Abstract: An automatic, accurate and inexpensive timing bench, able to be purchased and used by any amateur. The bench consists of a conventional chronograph wristwatch (2) and a control box (1) provided with a housing (12) for the chronograph and a transparent cover (17). The box (1) further includes input ports, for receiving electric signals originating from timing cells, and electromagnets (51, 52) for automatically pressing the push buttons (8, 9) of the chronograph as a function of said input signals. As a result of auxiliary electric ports on each box, several of these boxes can be coupled in cascade to form a more complex timing bench.

Abstract: The electronic chronometry device (D) comprises an acquisition cell (2) arranged to receive time data (6) coming from at least one time events measurement sensor (8), a storing unit (9) for storing said time data (6), and a processing unit (4) of said time data (6) and associated with said acquisition cell (2). This device is characterized in that said storing unit (9) is associated with an interface (1) which is arranged so as to allow said processing unit (4) to access said storing unit (9) and to read certain of said time data (6) stored in said storing unit (9) without allowing modification of said storing unit (9) by said processing unit (4).

Abstract: A departure gate for sporting runs includes two riser members forming an outlet, each riser member bearing a device comprising a bar arranged to be angularly movable, the bar extending at least halfway over the width of the outlet. Each device includes an electrical contractor controlled by the bar and operated thereby as soon as the bar has traversed a predetermined angle (.alpha.). The contactors are coupled in a manner such that an electrical output signal is produced only when at least one of the bars has traversed the angle .alpha.. The gate minimized or eliminates the influence that the starting position of the contestant may have on his result.

Abstract: A method for timing races and apparatus for performing the method including a cinematographic camera the lens of which is directed onto the finishing line. All data necessary for the evaluation of a race from preparation for start, start and finish appear on a single document which may be a photographic film or a magnetic tape. On such record will be shown the starting signal (37), the reaction times (t.sub.2, t.sub.3) of the participants of the starting signal, possibly the wind speed during the race and finally the arrival times (t.sub.6, t.sub.7) of the participants. The several parameters are recorded together with a scale giving reference times.