Method and system for storing race track lap times

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for storing race track lap times of at least one vehicle (200) driving on a race track, comprising the following method steps: - recording (S10) at least one lap time (t) by a timing system (300); - transmitting (S20) the lap time (t) to an input module (300); - generating (S30) a lap time data record (450), wherein the lap time data record (450) comprises the lap time (t) and further vehicle information; - transmitting (S40) the lap time data set (450) to a memory module (500); - storing (S50) the lap time data record (450) in a blockchain (550), wherein a block (590) is generated from the lap time data record (450), which block is encrypted using an encryption method and linked to a previous block (570).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method, a system and a computer program product for storing race track lap times of at least one vehicle driving on a race track.

[0002] Lap timing plays an important role in motorsport, allowing drivers and teams to analyze their performance, make improvements, and promote competition on the racetrack. For this reason, sports car drivers want to have their lap times at a racetrack officially confirmed and share them on their social media or motorsport networks, as well as on the racetrack's leaderboard. This is important in the world of motorsport, and especially for amateur racers, as racers are often in constant competition with each other, whether on official racetracks or in informal settings. Confirming and sharing a good lap time with others is a way to gain notoriety and recognition and to compete against other drivers. By recording and sharing lap times, drivers can also track their own driving skills and performance improvements over time.This helps them improve their skills and train specifically. Furthermore, the motorsport community is often highly connected, and sharing lap times can help them connect and build a community of like-minded individuals.

[0003] There are several ways to ensure that lap times are considered valid and trustworthy. At an official racetrack, lap times are recorded and certified by timing systems. These times are then published on the racetrack's website or in dedicated motorsport communities.

[0004] When a sports car driver privately drives their sports car on a racetrack, they may record their own lap times, but these are generally not counted as official lap times. For this reason, the motorsport community often doubts the reliability of lap times published, for example, on online platforms. This is because amateur racing drivers use individual resources and technologies, such as private apps, to measure and record private lap times on a racetrack. However, these are not sufficiently validated and certified, which compromises the reliability of the recorded lap times.

[0005] On the other hand, there is a great need for reliable and secure comparability of lap times so that the performance of a sports car driver can also be recognized and appreciated by other members of the motorsport community.

[0006] DE 10 2020 114 379 A1 discloses a processor of a computer programmed to generate a first data block containing a hash of identification data for the input device upon detection of a vehicle input device. Furthermore, upon detection of a driving event, the processor generates a second data block containing a hash of the driving event data and a hash linking the second data block to the first data block.

[0007] The invention is based on the object of creating possibilities for improving the storage of lap times on a race track, in particular for private races with a vehicle on a race track, in order to ensure reliable and secure comparability of the lap times.

[0008] This object is achieved according to the invention with respect to a method by the features of patent claim 1, with respect to a system by the features of patent claim 8, and with respect to a computer program product by the features of patent claim 15. The further claims relate to preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0009] By storing the lap times in a blockchain according to the invention, the integrity and reliability of the stored lap times is guaranteed, since they cannot be subsequently changed due to the use of cryptographic encryption methods.

[0010] According to a first aspect, the invention provides a method for storing racetrack lap times of at least one vehicle driving on a racetrack. The method comprises the following method steps: - Recording of at least one lap time by a timing system; - Transferring the lap time to an input module; - generating a lap time record, the lap time record comprising the lap time and other vehicle information; - Transferring the lap time data set to a memory module; - Storing the lap time record in a blockchain, whereby a block is generated from the lap time record, which is encrypted using an encryption method and linked to a previous block.

[0011] In a further development, it is provided that the encryption method used is the generation of a uniquely identifiable hash value for each block of the blockchain, whereby a hash value is a cryptographic checksum or a unique character string that is generated from the data of a block in the blockchain and contains a reference to the previous block.

[0012] In an advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the time measurement system is designed as a transponder system in which the vehicle is equipped with a transponder, or as a GPS system in which the vehicle is equipped with a GPS system, or uses an optical time measurement based on infrared or light barriers.

[0013] In a further embodiment, it is provided that a plurality of storage modules are provided, each of which represents a node of the blockchain and thus forms a network for creating a ledger of the blockchain, wherein each storage module is part of a software application of a mobile or stationary terminal device, and wherein a plurality of mobile or stationary terminal devices forms the network for creating the ledger of the blockchain.

[0014] In a further advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the storage module is arranged centrally on a server or integrated in a cloud computing infrastructure, wherein the lap time data set is sent to the central storage module and a new block is generated by the storage module, encrypted and linked to the previous block to form the linear blockchain.

[0015] Advantageously, the blockchain data and thus the lap times of at least one vehicle are output and displayed on an output module, for example in the form of a ranking list.

[0016] In particular, the lap times displayed are marked as secured, in particular by a colored confirmation symbol.

[0017] According to a second aspect, the invention provides a system for storing racetrack lap times of at least one vehicle traveling on a racetrack. The system comprises a timing system, an input module, and a memory module. The timing system is configured to record at least one lap time and to transmit the lap time to the input module. The input module is configured to generate a lap time data record, wherein the lap time data record comprises the lap time and further vehicle information, and to transmit the lap time data record to the memory module. The memory module is configured to store the lap time data record in a blockchain, wherein a block is generated from the lap time data record, which block is encrypted using an encryption method and linked to a previous block.

[0018] According to a further development, the encryption method used is the generation of a uniquely identifiable hash value for each block of the blockchain, wherein a hash value is a cryptographic checksum or a unique character string generated from the data of a block in the blockchain and containing a reference to the previous block.

[0019] In an advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the time measurement system is designed as a transponder system in which the vehicle is equipped with a transponder, or as a GPS system in which the vehicle is equipped with a GPS system, or uses an optical time measurement based on infrared or light barriers.

[0020] In a further embodiment, it is provided that a plurality of storage modules are provided, each of which represents a node of the blockchain and thus forms a network for creating a ledger of the blockchain, wherein each storage module is part of a software application of a mobile or stationary terminal device, and wherein a plurality of mobile or stationary terminal devices forms the network for creating the ledger of the blockchain.

[0021] In a further advantageous embodiment, the storage module is arranged centrally on a server or integrated into a cloud computing infrastructure, wherein the lap time data set is sent to the central storage module and a new block is generated by the storage module, encrypted and linked to the previous block to form the linear blockchain.

[0022] Advantageously, the blockchain data and thus the lap times of at least one vehicle are output and displayed on an output module, for example in the form of a ranking list.

[0023] In particular, the lap times displayed are marked as secured, in particular by a colored confirmation symbol.

[0024] According to a third aspect, the invention provides a computer program product comprising executable program code configured to carry out the method according to the first aspect when executed.

[0025] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to embodiments shown in the drawing.

[0026] It shows: Fig. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a system according to the invention; Fig. 2 a flow chart to explain the individual method steps of a first method according to the invention; Fig. 3 a schematic representation of a computer program product.

[0027] Additional features, aspects and advantages of the invention or embodiments thereof will become apparent from the detailed description taken in conjunction with the claims.

[0028] Fig. Figure 1 shows a system 100 according to the invention for storing racetrack lap times of at least one vehicle 200 while driving on a racetrack. The system 100 comprises a timing system 300, an input module 400, a storage module 500, and an output module 700. The vehicle 200 is designed, in particular, as a sports vehicle.

[0029] The timing system 300, the input module 400, the memory module 500, and the output module 700 can each be equipped with a processor and / or a memory unit. In particular, the memory module 500 is integrated into a cloud computing infrastructure that is connected to the input module 300 and the output module 700 via a mobile radio connection.

[0030] In the context of the invention, a “processor” can be, for example, a machine or an electronic circuit. A processor can in particular be a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor or a microcontroller, e.g. an application-specific integrated circuit or a digital signal processor, possibly in combination with a memory unit for storing program instructions. A processor can also be a virtualized processor, a virtual machine or a soft CPU. It can also be, for example, a programmable processor which is equipped with configuration steps for carrying out the aforementioned method according to the invention or is configured with configuration steps such that the programmable processor implements the inventive features of the method, the component, the modules or other aspects and / or sub-aspects of the invention.In particular, the processor can contain highly parallel computing units and powerful graphics modules.

[0031] In the context of the invention, a "storage unit" or "storage module" and the like can be understood as, for example, a volatile memory in the form of random access memory (RAM), a permanent memory such as a hard drive or a data storage device, or, for example, a removable storage module. The storage module can also be a cloud-based storage solution.

[0032] In the context of the invention, a "module" can be understood, for example, as a processor and / or a memory unit for storing program instructions. For example, the processor is specifically configured to execute or implement the program instructions of the method according to the invention or a step of the method according to the invention.

[0033] A "cloud computing infrastructure" refers to the entire technical environment required to deliver cloud services. This infrastructure includes physical and virtual resources, networks, servers, storage, databases, data centers, and software used to deliver cloud services.

[0034] A race track can vary in many ways, depending on the type of motorsport and the demands placed on the track. It features a start and finish straight, which is usually the longest straight on the circuit. This is where the cars start and where each lap ends when the drivers cross the finish line. In addition, race tracks contain various types of corners, including tight hairpins, flat corners, and fast chicanes. These corners require different driving techniques and add to the challenge and variety of the track. In addition to the start and finish straight, there are often shorter straights. These offer drivers the opportunity to reach high speeds before entering the corners.

[0035] To measure the lap time t of a vehicle 200, in particular a sports car, on a racetrack, a timing system 300 is used that delivers accurate and reliable results. The timing system 300 is designed, in particular, as a transponder system. The transponder system is one of the most widely used methods for measuring lap times in motorsport. Each vehicle 200, i.e., each racing car, is equipped with a transponder that passes through a so-called "timing loop" at a specific point on the racetrack. Upon passing this loop, the transponder emits a signal, and the timing system records the lap time. These times are then transmitted in real time to a control center and can be published on scoreboards or on the Internet. A GPS system can also be used as the timing system 300.The vehicle 200 is equipped with a GPS system that tracks its position on the racetrack in real time. GPS systems can accurately measure lap times and record additional information such as speed and position. Another option is the use of optical timing based on infrared or light barriers. When the vehicle 200 passes these barriers, the time is stopped and the lap time is recorded.

[0036] The accuracy of timing depends on the quality and calibration of the equipment used. In professional racing events such as Formula 1 or top-class sports car races, the timing systems are extremely precise and reliable to ensure accurate lap times.

[0037] The timing system 300 measures the lap time t and transmits it as lap time data to the input module 400. The input module 400 is embodied, in particular, as a software application on a mobile device such as a smartphone. The smartphone is, in particular, the smartphone of the driver of the vehicle 200. However, the input module 400 can also be integrated into a stationary device such as the navigation device of the vehicle 200 or a cloud computing infrastructure.

[0038] The lap time t is transmitted to the input module 400 via communication connections such as a CAN bus system (Controller Area Network). However, wireless connections can also be provided. A wireless communication connection is particularly designed as a mobile radio connection and / or as a near-field communication connection such as Bluetooth®, Ethernet, NFC (near field communication), or Wi-Fi®.

[0039] The input module 400 generates a lap time data set 450 from the measured lap time t and other vehicle information such as vehicle type, driver name, date and time.

[0040] The input module 400 transmits the lap time data set 450 to the storage module 500 to store the lap time data set 450 there. The storage module 500 includes a software application 530 and a blockchain 550 in which the lap time data set 450 is stored.

[0041] A blockchain 550 is a decentralized digital database that stores information in the form of blocks. These blocks are linked to each other, with each block containing a list of transactions or data. Unlike traditional centralized databases, a blockchain is stored on many computers or nodes in a distributed network and is therefore a decentralized database. Every participant in the network owns a copy of the entire blockchain. This allows data and transactions to be managed without a central authority. Every participant can view the data in the blockchain because it is publicly accessible. This promotes transparency and trust, as all participants can verify the same information. Once written to the blockchain, data cannot usually be reversed or changed and is therefore immutable.New information is continuously added, and the integrity of existing data is ensured through cryptographic procedures. Blockchain technology uses complex encryption algorithms to ensure the security of stored data. This makes it difficult to manipulate or falsify the data. To ensure that all nodes in the network agree on the state of the blockchain, a consensus mechanism is typically used. This requires participants to complete a specific task to validate transactions and add new blocks to the blockchain.

[0042] According to the invention, a block 590 is generated from a transmitted lap time data set 450, which is encrypted and linked to the previous block 570.

[0043] In particular, a hash value is used as the encryption technology for each block 570, 590 of the blockchain 550. Each new block 590 is thus uniquely identifiable by a cryptographic hash value and contains a reference to the previous block 570. This makes it impossible to subsequently modify a block 570, 590 without modifying the entire blockchain 550.

[0044] In blockchain technology, a hash value is a cryptographic checksum or a unique string of characters generated from the data of a block in the blockchain. The hash value plays a crucial role in the security and integrity of the blockchain. Each data record, i.e., each block of a blockchain, generates a unique hash value. This means that even small changes in the input data result in completely different hash values. Furthermore, the same data record always generates the same hash value. This is important for verifying the integrity of the data. It is also important that the time required to calculate a hash value is relatively short, even if the input data is very large. Another key feature is irreversibility, meaning it is virtually impossible to recalculate the original data record from a hash value.This guarantees the anonymity and security of the data stored in the blockchain.

[0045] In blockchain technology, the hash value of a block is typically calculated from the data of the block itself and the hash value of the previous block in the blockchain. In this way, the blocks are linked together, forming an immutable chain of blocks called a blockchain.

[0046] The hash value of a block ensures the integrity of the data in the blockchain 550. If even a small change is made to the data, the hash value changes dramatically, and the tampering is detected. This makes the blockchain 550 resistant to subsequent changes to the lap times.

[0047] Another important use of hash values ​​in a blockchain is to ensure consensus within the network. Participants in the network use the hash value to confirm that a block is valid and complies with the network's rules.

[0048] Blockchain technology thus ensures that measured lap times and other information are stored transparently and tamper-proof. Since the lap times are stored in the blockchain 550, they are transparently accessible to all participants of the blockchain 550 and cannot be tampered with. This ensures the integrity of the lap data record 450 and avoids controversies about lap times. Certification of the lap times by an independent third party is no longer necessary. The software application 530 transfers the transmitted lap time data record 450 to the next block 590, calculates the hash value, and links the new block 590 to the previous block 570 using the calculated hash value.

[0049] The multitude of measured lap times, or the storage of lap time records 450 for a large number of drivers, creates a so-called "ledger." In blockchain technology, the term "ledger" refers to the complete record of all transactions that take place in a specific blockchain network. The blockchain ledger is decentralized and is jointly maintained and verified by all network participants. Each node in the network owns a copy of the entire ledger, and there is no central authority controlling the data. Because the blockchain ledger is fundamentally public and transparent, anyone can view the transaction history, which creates trust and allows transactions to be verified.

[0050] Within the scope of the present invention, the ledger is the public and transparent record of all lap time data records 450 recorded and stored at a specific racetrack. In particular, a ledger can focus on a specific vehicle type, so that not all races are stored in a single ledger, thus reducing storage requirements. The blockchain ledger can thus achieve a high degree of security, transparency, and trust in the reproduction of lap times.

[0051] The data from blockchain 550 and thus the lap times of the individual vehicles 200 can be output and displayed on output module 700. Both direct retrieval of the lap times and further processing of the lap times, for example, in the form of rankings, are possible. In particular, the lap times can be marked as secure when displayed on output module 700, e.g., by a colored confirmation symbol such as a green check mark. For further processing of the lap times, software application 530 of storage module 500 or another software application includes appropriate algorithms. Output module 700 is, in particular, a mobile device such as a smartphone.

[0052] In one possible application, a plurality of storage modules 500 are provided, each representing a node of the blockchain 550 and thus forming a network for creating a ledger of the blockchain 550. In particular, the input modules 400 and the storage modules 500 are part of a software application located on the mobile or stationary devices of the participants in the blockchain network, i.e., in particular, the drivers of the vehicles 200 and other members of the motorsport community who are interested in the race results. This also applies to the output module 700.

[0053] In a further embodiment, the storage module 500 is arranged centrally on a server or integrated into a cloud computing infrastructure. The lap time data record 450 is then sent to this central storage module 500, where a new block 590 is generated, encrypted, and linked to the previous block 570 to form the linear blockchain 550. The data stored in the blockchain 550 regarding the lap times and other information are then available to all participants in the blockchain network via appropriate interfaces. The decentralized processing units of the participants in the blockchain network thus do not need to provide their own computing power.

[0054] In practice, the present invention can be implemented as follows: a sports car driver drives his sports car around the Hockenheimring. His lap times and / or only his best lap time are stored in the blockchain 550 and each marked with a green check mark. They are visible to the other participants in the blockchain network, and they can rely on the accuracy of the stated lap times.

[0055] In Fig. 2 shows the method steps for storing race track lap times of at least one vehicle 200 driving on a race track.

[0056] In a step S10, at least one lap time t is recorded by a timing system 300.

[0057] In a step S20, the lap time t is transmitted to an input module 400.

[0058] In a step S30, a lap time data record 450 is generated, wherein the lap time data record 450 includes the lap time t and further vehicle information.

[0059] In a step S40, the lap time data set 450 is transferred to a memory module 500.

[0060] In a step S50, the lap time data record 450 is stored in a blockchain 550, wherein a block 590 is generated from the lap time data record 450, which is encrypted using an encryption method and linked to a previous block 570.

[0061] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a computer program product 900 comprising executable program code 950 configured to perform the method according to the first aspect of the present invention when executed.

[0062] By storing the lap times in a blockchain according to the invention, the integrity and reliability of the stored lap times is guaranteed, since they cannot be subsequently changed due to the use of cryptographic encryption methods. Reference symbol 100 systems 200 vehicles 300 timing system 400 input module 450 lap time record 500 memory modules 530 Software application 550 Blockchain 570 previous block 590 new block 700 output module 900 computer program product 950 program code t lap time QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2020 114 379 A1

[0006]

Claims

[1] Method for storing race track lap times of at least one vehicle (200) driving on a race track, comprising the following method steps: - recording (S10) at least one lap time (t) by a timing system (300); - transmitting (S20) the lap time (t) to an input module (300); - generating (S30) a lap time data record (450), wherein the lap time data record (450) comprises the lap time (t) and further vehicle information; - transmitting (S40) the lap time data set (450) to a memory module (500); - storing (S50) the lap time data record (450) in a blockchain (550), wherein a block (590) is generated from the lap time data record (450), which block is encrypted using an encryption method and linked to a previous block (570). [2] The method according to claim 1, wherein the encryption method used is the generation of a uniquely identifiable hash value for each block (570, 590) of the blockchain (550), wherein a hash value is a cryptographic checksum or a unique character string generated from the data of a block (590) in the blockchain (550) and containing a reference to the previous block (570). [3] Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the time measurement system (300) is designed as a transponder system in which the vehicle (200) is equipped with a transponder, or as a GPS system in which the vehicle (200) is equipped with a GPS system, or uses an optical time measurement based on infrared or light barriers. [4] Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a plurality of memory modules (500) are provided, each of which represents a node of the blockchain (550) and thus forms a network for creating a ledger of the blockchain (550), wherein in each case a memory module (500) is part of a software application of a mobile or stationary terminal, and wherein a plurality of mobile or stationary terminals forms the network for creating the ledger of the blockchain (550). [5] Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the storage module (500) is arranged centrally on a server or integrated in a cloud computing infrastructure, and wherein the lap time data record (450) is sent to the central storage module (500) and a new block (590) is generated by the storage module (500), encrypted and linked to the previous block (570) to form the linear blockchain (550). [6] Method according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the data of the blockchain (550) and thus the lap times (t) of at least one vehicle (200) are output and displayed on an output module (700), for example in the form of a ranking list. [7] Method according to claim 6, wherein the displayed lap times (t) are marked as secured, in particular by a colored confirmation symbol. [8] System (100) for storing race track lap times of at least one vehicle (200) driving on a race track, comprising a timing system (300), an input module (400), and a memory module (500); wherein the timing system (300) is designed to record at least one lap time (t) and to transmit the lap time (t) to the input module (300); wherein the input module (400) is designed to generate a lap time data record (450), wherein the lap time data record (450) comprises the lap time (t) and further vehicle information, and to transmit the lap time data record (450) to the memory module (500); and wherein the storage module (500) is designed to store the lap time data record (450) in a blockchain (550), wherein a block (590) is generated from the lap time data record (450), which block is encrypted using an encryption method and linked to a previous block (570). [9] The system (100) of claim 8, wherein the encryption method used is the generation of a uniquely identifiable hash value for each block (570, 590) of the blockchain (550), wherein a hash value is a cryptographic checksum or a unique character string generated from the data of a block (590) in the blockchain (550) and containing a reference to the previous block (570). [10] System (100) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the time measurement system (300) is designed as a transponder system in which the vehicle (200) is equipped with a transponder, or as a GPS system in which the vehicle (200) is equipped with a GPS system, or uses an optical time measurement based on infrared or light barriers. [11] System (100) according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein a plurality of memory modules (500) are provided, each representing a node of the blockchain (550) and thus forming a network for creating a ledger of the blockchain (550), wherein each memory module (500) is part of a software application of a mobile or stationary terminal, and wherein a plurality of mobile or stationary terminals forms the network for creating the ledger of the blockchain (550). [12] System (100) according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the storage module (500) is centrally located on a server or integrated in a cloud computing infrastructure, and wherein the lap time data record (450) is sent to the central storage module (500) and a new block (590) is generated by the storage module (500), encrypted and linked to the previous block (570) to form the linear blockchain (550). [13] System (100) according to one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the data of the blockchain (550) and thus the lap times (t) of at least one vehicle (200) are output and displayed on an output module (700), for example in the form of a ranking list. [14] System (100) according to claim 13, wherein the displayed lap times (t) are marked as secured, in particular by a colored confirmation symbol. [15] A computer program product (900) comprising an executable program code (950) configured to carry out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7 when executed.

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