
FIG. 13 illustrates a typical Cashiering/Squadding screen for
Sixteen Yard or Doubles illustrating the ability to void an entry.
FIG. 14 illustrates preferred Temporary records fields for the event
file.
FIG. 15 is a Program flow chart for the Handicap program according
to the preferred embodiment of the computer system of the present
invention.
FIG. 16 illustrates a typical "No Prior Entry" screen.
FIG. 17 illustrates a preferred Field structure for Handicap files.
FIG. 18 illustrates a typical "Prior Entry" handicap screen.
FIG. 19 illustrates a preferred Squadding, Cashiering, and
Reservations Menu.
FIG. 20 illustrates a preferred Compute Options Menu.
FIG. 21 illustrates a preferred Print Menu.
FIG. 22 illustrates a preferred Utility Menu.
FIG. 23 illustrates a preferred Trap Shoot Entry Menu.
FIG. 24 illustrates a preferred Main Menu.
FIG. 25 illustrates a preferred Search Selection Menu.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT AND THE BEST MODE OF
PRACTICE
This invention, according to a preferred embodiment thereof, is
intended for use in association with a trapshooting competition of
the type wherein each entrant in each event is, at one of multiple
squad-assignment stations, assigned to a squad (of particular such
entrants) scheduled for shooting at a specific time and place. This
invention provides a computer system for assisting assignment of
each such entrant to a position in a such squad, as well as handling
the other management duties of the competition in an efficient
manner.
This invention provides very many advantages not obtained at
present. It automates an otherwise tedious paper record-keeping
system for trapshooting tournaments, using a computer program
written in BASIC. (While the BASIC computer programming language is
the best mode of this system at present, due to the changing nature
of technology, it may be that JAVA or some other language will be
the preferred language in the near future; the system of this
invention can use any programming language.) This invention
eliminates most of the use of paper in managing a tournament. It
provides faster results, faster setup and running of a trapshooting
tournament, and greater accuracy in tournament results. It uses any
computer network system with low end computers or even dumb
terminals, and efficiently uses a master database for handicapping.
It does not require entry cards. Squadding and cashiering can be
simultaneous or independent. It allows up to 2000 entries, 300
squads per event, 15 events. Electronic score boards display scores
and leaders in real time, with fast and efficient computation of
winners and options money (prizes). And final scores are placable on
a floppy disk for reporting to the trapshooting authority
organization, the Amateurs Trapshooting Association ("ATA"). The
claimed system is sometimes referred to in this description as
"COMPUTRAP".
This system requires that the tournament organizer have a Local Area
Network ("LAN") controlled by network software. The type of network
software and configuration hardware (i.e. connectors, cable size and
type, network cards) is unimportant as the system program operates
under any type of network software or configuration hardware.
Obviously, the better the LAN hardware and software, the faster the
program will operate, but the LAN hardware and software does not
affect the functioning of the program itself. Suggested computer
hardware minimums should be:
1. LAN server with a chip of 386 or higher with a clock speed
greater than 33 MHz (the newest chip on the market is always the
best to use). It must have one 3M inch floppy drive, at least 2 MB
of RAM, a hard drive of at least 60 MB, Colorado minicartridge tape
drive, a monitor (color or monochrome) and a dot matrix printer or
better. The network card must be at least a NE 2000 equivalent or
better. The LAN server, or master computer ("server"), holds the
COMPUTRAP software programs and data files.
2. The workstations ("workstations") require a computer chip of 386
or higher with a clock speed greater than 33 MHz (the newest chip on
the market is always the best to use). It must have one 3% inch
floppy drive, at least 2 ME of RAM, a hard drive of at least 20 MB,
a monitor (color or monochrome) and a dot matrix printer or better.
The network card must be at least a NE 2000 equivalent or better.
3. Note: "Dumb terminals" are not recommended. If all computers are
identical, it allows any computer to serve as a backup in case of
failure of the LAN server.
4. The workstation can access the COMPUTRAP programs and data files
either from the server or from the workstation's own 5-hard drive,
depending on the LAN that is used. In theory any task can be
performed through any of the computers, but in practice particular
computers are assigned certain functional tasks and are only
utilized for that assigned task. The best LAN software will limit
each station to the software and data files needed for its task, but
this is not necessary.
Such LAN servers and workstations embody herein this system's
multiple first computer workstations each respectively situate at a
such squad-assignment station; and a local area network, including a
server, connected with each such first computer workstation. The
tasks for the workstations include handicapping, cashiering,
scoring, the score board, and the leader board. Each of these tasks
can be combined at a station as the tournament organizer desires.
Multiple stations are also possible, depending on how the tournament
organizer sets up the LAN. With reference generally to FIG. 1, for
example, in a typical trapshooting competition, a total of about 18
workstations might be used to advantage: a couple of handicap
stations, about 10 cashier/squadding stations, one or two stations
to input scoring, and perhaps four to five stations (with monitors
for public view) to act as scoreboards and/or leaderboards and/or
printout stations. Again, with reference to FIG. 1, in a clay
sporting competition with hundreds or thousands of entrants all
appearing at about the same time to enter events, pay fees, get
handicaps, and be assigned to competition squads to be shooting at
various trap locations, there is often mass confusion; and the use
of the computer system of this invention (with its multiple
workstations) greatly assists in managing the competition
efficiently with less "waiting time" and fewer errors.
Any of the workstation computers can access the data files. The user
programs can either be called from the server or master computer or
from a local hard disk, depending upon the type of network utilized.
In theory any task can be performed through any of the computers,
but in practice (as illustrated in FIG. 1) certain computers are
assigned certain functional tasks and are only utilized for the
assigned task. The circled numbers in FIG. 1 illustrate the
chronological order of a shooter typical procedures in entering the
tournament.
FIG. 2 illustrates the main menu for the setup program. This program
must be executed prior to execution of any of COMPUTRAP's functional
programs. This program creates a PROGRAM.TBL file that contains all
the pertinent information of the trapshooting tournament. (FIG. 6
illustrates the field format of this file.) The setup program also
creates the EVENT## files, where ## represents the event number: one
EVENT for each event of the tournament. Each event file is a blank,
closed file (i.e. the maximum number of records for each event is
pre-established by the maximum number of squads assigned to the
P-event). The maximum number of records is related to the maximum
number of squads by the formula: REC=5(SQUAD
NUMBERc1)+POSITION NUMBER+38. The format of the event files,
discussed more hereinafter, and embodying in this computer system
computer storage means for storing event data linking each such
squad of each such event to an entrant list of such particular
entrants, is important for the proper operation of the COMPUTRAP
cashiering and squadding program. (FIG. 7 illustrates the field
format of these files.)
Referring to FIG. 3, choice "A" is followed by a menu that allows a
choice for a "NEW PROGRAM" or "CHANGE TO EXISTING PROGRAM".
Successful completion of "NEW PROGRAM" will allow most of
COMPUTRAP's programs to run. For all programs to be correct,
however, choices "B", "D", and "F" are also required. "C" is
optional. "C" is required to format a final report in a special
format. "E" is selected if one desires to increase the number of
squads in an event. (Note: The number of squads in an event cannot
be decreased once established.) Choices "B" through "F" are written
directly to an individual record in the PROGRAM.TBL file.
PROGRAM.TBL and EVENT## are the only two files required to execute
the tournament program.
FIG. 3 is a Program flow chart for the Setup program for a New
Tournament. FIG. 4 is a Program flow chart for the Setup program for
Changes to Events. FIG. 5 is a Program flow chart for the Setup
program for Add/Delete Options or Events. To set up a tournament,
the computer should be turned on with the server/master-computer
online. If the computer system programs goof this invention have
been installed properly, computer will automatically load the
programs it needs to connect to the network. The network startup
programs are independent of the go COMPUTRAP programs. With
reference to FIG. 2 again, the user will type COMPUTRAP then press
<ENTER>; and the setup menu screen shown in FIG. 2 will come up. The
user should, if starting a new tournament, first purge the old files
and set up new ones PRIOR TO using COMPUTRAP. The DOS COPY command
may be used to save these old files, else they will be lost. A
typical command used might be: COPY C:.backslash.ENTRYS.backslash.*.*
[destination] <ENTER>.
To set up a new tournament program the pertinent information from
the tournament program must be input to a master program file and
appropriate event files. All old program files must be deleted.
COMPUTRAP will allow up to 15 tournament events. The user should
select `U1` from the SET UP menu and follow the onscreen
instructions. To set up the HANDICAP INDEX FILES `U2`, the ATA data
file may be purchased from the ATA office at Vandalia, Ohio. This
file is supplied on a DC 2120 minicartridge cassette. The file
typically has 90,000 records of the current active ATA members. The
name of the file is PCMASTER. The tape is placed in a Colorado tape
drive and using the Colorado tape drive software the file is
transferred to the master computer. Generally, this software creates
its own directory called TRANSFER. Using DOS COPY, the PCMASTER file
should be copied from the transfer directory to the ATAFILES
directory. A typical command is: COPY C:.backslash.TRANSFER.backslash.PCMASTER
C:.backslash.ATAFILES.backslash.PCMASTER <ENTER>. Note that is not
necessary to have the ATA PCMASTER data file in order to use the
HANDICAP program. The classification data required by COMPUTRAP's
HANDICAP program can be entered through the keyboard.
To set up the PCMASTER data file for access, it is necessary to
create two index files, INDEX.REC and INDEX.ATA. The index files
speed the access time to the huge ATA data file records. The user
should select `U2` "HANDICAP INDEX" from the SET UP menu and follow
the on-screen instructions. The first step in the entry procedure is
the contestant must be assigned a classification and handicap using
a computer H (referring once again to FIG. 1). In the most cases,
this is obtained by accessing the discussed ATA data bank. Access to
the shooters' records is via a unique seven-digit number, which is
assigned by the ATA (called the ATA number). If the shooter is not
in the data bank, a fictitious seven digit ATA NUMBER is assigned
and the appropriate data is entered through the keyboard. This
fictitious number is only used at the tournament. Changes to the
assigned classification or handicap are made through computer H. The
appropriate data is transferred from computer H to a tournament
master file on the master computer M. As described hereinafter, the
tournament results are supplied to the ATA on floppy disk after the
tournament. The details of the preferred Handicap program will be
later set forth with reference to FIG. 15. This embodies in the
present invention computer software means for computing a handicap
for a such entrant from data supplied for potential entrants by a
large organization overseeing rules and regulations of such clay
sporting competition; and computer software means for providing a
storage record, for such large organization overseeing rules and
regulations of such clay sporting competition, of final data from
such clay sporting competition.
Upon completion of the classification/handicap process, the shooter
may elect to enter one or more events. This is done at any one of
the computer stations marked on FIG. 1 as A, B, through n. Using the
shooter's ATA NUMBER or NAME, any of these stations can call from
the master computer M the shooter's classification data.
FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a Program flow chart for the Squadding/Cashiering
program. FIG. 9 is a Program flow chart for the Squadding/Cashiering
program illustrating the Find Squad Display. FIG. 10 illustrates a
preferred Cashiering/Squadding Main Menu. FIG. 11 illustrates a
typical Cashiering/Squadding entry screen. FIG. 12 illustrates a
typical Cashiering/Squadding Handicap screen. FIG. 13 illustrates a
typical Cashiering/Squadding screen for Sixteen Yard or Doubles
illustrating the ability to void an entry. It is important to note
that ALL cashier's stations have access to ALL files on the master
computer. The only exception is that a local TELLER file is created
for each cashier's station. The TELLER file is created at boot up of
the cashiers station and contains the cashier's name and a window
identification letter. The program files required from the master
computer are: PROGRAM.TBL; NAME.ATA; WITHDRAW.MST; EVENT## (where ##
is event 1 through 15); and PENALTY. [Note that not shown on the
flow diagrams is the back-up back-up to previous screen, and/or
special program escape function keys that facilitate the operator's
ease of correcting errors. The "F" function keys are used . Messages
are displayed on the last line of the screen. All are descriptive as
to the function they perform.]
The main menu of the Squadding/Cashiering program is shown in FIG.
10. F10 will end the program execution. Referring to FIGS. 8A and
8B, note that selection of "A" or "B" from the menu will bring up a
menu from which the operator must select if the input is to be by
name or ATA number. The search is initiated by selection of either
upon entering the appropriate information. If the ATA number option
is selected, the program will only allow a 7 digit number. If the
name is used, the search, and subsequent display, will be for all
names with the same letter characters as entered by the operator. In
general, the ATA number is used since it is unique and once found
the search is ended. In either case, the search is of the NAME.ATA
index file located on the master computer. This file, created by the
handicap program, is a much smaller, more manageable, file and has
much faster access to records than either the original PCMASTER file
or the tournament ENTRY.MST file. All information needed for
effecting the shooter's entry in any event is obtained from the
NAME.ATA file. The cashier/squadding program will not allow a
shooter to enter any event (paid or reserved) unless the shooter has
been properly classified. This is intentional in order to prevent
shooters from entering without being classified and thus making it
extremely difficult for management to accurately declare winners,
etc. If the name is input, the display will indicate it is unique
only if an exact match of the characters entered is found. If the
name is unique, then the entry process may continue. If not, the
program returns an error message and reverts to the NAME.ATA NUMBER
menu. After finding the shooter, the information from the NAME.ATA
file is transferred to a temporary storage array in memory.
A screen requesting an event number is displayed. Note also, at this
point in the program, a BLOCK or UNBLOCK bubble is shown as an
input. If the operator had chosen "B" or "C" from the program menu,
this is the point the program execution starts for these functions.
The block is an important means and method of the present invention
whereby the squadder can "hold" a squad/position in an event for a
shooter and be assured that sometime later the squad/position will
still be available for the shooter. It is different than a paid or
reserved function in that a shooter's name is not required. It is a
temporary indication typically used to hold an entire squad for a
group of shooters wishing to shoot together. Since only one shooter
at a time can be entered, such a scheme is necessary. Furthermore,
as a security precaution, only the operator blocking the squad can
unblock. This is accomplished by utilizing the cashier's name and
teller's ID. Thus, this invention provides, embodied in the
described blocking system, computer software means for temporarily
restricting access to a such entrant list for a such squad of a such
event to a particular such first computer workstation; and computer
software means for assigning, at such particular first computer
workstation, an additional entrant to a such temporarily-restricted
entrant list; and computer software means for restoring such access
to such entrant list for such squad of such event to any such first
computer workstation.
After the event number is entered, the program automatically checks
to see if the number is within the pre-programmed values of
COMPUTRAP's set-up program. If acceptable, the program checks if the
shooter had previously entered and subsequently withdrawn from this
event. If acceptable, i.e. no withdrawal was made, a screen will
appear asking if a prior reservation had been made. If a previous
withdrawal was made from this event, the operator is asked if it is
okay to continue (Yes or No). If No, then the program asks for
another event number. If Yes, then the PRIOR RESERVATION screen will
appear. Note: If the BLOCK or UNBLOCK functions are being executed,
this screen is bypassed.
If no prior reservation was made, the program displays a screen
showing the availability of squads and positions for the event. A
typical screen for singles and doubles is shown as FIG. 11. FIG. 12
shows a typical HANDICAP screen. FIG. 13 shows the screen after an
entry has been made, but not completed. The screen has been recalled
to verify the entry. It may only be voided or continue. It is
important to note the annotations on FIGS. 11, 12 and 13. The
arrangement and display of the alphanumeric characters, as well as
special characters, provide the operator with a visual means of
immediately assessing the availability of a squad and position. The
display is the key for the squadder/cashiers ability to accurately
place the shooter in a squad/position of his/her choosing, and, in
the case of a handicap event, at the proper safe handicap distance.
Furthermore, this will be the only individual at that
squad/position. FIG. 9 illustrates in greater detail how the screen
displays are created.
To understand the screen format concept, it is first necessary to
know the format of each of the EVENT files. The first 37 records of
the event file are used for an index for each shooter's record.
Record 38 stores the event number, type of event and number of
targets in the event. Records 39 to the end of file are the
individual shooter's records arranged in numerical order from the
first squad first position to the last squad last (fifth) position.
Unoccupied positions are blank. Occupied positions will have
characters in accordance with one of the field arrangements
illustrated in FIG. 14. Arrangement of the file in this manner
allows synchronization of the index since each record number can be
made to coincide with the squad and position by the formula: RECORD
NUMBER=5(SQUAD NUMBER-1)+POSITION NUMBER-38.
This system creates an index within the EVENT file without changing
the basic file structure (i.e. maximum field length of 128
characters). Location of the fields in the index records must be
placed in exactly the same order as the order of the shooter's
record. This is accomplished by knowing that only two characters of
the classification or handicap of the shooter's record is needed for
display. This embodies in the computer system of this invention
computer storage means for storing an event data record for each
such position of each such squad, each such event data record
comprising fields for holding shooting data relevant to such event
of such trapshooting competition, each such event data record being
ordered according to successively numbered positions on successively
numbered squads, and computer software means for providing indexing
showing the location of each such event data record. It also
embodies the step of, for each such event, using a computer, making
a set of event records for storing event data for each such position
of each such squad, each such event data record comprising fields
for holding shooting data relevant to such event of such
trapshooting competition, each such event data record being ordered
according to successively numbered positions on successively
numbered squads. Further, to be able to distinguish paid entries
from/versus reserved entries, a third coded character is also
needed. To distinguish squad blocking, lower case alpha characters
representing the cashier's window identification are used. The upper
case "X" is used to indicate that a position is being processed and
is not available. As discussed, this system uses temporary codes in
order to "lock out" another cashier from placing another shooter in
the identical squad/position of an event. Since only a limited
number of characters are used for the shooter's actual
classification/handicap, it is easy to conclude that by placing
different characters within the shooter's record, temporarily, a
technique is provided whereby the cashiers/squadders can quickly
recognize the availability of open or not-open positions. Further,
automatic status of paid or unpaid customers can be readily
determined. This is accomplished with only three characters per
field.
This technique and means of the present invention is necessary as
availability of each squad/position is on a first-come basis. This
makes it necessary to "lock in" the shooters choice as quickly as
possible so that the subsequent determination of fees and options
can be accomplished without loss of the position. In the case of a
paid or reserved entry, the record is held and cannot be taken until
the entry is either completed or canceled. In the case of a blocked
squad/position, if the position is open, the placement of the "Held
by :" information is immediately written to the disk and the program
returns to ask for another BLOCK input request. (Note: Subsequent
attempts by a paid entry to access reserved or blocked positions
will produce an "OVERRIDE WARNING" message. If desired, the operator
can continue the entry for that position. The program will not allow
a paid position or a position with an "X" to be overridden.)
Upon completion of one event entry, the cashier has the option of
entering the shooter in another event or ending the entry process.
The data for each event is temporarily stored using program memory
arrays. Deletion and/or corrections of the entry is provided by use
of the function ("F") keys. On screen instructions are explicit.
Upon completion of entry of all desired events, the totals are
displayed to the cashier and upon satisfaction, the receipt is
printed. Only at this time is the shooter's entry stored to the hard
disk. Any subsequent changes must be made through the COMPUTRAP
cashier's change program. Upon completion of the receipt printout,
the program returns to the beginning and awaits the next ATA number.
This point of entry is selected since probably (over 90% of the
time) the ATA number is used for input. It is quicker, both for
input and record search. If the NAME or ATA NUMBER menu or the main
menu is needed, the operator will follow the on screen instructions.
After payment of entry fees, the shooter then may participate in the
appropriate event, shooting when his or her squad is given
permission. Upon completion of the event, the score sheets are
checked for accuracy. The scores are then entered into COMPUTRAP's
data bank through the keyboard of computer(s) S (see FIG. 1). If
desired, the scores may be displayed on electronic monitor screens
controlled by computers X and Y. After the scores of all the
contestants in the event are entered, the data is processed for
winners and any other information that the tournament program may
require. After as completion of all the events, which may take
several days, the data is compiled and formatted to the ATA
requirements and sent to the ATA office in Vandalia, Ohio.
Referring to FIG. 15, a Handicap flow diagram, input to the handicap
program is the shooter's ATA number. This number is a seven digit,
unique number, assigned by the ATA office. It is similar to a credit
card number.
If the shooter does not have an ATA number (either forgot or is a
new shooter and has yet not been assigned a number), an artificial
number is assigned. The number must be seven digits beginning with
"00". "00" is necessary because the ATA does not use "00" for a
beginning number for any ATA numbers. The shooter's name is not used
because names may be ambiguous and the PCMASTER file is provided in
ATA number sort order. Computer time to search for names is
prohibitive. The ATA number is entered through the keyboard either
with a magnetic strip card reader or by hand. (Note: The ATA card
has a magnetic strip with the ATA number.) After verifying that the
ATA number is a seven digit number, COMPUTRAP's NAME.ATA file is
checked for a prior entry. This is necessary to prevent multiple
classifications under the same ATA number. If no prior entry is
found, the number is searched for, zstarting with the previously
compiled index files. If the number His found in the NAME.ATA file,
the classification data is retrieved into memory and the search for
the record in the PCMASTER file is initiated identically as if no
prior entry was found. If the record is not found in the PCMASTER
file, the redisplay is altered to reflect this. The search for the
ATA number takes advantage of the format of the ATA's PCMASTER file
(i.e., the ATA can supply the PCMASTER file in ascending number
order). Further, the first two numbers is the year the number is
issued. The remaining 5 digits begin with "00001". This allows
99,999 new members on a yearly basis.
Also, prior to about 1975, when the yearly technique of number
assignment was instituted, the first two digits represented the
state and province of Canada. This only required numbers up to the
60's. Therefore, when the switch was made to a yearly starting
number, there was no incompatibility in the chronological numbers.
COMPUTRAP takes advantage of this format to improve the speed of the
ATA number search by creating two index files specifically keyed to
the record number of the ATA PCMASTER file. As mentioned, these are
INDEX.REC and INDEX.ATA. The index files are created with the
COMPUTRAP utility program, selectable from `U2` of the main menu.
(Note: The PCMASTER file cannot be used unless the index program is
run prior to using the handicap program.) Searching for the record
in the ATA PCMASTER file starts by matching the first two numbers of
the ATA number with the first two digits in the INDEX.REC file. Once
the number is matched, the range of record numbers for the first two
numbers of the ATA number in the PCMASTER file is returned. Then,
using the starting and ending numbers as limits, the entire ATA
number is searched in the INDEX.ATA file. When found, this points to
the record number in the PCMASTER file. If the number is not found
in either of the index files, the name, address and classification
data must be inputted manually, if no prior entry has been made
(FIG. 16 illustrates the format).
If the shooter is found in the PCMASTER file, the data is displayed
to the screen. PCMASTER supplies the shooter's current number of
targets shot at and broken for the current and prior two years, the
current handicap yardage, life-time targets broken, and the current
address. COMPUTRAP computes the averages and formats the screen
display (see FIG. 18). The recommended classification is computed by
comparing the shooter's average with a predetermined tournament
classification for that average. The predetermined classification is
established by the tournament program and is inputted and stored in
the PROGRAM.TBL file. COMPUTRAP's handicap program loads this data
when the program is started. The computer operator has the option of
selecting COMPUTRAP's calculation or manually inputting the
classification data.
If the classification is input manually, COMPUTRAP will only allow
the letter/number combinations in accordance with the ATA
classifications (i.e. sixteen yard and doubles events are AA, A, B,
C, or D). Handicap is 19.0 to 27.0 in M-yard increments. The program
will not allow an incorrect input. In either case, manual input or
automatic, the special category must be input manually. If the
shooter does not qualify for any of the special categories, the
operator merely presses the <ENTER>key to by pass an entry. Again,
the program will not allow any incorrect input. Special categories
are: L for Ladies; V for Veterans; SV for Senior Veteran; LV for
Lady Veteran; LSV for Lady Senior Veteran; SJ for Sub-junior; LSJ
for Lady Sub-junior; J for Junior; LJ for Lady Junior; and I for
Industry. If the tournament is a State Shoot, the operator will be
asked to make an entry for a resident or non-resident shooter. This
screen will not appear unless the tournament was declared a State
Shoot when the tournament program was initially set up using
COMPUTRAP's setup program. The data is stored in the NAME.ATA file's
first record. The data is loaded into COMPUTRAP's handicap program
when the program is executed. At this point, a final opportunity to
change any data is presented to the operator. If the data is
acceptable, upon the pressing of the keyboard <ENTER> key, the data
is placed in the next available record in the ENTRY.MST file and the
NAME.ATA file. All data not input, such as date and time entered,
etc., are obtained from the computer's operating system. If data is
unacceptable, the operator has the option of backing up one step at
a time or canceling all inputs and starting over. Data is not
recorded unless the final <ENTER>is pressed. Upon pressing the
<ENTER>key, the program clears all variables, and returns to the
INPUT ATA NUMBER and awaits the next ATA number. See FIG. 18 for
fields of the these files.
It is noted that the NAME.ATA file is an index file for the
cashiering programs. As mentioned, it is used to significantly speed
the access to only the necessary information the cashiers programs
need. Thus, it is necessary that the record numbers of the NAME.ATA
file and the ENTRY.MST file be identical. This is insured by
momentarily locking both files while the data is written to the
master computer's hard disk. This technique allows more than one
computer access to the files--either to enter new data or prior
entered data--and be able to keep the records in order. This
embodies in the computer system of this invention computer storage
means for storing an ordered-name data file for showing the such
events entered by each such entrant; and computer software means for
temporarily restricting data-writing access to such ordered-name
data file to a particular such first computer workstation until such
data-writing is complete, whereby such data file may be efficiently
maintained in order.
If the ATA number is found in the NAME.ATA file, the record data is
searched for in the INDEX and PCMASTER files in the same manner as
if no prior entry had been made. However, the displays are different
in that the previous classification is displayed for the operator
along with the data of the PCMASTER file. If there is no record in
the PCMASTER file, only the previously manually entered data is
displayed. See FIG. 18 for a sample screen display. The operator
must select if a change is desired or, if none, the program will
return to await the input of the next ATA number. If a change is
necessary to one or more of the prior classifications, the operator
must manually input the correct values. If no change is required
only <ENTER> need be pressed. The procedure is similar to the
process for manually inputting the original data described above. As
previously, when the operator is satisfied with the changes, the new
values are stored in the same record number as was the original
data. The new overwrites the old data. In addition, the operator
must provide an input as to which event the new classification is to
be effective. This is necessary since the shooter may have entered
one or more events subsequent to his/her original entry. Upon
entering the correct starting event, the program automatically
searches every event for the shooter and, if found, makes the
changes in the shooter's record. When completed, the program returns
for a new ATA number input.
It is noted that pressing function key F5 allows the operator to
search the ENTRY.MST file for a shooter by name. This feature is
sometimes handy when it is necessary to review a prior entrant's
classification. The entire record is displayed on the screen. If
insufficient letters are entered so that the name is not unique,
then all records found beginning with the letters entered will be
displayed. It is also noted that pressing function key F2 displays
the total shooters classified.
For the program for inputting the scores from the field score sheets
to the selected event file, the screen presentation is exactly as
the shooter shot the event. Scores are input by the sub-events
exactly in the order shot. Selection of squads, subevents, etc. is
via the keyboard. On screen instructions are explicit. The key to
accurate processing of winners, moneys, etc., is the accurate
inputting of the scores. Since the scores are input by humans, who
can err, it is always good to have a check system. It is best to
read the inputted data back from the screen and compare it to the
score sheet from whence the data came. The input is the event
number; and then follow the onscreen instructions. Input of scores
is made straightforward by displaying the entire squad of shooters
in exactly the order as indicated on the field score sheets. Shoot
management determines when a particular event is closed for
additional entries. At this time a pre-printed form, the field score
sheet with the shooters name and classification for each squad (5
shooters to a squad), must be "made out". The score sheets are then
distributed to the particular trap(s) that the shooter is assigned
to shoot his on her target. Prior to the shooter shooting the
targets, a COMPUTRAP print program sorts and provides selectable
printouts delineating the shooters squad/position and classification
for "making out" the score sheets. The print-outs are in sequence by
squad on either standard 81/2".times.11" or 31/2 inch labels
(selectable) or continuous tractor feed computer format. (Refer to
PRINT OUT menu item.)
The only input required to start the program is the event number.
The program looks for the appropriate event file and verifies that
the event number entered is within the correct range for the
tournament. Upon verification of the event number, a screen menu
allows selection of "Inputting scores" or Displaying scores
entered". The "display of scores" is a useful indication of the
squads for which scores have been received and entered. At most
tournaments, the completed score sheets come to the processing
center in a non-sequential order. Thus, one can easily surmise that
keeping track of non-returned score sheets can easily result in lost
or unreported scores. Upon choosing "Inputting scores", the program
automatically searches for and displays the first and last squad.
The operator may choose any squad within this range. After selection
of the initial starting squad, the program uses the tournament
program file (PROGRAM.TBL) to determine if the event is a 100 or 200
target event. If the event is a 200 target event, the operator must
choose if the scores being input are for the first 100 or second 100
targets. This is a one time selection for this session.
After verification of the squad, the program searches the event file
on the hard drive for the squad selected. If the squad is empty
(i.e., no shooters on the squad) the program will automatically look
for the next highest occupied squad. The names and scores (if any
were previously entered) of the entire squad is displayed on the
screen. If it is only a partial squad, then only the shooters on the
squad are displayed. Scores are entered through the keyboard for
each trap. Cursor position for data entry of next shooter is
automatic upon pressing the <ENTER> key. This is exactly as a normal
10-key adding machine. Scores entered for each shooter are stored in
a temporary scores array. Only after the last score of the
scoresheet is entered are the scores transferred from the temporary
scores storage array to the shooters record on the computer hard
drive. This technique minimizes network traffic thereby speeding up
all COMPUTRAP program operations. When the last squad is completed,
the program asks for a return to the menu. The program may be exited
at any time. If one is in the scores inputting mode, the program
will return to the menu select. The program then may be ended from
this point.
The COMPUTRAP software package that controls the contestant's entry,
scores entry, entry changes, print-outs, and processing consists of
a number of independent executable program modules. Each program is
designed to perform a specific function. Selection of a program is
from a descriptive menu. The letter/number choices will load the
executable programs. In all cases, the operator should follow the on
screen instructions.
Selection of `N` from COMPUTRAP's main menu (FIG. 24) will
automatically load ALL the support files. Selection of any other
letter will load those support files required to support the
specific function. Since all of COMPUTRAP's programs are callable
from the `N` NORMAL key, only the `N` menu will be discussed. For
example, the cashiers/squadders menu is made up of various programs
from the normal COMPUTRAP umbrella and placed in a menu specifically
designed for the cashier. This technique allows easy customizing of
COMPUTRAP for specific functions.
The `N` NORMAL selection from the COMPUTRAP main menu provides four
options. These are: CASHIER/SQUADDING; OPTIONS; PRINT; and UTILITY.
FIG. 20 illustrates a preferred Compute Options Menu. FIG. 21
illustrates a preferred Print Menu. FIG. 22 illustrates a preferred
Utility Menu. After choosing a particular function to be executed
from the screen, one has only to follow the on screen instructions
to execute the desired task. In most cases, simple yes `Y` or no `N`
answers are required to the questions. Those questions asking for
other types of inputs are clearly enunciated. A wrong answer is not
allowed. A discussion of each menu item follows.
The cashier and squadding programs are the heart of the COMPUTRAP
entry system, and these have been described hereinbefore. All the
programs for the cashiers/squadders needs are selectable from the
MENU of FIG. 10. The cashier has three entry options: "PAID ENTRY",
"RESERVATIONS", or "BLOCK A SQUAD"; the fourth option is to "UN
BLOCK A SQUAD". The first two selections require that the shooter be
previously classified. As was noted, the BLOCK A SQUAD does not
require shooter classification. It is primarily used to hold, i.e.,
block a squad/position, so that another cashier cannot take the
position.
All selections require an event be specified which is then followed
by a screen depicting the previous entries in the event. After
completion of the entries requested by the contestant, which may
take several minutes, the COMPUTRAP ENTRY program will total the
amount to be paid (if the shooter is not making a reservation or
blocking a squad). A final opportunity to correct or add any
additional information is presented on screen. If all is correct, a
receipt is printed on two part, no-carbon-required (ncr) paper, one
copy for the shooter and one copy for the cashier. At this time the
entry is complete. Any changes to the entry must be made using the
COMPUTRAP CHANGE program, A2 from the menu. Changes to an entry can
only be effected if an entry has been completed by the initial entry
program. This program is used to make event withdrawals, change
squads, change options and change fees payments. A change can only
be made to one event at a time.
CHECK RESERVATIONS (A3) is a program to ascertain the reserved
status for a shooter for all events for which he/she holds
reservations. This program can only be used for viewing. An optional
print out is available. VIEW SQUADS or FIND SQUAD/PERSON (A4) is a
program that provides three on screen displays of a specified event:
1. Search by Squad--Displays three squads simultaneously.
Format is shooters squad/position, options, options played,
classification, and scores. Screen can be changed to scroll through
the entire event using the UP-DOWN keys.
2. Search by Name--Searches for and displays the shooter(s) name as
originally entered. Display is same as 1. above.
3. Display all Squads--An overview identical to the presentation of
Al--CASHIERING & RESERVATIONS.
CANCEL RESERVATIONS (A5) is a program that allows the cancellation
of individual or ALL reservations made via A1--CASHIERING &
RESERVATIONS. Once a cancellation is effected, the record cannot be
restored. The program also cancels all previous entered BLOCKED
SQUADS. CASHIERS CHECKOUT (A6) is a program that totals all the
monetary transactions for a teller (cashier) for that date. The
program is read only and may be executed any time. No input is
required.
RE-PRINT RECEIPT (A7) is a program that searches for ALL entries in
all events for a shooter. Input is the shooters ATA NUMBER or NAME.
Output is a COPY RECEIPT. LOOK-UP CLASSIFICATION (A8) is a program
that displays on screen or optionally prints the shooters
classification/handicap. Input is
the shooters ATA NUMBER or NAME.
There are many types of cashiering systems for distributing purses
and options. The Compute Options menu provides a sample of five that
are commonly used. Some knowledge in selection of the desired
program is necessary. The tournament program, or the program
manager, specifies the type of purse or option. All programs require
as an input the event number and the number (1-7) of the purse or
option to process. A number (1-6) is assigned to each purse or
option. Number 7 is reserved for added money. Computations are
rounded down to the nearest $0.50. Output is a print out of the
number of winners and the amount of money for each winner. The
results of computed options are placed in a CASH## file, where "##"
is an event number, for use by various print programs. If, for any
reason an error is made during the computation process of ANY
option, or a score subsequently of changed AFTER the options have
been computed, etc., it is wise to ERASE the affected CASH## file
and re-compute the options again. The subsequent changes in scores
may produce inaccurate payoffs. Use DOS ERASE or DOS DEL to delete
the affected file. The command is: DEL F:ENTRYSCASH## <ENTER>where
"##" is the event number (1-15).
With respect to the Print Options, all the print programs are
formatted outputs from the data records. Some knowledge of the game
is required in order to select the proper print out. EVENT (C1) is a
program that provides for a selection of three types of print outs
of a specified event:
1. With Scores--Scoreboard format. Is in squad/position order
starting from lowest to highest as specified in the input. Prints
shooters squad/position, name, options played, classification, and
scores.
2. Without Scores--Similar to 1. above except that scores and
options are not printed. Used for the line management.
3. Labels--Prints 11/2 by 4 inch labels in squad/position order with
shooters name and classification.
Placed on the score sheets on the trap field.
PAYOUT LIST (C2) is an alphabetical listing of the shooter's money
winnings for a specified event. Each option for which the shooter
has moneys coming is listed. If no money is won, the shooter is not
listed. One or more of the programs in MENU P must be completed
prior to this print out. All or only part of the listing may be
selected for print out.
WINNERS/ADVANCEMENTS (C4) is a program that, by selection, prints
the event trophy winners OR automatically advances and prints the
class/handicap winners in all subsequent events entered. Selection
is by "OPEN", "RESIDENT" or "NON-RESIDENT" from on screen menus.
Input is the event number, number of places desired, and for
handicap events yardage increments (if appropriate).
HIGH OVERALL/HIGH ALL-AROUND (C5) is a program that compiles and
prints the winners for the high overall or high all-around events.
Choice is selectable from an on screen menu. A detail scores listing
or summary score listing is selectable. This program looks for
totaled scores in a SCORES.MST file which is created by the program
"TRANSFER SCORES", D1, from the UTILITY PROGRAMS menu, i.e., this
program must be run prior to C5, HIGH OVERALL/HIGH ALL-AROUND. Input
is the classes or special classes and number of places. Classes or
special classes are input as AA, A, B, C, D, L, V, SV, J, SJ, I as
desired.
EVENT SUMMARY (C7) is a program that prints the total moneys
collected for an event. Sorted by targets, options, fees and other
(such as penalty fees, etc.). It also prints those shooters who paid
but did not shoot the event. Input is the event number. CALCUTTA
(C8) is a program that sorts those shooters playing the "CALCUTTA"
option number, places them in random order, and prints the name list
for the auctioneer. The names are placed in a CALCUTTA.PRN file,
which may be used in a spread sheet. Input is the event number and
the option number. CHECK STUB (C9) is a program that prints the
payoff checks from the CASH## files. Lists the check number, payee
and amount, and total of all checks for the specified event number.
Input is the event number and starting check number. All or part of
the file can be printed, as selected.
ATA DATA DISK FILE (C10) is a program that prints the records of the
file ATADATA. The ATADATA file is created from D3, "ATA DISK" of the
UTILITY PROGRAMS menu (see FIG. 22). No input is required. WINNERS
LISTING (C11) is a program that prints the winners' scores in
descending order for a specified event. Input is the event number
and the lowest score to be printed.
MAILING LIST (C12) is an alphabetical listing of all the entries.
Format is single column suitable for 15/16 inch by 31/2 inch labels.
No input is required. CARRY OVERS (C13) is a program that sorts and
prints event carry over ties from selected events. The program only
sorts 16 yard and doubles events. Input is beginning event number
and subsequent event numbers.
FIG. 23 illustrates a preferred Trap Shoot Entry Menu. FIG. 24, as
described earlier, illustrates a preferred Main Menu. FIG. 25
illustrates a preferred Search Selection Menu.
The programs selectable from the Utility Programs menu (FIG. 22)
either create the working files for all other processing programs OR
are the corrections and monitor programs for checking those working
files. TRANSFER SCORES (D1) is a program that compiles and totals
the scores for each shooter from each individual event file to a
SCORES.MST file. This file is used for determining high over
all/high all-around and the ATADATA file. These scores are what is
reported to the ATA for inclusion in their data bank. No input is
required. Transfer is automatic when the program is executed.
CORRECTIONS (D2) is a program used to make corrections in a
shooter's name, address, ATA number, and to correct scores in the
SCORES.MST or ATADATA files and delete records in the EVENT files.
It essentially is the catch all corrections program for all files
EXCEPT cashier's corrections. The required correction is selected
from a sub-menu screen within the program. Restoration of a deleted
record from an event file is only possible by re-entry using the
CASHIERING & RESERVATIONS program (A1).
ATA DISC (D3) is a program that creates the ATADATA file in the ATA
required format. The ATADATA file can only have a maximum of twelve
events. COMPUTRAP can handle up to fifteen events. If the tournament
has more than twelve events, then more than one ATADATA file must be
created, i.e., the tournament program must be split and two or more
separate discs, each having the name ATADATA, but different events,
must be created. While somewhat cumbersome, this can best be done by
creating one file with the desired events. Then using DOS COPY, copy
the ATADATA file to floppy disc. Save this ATADATA file by renaming
it as ATADATA.1. The process is repeated for the remaining events,
except that the second ATADATA file is copied to a second floppy
disk. The saved file would be named ATADATA.2. If twelve or fewer
events are to be formatted, only one ATADATA file will be created.
With respect to RESTORE CASHIERS INDEX (D4), occasionally the
cashiers index file, NAME.ATA, has become corrupted. This file is a
quick access file used exclusively by the cashiers entry programs of
menu A. It resides on the master server's virtual disk and is
created and updated by the HANDICAP program from the ENTRY.MST file.
Since it is not desirable to recycle the master server just to
restore the NAME.ATA index file, this program restores it without
affecting any other files. No input is required. YARDAGE CHECK (D5)
is used only on handicap events. It is a utility program to
determine if the yardage separation between positions are two yards
or less and no more than three yards difference on the squad. It
must be run on subsequent handicap events since yardage increases
due to winning a prior handicap is not automatically verified.
Output is an on screen display of the offending squad, listing names
and yardages of each squad member. Input is the event number. VIEW
FINAL SCORES (D6) is a view only utility program for viewing a
shooter's scores for all events. Format is a screen display. Input
is the shooters ATA NUMBER or NAME. HANDICAP TABLE (D7) is a utility
to display the earned yardage table and, if necessary, to change the
tables to comply with the current earned yardage table. No input is
required unless the table is to be changed.
The COMPUTRAP startup programs reside in the TRAP directory. The
following directories are required by COMPUTRAP. Set up the
directories by using the DOS Make Directory (MD) command:
TRAP--Contains all of COMPUTRAP's program files; ENTRYS-Contains
COMPUTRAP's data files; ATAFILES--Contains the ATA data file
PCMASTER, plus index files used to access PCMASTER; TRAPTBL-Contains
data tables for computation of options.
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments
of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of
this invention includes such modifications as diverse shapes and
sizes and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims
as read in connection with the above specification.
Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and
the below claims.
* * * * *
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