Concept for sending and / or receiving data packets for a system to detect an event corresponding to an object crossing a monitored line

Abstract

Transmitter (10; 54; 56) for a system for detecting a goal, corresponding to a crossing of a game device (12) over a monitored line (14), wherein the transmitter (10) is configured to successively send data packets (16), regardless of whether a goal has occurred, such that each of the data packets (16) contains information about a number (E1) of goals that have occurred up to a transmission time (T n ) of the data packet (16) exhibits the transmission times (T n ) of successive data packets (16) each lie within a predetermined transmission period.

Description

[0001] Embodiments relate to a concept for transmitting and receiving data packets for a system for detecting an event corresponding to an object crossing a monitored line. In particular, embodiments relate to corresponding transmitters, receivers, transmission methods, reception methods, and computer programs suitable therefor.

[0002] In numerous applications, it appears desirable to reliably detect an event corresponding to the crossing of a moving object over a monitored line, such as whether a piece of equipment, in particular a ball, has crossed a goal line or touchline. For this purpose, automatic goal detection systems can be used in sports, particularly in team sports such as soccer, handball, American football, rugby, or ice hockey. These systems support the referee in deciding whether or not to allow a goal. In these systems, the decision as to whether a goal has been scored is often made using evaluation electronics on or near the goal itself. Such goal detection systems are described, for example, in EP 1 666 916 A2 or SÜDDEUTSCHE.DE: Goal-line technology at the 2014 World Cup - Choice between "GoalRef" and Hawk-Eye" (URL: http: / / www.sueddeutsche.de).de / sport / torlinientechnik-bei-fussball-wm-wahl-zwischen-goalref-und-hawk-eye-1.1604313).

[0003] In addition to goal detection systems based on the analysis of artificially generated electromagnetic fields on the game equipment and / or goal, there are also optical or video-based detection systems, such as the so-called Hawk-Eye system. Goal detection can also be made automatically with this system. In all systems, decisions about an event, such as a goal, can be processed and / or evaluated by computers outside the playing field.

[0004] It would be desirable for these detection systems or systems for detecting goals, where the goal detection or detection of the event often occurs outside the playing field, to transmit the information as to whether an event or goal was detected and / or not, for example, to a referee on the pitch or playing field, who may be moving around the playing field. Various data transmission methods are described, for example, in DE 10 2006 034 063 B4 or TEXAS INSTRUMENTS: Application Note AN014 - Frequency Hopping Systems, 2012. The former concerns a method for determining transmission times for the cyclical transmission of data telegrams, which ensures the most collision-free operation possible with the least coordination effort. The latter concerns a frequency hopping method.

[0005] One object of embodiments can therefore be seen in providing a transmission option that ensures that information about the detection of an event can be transmitted to a receiver securely, reliably and / or promptly.

[0006] This object is achieved by a transmitter, a receiver, a method for transmitting, a method for receiving and computer programs, each having the features of the independent patent claims.

[0007] Further advantageous embodiments and developments are the subject of the dependent patent claims.

[0008] A first aspect relates to a transmitter for a system for detecting an event that corresponds to or is triggered by an object crossing a monitored line. The transmitter is configured (for example, by means of appropriate electrical transmitter circuits) to send consecutive data packets independently of the occurrence of the event. The transmitter is configured or adapted to provide each of the data packets with information about a number of events that have occurred up to a transmission time of the data packet. Furthermore, the transmitter is configured to send the data packets such that the transmission times of consecutive data packets each lie within a predetermined transmission period.

[0009] A further aspect relates to a corresponding receiver for a system for detecting an event that corresponds to or is triggered by an object crossing a monitored line. The receiver is configured (for example, by means of appropriate electrical receiver circuits) to receive successive data packets independently of the occurrence of the event. Each of the data packets contains information about a number of events that have occurred up to a transmission time of the data packet, whereby the receiver can read out and further process the information. The transmission or reception times of the successive data packets each lie within a predetermined transmission or reception period.

[0010] Another aspect relates to a method for transmitting data packets for a system for detecting an event that corresponds to or is triggered by an object crossing a monitored line. In one method step, consecutive data packets are generated such that each of the data packets contains information about a number of events that have occurred up to a transmission time of the data packet. Furthermore, in a further method step, consecutive data packets are transmitted, regardless of the occurrence of the event, such that the transmission times of consecutive data packets each lie within a predetermined transmission period.

[0011] A further aspect relates to a method for receiving data packets for a system for detecting an event that corresponds to or is triggered by an object crossing a monitored line. In the method, in one method step, successive data packets are received regardless of the occurrence of the event. The transmission or reception times of the data packets each lie within a predetermined transmission or reception period. In a further method step, the data packets are read out, with each of the data packets containing information about a number of events that have occurred up to a transmission time of the data packet. For example, in the method, the data packets can also be evaluated and displayed if the number of events is higher than the number of events from a previous data packet.

[0012] Further aspects relate in each case to a computer program for carrying out one of the methods mentioned or at least individual method steps thereof, if the computer program runs on a programmable hardware component, such as a digital signal processor (DSP) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0013] According to embodiments, successive data packets can, for example, be data packets that are sent sequentially, cyclically, and / or periodically. Time periods between the sending or transmission times of the data packets can have different durations or lengths. For example, a time interval between the transmission time of a previous data packet and the transmission time of a current data packet can be shorter than the interval between the transmission time of the current data packet and the transmission time of a subsequent data packet or a next data packet. In other words, a transmission time of a data packet can be freely selectable within its predetermined transmission period. The transmission time of a data packet can therefore be closer to the beginning or in the middle of the predetermined transmission period for the data packet.

[0014] A transmitter configured to transmit data packets independently of the occurrence of an event can continuously transmit data packets at a transmission time within a predetermined transmission period, regardless of whether the event occurs or not. If the event occurs before the transmission time of a data packet, the current data packet may contain new, different information about an increased or incremented number of events that have occurred compared to the previous data packet. If, however, no event occurs before a data packet is transmitted, the data packet can still be transmitted within the predetermined transmission period and can contain information about the same number of events that have occurred as the previous data packet.

[0015] According to embodiments, the occurrence of the event is not predetermined or cannot be readily anticipated in advance, but can be transmitted to the transmitter, for example, by the system coupled or connectable to the transmitter for detecting the event. In comparison, the transmission period for a data packet is predetermined or at least specified within certain limits. The predetermined transmission period can be specified, for example, either by the transmitter or by the system for detecting the event, such that the predetermined transmission period can be known in advance, for example, by the transmitter and / or the receiver, or can be determined.

[0016] By sending and receiving data packets sequentially, regardless of the occurrence of an event, in accordance with the aspects mentioned above, such that each of the data packets contains information about a number of events that have occurred up to a time of transmission of the data packet, it is possible to ensure that the detected event can be transmitted very securely. This is possible because the transmission method can be designed to be relatively secure against eavesdropping. The risk that an event detected by the (event detection) system could be intercepted from the outside is reduced because the information is not only transmitted unidirectionally from the system to the receiver, for example by means of a radio transmitter, at the time of a positive event detection, such as a goal detection. Instead, information or data packets can be transmitted continuously or continuously.The transmission of a single data packet alone may not necessarily be sufficient to conclude that an event has been detected. This can, for example, minimize or prevent the risk of the detection system's result being intercepted from the outside. In other words, the reliability of the transmission and thus security can be increased. Because the data packets are transmitted independently of the event, information concealment in the transmission and / or security against interception can be increased. This can, for example, prevent incorrect goal information from being transmitted to or from a referee. Furthermore, with the transmission according to the above-mentioned aspects, information about the detection of the event can be achieved almost in real time, for example with only a minimal delay.

[0017] Furthermore, the data packets can, for example, have a length or duration that is independent of an event that has occurred or the occurrence of the event. This can, for example, make it possible to ensure that no conclusions can be drawn about goal recognition or event detection based on the length of the data packets. For example, the data packets can always have the same length or duration and then, for example, have different content depending on a detected event. Alternatively, the data packets can always have a different, for example, randomly selected length, which is also independent of a detected event.

[0018] Additionally, the data packets or the information contained within them, or the data content or the data itself, can be encrypted and / or scrambled. Any encryption method (e.g., AES128, AES256, etc.) can be used for this purpose, depending on the desired level of security. This can make it possible to prevent unauthorized persons from reading the data content of the data packets, thus preventing unintentional manipulation of the event detection.

[0019] In some further embodiments, the transmitter can be configured or adapted to transmit the data packets such that each of the data packets contains information about a transmission time of the data packet. Similarly, in some further embodiments, the receiver can be configured or adapted to read and further process the data packets containing information about a transmission time of the data packet. Thus, protection against manipulation can be improved, if necessary, by encryption and time-limiting a reception window for the receiver, which can result from the transmission of the transmission time information.

[0020] The transmission time or information about a transmission time can, for example, be a time measured from a defined zero point or zero time (reference value) in a small unit, for example seconds or milliseconds. The transmitter, the receiver and the system can, for example, have a common zero point. In other words, the transmitter and receiver can be synchronized. The information about a number of events that have occurred can, for example, be a counter reading, in particular a goal counter and / or can be a score. In other words, if such an event (e.g. a goal in a football match) is detected with the system for detecting the event, a number of events that have occurred can be increased, for example the goal counter for a goal can be incremented. For example, the corresponding information can be updated in a telegram of the data packet.

[0021] In some embodiments, the data packets can advantageously be transmitted wirelessly, i.e., via a radio interface. This may allow the receiver to be designed to be mobile. This may, for example, allow a person, such as a referee or linesman, to carry the receiver with them as they move around the field.

[0022] In some further embodiments, the transmitter is designed to generate each of the data packets in such a way that each of the data packets contains information about a radio resource for a data packet following the data packet. A following data packet can, for example, be the data packet immediately following (at the next transmission time in the next predetermined transmission period). Accordingly, a preceding data packet can, for example, contain information about a radio resource for the current data packet. The current data packet can, for example, contain information about a radio resource for the next or following data packet. According to embodiments, the following data packet is the data packet that is sent next after the current data packet. This can, if appropriate, make it possible for the receiver to receive information about the following or next data packet in advance and tocan adjust its receiver circuit accordingly. According to embodiments, a radio resource can be any desired radio resource, for example a time interval, a frequency, a code, etc., or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the data packet can contain information about radio resources relating to several subsequent data packets, for example for a next, the next-but-one, and / or the next-to-next-but-one, etc. data packet. This can, for example, increase the security of the transmission. If, for example, a data packet cannot be received or read by the receiver, the receiver may have already received the information about the radio resource for the next data packet from one of the previous data packets.

[0023] In some embodiments, the transmitter can be designed to generate the data packet in such a way that the data packet contains information about the age of the event that has occurred. For example, the data packet can contain information about the age or timeliness of the most recently occurred event (e.g. "goal"). For example, the data packet can contain, as information about the age, a point in time at which the number of events that have occurred up to the time of transmission was last increased. This can possibly make it possible to determine from the data packet how current or reliable the information about the number of events is. This can be important, for example, if data packets do not arrive at the receiver or are not received by the receiver in the correct order, or if a plurality of transmitters send data packets. In other words, the age or timeliness of the most recently occurred event (e.g. "goal").Information about or relating to the age of the event that occurred, for example, the age of the goal counter, a timestamp or time value, or a count value that indicates how many data packets ago the event or an increase in the number of events occurred. Based on the age information, a receiver can, for example, independently decide whether the information is still current and should be displayed, for example, on a display device connected to the receiver.

[0024] In some further embodiments, the transmitter is designed to send each of the data packets at a random transmission time (within the predetermined transmission period or transmission interval). The transmission times can be determined, for example, by the transmitter using a random generator. According to embodiments, the data packets are sent at the random transmission time such that the data packet is completely sent within its predetermined transmission period. This can, for example, make it possible to ensure a predetermined transmission speed or rate and thus also a timely transmission of a detected event. In other words, a maximum delay should be maintained between two transmission packets. This can, if necessary,It should be possible to maintain a certain level of equal distribution, for example a required transmitter duty cycle, which can correspond, for example, to a proportion of the transmission times compared to the total transmission time.

[0025] In some further embodiments, the transmitted radio resource is the transmission time of the following data packet. The following data packet is the data packet that is sent next after the current data packet. This can, for example, enable the receiver to receive information about when or in which interval or reception time window the next or following data packet is to be expected. This can, if necessary, enable the receiver to reduce the reception power of a receiver circuit between the transmitted data packets or between the expected reception time windows, or to go into a rest or sleep mode or to be put to sleep. This can, for example, enable the receiver to save power. In other words, the receiver can be designed to save power by not transmitting a continuous data stream, but rather short data packets at cyclically recurring intervals.

[0026] In some embodiments, the transmitter can be designed to send the successive data packets in a multiplexing process with a second transmitter. This can potentially make it possible for two different events, for example a goal from a first team and a goal from a second team, to be detected, monitored, or transmitted to a receiver. For this purpose, at least one of the two transmitters can, for example, have a receiving module designed to receive successive data packets from the other transmitter. For example, the second transmitter can be designed essentially analogously to the first transmitter. Furthermore, the data packets from the second transmitter can be structured essentially analogously to the data packets from the first transmitter.For example, each of the data packets from the second transmitter can contain at least one piece of information about a number of second events that have occurred up to the time of transmission, for example, goals scored by a second team. Furthermore, the (first) transmitter can be configured to generate the successive data packets such that each data packet contains information about the number of second events that have occurred up to the time of transmission. Multiplexing methods of any type can be used: for example, spatial, frequency or wavelength, time, and / or code division multiplexing methods. In other words, this means that in systems where different events are detected, for example, goals from two teams, a separate detection system can be used for each event.The detection of the event, for example the goal event, can for example be sent directly from a transmitter, which can for example be integrated at the respective detection location or recognition system and / or connected to the system. Thus, at least one transmitter can generate data packets which contain information about a number of first events that occurred and information about a number of second events that occurred. This can potentially increase transmission reliability. In a system with two transmitters, the receiver can receive the information about the number of second events with a data packet from the other or first transmitter, even if, for example, a data packet from the second transmitter is not received by the receiver. This can potentially enable an additional or redundant transmission path for the detection of an event.The second transmitter can be constructed or designed essentially analogously to the first transmitter to generate or send data packets that contain information about a number of first events that have occurred.

[0027] Accordingly, a further aspect relates to a system for transmitting an event corresponding to an object crossing a monitored line, the system comprising a first transmitter and a second transmitter, the transmitters being configured to send data packets (as described) in a multiplexing method, and each of the transmitters being configured to receive data packets from the respective other transmitter.

[0028] According to some embodiments, the event is a goal, which corresponds, for example, to a game device, in particular a ball or a puck, crossing a monitored goal line. This allows the transmitter or receiver, the methods, and the computer programs to be used for goal detection systems of any kind. For example, such goal detection systems can be used in team sports, such as soccer, handball, rugby, American football, Australian football, water polo, etc. Of course, other events are also conceivable, such as an athlete crossing a line.

[0029] In some further embodiments, the receiver can additionally be designed to output a signal indicating the event if a currently received data packet contains information about a number of events that have occurred, which is increased compared to a number of events that occurred according to a previous data packet. This can make it possible, for example, for a referee to only receive updated information when an event, for example a goal, has actually occurred or been detected. In other words, this means that if an event is detected by the system, the number of events that have occurred is increased in the first subsequent data packet. The receiver can recognize from the change in the number of events, for example a changed value of a goal counter, that an event has been detected or a goal has been recognized by the system.An event, such as a goal, can be indicated to a user, such as the referee, acoustically, visually, and / or as a vibration alarm. This can be done by the receiver for both a first event (e.g., a goal scored by a first team) and a second event (e.g., a goal scored by a second team). For example, a different signal can be output for a first event than for a second event.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, the receiver can be designed to reduce the reception power of a receiver circuit between two consecutive data packets. For example, the reception power of the receiver circuit can be reduced based on the information about the transmission time of the following data packet in the current data packet. In other words, the receiver can reduce the reception power between intervals or reception time windows in which it expects to receive data packets. This can, if necessary, enable the receiver to go into a rest or sleep mode between two consecutive data packets. This can, if necessary, save or reduce energy or the energy consumption of the receiver. For example, it can be made possible for the receiver to be designed as a mobile device, easily portable and battery-operated. This can, if necessary, enableThis can be achieved by equipping or supplying the receiver with a comparatively small power supply device, such as a battery or a so-called energy harvester. The power supply device can have a comparatively long operating time, sufficient for at least one game in a team sport, for example.

[0031] Furthermore, for example, by having the receiver go into sleep mode when no data packets are expected, the probability of receiving an unwanted data packet and / or an interfering signal from a third or further transmitter that is not part of the system or from an interfering system at these times or during these periods can be reduced.

[0032] According to some embodiments, the receiver can be designed to increase or maintain its reception power until it receives the next data packet if it does not receive it or does not receive it completely within an interval to the transmission time or an assumed reception time window according to information in a previous data packet. This can, for example, improve transmission or increase transmission reliability. In other words: If the receiver is unable to receive the data packet or is unable to receive it completely, it may also not be able to receive the information about the transmission time of the next data packet. In this case, the receiver can remain active until it receives the next data packet. The receiver can therefore go into a so-called acquisition mode. This can, if necessary,Prevents the receiver, if it receives a data packet incompletely or not at all, from remaining in a state with a reduced reception power of the receiver circuit and missing all subsequent data packets.

[0033] Additionally or alternatively, the receiver can be designed to reduce the received power of a receiver circuit if the receiver does not receive a data packet for a period of time that is longer than the predetermined transmission or reception period. This can make it possible, if necessary, for the receiver to go into a so-called "cabin mode" when it is located outside the reception range of the transmitter, for example in a cabin within a stadium. This can prevent, for example, the receiver from remaining permanently active outside the reception range and consuming too much power waiting for a data packet containing the information about the transmission or reception time for the following data packet. This can make it possible for the receiver to save energy, in particular battery power, when it is located outside the reception range of the transmitter.The period during which nothing (useful) is received can, for example, be longer than the transmission period by a certain factor. The factor or duration of the period that can trigger the so-called cabin mode can be known to the receiver. This can potentially enable the receiver to distinguish between cabin mode and the accidental missing or non-received data packet.

[0034] Additionally or alternatively, the receiver can be configured to increase the reception power of the receiver circuit for a period longer than the predetermined transmission period or the predetermined transmission window. This can, for example, enable the receiver to repeatedly switch to an active mode when it is in a so-called cabin mode, i.e., when the reception power of the receiver circuit has reduced, to check whether it can receive data packets. This allows the receiver to check whether it is already within the transmitter's reception range, for example, whether it has left the cabin.

[0035] In some embodiments, the receiver can be worn on a wristband. For example, the receiver can be integrated into a wristwatch. This can potentially make it possible for the receiver to be made available, for example, to a referee for displaying the goal detection result or the detection of an event as a small mobile device, preferably as a battery-operated wristwatch. As already described, the receiver and thus also the wristwatch can have an energy-efficient radio interface. Because the receiver can be integrated into a wristwatch, it is possible to provide a mobile, easy-to-wear and easy-to-use device, for example for a user, in particular a referee, which can display a time of day, a score, and a detection of an event, for example the result of a goal detection.

[0036] The embodiments and their features disclosed in the above description, the following claims and the attached figures can be important and implemented both individually and in any combination for the realization of an embodiment in its various forms.

[0037] Some exemplary embodiments are explained in more detail below using the attached figures. They show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a transmitter and a receiver according to an embodiment; Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of a block diagram of a method for sending data packets for a system for detecting an event according to the embodiment; Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of a block diagram of a method for receiving data packets for a system for detecting an event according to the embodiment; Fig. 4 a schematic representation of a telegram of a data packet according to an embodiment for transmitting information of a goal detection system; Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of a transmission format of the transmission packets according to an embodiment; Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of a state diagram of the receiver in a cabin mode according to an embodiment; Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram of a system overview of a gate detection system with transmitters at each gate according to an embodiment; Fig. 8 is a schematic representation of a transmission scheme according to a time and frequency division multiplex method for the transmission of information from a goal detection system according to an embodiment.

[0038] Various embodiments will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some embodiments are illustrated. In the figures, the thickness dimensions of lines, layers, and / or regions may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0039] In the following description of the attached figures, which show only a few exemplary embodiments, identical reference numerals may designate identical or comparable components. Furthermore, collective reference numerals may be used for components and objects that appear multiple times in an exemplary embodiment or in a drawing, but are described together with respect to one or more features. Components or objects described with identical or collective reference numerals may be identical with respect to individual, several, or all features, for example, their dimensions, but may also be different, unless the description explicitly or implicitly indicates otherwise.

[0040] Although embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and variations, embodiments are illustrated in the figures as examples and will be described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that embodiments are not intended to limit the specific forms disclosed, but rather, embodiments are intended to cover all functional and / or structural modifications, equivalents, and alternatives within the scope of the invention. Like reference numerals designate like or similar elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0041] Note that an element described as "connected" or "coupled" to another element may actually be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there may be intervening elements. Conversely, when an element is described as "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, no intervening elements are present. Other terms used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted similarly (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.).

[0042] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," "another," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Further, it is to be understood that terms such as "includes," "including," "comprises," and / or "having," as used herein, indicate the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0043] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as one of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong. Furthermore, it should be understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless expressly defined herein.

[0044] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of embodiments of a transmitter 10 and a receiver 18 for a system for detecting an event corresponding to a crossing of a moving object 12 over a monitored line 14. That is, the transmitter and receiver can be coupled to an event detection system, such as a goal detection system.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the system for detecting an event is configured to detect the passage of a moving object 12, such as a ball or puck, through a detection plane (e.g., a goal plane) in which the monitored line 14 lies, using electromagnetic fields and / or signals. In some ball sports, such as soccer or football, the use of automatic goal-shot detection systems is being discussed to prevent human error. Goal-line technology is a technology that can determine when the ball 12 has crossed the goal line 14 and assists the referee in deciding whether or not a goal has been scored.

[0046] There are various alternative approaches to determining the exact position or location of the ball 12, for example video-based systems or systems based on an electromagnetic field.

[0047] In one embodiment of a system that is based on video or a camera-based event detection system, for example, different perspectives of a scene can be evaluated.

[0048] In one embodiment of a system based on an electromagnetic field, the moving object 12, for example, a ball, can be provided with an electronic circuit to transmit and / or receive and / or reflect electromagnetic signals. Such electromagnetic approaches require electronic components within the ball 12, whereby the size of the electronics can vary depending on their functionality and the frequency range used. In small and medium-sized systems, the electronics can, for example, be installed in the center of the ball 12. In goal-scoring detection systems that require more space and volume, for example, in systems that use magnetic fields in the sub-MHz range, the required loop antennas and / or the other electronic components can be installed on the circumference of the ball 12.

[0049] In order to achieve detection properties that are as rotation-independent as possible, the installation of three orthogonally arranged coils or loop antennas in or on the moving object 12, e.g., a ball, is proposed for the detection system or the goal shot detection system in order to emit or reflect at least part of an electromagnetic field that is generated, for example, at the goal. Due to this orthogonal arrangement of the coils, the rotational position of the ball 12 has only a minor influence on the electromagnetic emission or reflection properties, since the three orthogonal loop antennas theoretically result in an effective loop antenna whose effective opening area is perpendicular to an incident magnetic field coming from a (magnetic field) transmitter installed on or near the goal.That is, the normal of the effective aperture area of ​​the effective loop antenna is essentially parallel to the magnetic field vector.

[0050] For correct functioning, i.e., high accuracy, of goal-shot detection systems, the electromagnetic properties of the ball or puck are crucial. In one embodiment of a goal-shot detection system, a magnetic field can be generated by means of a current-carrying conductor running around a goal frame. The generated magnetic field is perpendicular to a detection plane defined by the goal frame and in which the goal line 14 lies. This stimulating magnetic field is reflected by the ball 14, whereby the reflected signal should generate the same directional vector as the stimulating field (with a phase shift due to the ball electronics). The geometric accuracy of the reflected signal directly influences the measurement result and thus the accuracy of the goal decision.

[0051] The detection system is based on three orthogonal coils in the ball 12. Each of the coils can comprise a plurality of turns, which are inserted, for example, between the ball's bladder and the outer skin or the cover material of the ball. To achieve adequate quality of a resonant coil in the ball, the diameter of the coil(s) should be as large as possible, which means that the coils can be installed in or beneath the cover material of the ball.

[0052] However, it should be emphasized that according to other embodiments, lines other than goal lines can also be monitored, such as touch lines, penalty area lines, or the like.

[0053] The transmitter 10, which is coupled to the detection system in order to receive detection signals therefrom, is designed according to embodiments to send consecutive data packets 16 to a receiver 18, regardless of the occurrence of the event (e.g., "goal"), such that each of the data packets 16 contains information about a number of events that have occurred up to a transmission time of the data packet 16, wherein the transmission times of consecutive data packets 16 each lie within a predetermined transmission period. Optionally, each of the data packets 16 can contain information about the transmission time of the respective data packet 16. The predetermined transmission period does not mean a duration of a data packet 16, but rather a time interval in which the data packet 16 can be transmitted.This means that the predetermined transmission period is longer than the duration of a data packet, so that a certain flexibility is created with regard to the transmission time for a data packet (within the predetermined transmission period).

[0054] For example, the event itself should be transmitted within a maximum transmission time with a maximum delay or latency. For example, if only one data packet is transmitted within the maximum transmission time, the maximum transmission time corresponds to the transmission period. Alternatively, multiple data packets can be transmitted within the maximum transmission time. For this purpose, the maximum transmission time can be divided into multiple transmission periods, for example.

[0055] Accordingly, the receiver 18 is configured to receive the consecutive data packets 16 originating from the transmitter 10, regardless of the occurrence of the event, wherein each data packet 16 contains information about a number of events that have occurred up to a transmission time of the data packet 16. The transmission times of consecutive data packets 16 each lie within a predetermined transmission period. Optionally, each of the data packets 16 can contain information about the transmission time of the data packet 16. Accordingly, the reception times of the consecutive data packets 16 also each lie within a predetermined reception period. The reception times differ from the transmission times only by a signal propagation time from the transmitter 10 to the receiver 18.

[0056] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a block diagram of a method for transmitting data packets 16 according to the exemplary embodiment. The method can be executed by the transmitter 10, provided it is in operation.

[0057] As in Fig. 2, in the method for sending the data packets 16, the successive data packets 16 are generated in a method step 20 such that each of the data packets 16 contains information about a number of events that have occurred up to a transmission time of the data packet 16. In a further method step 22, the successive data packets 16 are sent, regardless of an occurrence of the event, such that transmission times of successive data packets 16 each lie within a predetermined transmission period.

[0058] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a block diagram of a method for receiving data packets. The receiving method can be executed by the receiver 18, provided it is in operation.

[0059] The receiving method comprises, as method step 24, the reception of consecutive data packets 16, regardless of the occurrence of the event, whose transmission or reception times each lie within a predetermined transmission or reception period. As a further method step 26, the method comprises reading the data packets 16, wherein each of the data packets 16 contains information about a number of events that have occurred up to a transmission time of the data packet. Optionally, the data packet 16 can contain information about the transmission time of the data packet 16. This means that during the reading 26, for example, the information about the transmission time and / or the information about the number of events that have occurred is read out so that it can subsequently be evaluated.

[0060] Without limiting the generality, the following will focus in particular on embodiments in which the system for detecting the event is a goal detection system. Accordingly, the event is a goal, or rather, the crossing of a ball as object 12 over a goal line as monitored line 14.

[0061] By sending the consecutive data packets 16, it is possible, for example, to transmit the information as to whether a goal has been detected or not to the receiver 18 within a relatively short time. In the present embodiment, a referee 19, who can move around the field, carries the receiver 18 as a mobile unit, for example, on a bracelet or integrated into a wristwatch, as shown in Fig. 1. The referee 19 can be provided with the information as to whether the goal detection system has detected a goal in a timely manner for his decision. Furthermore, the fact that the data packets 16 are transmitted independently of the event, for example, enables the information transmission to be relatively secure against eavesdropping, so that only the referee 19 receives the information and is informed about the detection of the event or the detection result. In other words, this means that the information can be transmitted in such a way that neither the time of transmission nor the amount of data transmitted can be used to infer a detected event or a goal event that has occurred. Additionally or alternatively, the data packet 16 can be transmitted in encrypted or coded form. Only from the decrypted data content or data packet can one then infer the detection of the event or the goal event, for example.

[0062] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a packet or telegram structure for the transmission of the information of the gate detection system.

[0063] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, a data packet 16 or its telegram can comprise a plurality of data fields 30a to 30i. The data packet 16, which can also be called the n-th transmission packet, comprises, as shown in Fig. 4, in the data field 30a optionally an information about the transmission time T n For example, the time T n in seconds or milliseconds. The time or transmission time T ncan be measured from a defined zero point in time (e.g. date and time) which is known to the transmitter 10, the receiver 18 and / or the entire system. Furthermore, the data packet 16 comprises in the data field 30b information about the number of events E1 that have occurred. In the present exemplary embodiment, the information E1 is a counter reading or a goal counter. Other embodiments are also conceivable. Furthermore, the data packet 16 comprises in a further optional data field 30c information about the age A1 of the event E1, i.e. information about the age of the goal counter reading. The information A1 can, for example, be a timestamp or a time value or a count value which indicates how many data packets 16 the event or the increase in the number E1 of events occurred.Based on the age information, the recipient 18 can, for example, decide independently whether information currently received is still current and should be displayed to a user, for example the referee 19.

[0064] Optionally, the data packet 16 includes in the data fields 30f to 30i further information on radio resources relating to the next and the next but one transmitted data packet, ie future data packets. In the present embodiment, the optional data field 30f has a transmission time T n+1 of the next data packet and the optional data field 30g a (frequency) channel of the next data packet CH n+1 In the optional data field 30h, the data packet 16 contains information about the transmission time T n+2 of the next but one data packet and in the optional data field 30i an information about the channel CH n+2 of the next but one data packet.

[0065] Information about the radio resources, as contained in the data fields 30f to 30i, can be included directly or indirectly in the data packet 16 and, for example, can be generated via pseudorandomly generated sequences. The value T n+1 or T n+2 is preferably a time interval to the next transmission time or the next transmission time itself. The next transmission time is in a subsequent predetermined transmission period or interval. The radio resources relating to the channel can optionally be contained in the data packet 16, for example in the case of frequency spreading (e.g., FHSS = Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum), and can specify a transmission channel of the next transmission packet or the transmission packet after that.

[0066] Complementary or alternative and in Fig. 4, the data packet 16 can, in a further embodiment, also contain information about a second event E2 in the data field 30d and, analogous to the previously described embodiment, information about an age A2 of the second event E2 in the data field 30e. In the present embodiment, the event E2 in the data field 30d is a goal counter or counter reading with respect to a second goal.

[0067] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a transmission format of data or transmission packets according to an embodiment.

[0068] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, a first data packet with the designation P n at the transmission time T n sent. The transmission time T n can be specified as a period of time from a predetermined time zero or reference point 34 or can be an absolute time value. At a time TTor a gate event or a gate 32 is detected. The gate counter E1 is then incremented in the data field 30b of the corresponding gate and in the next data packet P n+1 or in the telegram of the next data packet P n+1 updated. The next data package P n+1 therefore has a number E1 of gate events that is higher than the number E1 transmitted in the data packet Pn. Between the two data packets P n+1 and P n+2 can, as in Fig. 5, a maximum delay T WindowThis allows a certain degree of uniformity to be maintained, for example, in order to maintain a required transmitter duty cycle (duty cycle), which corresponds to a proportion of actual transmission times in relation to the total time or the predetermined transmission period (transmitter duty cycle = proportion of transmission times / total time). In other words, the duty cycle for a periodic sequence of pulses (corresponding to the data packets 16) indicates the ratio of the pulse duration (data packet duration) to the (average) pulse period duration (corresponding to the predetermined transmission period). The duty cycle is usually specified as a dimensionless ratio with a value from 0 to 1 or 0 to 100%. For example, the transmission data stream is divided into equal, predetermined time windows T Window In the present embodiment, a defined time T0 (e.g. one second), within which the goal event is to be transmitted, is divided into the equally sized time windows T Windowdivided, where T Window = T0 / k. In this example, the following values ​​are chosen: T Window = 200 ms, T0 = 1s, k = 5. In further embodiments not shown, T Window in a range from 1ms to 1s, T0 in a range from 100ms to 10s, and k in a range from 1 to 100.

[0069] In other words, each of the data packets P n , P n+1 , P n+2 , etc. within a predetermined transmission period T Window sent. Within this time window of length T Window the actual transmission time can be chosen randomly and / or variably by the transmitter 10, but always in such a way that the transmission of the data packet until the end of the respective time window T Window is completed. The data packet P n at time T n According to some embodiments, contains at least one next transmission time T n+1of the next transmission packet P n+1 .

[0070] In further embodiments not shown, the defined time within which the result is to be transmitted may have a different value, which is divided into more or fewer sections k.

[0071] The information about the number of events E1 or the data packet 16 can be transmitted k times, i.e. 5 times in the present embodiment, within the required transmission time T0 by dividing it into several shorter transmission periods. Since with each data packet 16 the receiver 18 also receives the transmission time T n+1 or T n+2of the next data packet, the receiver 18 can estimate a reception period or a reception time window 36 of the next data packet. A reception time will be one signal propagation time from transmitter 10 to receiver 18 behind the corresponding transmission time. As a result, the receiver 18 can reduce the receiver power of a receiver circuit according to the estimated reception times or windows 36 or the areas in between in which no data packets are expected, and thus save power. Just in time for the start of a new, subsequent reception time window, the receiver 18 can increase or activate the receiver power of the receiver circuit again in order to receive or receive the data packet. As a result, the power consumption of the receiver 18 can be reduced, for example. As a result, the receiver 18 can be battery-operated with a comparatively small energy storage unit orIn other words, since, according to some embodiments, the at least next transmission time of the data packet is communicated to the receiver, the receiver can increase or activate the reception power of its receiver circuit in good time beforehand, for example, by activating an RF (radio frequency) reception circuit and, if necessary, deactivating it again immediately after receiving the entire data packet. A frequency range used by the transmitter 10 and the receiver 18 can be, for example, in the 2.4 GHz band.

[0072] To enable secure transmission of the gate event 32, it would be sufficient for the receiver 18 to receive a data packet 16 once within the required maximum transmission time. Furthermore, since it is not the gate event 32 itself that is transmitted, but always the gate counter reading, the receiver 18 could also determine at a later time outside of the transmission time T0 whether a gate event 32 has occurred.

[0073] If the receiver 18 has received a data packet 16 and the transmission times T n+1 or T n+2 of the next data packets, in particular the transmission packets k-1, the receiver 18 can, according to an embodiment, for the next two transmission periods T Windowreduce the reception power of its receiver circuit or put it to sleep, for example, to save power. Assuming that the next data packet is received completely correctly, the information about the gate event would be transmitted to receiver 18 within the required transmission time T0, or receiver 18 would receive the information.

[0074] In some further possible embodiments, however, the receiver 18 does not go to sleep or reduce the reception power of the receiver circuit so long that it just receives one data packet, but remains active or controls the reception power of the receiver circuit so long that it has the possibility of receiving several data packets within the maximum transmission time T0.

[0075] If the receiver 18 cannot receive a data packet or cannot receive it completely, it may also not be able to receive information about the transmission time of the next data packet. To prevent the receiver 18 from increasing the reception power of the receiver circuit again in such a case, the receiver 18 can remain active or keep the reception power of the receiver circuit active until it receives another data packet P n+i complete with a correct transmission time for the following data packet. In other words, the receiver 18 can enter a so-called acquisition mode.

[0076] In further embodiments not shown, for example, in order to reliably transmit the information about the gate event 32 or the number of gate events even in the event of a fault, transmission packets 16 can be transmitted by the transmitter 10 at shorter intervals and thus more frequently.

[0077] In further embodiments, the length or duration of the transmission periods T window can also be adapted to the current game situation. For example, the broadcast periods can be shorter when the ball is closer to the goal, while they can be longer or longer when the ball is out of play and / or further away from the goal.

[0078] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a state diagram of the receiver according to an embodiment.

[0079] As in Fig. 6, the receiver 18 or a clock into which the receiver 18 can be integrated can operate in two different modes, namely the acquisition mode already described and a so-called tracking mode.

[0080] If the receiver 18 is located outside the reception range of the transmitter 10, for example, in a cabin, the battery-operated receiver 18 would remain permanently active and consume power because it would not receive a data packet with the transmission time of a subsequent data packet. This would increase the power consumption of the receiver 18. The receiver 18 could not be designed to save power. Therefore, the receiver 18 is designed to switch off after a certain time T Timeout-Start which is a multiple of the transmission period T Window and during which no data packets are received, the reception power of the receiver circuit can be reduced or switched to a so-called "cabin mode". In other words, the receiver 18 can, after a certain time, which is greater than T Window and during which no data packets are received, enter a non-active state. The specific time that triggers cabin mode is TTimeout-Start significantly larger than T Window , for example, a defined value known to the receiver. This may enable the receiver to distinguish between missing a data packet and being outside the reception range of the transmitter 10 and unable to receive a data packet for an extended period of time.

[0081] In the cabin mode, it can be provided that the receiver 18 is not permanently inactive, but only for a period T Timeout-Cabine-Off which is longer than a transmission time slot T Window This means that the receiver can repeatedly switch to an active mode for specific periods of time or for the duration of a transmission period T window or for a period slightly longer than a transmission period to check whether it is already back in the reception area of ​​the transmitter 10 and whether it can receive data packets.

[0082] As in Fig. 6, the receiver can switch from an initial state 37, if it does not receive a data packet within the transmission period or at the transmission time that the current data packet has communicated for the next expected data packet or the resulting reception intervals, into an acquisition mode 44 and from this acquisition mode 44, if it does not receive a data packet for a period of time 45, into the cabin mode and an inactive or switched-off state 38. This state can be called "cabin-off". After a time period T Timeout-Cabine-Off, indicated by the arrow 39, the receiver 18 can switch to a so-called "cabin-on" mode, i.e., a so-called active cabin mode 41. In the active cabin mode 41, the receiver can check whether it is already in an area where it can receive data packets. To do so, the receiver 18 can repeatedly increase or activate the reception power of its receiver circuit at specific intervals, as already described. If the receiver 18 does not receive any data packets in the active cabin mode 41, it can switch back to the inactive cabin mode 38, as indicated by the arrow 40.

[0083] If the receiver 18 receives a data packet in its acquisition mode 44 within an interval or reception time window that corresponds to the transmission time of a next data packet previously announced by data packets, the receiver 18 can, as indicated by the arrow 46, switch to a so-called tracking mode 43 and enter a sleep mode for a specific period of time (TimeOutTrack), as indicated by the arrow 47, or reduce the reception power of its receiver circuit in order to avoid excessive power consumption until the next reception time window or reception interval of the next data packet. The receiver 18 can also switch from the "cabin-on" mode, i.e., the so-called active cabin mode 41, to the so-called tracking mode 43, as indicated by the dashed line 42, if it receives a data packet with a transmission time of the next data packet.

[0084] Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of a system overview of a goal detection system with transmitters at each goal, according to an embodiment.

[0085] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the system of the present embodiment comprises a first port 50 and a second port 52. A first transmitter 54 is assigned to the first port 50, and a second transmitter 56 is assigned to the second port 52. The second transmitter 56 can, for example, serve as a repeater or function according to the principle of a repeater. Fig. 7 shows an embodiment in which transmitter 54 is assigned to a goal detection system 55, and transmitter 56 is assigned to a goal detection system 57. Transmitter 54 can, if necessary, access resources, for example, radio resources of transmitter 56 or the resources of the data packets of transmitter 56.

[0086] In other words, this means that a receiver 60, worn, for example, by a referee, can receive goal events or a number of goal events from the first transmitter 54 and the second transmitter 56. To prevent the data packets from the transmitters 54 and 56 from colliding, the transmitters 54 and 56 can, for example, be synchronized with each other.

[0087] For example, to enable a time-division multiplexing method, the transmission frame, i.e. the maximum transmission time T0, can be divided into twice the number (2xk), compared to the embodiment of the Fig. 5, by transmission periods or transmission windows. For example, transmitter 54 transmits in transmission periods or time windows with odd numbers, while transmitter 56 transmits in transmission periods or time windows with even numbers (TDMA). Within the transmission time windows or transmission periods, each of the transmitters 54 or 56 can randomly select a variable time or transmission time for transmitting the data packets.

[0088] According to a further exemplary embodiment, a receiver can be integrated into each of the transmitters 54 and 56, or the transmitter 54 can have a receiving module 58 and the transmitter 56 can have a receiving module 59. Alternatively, only one of the two transmitters can have a receiving module. The receiving module 58 is adapted to receive data packets from the transmitter 56, for example, using a time-division multiplex method. Each of the transmitters 54 and 56, or their receiver modules 58 and 59, receives the data packets from the other transmitter during their own transmission pause. Additionally or alternatively, the transmitters 54 and 56 can also transmit on different frequency channels instead of at different transmission times. This could possibly ensure that the transmitters 54 and 56 do not interfere with each other when they transmit at the same time.

[0089] Transmitter 54 can incorporate information about a gate counter reading from gate 52 from a received data packet from transmitter 56 into its current data packet. Transmitter 56 can perform this in a similar manner for the gate counter reading from gate 50. This makes it possible for the data packets from transmitter 54 and / or the data packets from transmitter 56 to contain the gate counter reading from gate 50 and also the gate counter reading from gate 52, i.e., information about two different events. This can, for example, lead to a redundant signal transmission path. Since transmitters 54 and 56 are located opposite each other and may not change their position relative to each other and / or may also have a good antenna, the transmission of data packets between the transmitters can be very secure, enabling a reliable exchange of information between the two transmitters 54 and 56 about the gate counter readings from gates 50 and 52.This means that the exchange of information between the stationary transmitters 54 and 56 can be more secure than between a transmitter 54 or 56 and the receiver 60, since in the present embodiment the receiver 60 normally moves with the referee or the wristwatch into which it may be integrated. As a result, the received signal strength can change with the distance between the receiver 60 and the transmitters 54 or 56. However, since the referee or the receiver 60 moves between the transmitters 54 and 56, it can be assumed that when the signal strength from the transmitter 56 for the receiver 60 decreases, the receiver 60 is in an area where the signal strength of the other transmitter 54 is stronger, so that it can better receive its data packets.For example, it can be ensured that the receiver 60 always receives a data packet from at least one of the transmitters 54 or 56, depending on the area in which it is located, which includes both gate counters for both gates 50 and 52. Furthermore, the probability that the receiver is simultaneously in a fading-based reception gap of the transmitters 54 and 56 can be reduced.

[0090] Furthermore, it is also possible that, if the receiver 60 has received a data packet from the transmitter 54, the receiver 60 can forego the data packet from the transmitter 56. For example, the transmitter 54 can generate its data packets such that they also contain the transmission times of the next data packet from the second transmitter 56. The receiver 60 can therefore reduce the reception power of its receiver circuit beyond this transmission period or the corresponding reception period in order to save power. To ensure that the information about the radio resources of the next data packet from the transmitter 56 is up-to-date in the transmission packet from the transmitter 54, the transmission packets can each contain at least one piece of information about the age A1, as in Fig. 4 in data field 30c, or even contain additional information about the age. In the present exemplary embodiment, the age indicates how many data packets and / or transmission times the information dates back. For example, if the counter is zero, the information is current. If the counter reading is higher, the information was received in the past according to the counter reading. The receiver 60 would then not go to sleep or enter sleep mode, but would receive the next transmission packet from the transmitter 56.

[0091] Furthermore, the information A1 about the age of the goal event and / or the additional information can also contribute to the receiver 60 or, according to the embodiments of the Fig. 1 to 6 the receiver 18 can decide independently whether the information about the goal event is still relevant and should be displayed. This is useful, for example, if receiver 60 or 18 is only switched on during the game or was in a reception gap, for example in the locker room. If the goal counter has incremented compared to the last data packet received by receiver 60 or 18, but the age of the goal counter is some time ago or is high (counting age > threshold value), the increase or increment in the goal counter is no longer interpreted or displayed as a goal event. In this case, it could be assumed, for example, that the referee has already received and / or displayed the goal event in another way.

[0092] Fig. 8 shows a schematic representation of a transmission scheme for a time and frequency division multiplex method for the transmission of information from a goal detection system according to an embodiment.

[0093] To increase transmission reliability, the transmitter(s) can each be equipped with two geometrically spaced antennas (not shown). The antennas can be connected to the transmitter, for example, via a changeover switch, according to the principle of antenna diversity. Furthermore, to increase interference immunity, the data packets can be transmitted at different times in different frequency channels. When using two transmitters 54 and 56, according to the embodiment of the Fig. 7, the transmitters 54 and 56 can, for example, transmit on different frequency channels Ch1, Ch2, Ch3, etc., within a transmission period or at a transmission time, without interfering with each other. This can, for example, enable the information to be transmitted in a comparatively short time. The transmitter 54 transmits, for example, in a first transmission period or at a first transmission time T n on the frequency or channel or frequency channel Ch2. The transmitter 56 transmits in the first transmission period or at the first transmission time T n on the frequency Ch4. From the information transmitted in the data packet at the transmission time of the following data packet, the receiver 60 can estimate the reception period or the reception time window 36. Analogously, the transmitters 54 and 56 also transmit in the second transmission period or the second transmission time T n+1on different channels. Transmitter 54 transmits on channel Ch3, transmitter 56 transmits on channel Ch6. As in Fig. 8, the transmitters 54 and 56 can additionally or alternatively send their data packets 16 at different times within the transmission periods.

[0094] The features disclosed in the above description, the following claims and the attached figures can be important and implemented both individually and in any combination for the realization of an embodiment in its various forms.

[0095] Depending on specific implementation requirements, embodiments of the invention may be implemented in hardware or software. The implementation may be performed using a digital storage medium, such as a floppy disk, a DVD, a Blu-ray disc, a CD, a ROM, a PROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, or a FLASH memory, a hard disk, or other magnetic or optical storage device storing electronically readable control signals that can interact or interact with a programmable hardware component to perform the respective method.

[0096] A programmable hardware component can be formed by a processor, a computer processor (CPU = Central Processing Unit), a graphics processor (GPU = Graphics Processing Unit), a computer, a computer system, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC = Application-Specific Integrated Circuit), an integrated circuit (IC = Integrated Circuit), a single-chip system (SOC = System on Chip), a programmable logic element or a field-programmable gate array with a microprocessor (FPGA = Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0097] The digital storage medium can therefore be machine- or computer-readable. Some embodiments thus comprise a data carrier having electronically readable control signals capable of interacting with a programmable computer system or a programmable hardware component such that one of the methods described herein is performed. One embodiment is thus a data carrier (or a digital storage medium or a computer-readable medium) on which the program for performing one of the methods described herein is recorded.

[0098] In general, embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as a program, firmware, computer program, or computer program product with program code or data, wherein the program code or data is effective to perform one of the methods when the program runs on a processor or a programmable hardware component. The program code or data can also be stored, for example, on a machine-readable medium or data carrier. The program code or data can be present, among other things, as source code, machine code, or bytecode, as well as other intermediate code.

[0099] A further embodiment is a data stream, a signal sequence, or a sequence of signals that represents the program for performing one of the methods described herein. The data stream, the signal sequence, or the sequence of signals can be configured, for example, to be transferred via a data communication connection, for example, via the Internet or another network. Thus, embodiments also include signal sequences representing data that are suitable for transmission via a network or data communication connection, wherein the data represents the program.

[0100] A program according to one embodiment can implement one of the methods during its execution, for example, by reading memory locations or writing one or more pieces of data into them, which may trigger switching operations or other processes in transistor structures, amplifier structures, or other electrical, optical, magnetic, or other functionally principle-based components. Accordingly, by reading a memory location, data, values, sensor values, or other information can be acquired, determined, or measured by a program. A program can therefore acquire, determine, or measure quantities, values, measured quantities, and other information by reading one or more memory locations, and can trigger, initiate, or perform an action and control other devices, machines, and components by writing to one or more memory locations.

[0101] The above-described embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. It is understood that modifications and variations of the arrangements and details described herein will be apparent to others skilled in the art. Therefore, it is intended that the invention be limited only by the scope of the following claims and not by the specific details presented in the description and explanation of the embodiments herein.

Claims

[1] Transmitter (10; 54; 56) for a system for detecting a goal, corresponding to a crossing of a game device (12) over a monitored line (14), wherein the transmitter (10) is designed to send successive data packets (16) independently of the occurrence of the goal, such that each of the data packets (16) contains information about a number (E1) of goals that have occurred up to a transmission time (T n ) of the data packet (16), wherein the transmission times (T n ) of successive data packets (16) each lie within a predetermined transmission period. [2] Transmitter according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter is designed to generate the data packets such that each of the data packets (16) contains information about the transmission time (T n ) of the data packet (16). [3] Transmitter according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the transmitter (10; 54; 56) is designed to generate each of the data packets (16) such that the data packet (16) comprises information about a radio resource for a following data packet (16). [4] Transmitter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transmitter (10; 54; 56) is designed to generate the data packet (16) such that the data packet (16) comprises information about an age (A1) of the gate (E1) that has occurred. [5] Transmitter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transmitter (10; 54; 56) is designed to transmit each of the data packets (16) at a random transmission time (T n ) in such a way that the data packet (16) is transmitted within its predetermined transmission period (T Window ) has been completely sent. [6] Transmitter according to claim 3, wherein the radio resource is a transmission time (T n ) and / or a frequency of the following data packet (16). [7] Transmitter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transmitter (54) is designed to transmit the successive data packets (16) in a multiplexing method with a second transmitter (56), and the transmitter (54) has a receiving module which is designed to receive successive data packets (16) from the second transmitter (56), wherein each of the data packets (16) from the second transmitter (56) contains at least one piece of information about a data packet transmitted up to the transmission time (T n ) occurred number (E2) of second gates, and the transmitter (54) is designed to generate the successive data packets (16) in such a way that each data packet (16) contains information about the number (E2) of second gates occurred up to the transmission time (T n ). [8] Receiver (18; 60) for a system for detecting a goal, corresponding to a crossing of a game device (12) over a monitored line (14), wherein the receiver (18, 60) is designed to receive successive data packets (16) independently of the occurrence of the goal, wherein each of the data packets (16) contains information about a number (E1) of goals that have occurred up to a transmission time (T n ) of the data packet (16), wherein the transmission times (T n ) of successive data packets (16) each in a predetermined transmission period (T Window ) lay. [9] Receiver according to claim 8, wherein each of the data packets (16) contains information about the transmission time (T n ) of the data packet (16). [10] Receiver according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the receiver (18; 60) is designed to output a signal indicating the gate when a currently received data packet (16) has information about a number (E1) of gates that have occurred that is increased compared to a number (E1) of gates that have occurred according to a previous data packet (16). [11] Receiver according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the receiver (18; 60) is designed to reduce a reception power of a receiver circuit between two successive data packets (16) based on information about the transmission time (T n+1 ) of the following data packet in the current data packet (16). [12] Receiver according to claim 11, wherein the receiver (18; 60) is designed if it does not receive a data packet (16) or does not receive it completely in an interval to the transmission time (T n+1) according to information in a previous data packet (16), to increase the reception power until it receives a next data packet (16). [13] Receiver according to one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the receiver (18; 60) is designed to reduce a reception power of a receiver circuit when the receiver (18, 60) transmits a signal for a period of time which is greater than the predetermined transmission period (T Window , T0 ) does not receive a data packet (16). [14] Receiver according to claim 13, wherein the receiver (18; 60) is designed to maintain the reception power of the receiver circuit for a period of time which is longer than the transmission period (T Window ) is to increase. [15] Receiver according to one of claims 8 to 14, wherein the receiver (18; 60) can be worn on a bracelet, in particular is integrated into a wristwatch. [16] Method for sending data packets (16) for a system for detecting a goal, corresponding to a crossing of a game device (12) over a monitored line (14), comprising the steps: Generating successive data packets (16) such that each of the data packets (16) contains information about a number (E1) of gates that have occurred up to a transmission time (T n ) of the data packet (16), Sending consecutive data packets (16), regardless of an occurrence of the gate, such that transmission times (T n ) of successive data packets (16) each in a predetermined transmission period (T Window ) lay. [17] A method for receiving data packets (16) for a system for detecting a goal corresponding to a crossing of a game device (12) over a monitored line (14), comprising the steps of: Receiving consecutive data packets (16) regardless of the occurrence of the gate, the transmission times (T n ) in a predetermined transmission period (T Window ) lay, Reading the data packets (16), wherein each of the data packets (16) contains information about a number (E1) of gates that have occurred up to a transmission time (T n ) of the data packet (16). [18] Computer program for carrying out the method according to claim 16 when the computer program runs on a programmable hardware component. [19] Computer program for carrying out the method according to claim 17, when the computer program runs on a programmable hardware component.

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