Variable burn out timer

US6406103B1 · kind B1 · utility

Inventors

• John Elliott · Edina, US
• Patti Elliott · Pearson, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 6, 2000
• Grant date: Jun 18, 2002
• Expiry date: Sep 6, 2020

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B60T8/26
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

In drag racing it is important to heat the rubber of the rear tires in order to gain added traction, which is typically done through what is called a burn out, or spinning the rear tires on wet pavement until they become hot. At the same time, it is important that the tires not become overly hot, as excessive heating reduces traction. Therefore the length of the burn out is critical. Drag racing vehicles are typically equipped with a device called a line lock, which, when the brake is engaged locks the brake line to maintain pressure on the brake fluid after the brake pedal is released. Locking the front brakes in such a manner allows the driver to gun the engine while the vehicle is in gear, thus spinning the rear tires. The line lock is activated by a line lock button, usually mounted on the steering wheel, which opens and closes a solenoid, activating the line lock. The present invention is designed to provide a device for variably controlling the duration for which the line lock is engaged, and thus the duration of a burn out so the tires are sufficiently heated, yet not overheated.