Computer generated image of flag

Home
Steps
Tips
Design
Register
Awards
Tracks
Methods
Principles
Humor
Experiments
Results 1
Results 2
Software

Image of ray-traced car

Software


Contained herein are three software tools software for analyzing Pinewood Derby racing methods, as well as a simple Pinewood Derby race management program.

Some folks are very passionate when it comes to the racing methods they use to conduct their Pinewood Derbies. In fact, they occasionally exhibit behavior which borders on the obsessive or compulsive!

In the interest of promoting this sort of behavior, we offer three Windows-based racing method analysis tools:

  • A chart checker which assesses the static characteristics of a final-standing racing chart.
  • A chart simulator which assesses the dynamic characteristics of a final-standing racing chart.
  • A ladder simulator which assesses the dynamic characteristics of an elimination ladder.
All three tools may be downloaded in this ZIP archive.

To install the tools, unzip the archive into a temporary directory, and then run the SETUP.EXE file.

Chart checker screenshot

Chart simulator screenshot

Elimination ladder simulator screenshot

(If you're still using 16-bit Windows -- Windows 3.1, Windows for Workgroups, whatever -- you can still download the 16-bit versions of these programs here. Instructions for installation are the save as for the 32-bit versions.)


If you haven't yet pulled the trigger on purchasing a full-featured race manager, here's a freeware program to assist you in running your Derby.

This Excel spreadsheet contains a points-based implementation of the PPN/PN/CPN racing method. It takes advantage of Excel's programming language and display capabilities.

Download this ZIP archive and start by looking at the README file.

You'll need Microsoft Excel to use this software.

Screenshot 1

Screenshot 2


Last updated on December 13, 2006, 12:00 PM
Copyright 1998-2006 © by Cory Young. All rights reserved.