Channel element for ground cable channel of game timing system

Abstract

The invention relates to a channel element (22) of a ground cable channel (20) for positioning an antenna (106) on an underlying surface and protecting the antenna from external forces, comprising: a first connection (154) for connecting the channel element to a preceding channel element (108) and a second connection (156) for connecting the channel element to a following channel element (110); a central protection area (160) for housing the antenna; a first protection region (162) for receiving a first cable (114) and a second protection region (166) for receiving a second cable (118), the first protection region being designed to connect the central protection region to the first connection, and the second protection region being designed to connect the central protection region to the second connection; and a bypass protection region (170, 170a, 170b) for receiving the cable, where the bypass protection region is designed to connect the first connection to the second connection, where the first connection is designed to connect the first protection region to the bypass protection region of the preceding channel element and to connect the bypass protection region to the first protection region of the preceding channel element; and / or the second connection is designed to connect the second protection region to the bypass protection region at the rear channel element and to connect the bypass protection region to the second protection region at the rear channel element. The invention also relates to a detection assembly (102), a ground cable channel (20) and a game timing system (16).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a channel element of a floor cable channel for positioning an antenna on a lower surface and for protecting the antenna from external forces. The invention also relates to a detection assembly for detecting a passing sports timing transponder in a sports event, a floor cable channel and a game timing. Background Art

[0002] In the field of timing of sports events, such as running, marathon, cycling, ski races, car races, horse races or other events, timing the start, finish and split timing points of the participants plays an important role. In the popular timing systems, the person, vehicle or animal whose time is to be measured carries a radio element (sports timing transponder, in particular an active or passive RFID tag) for contactless automatic timing. For example, runners can carry radio elements that are attached to shoelaces or to a bib number to be pinned on the participant's shirt or pants.

[0003] At the start, finish and split timing locations along the track, measuring points are installed to detect the presence of a radio element and determine the elapsed time, i.e. the moment when the radio element passes the measuring point. To this end, the measuring point usually comprises corresponding antennas and data processing means to process the received data. Usually, the determined participant elapsed times are then transmitted to a central evaluation point for access by the event organizers and participants.

[0004] In this case, a transponder specifically designates a radio element that is able to transmit and receive radio signals. A transponder can refer to a passive RFID tag without an integrated energy source or to an active RFID tag with a built-in battery. In the case of a passive RFID tag, the transponder is usually activated, i.e. read out, when passing a measuring point by a corresponding RFID reader, which can determine the elapsed time based on one or more readings. In the case of an active RFID tag, an induction loop is usually detected by the tag and the elapsed time is calculated in the tag based on multiple detections in order to transmit the elapsed time to a corresponding device for further processing and / or evaluation.

[0005] Current sports timing systems for passive RFID tags usually consist of a suitcase-sized device, often called a decoder, which includes an RFID reader. The decoder is connected to a corresponding RFID antenna. The antenna is usually a ground antenna integrated in a cable channel or a side antenna located on a tripod on the side of the track. In addition to the RFID reader, which is usually an RFID reader originally used for logistics applications, current decoders include at least a battery, a processing module and different options for communication.

[0006] In this context, WO 2016 / 188798 A1 relates to a ground cable channel for positioning a cable line element on a lower surface and for protecting the cable line element. Two channel elements are configured to accommodate the cable line element and are connected by a connecting element. The ground cable channel can be brought into a transport position and an operating position, in which the channel elements are arranged one after the other along their longitudinal axis. A ground antenna is further disclosed, comprising a ground cable channel as well as an electrical conductor and an antenna. In addition, a timing system is disclosed, comprising a ground antenna, a mobile transponder and a mobile base station.

[0007] The associated disadvantages of current solutions are generally their limited flexibility in deployment at the sports event location and the complex installation of the race timing system. Typically, the application scenario requires that the installation of the sports timing system be as quick and easy as possible. Typically, the exact locations of the start, finish and split timing locations, the environment of these locations, and in particular the track width at the location, are not known in advance. In addition, only a limited amount of time is available to install the system. Furthermore, the personnel who set up the system usually include unskilled workers with little or no experience. In view of this, a flexible and simple method for installing a race timing system is involved. Summary of the invention

[0008] In view of the above, the present invention solves the problem of providing a race timing system that is flexible in use and easy to install. In particular, the desired race timing system should be able to adapt to tracks of different widths, should limit the impact of installation errors or mistakes due to misuse or inexperience of the installer, and should be robust to environmental influences from changing weather conditions or mechanical stresses.

[0009] In order to solve this problem, a first aspect of the present invention relates to a channel element of a ground cable channel for positioning an antenna on a lower surface and for protecting the antenna from external forces, the channel element comprising:

[0010] - a first connection portion and a second connection portion, the first connection portion being used to connect the channel element to a preceding channel element, the second connection portion being used to connect the channel element to a succeeding channel element;

[0011] - a central protected area to house the antenna;

[0012] a first protection area for accommodating a first cable and a second protection area for accommodating a second cable, wherein the first protection area is designed to connect the central protection area to the first connection portion, wherein the second protection area is designed to connect the central protection area to the second connection portion; and

[0013] - a bypass protection area for accommodating a cable, wherein the bypass protection area is designed to connect the first connection part to the second connection part, wherein

[0014] -The first connection portion is designed to connect the first protection area to the bypass protection area of ​​the preceding channel element, and to connect the bypass protection area to the first protection area of ​​the preceding channel element; and / or the second connection portion is designed to connect the second protection area to the bypass protection area of ​​the succeeding channel element, and to connect the bypass protection area to the second protection area of ​​the succeeding channel element.

[0015] Another aspect of the invention relates to a detection assembly for detecting a passing sports timing transponder at a sports event, the detection assembly comprising:

[0016] - a channel element as described above, wherein the central protective area is configured to accommodate a computing unit connected to the antenna; and

[0017] - Antennas and computing are located in the central protected area of ​​the channel element, where

[0018] - the computing unit is connectable to a first adjacent computing unit in a preceding channel unit via a first cable located in a first protection area and in a bypass protection area of ​​the preceding channel element; and

[0019] The computing unit is connectable to a second adjacent computing unit in the rear back-channel element via a second cable located in the second protection area and in the bypass protection area of ​​the rear back-channel element.

[0020] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a ground cable channel, the ground cable channel comprising a plurality of detection components as described above, the detection components being connected to each other to form a line, wherein

[0021] - the computing units in every other detection assembly are connected via cables, thereby forming two independently connected chains; and

[0022] - The plurality of detection components preferably comprises at least 6 detection components.

[0023] In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a match timing system comprising a ground cable channel as described above and a decoder connected to a computing unit of a first detection component and / or a second detection component in the line, wherein the decoder is configured to synchronize the operation of the connected detection components, preferably based on the position of the detection components in the line.

[0024] Preferred embodiments of the invention are defined in the dependent claims. It should be understood that the claimed channel element, detection assembly, floor cable channel and match timing system have similar and / or identical preferred embodiments as the claimed channel element, detection assembly, floor cable channel and match timing system, in particular as defined in the dependent claims and disclosed herein.

[0025] The channel element has a central protection area in which the antenna can be accommodated and arranged to be protected from external forces, such as mechanical impacts or weather influences. The central protection area is connected to the two connection areas via corresponding protection areas. In the protection areas, cables can be arranged for connecting components in the central protection area to components in other channel elements. In addition to the first protection area and the second protection area, the channel element of the present invention provides a bypass area, which is designed to arrange cables that directly connect two adjacent channel elements, preferably without interfering with the central protection area.

[0026] The channel element of the present invention is connected to the preceding channel element on one side (mechanically) and to the following channel element on the other side. A plurality of channel elements can be connected to each other in a line. A channel element having an antenna and a computing unit is called a detection assembly. A plurality of detection assemblies can be connected in a line to form a ground cable channel.

[0027] In the circuit of the detection assembly, the computing units in different detection assemblies can be connected via cables passing through the first protection area and the second protection area and the bypass protection area (to establish data and / or power connections between adjacent computing units). Thus, adjacent computing units are located in a detection assembly with another detection assembly arranged between them. The cables in the bypass allow connection to the first protection area of ​​the front channel element and the rear channel element. The cables passing through the bypass protection area thus make it possible to connect every other computing unit. Thus, two substantially independent computing unit chains can be obtained, one of which includes every other computing unit.

[0028] Compared to previous methods where multiple computing units are connected on a single line, the method of the present invention has the advantage of providing redundancy. If one cable or one computing unit in one of the chains fails, the other may still be able to operate. This may result in a lower detection rate. However, at least some detection information will still be received.

[0029] In previous methods, each antenna has a separate cable connection to a decoder arranged at the end of a ground cable channel, which results in having to guide multiple cables through the ground cable channel, which can significantly reduce the cable routing compared to previous methods. This leads to cost savings and significant weight reduction. In addition, the method of the present invention enables the implementation of longer ground cable channels, that is, a greater number of channel elements can be placed together. In particular, it is not necessary for each antenna to be connected via a separate cable, but a single or two cables are sufficient. This results in greater flexibility in adapting to tracks of different widths and to different conditions at the start, end or split timing positions of the track. Greater flexibility is achieved. In addition, simple reconfiguration is possible.

[0030] In an embodiment, the channel element comprises a top and a bottom, the bottom being connectable to the top. The central protection area, the first protection area, the second protection area and the bypass protection area correspond to the cavities between the top and the bottom when connected, preferably the cavities in the bottom, which are covered by the flat section of the top. The use of connectable top and bottom enables efficient manufacturing and maintenance. In addition, the use of appropriate cavities enables effective shielding of cables and other components from external forces and environmental influences in different protection areas. Preferably, the channel element can be made of a plastic material such as polyurethane.

[0031] In an embodiment, the top is designed to overlap with the bottom in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the channel element. Additionally or alternatively, the top comprises a flexible projection for adapting to the unevenness of the lower surface, and the flexible projection preferably extends along the longitudinal axis of the channel element. By designing the top to overlap with the bottom, the assembly placed in the bottom can be protected from the influence of rain and / or mechanical stress. The flexible projection further reduces environmental impact by connecting the channel element to the ground. In this article, the lower surface refers in particular to the ground to which the channel element and the ground cable channel are positioned.

[0032] In an embodiment, the cable outlet at the first connection is arranged at a different distance from the cable outlet at the second connection, so that the first connection is connected to the first connection of the front channel element, and the second connection is connected to the second connection of the rear channel element. In other words, the cable outlet of the channel element is designed asymmetrically so that every other channel element in the line of channel elements faces the same direction, which is opposite to the direction of the other channel elements. Therefore, a new channel element can only be added to the line of the channel element in a defined direction. This has the effect of avoiding cable crossing. This leads to a reduced tendency to errors. Mechanical stress on the cable is reduced. Errors during installation are avoided.

[0033] In an embodiment, the bypass protection area includes a relay and a terminal in the area of ​​the second connection. The relay is designed to connect the first connection to the second connection. The terminal is designed to store the end section of the cable in the bypass protection area without being connected to the rear channel element to prevent the end from overlapping outside the channel element. The relay and the terminal can optionally be used to place the cable, and optionally, to place the plug connected to the cable. If the channel element is the last channel element in the channel element line that forms the ground cable channel, the cable from the previous channel element can be stored in the terminal. Therefore, in the direction of the second connection, that is, in the direction of (not present) in the direction of the rear channel element, the cable will not overlap outside the channel element. Cable defects can be avoided. In addition, overlapping cables can be avoided from causing tripping hazards or other problems.

[0034] In an embodiment, the calculation unit includes an RFID reader circuit for detecting RFID tags passing through the spatial vicinity of the antenna and determining the corresponding elapsed time. Preferably, the RFID reader circuit is configured to determine the elapsed time based on an evaluation of the detected phase change. The RFID reader circuit is integrated in the detection component and in the channel element. In other words, a decentralized RFID reader is proposed in which a dedicated reader circuit is installed for each antenna. This makes it possible to transmit only the accumulated data representing the read or elapsed time from the calculation unit to the decoder for further processing. Therefore, the amount of data to be transmitted is reduced. A further advantage of this decentralized installation is that robustness is improved due to the absence of a single point of failure in the central reader. In addition to determining the elapsed time using signal strength, the elapsed time can also be determined based on an evaluation of the phase change. In other words, the phase shift caused by the movement of the transponder in the direction of the detection component or away from the detection component is evaluated, and the shift is used as an input to determine the elapsed time, which is the time point at which the RFID tag is at the minimum distance from the antenna. The evaluation of the detected phase change can therefore improve the accuracy of the elapsed time detection.

[0035] In another embodiment of the detection assembly, the computing unit and the antenna are arranged on two printed circuit boards, which are stacked with a spacer layer, in particular a polystyrene layer, in between. The spacer layer enables interference to be reduced to increase the detection rate. By using the antenna on the printed circuit board, patch antennas that can be efficiently manufactured can be used. Costs can be reduced. In addition, a custom antenna design optimized for race timing applications can be used. In addition, by using two printed circuit boards, robustness can be increased and repairability can be improved.

[0036] In an embodiment of the detection assembly, the computing unit comprises a voltage detection circuit for detecting whether power is provided to the computing unit via the first cable or via the second cable. The voltage detection circuit of the computing unit allows detection of from which of the adjacent computing units the power is provided. Based on this information, communication with other computing units can be possible, in particular with a decoder respectively connected to one of the computing units preferably located at one end of a computing unit chain or a cable channel. By detecting whether power is provided to the computing unit via the first cable or via the second cable, the detection assembly can be flexibly connected to form a ground cable channel of definable length, thereby adapting to the environment of the desired installation location. The desired number of channel elements can be connected to each other during installation, and little or no pre-installation is required.

[0037] In an embodiment, the computing unit includes a data bus circuit to provide data bus communication with another computing unit in another detection component connected via a first cable in a daisy chain and via a second cable. Preferably, the data bus circuit is configured to provide a controller area network (CAN) bus communication. Therefore, the daisy chain corresponds to a wiring scheme in which a plurality of computing units are sequentially wired together to form a computing unit chain. Serial connection and serial communication are provided. Each of the computing units in the chain is connected to its neighbors on both sides. The CAN bus protocol was originally developed for use in automotive applications. However, the CAN bus protocol can also be used for other applications. In the present invention, it has been recognized that CAN bus communication, i.e., the use of the CAN bus protocol, provides the necessary functionality for connecting multiple detection components. Alternatively or additionally, other systems, such as RS-485 or power line network (Powernet), can also be used for utilizing the CAN bus. Compared with the previous method in which each detection component is connected to the decoder separately, the cable wiring to safety costs are minimized, and easy and efficient reconfiguration is allowed. By using a standard bus protocol, the reliability of the implementation scheme can be improved.

[0038] In an embodiment, the computing unit includes a terminal detection circuit for detecting whether the computing unit is connected to only one of the first adjacent computing unit and the second adjacent computing unit. Preferably, the terminal detection circuit is configured to switch the resistor to terminate the data bus when it is detected that the computing unit is not connected to the first adjacent computing unit and / or the second adjacent computing unit. In a bus system, it is usually necessary to terminate the bus so that communication can be established. In the present invention, such a bus terminal is implemented via a terminal detection circuit. Therefore, such a terminal detection circuit allows flexible reconfigurability. In particular, it can be identified whether a connection to another detection component is established. To this end, the terminal detection circuit can be configured to repeatedly perform corresponding detections at fixed intervals. During operation, determining whether only one computing unit is connected enables detection of defects. For example, the terminal detection circuit makes it possible to detect whether the detection component fails. Then a corresponding reaction can be triggered, for example by notifying an operator. Compared with previous methods with a predetermined number of detection components, the use of a terminal detection circuit makes it possible to flexibly reconfigure the communication during use. A highly flexible match timing system is obtained.

[0039] In an embodiment, the computing unit includes a position detection circuit for detecting a first number of computing units connected via a first cable and / or a second number of computing units connected via a second cable. This again results in the detection of the position of the computing unit in the daisy chain. In other words, the computing unit can detect its own position in the computing unit chain, thereby enabling efficient communication between the computing units. Compared to previous methods of combining multiple detection components to form a line, the position detection circuit enables a simple communication scheme and flexible reconfiguration, also during operation. Robust operation and fault detection become possible.

[0040] In an embodiment, the computing unit includes a reconfiguration circuit for detecting a change in a first number of computing units connected via a first cable and / or a change in a second number of computing units connected via a second cable. Such detection enables reconfiguration at run time. For example, if a detection component in a ground cable channel fails or needs to be replaced, the reconfiguration circuit enables re-establishment of communications. By detecting a change in the number of computing units, communications can be reconfigured as needed. Robust operation is possible.

[0041] In an embodiment of the detection assembly, the computing unit is connectable to the first cable and / or the second cable via a first connector part and a second connector part, the first connector part and the second connector part being designed to be screwed together to establish an electrical connection, in particular an electrical connection with four conductors. Preferably, the first connector part and the second connector part comprise a printed circuit board. Preferably, the first connector part and / or the second connector part comprises at least one spring pin for establishing an electrical connection when screwed together. Preferably, the first connector part comprises a threaded connector for receiving a screw, in particular a soldered threaded connector, and the second connector part comprises a hole for the screw. Preferably, the first connector part and / or the second connector part is designed to maintain a seal therebetween to protect the electrical connection from moisture. In order to transfer electrical signals from one computing unit to the next computing unit, a reliable connection is required, in particular in the case where multiple computing units are arranged in a circuit of the detection assembly. The first connector part may be located at the side of the computing unit and connected to the computing unit, for example via a conductive path on a printed circuit board. The second connector part may be located at the side of the cable and soldered to one or more conductors of the cable. Typically, the connector part provides a connection of multiple electrical conductors (signal paths). The screw is used to connect the two connector parts by screwing them together. Compared to a plug and socket connection, this screwing together has the advantage that a mechanically stable connection can be established. In addition, a smaller required construction space is possible. Furthermore, printed circuit boards and automated component placement and soldering can be used, thereby enabling efficient manufacturing. The screws can be screws that can be operated manually without a screwdriver, so that efficient reconfiguration of the detection assembly can be achieved. The connector is mechanically stable in the connected state and in the non-connected state.

[0042] In an embodiment of the ground cable channel, the connection portion of the first channel element is designed to be connected to the connection portion of the second channel element by a connecting element, and the connecting element allows the first channel element to rotate relative to the second channel element around a rotation axis, and the rotation axis is perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis of the first channel element and perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis of the second channel element. Through the rotational movement, the ground cable channel is introduced into a transport position and an operating position, in which the channel elements are parallel to each other, and in the operating position, the channel elements are arranged one by one along their longitudinal axes. The connecting element thus connects two adjacent channel elements, thereby providing a folding mechanism. This folding mechanism allows different channel elements, i.e. different detection components, to be transported in a connected state, so that no separate connection is required during deployment. Because the ground cable channel only needs to be unfolded at the desired position, a fast and effective installation is achieved in this way. In addition, incorrect installation due to lack of experience of on-site personnel can be avoided. Efficient transportation and installation become possible.

[0043] In an embodiment of the match timing system, the match timing system comprises a further decoder which is connected to the computing unit of the last and / or the penultimate detection assembly. In the case of forming a single chain, it is sufficient to connect the decoder to the last detection assembly. However, if two independently connected chains are formed as described above, the decoder is usually connected to the last and the penultimate detection assembly. Therefore, in addition to the first decoder, the further decoder also involves an additional decoder. Therefore, this installation provides further redundancy in case one of the decoders fails, or a defect occurs that prevents communication through a certain position in the ground cable channel. Redundancy and reconfigurability are further improved.

[0044] In this article, the term "circuit" may refer to hardware implemented by means of different single electronic components such as resistors, transistors, capacitors, inductors and dials. However, the term "circuit" may also refer to a function implemented in a microcontroller. Therefore, this embodiment can be based on software and / or hardware. All combinations are possible, for example, a part of the circuit is implemented in hardware, and another part is implemented in the form of software running on a microcontroller. In particular, the computing unit can be implemented in the form of a microcontroller, which also performs other functions at least in part. External forces or environmental influences can be mechanical shocks, such as mechanical shocks from a runner stepping on a channel element or a boat passing through a channel element. External forces or environmental influences can also be weather conditions such as rain, cold / hot temperatures, dust, etc.

[0045] In this article, sports timing transponder refers in particular to a passive RFID tag, which has no integrated energy source, but is activated by an RFID reader to send the identification of the passive RFID tag. However, in some embodiments, the sports timing transponder may also correspond to an active RFID tag. Sports events refer in particular to running events such as marathons. However, sports events may also be bicycle races, car races, ski races, horse races, swimming races, etc. The identification of the sports timing transponder may in particular be an alphanumeric number of the RFID tag. The alphanumeric identifier is programmed into the transponder at the time of manufacture. The determination of the elapsed time may include multiple activations and readings of the identification of the sports timing transponder. Then, for example, the time of the strongest reading may be considered to represent the elapsed time (based on the elapsed time detection of the received signal strength). As used herein, the term decoder refers to a piece of hardware used in sports events to determine the elapsed time of a passing sports timing transponder. The decoder does not necessarily decode any signal. In particular, the decoder does not necessarily include an RFID reader. The term central protection area does not mean that the corresponding area must be arranged at the geometric center. Offset is possible. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

[0047] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing a participant of a sporting event having an elapsed time measured by a game timing system according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of a decoder for a match timing system according to one aspect of the present invention is shown, wherein the protective cover is in a closed state;

[0049] Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of a decoder is shown, wherein the protective cover is in an open state;

[0050] Figure 4 A schematic perspective view showing a reader interface of a decoder;

[0051] Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing a cable connection interface of a decoder arranged under a protective cover;

[0052] Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing a brush extension of a decoder is shown;

[0053] Figure 7 shows a schematic side view of a decoder;

[0054] Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing different mandatory and optional components of a decoder;

[0055] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of a floor cable channel according to an aspect of the present invention is shown;

[0056] Fig.10 A schematic diagram showing a plurality of detection components connected in a daisy-chain form;

[0057] Fig.11 A schematic diagram showing an optional connection of multiple detection components in a daisy chain;

[0058] Fig.12 A schematic diagram showing different components of a computing unit in a detection assembly of the present invention;

[0059] Fig.13 A schematic diagram showing the ground cable channel of the present invention moving from an operating position (a) through an intermediate position (b) to a transport position (c);

[0060] Fig.14 shows a schematic diagram of a game timing system including two decoders connected to either side of a ground cable channel;

[0061] Fig.15 A schematic diagram of a detection assembly according to one aspect of the present invention is shown;

[0062] Fig.16 shows a schematic diagram of a channel element according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0063] Fig.17 A schematic diagram of a channel element is shown, the channel element comprising an antenna and a first cable, a second cable and a cable in a bypass protection area;

[0064] Fig.18 a schematic diagram showing a cross-sectional view of a channel element;

[0065] Fig.19 A schematic diagram of four channel elements is shown;

[0066] Fig. 20 A schematic diagram of four detection components is shown;

[0067] Fig.21 A schematic diagram showing another embodiment of a ground cable channel including four detection components;

[0068] Fig. 22 A schematic diagram of a channel element is shown;

[0069] Fig.23 A schematic diagram showing an assembly of a computing unit and an antenna, the assembly comprising a first connector part for connecting to a cable;

[0070] Fig.24 a schematic diagram showing a second connector component located at a cable; and

[0071] Fig.25 A schematic diagram showing a first connector component connected to a second connector component to establish an electrical connection is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] exist Figure 1 In the figure, a plurality of participants participating in a sports event are schematically shown. Participant 10 can be a runner in a running event such as a marathon in particular. Participant 10 is identified by a bib 12 corresponding to the participant ID. For example, bib 12 can be attached to the participant's shirt, the handlebars of a bicycle, or the chassis of a racing car. In the example shown, a passive RFID sports timing transponder 14 has been attached to bib 12. The sports timing transponder 14 is used to perform the measurement of the elapsed time and to determine the identification via RFID when participant 10 crosses the starting line or the finish line or passes through a segment timing measurement point.

[0073] In order to perform the measurement of the elapsed time, the present invention proposes to utilize a game timing system 16, which comprises a decoder 18 and a ground cable channel 20 comprising a plurality of channel elements 22. In at least some of the channel elements 22, antennas are arranged for reading the passing sports timing transponders 14 in order to determine their elapsed time. In this context, the channel elements 22 in which the antennas and the computing antennas are arranged are referred to as detection components.

[0074] Figures 2 to 7 Different views of an embodiment of a decoder 18 according to an aspect of the present invention are shown. Figures 2 to 7 In all other drawings, corresponding reference numerals represent the same components. However, for the sake of clarity, not all reference numerals are inserted in all drawings. For the same reason, sometimes it is avoided to insert the same reference numeral multiple times in a single figure to represent several similar components.

[0075] Figures 2 to 7 The decoder 18 in FIG. 1 includes a reader interface 24 , a cable connection interface 26 , a user interface 28 , a housing 30 , and a processing unit disposed within the housing 30 .

[0076] According to the invention, a user interface 28 is arranged on the outside of the housing 30. In the example shown, the user interface 28 comprises a display 32, via which configuration feedback is provided to the user, in addition to a plurality of buttons 34 allowing the user to interact with the decoder 18 and, for example, providing configuration information. In particular, the user can obtain information about the status and current readings of the decoder 18 via the user interface 28. For example, the elapsed time of a sports timing transponder can be displayed or the ID of a passing sports timing transponder can also be displayed.

[0077] In the exemplary embodiment shown, when the decoder 18 is placed on the ground, the user interface 28 is arranged on the top side of the housing 30 facing upward. The user interface 28 can be rainproof or splashproof and / or resist further environmental influences such as direct sunlight or mechanical stress, thereby allowing operation in outdoor applications. Preferably, the display 32 can be implemented in the form of a monochrome LCD display, which can be read out during the day when illuminated by the sun. The display 32 can be additionally equipped with a multi-color screen backlight, and can therefore be displayed with different color lighting. Through this additional information, the user configuration parameters can be effectively notified, such as information related to the timing position currently assigned to the decoder 18.

[0078] The cable connection interface 26 particularly includes a network cable connector and / or a computer interface cable. In the example shown, the cable connection interface 26 includes three different network cable connectors 36 (network sockets), a conventional USB connector 38, and a USB-C connector 40. The USB connector 38 and the USB-C connector 40 are configured to connect a computer interface cable corresponding to a USB cable. The cable connection interface 26 may include additional interfaces, such as a power interface 41 for connecting a power cable and other devices.

[0079] In order to protect the connector from environmental influences, especially splashing water, the cable connection interface 26 is arranged under the protective cover 42. Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The closed state of the protective cover 42 is shown, and Figure 3 and Figure 5 The protective cover 42 is shown in an open state, in which the cable connection interface 26 is accessible.

[0080] The protective cover 42 is preferably arranged to cover the upper part of the front side of the housing 30. Therefore, the front side corresponds to the side of the housing 30 that is substantially at a 90° angle to the top side of the housing and that faces the direction of the user when the user reads the display 32. Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the cover 42 can be opened to allow access to the cable connection interface 26. When the cover 42 is open, cables can be connected and disconnected.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 42 is pivotally hinged about a pivot axis 44 that is substantially parallel to the top side of the housing and the front side of the housing. As shown, the pivot axis 44 is located in the plane of the top side of the housing 30.

[0082] from Figure 2 and Figure 3 As can be seen in the figure, the cover 42 can in particular have a curved shape, which in the embodiment shown spans an angle of 90°. In order to lock the cover 42 in place, the illustrated embodiment of the decoder 18 comprises a housing 30 having a locking mechanism 46. The locking mechanism 46 comprises at least one magnet 48 for magnetically holding the cover 42 in the closed state. In the embodiment shown, two magnets 48 are positioned in a portion of the housing 30 that is covered by the cover 42 in the closed state. The magnets 48 interact with corresponding counterparts 50, in particular magnets or metal plates integrated in the cover 42. When the cover 42 is closed, it is held in place by the interaction of the magnets 48 with the counterpart 50. It should be understood that the positions of the magnets and the counterparts can also be exchanged accordingly.

[0083] In the illustrated embodiment, the protective cover 42 includes a lower portion 52 which, in the closed state, covers a portion of the housing 30 below the cable connection interface 26. This prevents rain or splashing water that strikes the decoder 18 from reaching the cable connection interface 26 and the connector disposed therein despite the capillary effect.

[0084] Furthermore, in the embodiment shown, the housing 30 comprises a brush extension 54 which, in the closed state, reaches the lower portion 52 of the protective cover 42. Thus, the brush extension 54 corresponds in particular to a brush which allows the cable to pass through the bristles, but prevents splashing water and water flowing along the cable from entering the cable connection interface 26. The bristles of the brush extension 54 further increase the resilience against environmental influences by providing an additional barrier.

[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, the reader interface 24 is disposed on the rear side of the housing 30 and includes a passive RFID connector 58 and a loop antenna connector 60 .

[0086] The passive RFID connector 58 is connected to one or more RFID reader circuits, which also have an antenna connected to them. The passive RFID connector 58 is configured to receive detection of a passive RFID sports timing transponder. In particular, the passive RFID connector 58 can be configured to connect to a ground cable channel that includes multiple detection components, each detection component having an antenna and circuit for detecting an RFID tag.

[0087] The loop antenna connector 60 is configured to be connected to an inductive loop for communicating with an active sports timing transponder. In particular, an electric field can be induced, which can then be detected by the active RFID sports timing transponder. The active RFID sports timing transponder can calculate the elapsed time by itself and transmit their elapsed time, for example, via a wireless connection and the wireless communication antenna 62 of the decoder 18.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, the decoder 18 includes a top connection 64 disposed in the top side region of the housing 30 and a matching bottom connection 66 disposed in the bottom side region of the housing 30. The top connection 64 and the bottom connection 66 work together to provide stackability of multiple decoders 18. Thus, the top connection 64 can provide two grooves on the top side of the housing 30, into which two or four protrusions on the bottom side of the housing 30 forming the bottom connection 66 can extend. Thus, stackability provides better storability for multiple decoders 18. Multiple decoders 18 can be stacked on top of each other.

[0089] In the embodiment shown, the housing 30 comprises a recess 68 in the bottom area of ​​the housing 30, which recess 68 provides space for opening and closing the protective cover 42 of another decoder stacked below. Thus, if a plurality of decoders are stacked on top of each other, their protective covers 42 can still be opened, because in the open state the protective covers 42 can extend into the recess 68 of the decoder 18 stacked above. This results in accessibility of the cable connection interfaces 26 of all decoders in the decoder stack.

[0090] Furthermore, the decoder 18 in the illustrated embodiment includes two battery boxes 70 configured to accommodate two batteries. A battery fixing mechanism 76 allows the batteries to be placed and fixed in the battery box. To this end, the battery fixing mechanism 76 includes two additional protective covers 72 and a closing element 78. The battery box can be closed by the two additional protective covers 72. Figure 6 As shown, the further cover 72 can be pivoted, for example, about two pivot axes 74 in order to allow access to the battery. A closing element 78 enables the two covers 72 to be fixed in the closed position.

[0091] Thus, the closing element 78 is configured to simultaneously close the other two covers 72 in the first position, and to selectively close only one of the other covers 72 while opening the other of the other covers 72 in the second and third positions. In the embodiment shown, the closing element 78 is implemented in the form of a pivotable and irregularly shaped element that mechanically fixes one or both of the two other covers 72. Thus, the pivot axis of the closing element 78 is perpendicular to the Figure 5 and Figure 6 . Preferably, the closing element 78 can be held in one of the first position, the second position and the third position by a spring or another locking mechanism. The closing mechanism 78 makes it possible to replace one battery while keeping the other battery fixed in the battery compartment 70. Therefore, it is possible to maintain power supply when replacing one of the batteries. The other two covers 72 are preferably transparent to allow the user to visually assess the presence and / or charge status indication of the batteries in the battery compartment 70. The charge status of the battery can also be assessed when the decoder itself is not working and / or is in low power mode. In combination with the stackability as described above, the transparency makes it possible to also assess the presence and / or charge status of the battery when multiple decoders are stacked on each other.

[0092] The decoder 18 may further include a cushioning element 80. In the illustrated embodiment, the cushioning element 80 includes two rubber elements surrounding the housing 30 on the left and right sides. Thus, the cushioning element 80 increases the ability of the decoder 18 to resist mechanical stress during storage or during operation at a sporting event. Figure 7As shown in the side view in , the buffer element 80 has a protrusion 82 on the rear side of the housing 30 opposite to one side of the protective cover 42. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 82 is formed so that the decoder 18 falls over when placed on the protrusion 82. The protrusion 82 corresponds to the rounded portion of the buffer element 80. In other words, the shape of the buffer element 80 is irregular, so that when the protrusion 82 is facing downward, the decoder cannot stand safely on the ground. This makes it impossible to place the decoder 18 in a position where the protective cover 42 and the cable connection interface 26 arranged below are facing upward. Therefore, even if the user attempts to place the decoder 18 so that the cable connection interface 26 is facing upward in the direction of heavy rain, this is impossible to do.

[0093] Figure 8 The decoder 18 and its various components are schematically shown. The dashed lines represent optional components. The decoder 18 includes a reader interface 24, a cable connection interface 26, a user interface 28, a processing unit 84, a housing 30, and a protective cover 42.

[0094] Optionally, the decoder 18 comprises a ventilation unit 86 for ventilating the interior of the housing 30 with external air. In the embodiment shown, the ventilation outlet 45 and the ventilation inlet 47 are arranged below the protective cover 42, so as to protect them from environmental influences, in particular splashing water and rain. Air can enter and leave the space below the protective cover 42 in the closed state through corresponding openings, such as the opening below the lower part 53 of the protective cover 42.

[0095] As further shown, the cover 42 may include a barrier protrusion 43 that forms an airflow barrier between the ventilation outlet 45 and the ventilation inlet 47 below the cover in the closed state and blocks air from flowing directly between the inlet and the outlet. In the example shown, the barrier protrusion 43 corresponds to a lower protrusion 49 arranged in the space below the cover 42 in the closed state. However, other mechanical implementations are possible in this regard.

[0096] In particular, the barrier protrusion 43 may include an opening for a power cable plug. When the power cable is plugged in, the opening is closed and the airflow between the inlet and outlet is blocked when charging the battery or performing other power-consuming operations requiring ventilation.

[0097] Therefore, the ventilation unit 86 can be controlled based on the readings of the temperature sensor 88 and the humidity sensor 90 arranged in the housing 30. Therefore, the ventilation intensity of the ventilation unit 86 is adjusted to prevent water condensation inside the housing, which may cause damage to the electronic components included in the housing 30. The combination of the temperature sensor 88 and the humidity sensor 90 has an advantage that water condensation in the housing can also be prevented in the case of cold outside.

[0098] Further optionally, the decoder 18 may include an RFID chip 92 for carrying information about the decoder 18. In particular, the RFID chip 92 is programmable via the processing unit 84. This enables information about the decoder 18 to be obtained by reading out the RFID chip 92 with a corresponding reader even if the processing unit 84 is not working or is not switched on (e.g., for energy saving). For example, if a plurality of decoders 18 are stored, inventory control is facilitated. By programming the RFID chip 92 with the processing unit 84, further information can be written on the RFID chip 92. For example, the recharge status of the battery can be provided as further information to be read out. Because the readout can be performed when the decoder 18 and the processing unit 84 are not powered at all or are running at very low power consumption, energy can be saved.

[0099] In addition, the decoder 18 can include an active RFID reader processing circuit 94 for determining the elapsed time of an active sports timing transponder. The active RFID reader processing circuit 94 can specifically interact with an inductive loop connected to the loop antenna connector. The active RFID sports timing transponder can wirelessly transmit information to the wireless communication antenna of the decoder.

[0100] Furthermore, the decoder 18 may comprise a heating unit 96 for heating at least one battery in one of the battery compartments. The heating unit may in particular comprise an aluminum plate which is arranged close to (in particular above) the battery in the battery compartment. By heating or warming the battery, it is also possible to operate the decoder 18 in cold environments (in particular to be able to charge the battery in cold environments) and to increase the operating time and life of the battery.

[0101] Furthermore, the decoder 18 may comprise a communication unit 98 for communicating via a mobile communication network. In particular, this is advantageous in the case where the communication unit 98 has a first SIM module for accommodating a first physical or virtual SIM card and a second SIM module for accommodating a second physical or virtual SIM card. By using two SIM cards, it is possible to have one SIM card accessible by the user, while the other SIM card is arranged internally and cannot be accessed by the user. Thus, the user can insert his own SIM card and communicate via a wireless network of his choice, while the other SIM card is provided by a service provider and ensures that the service provider has access to the decoder 18 to provide software updates, etc., independently of the user's own SIM card and mobile network connection.

[0102] The processing unit 84 is configured to control different components. In addition, the processing unit 84 can process data received via the reader interface 24 and transmit the processed data to the Internet. The processing unit 84 can also control components, in particular detection components connected via the reader interface 24, for example by providing synchronization signals or configuration parameters. The processing unit 84 can be implemented in the form of a microcontroller or a system chip (SoC) running corresponding software.

[0103] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of a match timing system 16 according to an aspect of the present invention is shown. The match timing system 16 includes a decoder 18 in addition to a ground cable channel 20, wherein the ground cable channel 20 has six channel elements 22, each of which includes an antenna and a computing unit to form a detection assembly 102. The cable channel 20 is connected to the decoder 18 via a cable 100, which connects the computing unit in the detection assembly 102 to a reader interface of the decoder 18.

[0104] The ground cable channel 20 comprises a plurality of detection assemblies 102, each of which comprises an antenna and a computing unit arranged in a channel element 22. Thus, the channel element 22 corresponds to a mechanical protection of the antenna and the computing unit connected to the antenna to protect the antenna and the computing unit from external forces, such as ships passing through the ground cable channel 20, weather conditions like snow or rain, or participants in a running event, etc. Thus, a plurality of detection assemblies 102 form a line. Thus, the number of detection assemblies 102 in a line or in a ground cable channel 20 is flexible. For example, six detection assemblies 102 can be connected.

[0105] Fig.10 and Fig.11 Different options for wiring multiple detection assemblies 102 of a floor cable channel 20 are shown. Each detection assembly 102 includes a channel element 22, a computing unit 104, and an antenna 106. Each channel element 22 is connected to a preceding channel element 108 and a following channel element 110. It should be understood that the following and previous descriptions are outlined from the perspective of a detection assembly 102 in the middle of the floor cable channel 20 shown, but the concepts apply to all different detection assemblies 102.

[0106] like Fig.10 As shown, computing unit 104 may be connected to a first adjacent computing unit 112 via a first cable 114 and to a second adjacent computing unit 116 via a second cable 118. Thus, first cable 114 extends into the front channel element 108 and second cable 118 extends into the rear channel element 110.

[0107] Fig.11An optional configuration is shown. The computing unit 104 is connected to a first adjacent computing unit 112 located in a front channel element 120 via a first cable 114. Therefore, the front channel element 120 corresponds to the channel element before the front channel element 108. Similarly, the computing unit 104 is connected to a second adjacent computing unit 116 located in a rear channel element 122. In other words, every other computing unit 104 in the ground cable channel 20 is connected so that basically two communication chains are formed. The cables bypass the front channel element and the rear channel element respectively. By utilizing two communication chains, resilience to mechanical defects can be improved. For example, if one communication line is damaged, another communication line is still available, so that at least partial detection can still be performed. For greater clarity, Fig.11 The connections between each computing unit 104 and the antenna 106 in the channel element are not shown.

[0108] Fig.12 The computing unit 104 of the detection component is schematically shown. The computing unit 104 includes a voltage detection circuit 124. Optionally, the computing unit 104 includes a data bus circuit 126, a terminal detection circuit 128, a position detection circuit 130, a reconfiguration circuit 132, a communication circuit 134, a defect detection circuit 136 and an RFID reader circuit 138. Therefore, different components (circuits) can be implemented partially or completely using software and / or hardware. One component can realize the functions of multiple circuits. In particular, the computing unit 104 can correspond to a microcontroller having multiple peripheral devices and other electronic components connected thereto. The computing unit can also be called a reader unit or an RFID reader.

[0109] The voltage detection circuit 124 is configured to detect whether power is provided to the computing unit 104 via the first cable or via the second cable. In particular, this makes it possible to determine which of the two cables the computing unit 104 is connected to a decoder that provides power supply and receives determined information from a passing sports timing transponder. Therefore, the voltage detection circuit 124 may include a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor that is capable of switching electrical power from one computing unit in the chain to the next computing unit. Alternatively, a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a relay or other switch may be used. When the detection component is started, that is, when the initial power is connected, the voltage detection circuit 124 determines which side the power is provided from. Then, the through connection is initialized so that the power is directly connected to the corresponding adjacent computing unit. During operation, and in the case of power failure (new installation, reconnection, reconfiguration, etc.), the corresponding memory portion is deleted, and it is detected from which of the first cable and the second cable to re-supply power.

[0110] The data bus circuit 126 can provide data bus communication with further computing units of further detection components connected via the first cable and the second cable in the daisy chain. Therefore, data bus communication refers in particular to serial bus communication, which provides communication with or without a host device. In particular, the data bus circuit 126 can provide CAN bus communication. Optionally, another bus system can be used, in particular a differential bus system such as RS-485. Powernet can also be used. Different computing units connected to each other in the chain can communicate with a processing unit located in a decoder connected to a ground cable channel. Serial communication is established.

[0111] Terminal detection circuit 128 allows detection of whether computing unit 104 is connected to only one of the first adjacent computing unit and the second adjacent computing unit. For example, if no other computing unit is connected, a resistor can be switched to terminate the data bus. At initial startup, the default operation is preferably that each computing unit in the chain terminates the data bus communication. If power is connected to the first computing unit in the chain, then check whether the adjacent computing unit acts on one of the data pins of the bus communication. Only in this case, the data bus is directly connected to the corresponding adjacent computing unit. This can ensure that data bus communication can be established. In order to detect defects in data bus communication, a timeout function can be implemented. If a predetermined time has passed after data bus communication cannot be performed, the terminal detection circuit 128 terminates the data bus communication again, and only when it is determined that the corresponding adjacent computing unit acts on one of the data pins, communication is reestablished. This makes it possible to reconfigure during operation.

[0112] The position detection circuit 130 makes it possible to detect multiple computing units connected via a first cable and / or multiple computing units connected via a second cable. Therefore, the position detection circuit 130 can announce its presence on the data bus at startup. In a centralized communication scheme with a central host or master device, it can be assigned a number corresponding to its position in the chain from the master device. Optionally, it is also possible that when a startup message is received from a new computing unit in the chain, all other computing units already present in the chain provide a response message on the data bus, so that the position detection circuit can evaluate the multiple computing units that are already present and can assign themselves the next higher number corresponding to their position in the chain. Other possible schemes include only the other computing units with the current highest ID responding.

[0113] The reconfiguration circuit 132 enables detection of a change in the number of computing units connected via the first cable and / or a change in the number of computing units connected via the second cable. This again enables detection of a defect in one of the computing units in the chain during operation or reconfiguration of the floor cable channel during operation.

[0114] The communication circuit 134 may be particularly suitable for communicating with a decoder and a processing unit of the decoder, the decoder being connected via a first cable or via a second cable. Thus, the communication circuit 134 may provide a data bus communication, preferably a CAN bus communication. The communication circuit 134 may be configured to receive a synchronization signal from the decoder for synchronizing the operation of a circuit of a detection component or a computing unit in a computing unit chain, respectively. In addition, position information may be received from the decoder, the position information indicating the position of the computing unit in the computing unit chain from the perspective of the decoder. The position information may form the basis for an effective bus communication.

[0115] The defect detection circuit 136 is used to detect defects in the computing units. In particular, the defect detection circuit 136 can be implemented in the form of a separate integrated circuit. This makes it possible to connect two adjacent computing units to each other even if the central microcontroller of the computing unit 104 is defective. The connection thus comprises in particular a data communication and a power connection. The defect detection circuit 136 makes it possible to obtain additional safety against hardware failures. As soon as a defect is detected, the corresponding computing unit is skipped, so that at least partial functionality of the cable channel can be maintained.

[0116] The RFID reader circuit 138 may in particular correspond to a circuit required for detecting a passing RFID transponder. In particular, the calculation unit may therefore correspond to an RFID reader. The signal obtained via the antenna is evaluated to determine whether a passive RFID tag corresponding to a sports timing transponder has passed. If a passing passive RFID tag is detected, the corresponding passing time is determined. In particular, the received signal strength (RSS) may therefore still be evaluated. However, alternatively / additionally, a phase change of the signal may be evaluated.

[0117] exist Fig.13 In FIG. 1 , an embodiment of a floor cable channel 20 of the present invention is schematically shown. The floor cable channel 20 shown includes six detection components 102 interconnected to form a line. Fig.13 In (a), the floor cable channel 20 is in an operating position, wherein the different channel elements 22 are arranged one behind the other along their longitudinal axis. Fig.13 (b) schematically shows that the floor cable channel 20 can be brought into a transport position by rotational movement of adjacent channel elements 22 relative to each other in the direction of the arrows shown. Fig.13 (c) shown. Fig.13 (b) schematically shows one of the rotation axes 140. Fig.13 In the transport position shown in (c), the channel elements 22 of the floor cable channel 20 are arranged parallel to each other.

[0118] The match timing system of the present invention can be easily installed by bringing the floor cable duct 20 from the transport position into the operating position. For example, if a plurality of floor cable ducts 20 have to be installed at a sports event, installation is facilitated by enabling the different floor cable ducts 20 to be transported to their respective positions in the transport position and deployed by the rotational movement shown.

[0119] In order to provide this rotation function, different channel elements 22 of the floor cable channel 20 are connected to their adjacent channel elements by connecting elements 142. These connecting elements 142 can be similar to joints. For example, a single hook or a double hook representing a connecting element 142 can be snapped into a corresponding socket in an adjacent channel element 22.

[0120] exist Fig.14 , another embodiment of the match timing system 16 of the present invention is schematically shown. The match timing system 16 comprises a ground cable channel 20 connected to a decoder 18 and a further decoder 144. The two decoders 18, 144 are arranged on two different sides of the ground cable channel 20. On the one hand, this installation can provide redundancy if one of the two decoders 18, 144 fails. On the other hand, it can also be as Fig.11 Two separate chains of computational units are shown connected independently to separate decoders 18 , 144 .

[0121] exist Figures 15 to 17 , an embodiment of a detection assembly 102 is shown including a channel element 22, an antenna 106, and a computing unit 104. The channel element 22 includes a top portion 150 and a bottom portion 152, which can be connected to the top portion 150. Fig.15 The detection assembly 102 is shown with a top portion 150 covering a bottom portion 152 in which the antenna 106 and the computing unit 104 are disposed. Fig.16 The bottom 152 of the channel element 22 is shown without the antenna 106 , the computing unit 104 and the connecting cables. Fig.17 The bottom portion 152 is shown with the antenna 106, the computing unit 104 and the corresponding cables. The connection between the top portion 150 and the bottom portion 152 may be implemented in the form of a snap or snap-fit ​​mechanism.

[0122] The antenna 106 and the calculation unit 104 can be arranged on two printed circuit boards stacked together with a spacer layer in between. Thus, the spacer layer can be implemented in particular in the form of a polystyrene layer. The antenna 106 can be implemented in particular in the form of a patch antenna. By using the polystyrene layer between the calculation unit 104 and the antenna 106, suitable directional characteristics of the antenna 106 can be obtained in the desired direction (in particular upwards when the detection assembly is placed on the ground in order to detect sports timing transponders of participants of sports events).

[0123] Reference Figures 15 to 17 , the channel element 22 comprises a first connection portion 154 for connecting the channel element 22 to a preceding channel element and a second connection portion 156 for connecting the channel element 22 to a succeeding channel element. As shown and also as explained above, the connection can thus be implemented, for example, in the form of one or more connection elements 142 designed to snap onto corresponding protrusions 158.

[0124] The channel element 22 comprises a central protection area 160 in which the antenna 106 is accommodated. Furthermore, the channel element 22 comprises a first protection area 162 for accommodating the first cable 114 and a second protection area 166 for accommodating the second cable 118. Thus, the first protection area 162 connects the central protection area 160 to the first connection part 154, i.e., the connection part to which the channel element is connected to the preceding channel element. Thus, a cable can be introduced from the central protection area 160 to the first connection part 154. The second protection area 166 connects the central protection area 160 to the second connection part 156. Furthermore, the channel element 22 comprises a bypass protection area 170, which connects the first connection part 154 to the second connection part 156. In this respect, the term "connected" means that the respective protection area is designed to house and protect the respective connection cable.

[0125] In the illustrated embodiment, the central protection region 160, the first protection region 162, and the second protection region 166 correspond to cavities formed between the top portion 150 and the bottom portion 152. In particular, the cavities are formed in the bottom portion 152 and are covered by a flat section of the top portion 150.

[0126] Thus, the channel element 22 of the invention makes it possible to connect the computing units in every other channel element to each other (for data and power transmission) in a line of a plurality of channel elements connected by their respective connecting parts. Thus, the second cable 118 of one detection assembly connects the computing unit of the detection assembly to the computing unit in the channel element following the next channel element. Thus, the second cable 118 is guided through the bypass protection area 170 of the next channel element.

[0127] Fig.18 Schematically shows a cross-sectional view of the channel element of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the top 150 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the channel element ( Fig.18The top 150 is provided with a plurality of flexible projections 172 on each side of the top 150. The flexible projections 172 are designed to adapt to the unevenness of the underlying surface. Thus, the flexible projections 172 extend along the longitudinal axis of the channel element so that the top can provide direct contact of the channel element 22 with the underlying surface over the entire length of the channel element.

[0128] exist Fig.19 , an embodiment of a floor cable channel 20 including four detection assemblies and four channel elements is shown. The following description and explanation will be understood from the perspective of the second channel element 22 or detection assembly 102 on the left, but can be applied to other channels in the line and longer / shorter floor cable channels.

[0129] The channel element 22 is connected to the preceding channel element 108 at its first connection 154 and to the following channel element 110 at its second connection 156. In the illustrated embodiment, the preceding first connection 154a of the preceding channel element 108 is connected to the first connection 154 of the channel element 22. The following second connection 156b is connected to the second connection 156 of the channel element 22. The first cable 114 extends from the first protection area 162 to the preceding bypass protection area 170a of the preceding channel element 108. The second cable 118 in the second protection area 166 is guided to the following bypass protection area 170b in the following channel element 110. Thus, as described above, the computing units in every other detection assembly are connected. In the illustrated example, the computing unit in the preceding channel element 108 is connected to the computing unit in the following channel element 110 by a cable passing through the bypass protection area 170 of the channel element 22.

[0130] like Fig.19 As shown, the cable outlets of the first protection area 162 and the bypass protection area 170 at the first connection portion 154 (optionally) are arranged at a different distance from each other than the cable outlets of the second protection area 166 and the bypass protection area 170 at the second connection portion 156. Therefore, the first connection portion 154 can only be connected to the preceding first connection portion 154a of the preceding channel element 108. This structure makes it possible to avoid cable crossing, which further increases stability.

[0131] like Fig. 20 and Fig.21 As shown, it is possible that either both computing unit chains are connected on one side of the cable channel ( Fig. 20 on the left side of the floor cable channel 20), or different chains are connected on both sides of the floor cable channel 20 ( Fig.21 ).

[0132] exist Fig. 22, the bottom 152 of the channel element 22 is schematically shown. In this example, the bypass protection area 170 is designed to include a relay part 174 in addition to the terminal part 176. Therefore, the relay part 174 is designed to connect the first connection part 154 to the second connection part 156, that is, to guide the cable through the entire channel element 22 between two corresponding cable outlets. On the other hand, the terminal part 176 is designed to store the end of the cable in the bypass protection area 170. The cable in the bypass protection area can be placed optionally in the terminal part 176 or the relay part 174. Therefore, in the case where the channel element 22 represents the last channel element in the ground cable channel, cable overlap can be prevented. In the bypass protection area 170, the cable from the previous channel element can be placed and protected from environmental influences. In order to prevent the cable from overlapping outside the channel element 22, if no other channel elements need to be connected, the cable can be stored (by the user) in the terminal part 176.

[0133] exist Fig.23 , Fig.24 and Fig.25 , a preferred embodiment of the connection between cables 114, 118 (first or second cables, respectively) and a computing unit 104 is schematically shown. The computing unit 104 is connectable to the first cable 114 and / or the second cable 118 via a first connector part 178 and a second connector part 180, which are designed to be screwed together by screws 182 to establish an electrical connection (and a stable mechanical connection). In the embodiment shown, the electrical connection has four conductors. However, a different number of conductors may also be used. Fig.23 In particular, the first connector component 178 is shown. Fig.24 The second connector component 180 is particularly shown, and Fig.25 Specifically shown are two connector parts 178 , 180 screwed together by screws 182 .

[0134] Compared to previous methods that rely on plug and socket connections, the use of screws 182 to connect the first connector part 178 and the second connector part 180 enables a stable connection that provides mechanical stability in a relatively small construction space. In addition, efficient manufacturing is possible. It should be understood that the connection principle including the first connector part 178 and the second connector part 180 can also be used independently of the design of the channel element 22 as shown in other figures and as described in this article and / or in other application fields.

[0135] As shown, the antenna 106 and the computing unit 104 can be integrated in an assembly and, for example, can be arranged on a common printed circuit board. For mechanical protection, the assembly can be placed in a housing or the like. The connection of the computing unit 104 (and the antenna 106) to the first cable 114 and / or the second cable 118 can be established via a first connector component 178 on one side of the computing unit 104. As shown, the first connector component 178 can include a printed circuit board 184. In particular, the printed circuit board 184 can accommodate the computing unit 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the first connector component 178 includes four spring pins 188 for establishing an electrical connection when the second connector component 180 is screwed to the first connector component 178. The spring pins 188 are spring-loaded pins for establishing an electrical connection and providing a durable and resilient electrical connection.

[0136] In the illustrated embodiment, the second connector component 180 also includes a printed circuit board 186 having holes 192 for screws 182. As shown, when the second connector component 180 is not connected to the first connector component, the screws are (optionally) secured by clips 194 to prevent loss of the screws 182. The first connector component 178 may include a threaded connector 190 designed to receive the screws 182.

[0137] The two connector parts 178, 180 are screwed together by a screw 182. In the embodiment shown, the screw is configured to be manually operated without a screwdriver by means of a hinged clamp 196 attached to the screw 182.

[0138] Between the two connector parts 178, 180, a seal (not shown) can be arranged to protect the actual conductor from moisture. At least one of the two connector parts 178, 180 can be designed to keep the seal in place, even when not connected. In this article, circuits are described in particular for the functions of different circuits. The functions can be obtained by software and / or hardware. For example, the corresponding functions can be implemented partially or completely in software running on a microcontroller. Therefore, each computing unit can include a microcontroller, which either implements the corresponding functions alone or communicates and interacts with other passive or active electrical components such as resistors, capacitors and inductors to implement.

[0139] The foregoing discussion discloses and describes only exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention may be implemented in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential features of the present invention. Therefore, the description is intended to illustrate, but not to limit the scope of the present disclosure and other claims. The present disclosure, including any readily discernible variations taught herein, defines in part the scope of the preceding claim terms, such that no inventive subject matter is publicly dedicated to the public.

[0140] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single element or unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that these measures cannot be used to advantage in combination.

[0141] The elements and units of the disclosed devices, apparatuses, circuits and systems may be implemented by corresponding hardware and / or software elements, for example, by appropriate circuits. A circuit is a structural collection of electronic components, including conventional circuit elements, integrated circuits, including application specific integrated circuits, standard integrated circuits, application specific standard products, and field programmable gate arrays. In addition, the circuit includes a central processing unit, a graphics processing unit, and a microprocessor that are programmed or configured according to software code. Although the circuit includes the above-mentioned hardware that runs the software, the circuit does not include pure software.

Claims

1. A channel element (22) for a ground cable channel (20) for positioning an antenna (106) on an underlying surface and for protecting the antenna from external forces, comprising: A first connection portion (154) and a second connection portion (156), wherein the first connection portion is used to connect the channel element to a preceding channel element (108), and the second connection portion is used to connect the channel element to a succeeding channel element (110); A central protection area (160) for accommodating the antenna; a first protection area (162) and a second protection area (166), the first protection area being used to accommodate a first cable (114), the second protection area being used to accommodate a second cable (118), wherein the first protection area is designed to connect the central protection area to the first connection portion, and the second protection area is designed to connect the central protection area to the second connection portion; as well as A bypass protection area (170, 170a, 170b) is used to accommodate a cable, wherein the bypass protection area is designed to connect the first connection part to the second connection part, wherein The first connection portion is designed to connect the first protection area to the bypass protection area of ​​the preceding channel element, and to connect the bypass protection area to the first protection area of ​​the preceding channel element; And / or the second connection portion is designed to connect the second protection area to the bypass protection area of ​​the subsequent channel element, and to connect the bypass protection area to the second protection area of ​​the subsequent channel element.

2. The channel element (22) according to claim 1, comprising a top portion (150) and a bottom portion, the bottom portion being connectable to the top portion (152), wherein: The central protection area (160), the first protection area (162), the second protection area (166) and the bypass protection area (170) correspond to the cavity formed between the top and the bottom when connected, preferably, the cavity in the bottom, and the cavity in the bottom is covered by the flat section of the top.

3. The channel element (22) according to claim 2, wherein: The top (150) Designed to overlap the bottom (152) in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the channel element; and / or A flexible protrusion (172) is included for accommodating unevenness of the underlying surface, the flexible protrusion preferably extending along the longitudinal axis of the channel element.

4. The channel element (22) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The cable outlet at the first connection portion (154) is arranged at a different distance from the cable outlet at the second connection portion (156), so that the first connection portion is connected to the front first connection portion of the front channel element (108) and the second connection portion is connected to the rear second connection portion of the rear channel element (110).

5. The channel element (22) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The bypass protection area (170, 170a, 170b) includes a relay part (174) and a terminal part (176) in the area of ​​the second connection part (156); The relay portion is designed to connect the first connection portion (154) to the second connection portion; and The terminal portion is designed to store the end section of the cable in the bypass protection area without connecting the subsequent channel element (110) to prevent the end from overlapping outside the channel element.

6. A detection assembly (102) for detecting a passing sports timing transponder (14) at a sports event, comprising: The channel element (22) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the central protective area (160) is configured to accommodate a computing unit (104) connected to an antenna (106); and The antenna and the computing unit are located in the central protected area of ​​the channel element, wherein The computing unit is connectable to a first adjacent computing unit (112) in a front channel element (108) via a first cable (114) located in the first protection area (162) and in a bypass protection area (170, 170a, 170b) of the front channel element; and The computing unit is connectable to a second adjacent computing unit (116) in a rear channel element (110) via a second cable (118) located in the second protection area (166) and in a bypass protection area (170, 170a, 170b) of the rear channel element.

7. The detection assembly (102) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The computing unit (104) includes an RFID reader circuit (138) for detecting a passive sports timing transponder passing in the spatial proximity of the antenna (106) and determining a corresponding passing time; and The RFID reader circuit is preferably configured to determine the elapsed time based on an evaluation of a detected phase change.

8. The detection assembly (102) according to any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein: The computing unit (104) and the antenna (106) are arranged on two printed circuit boards, which are stacked with a spacer layer, in particular a polystyrene layer, in between.

9. The detection assembly (102) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein: The computing unit (104) includes a voltage detection circuit (124) for detecting whether power is provided to the computing unit via the first cable (114) or via the second cable (118).

10. The detection assembly (102) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein: The computing unit (104) includes a data bus circuit (126) to provide data bus communication with additional computing units in additional detection assemblies connected via the first cable (114) and via the second cable (118) in a daisy chain; and The data bus circuit is preferably configured to provide CAN bus communications.

11. The detection assembly (102) according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein: The computing unit (104) includes at least one of the following: a terminal detection circuit (128) for detecting whether the computing unit is connected to only one of the first adjacent computing unit (112) and the second adjacent communication unit (116); A position detection circuit (130) for detecting a first number of computing units connected via the first cable (114) and / or a second number of computing units connected via the second cable (118); as well as A reconfiguration circuit (132) is configured to detect a change in a first number of computing units connected via the first cable and / or a change in a second number of computing units connected via the second cable.

12. The detection assembly (102) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The computing unit (104) is connectable to the first cable (114) and / or the second cable (118) by means of a first connector part (178) and a second connector part (180), the first connector part and the second connector part being designed to be screwed together to establish an electrical connection, preferably an electrical connection having four conductors.

13. The detection assembly (102) according to claim 12, wherein: The first connector component and the second connector component - comprising a printed circuit board (184, 186); and / or - comprising at least one spring pin (188) for establishing said electrical connection when screwed together.

14. The detection assembly (102) according to any one of claims 12 to 13, wherein: The first connector part comprises a threaded connector (190), in particular a welding threaded connector, for accommodating a screw (182), and the second connector part preferably comprises a hole (192) for the screw.

15. The detection assembly (102) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein: The first connector part and / or the second connector part are designed to maintain a seal therebetween to protect the electrical connection from moisture.

16. A ground cable channel (20), comprising a plurality of detection components (102) according to any one of claims 6 to 15, wherein the plurality of detection components are connected to each other to form a line, wherein: The computing units (104) in each two detection components are connected via a cable, thereby forming two independently connected chains; and The plurality of detection components preferably includes at least four detection components.

17. The ground cable channel (20) according to claim 16, wherein: The connecting portion of the first channel element (22) is designed to be connected to the connecting portion of the second channel element via a connecting element (142), the connecting element (142) allowing a rotational movement of the first channel element relative to the second channel element about a rotation axis (140), the rotation axis being perpendicular to a first longitudinal axis of the first channel element and perpendicular to a second longitudinal axis of the second channel element; and By means of the swivel movement, the floor cable channel is brought into a transport position, in which the channel elements are parallel to one another, and into an operating position, in which the channel elements are arranged one behind the other along their longitudinal axis.

18. A match timing system (16), comprising a ground cable channel (20) according to any one of claims 16 and 17 and a decoder (18), the decoder (18) being connected to a computing unit (104) of a first detection component and / or a second detection component (102) in the line, wherein: The decoder is configured to synchronize the operation of connected detection components, preferably based on the position of the detection components in the line.

19. A match timing system (16) according to claim 18, comprising a further decoder (144) connected to the calculation unit of the last and / or the penultimate detection assembly.

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