System for image recognition registration of an athlete at a sporting event

Abstract

A system for entry to a sporting event, the system comprising: a video camera configured to record image data of a person crossing a photo trail leading to an area of ​​the sporting event with restricted access; a personal image database configured to store a person's profile picture data before the event begins; and a processor configured to compare the profile image data stored in the person image database with the image data of the person crossing, recorded by the video camera, using facial recognition technology, wherein the processor is configured to register the person's entry into the sporting event when crossing the photo line of the sporting event, based solely on the comparison between the profile image data and the image data of the crossing.

Description

Scope of the invention

[0001] The present disclosure relates to improvements in systems for entering or registering athletes at a sporting event. Background of the invention

[0002] To register for an upcoming sporting event, an athlete typically visits the event's website and enters their details before the event to become a "pre-registered" athlete. One problem with this method is that the athlete may get injured, the weather may turn bad, or other circumstances may prevent them from attending and participating. As a result, the no-show athlete usually loses their entry fee (if one was paid).

[0003] Often, sporting events offer "race-day registration," allowing athletes who wish to participate but haven't pre-registered to join on the day of the event. For race-day registration, the athlete typically arrives at the venue before the race starts, fills out a paper registration form, and hands it to a volunteer race helper or staff member. The volunteer then checks the form, assigns a bib number, and gives the bib number to the athlete. At most events with timing, the athlete is also given a timing chip with their bib number. At events with an entry fee, the volunteer race helper also receives payment from the athlete.On-race registration minimizes the risk of an athlete's entry fee being wasted due to injury, but there are notable problems. For example, a large influx of registrants on race day can overwhelm the limited number of race volunteers or staff, increasing pressure on volunteers to speed up the registration process so participants can start on time. Race organizers have to guess how many participants might show up on race day and try to plan accordingly. This often results in either insufficient resources or too many resources being wasted when fewer than the estimated number of athletes actually appear.

[0004] What is needed is a system that makes the registration process more efficient, minimizes the potential for errors, and is easier to use than conventional systems.

[0005] One challenge associated with athlete registration and participation in sporting events is athlete identification, particularly when image recognition technology is used. While image recognition has proven to be a reliable means of identifying individuals, sometimes a single image is insufficient for accurate identification. The image may be too blurry, the lighting may be inadequate, or the individual may be wearing objects that interfere with accurate identification. What is needed is a system to improve the accuracy of identification when image recognition technology is employed. Summary

[0006] The present disclosure provides, in one aspect, a system for registering an athlete for a sporting event. The system includes a camera configured to capture an image of the athlete at the start of the sporting event; an athlete database configured to store a profile image of the athlete before the start of the event; and a processor configured to compare the profile image stored in the athlete database with a starting image of the athlete captured by the camera, the processor being configured to register the athlete as a participant in the sporting event based on the comparison between the profile image and the starting image.

[0007] In another preferred aspect, the present disclosure provides a system for registering an athlete for a sporting event. The system comprises a means for capturing an image of the athlete at the start of the sporting event; an athlete database configured to store a profile image of the athlete prior to the start of the event; and a means for registering the athlete as a participant in the sporting event based on a comparison between the profile image and the starting image. The means for capturing the athlete's image may include one or more cameras, such as a standalone digital camera, a video camera, a thermal imaging camera, and / or a device with an integrated or component camera, such as a tablet computer, laptop computer, or mobile communication device like a smartphone.The means for entering the athlete may include a specially programmed processor configured with image recognition software, preferably facial recognition software, which uses a recognition algorithm, for example one or more of the following approaches: linear 3D modeling, geometric and / or photometric approaches, linear discriminant analysis (LDA), system vector machine (SVM), pattern matching, dynamic link matching, thermal imaging and / or elastic bundle graph matching.

[0008] In another preferred aspect, the present disclosure presents a system for improving the accuracy of identifying a person in an image. The system uses elements of artificial intelligence combined with image recognition technology to provide increased identification accuracy when required.

[0009] As used herein, the term "configured" encompasses the creation, alteration, or modification of a program on a computer or network of computers such that the computer or network of computers behaves in accordance with a set of instructions. The programming required to achieve the various embodiments described herein is obvious to a person skilled in the art upon review of the present description and is not detailed here for the sake of simplicity. The programming may be stored on a computer-readable medium, such as a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium (e.g., hard disk, RAM, ROM, CD-ROM, USB flash drive, or other physical device) and / or the cloud.

[0010] It is understood that in one or more embodiments, the system may comprise one or more workstations on a back end for use by a platform operator, one or more local client computers for user access, and a communication network that facilitates communication between the platform, the back-end workstations, and the client computers. Preferably, the workstations and client computers include a display and means for inputting information, such as a graphical user interface (GBO), a keyboard, and / or voice-activated data input. Means for user access to the platform may, but are not limited to, personal computers and mobile devices, such as tablets and smartphones, as well as other user devices capable of communicating via a communication network using the internet.

[0011] It is understood that the term "during," when used to describe an athlete's or user's participation in a race, competition, and / or sporting event, encompasses the time from the start to and including the athlete's or user's finish in the race, competition, or sporting event, unless that athlete or user drops out (does not reach the final). Races, competitions, and / or sporting events may include, but are not limited to, running races, cycling races, swimming competitions, triathlons, duathlons, and other competitions in which an individual or team competes against other individuals or teams.

[0012] It is understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and explanatory and do not limit the invention as claimed, unless otherwise stated. In the present description and the present claims, the word "comprising" and its derivatives, including "includes" and "encompass," include each of the specified integers but do not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers. The expression "image recognition only" or "face recognition only" primarily excludes the use of peripheral elements such as race numbers and RFID chips for identifying a person but does not exclude enhanced recognition processes using artificial intelligence. The claims filed with this application are hereby incorporated into the description by reference.

[0013] The accompanying drawings, which are included in and form part of this description, illustrate several embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of one or more forms of the invention. Brief description of the characters Fig. Figure 1 is a diagram of system components according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 2 is a pictorial view of an athlete crossing the start of a race track. Fig. 3 is a pictorial representation of the system of Fig. 1, which is shown along a race track of a sporting event. Fig. 4 is a pictorial view of an athlete completing the finals of the race track. Fig. Crossed 3. Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart of a procedure for registering an athlete for a sporting event according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 6 is a preferred embodiment of a graphical user interface for use in creating a media portal that allows a user to access and purchase media content. Detailed description of the drawings

[0014] Detailed reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments of the invention, some of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0015] The Fig. Figures 1 to 4 show a preferred embodiment of a system 100 comprising a processor 102, an electronic athlete database 104, and at least one digital image capture device 106. In use, a digital profile image of a user is captured before the start of the sporting event or race and stored in the electronic athlete database 104. The user arrives at the venue on the day of the race. An image capture device 106, located near the starting line of the race, captures a starting image of the user, which is compared by the processor 102 with the profile image stored in the database 104 to identify the user. Once the user has been identified at the race, they are registered as a participant, and an entry fee (if applicable) is charged, for example, simply for crossing the starting line. A start time is assigned to the user's starting image.Once the user has crossed the finish line, a target image is captured by another digital image capture device 106. The start and target images are preferably time-stamped so that the user's time can be determined by comparing the start and target images. The preferred elements of the system 100 and their interrelationships are described below.

[0016] Referring to Fig. 1. System 100 is preferably a standalone system that can optionally connect to the internet. Processor 102 can be in the form of a microcomputer, such as a laptop. Processor 102 preferably includes a microchip, such as a system-on-a-chip (SoC), with suitable control circuitry. Processor 102 preferably includes image recognition technology so that images can be compared to determine a match. More preferably, processor 102 includes facial recognition technology for comparing facial images of individuals. Examples of suitable recognition algorithms include 3D modeling, geometric and / or photometric approaches, linear discriminant analysis (LDA), system vector machine (SVM), pattern matching, dynamic link matching, thermal imaging, and / or elastic bundle graph matching.The details of the image recognition technology would be appreciated by the average expert and are therefore not repeated here for the sake of simplicity.

[0017] The electronic athlete database 104 is preferably configured with a multitude of user profiles 108, each containing fields for user identification data such as name, address, and contact details (electronic and telephone). Each user profile 108 preferably includes a provision for a digital profile picture 110 for assignment to each user. The profile picture 110 is preferably an image that includes at least part of the user. Each user profile 108 also preferably contains payment information associated with the user, such as credit card information or other electronic payment or account information. If desired, an event log for each user can be maintained using blockchain technology.

[0018] Profile 108 can be configured to automatically delete itself after a predetermined period of time and / or after a predetermined action or event. For example, Profile 108 can be deleted after a set period of 1 month, 1 year, or 3 years to ensure that a profile picture is kept up to date or to address privacy concerns. Profile 108 can also delete itself after an event, such as a sporting event, in which the user is registered.

[0019] System 100 further preferably comprises at least one digital image acquisition device 106. The digital image acquisition device 106 can be any device configured to acquire a digital image, such as a standalone digital camera, a video camera, a thermal imaging camera, and / or a device comprising an integrated or component camera, such as a tablet computer, a laptop, or a mobile communication device like a smartphone, but is not limited to these. Digital images acquired by the digital image acquisition device can be stored on a computer-readable storage medium associated with the processor 102 (e.g., hard drive, server, cloud); and / or a computer-readable storage medium associated with the digital image acquisition device; and / or a separate, portable computer-readable storage medium (e.g., flash drive (USB) or disk).Images can contain static images or frames from a video.

[0020] The digital image acquisition device 106 can be adapted for depth sensing and can include a laser and / or a 3D rangefinder to facilitate depth sensing.

[0021] When using the service, a user creates a digital personal profile. The user provides their identity data in predefined fields and uploads a profile picture to database 104. The user can also provide payment information during profile creation. Once the user has created their profile in database 104, they can register for and participate in the sporting event.

[0022] Referring to Fig. 2. The image capture device en 106 can be arranged in a variety of positions to optimally capture the image of an athlete. For example, a series of alternating cameras can be positioned along an elevated or overhead position at or near the start 112 to capture perspective views from the front and / or above the head of an athlete approaching and crossing the start. Additional cameras can be positioned medially and / or laterally (left and / or right) to the start and / or in front of the start. Near the start line, one or more cameras 106b can be positioned at a lower height so that the digital start image is captured at an angle below a horizontal plane that intersects the athlete's chin or, if desired, below a horizontal plane that intersects the athlete's waist. Other camera angles can be used as desired.

[0023] It is understood that it is not always practical to position an image capture device directly in the path of an oncoming athlete. The Processor 102 can be configured with one or more recognition algorithms suitable for lateral or angled side profiles. Such algorithms can be modified to compare the distance between a point on the ear (e.g., the ear canal or lobe) and a point on the eye (e.g., the iris), and / or the distance between a point on the ear and a point on the nose (e.g., the tip), and / or a ratio comparing the distance between a point on the ear and the eye to the distance between a point on the ear and the nose.When opposing cameras are used to capture left, right and / or oblique profiles of the athlete, the images taken by each camera can either be analyzed individually or, preferably, combined to create a composite image that is then analyzed.

[0024] Referring to Fig. 3. At the sporting event, a digital image capture device 106a is preferably positioned next to or near a starting line 112. At least a second digital image capture device 106b is preferably positioned next to or near a finish line 114. A third digital image capture device 106c may, if desired, be positioned anywhere between the start and the finish. In use, the user begins the race and crosses the starting line 112. The digital image capture device 106a captures a digital starting image of the user and preferably assigns a time to the image, or associates it with a time stamp, for example, by timestamping the image. The time may be the time of day or the entire race time. The processor 102 compares the starting image with profile images in the database 104 to identify the participant.After identification, the user is listed as a participant and (if payment is required) charged according to the payment details associated with the user profile. While crossing the race track 116, the user may be directed through a photo zone 118 so that another digital image can be taken using the digital image capture device 106c. If desired, an intermediate time can be assigned to the image. When the user crosses the finish line, the digital image capture device 106b preferably captures a finish image of the user, which is either annotated with a finish time or time-stamped by the image capture device 106 or the processor 102. The finish time may be the same as that shown or displayed on the race clock 120 (preferably operated by a timing company) or may be a time of day.

[0025] With continued reference to Fig. 3. The System 100 can be configured to identify and track a wearable device of the athlete, so that as the athlete participates in the sporting event, the system tracks the athlete's position along the course. Examples of wearable devices include, but are not limited to, a timing chip, a smartphone, a watch 124, a shoe-insertable device, and eyeglasses 126. The watch 124 may, as further described below, contain a GPS circuit and / or a wireless transmitter for network Wi-Fi communication and / or peer-to-peer communication. If the user chooses to use their own device (rather than a timing chip provided by a timing company), they can register the device before the start of the sporting event (e.g., provide the timing company with the device identification).A communication interface, which is part of the system, can then be used to collect data from the athlete via a communication medium such as satellite, cellular technology, NFC, WLAN, and / or peer-to-peer communication (e.g., Bluetooth and / or Wi-Fi Direct) while the athlete is moving along the course. The athlete's participation data can be uploaded directly from their personal device to the system. If the wearable device uses a peer-to-peer technology such as Bluetooth and / or Wi-Fi Direct, sensors with appropriately configured transceivers can be positioned along the course, depending on the communication range of such devices. Examples of suitable sensors include Bluetooth beacons. The details of Bluetooth beacons are well understood by the average person and are therefore not repeated here for the sake of simplicity.

[0026] If desired, a secondary means of identification can be used to identify an athlete. For example, the system 100 can include a digital foot recognition mat 130 configured to capture an image of the sole of an athlete's shoe for comparison with an image stored in the database 104. The sole of a shoe, unless brand new, displays an athlete's wear pattern. The mat 130 preferably includes a sensor network adapted to capture images of multiple athletes as they step onto the mat. The tread pattern of the respective shoe brand, combined with the wearer's wear pattern, provides a reasonably reliable means of identifying the athlete wearing the shoe. Other secondary means of identification can include a registered personal device (e.g., a watch, smartphone, glasses, etc.), as described above, a timing chip, and / or a bib number.

[0027] Referring to Fig. 4. The image capture device en 106 can be arranged in a variety of positions to optimally capture the image of an athlete at the target. For example, a series of alternating cameras 106b can be positioned along an elevated or overhead position at or near the target 114 to capture perspective views from the front, top, and / or rear of an athlete approaching and crossing the target. Additional cameras can be positioned medially and / or laterally to the target and / or in front of the target.

[0028] When multiple image acquisition devices are used, the image acquisition devices can be adapted to form a wired or wireless peer-to-peer network with each other and / or with the processor 102. For example, each camera 106b that is in the Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, it contains a radio transceiver configured for Bluetooth and / or Wi-Fi Direct communication with other cameras and / or processors 102.

[0029] The user's overall race time can be determined by comparing the start image with the finish image and comparing the times associated with each image (i.e., subtracting the user's start time from their finish time). Each participant can be identified by comparing at least one of the sporting event images with a profile image using image recognition technology. Preferably, the determination is made without the use of bib numbers or timing chips. More preferably, identification is made solely using the athlete's images. Most preferably, the images are matched with users using facial recognition technology, the details of which would be appreciated by experts. An example of an image recognition timing system and procedure is described in PCT Publication No. WO 2015 / 088795, the entirety of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.If desired, more than one category of features can be used as part of the image recognition process. For example, facial features and at least one non-facial feature can be used to identify a user in a digital image taken during the sporting event. Similarly, a piece of clothing, in combination with a facial feature, can be used to help identify a user as a participant.

[0030] Other personal characteristics can be used to identify an athlete in cases where the face may be partially or completely obscured. For example, head dimensions (such as the distance between the ears), the distance between the ends of the shoulders, thermal imaging, and / or general body shape (such as torso width and / or height) can be used to aid in identifying an athlete.

[0031] Athlete identification can be improved by integrating pattern recognition and machine learning algorithms into the system. Behavioral and non-behavioral characteristics can be analyzed to increase identification accuracy. Examples of behavioral characteristics include past participation in a sporting event (e.g., an athlete participating multiple times in an annual sporting event), calendar events (e.g., the athlete's travel periods), and the type of sporting event (e.g., duathlon, marathon, etc.). Examples of non-behavioral characteristics include biometric data (e.g., age, gender, body type) and geolocation data (place of residence, sporting event location). Behavioral, non-behavioral, or any combination of behavioral and non-behavioral characteristics can be used to improve athlete identification.

[0032] The features can be weighted to increase accuracy. For example, competition history can receive an initial weight of 50%, geolocation 35%, calendar events 10%, and biometric data 5%. When geolocation is used as a factor, an athlete's home address (obtained from Profile 108) can serve as an initial geolocation point with a fixed radius to define a surrounding target area. Sporting events within the target area are weighted more heavily. Sporting events that tend to correspond to the athlete's previous type of sporting event participation (e.g., a 10k road race or a sprint triathlon) are weighted more heavily. Pattern recognition of increased training, as evidenced by data from an online training log, can be used to suggest a longer endurance event or a major championship event.Pattern recognition can also be used to weight the probability of an athlete participating in a particular event in which the athlete has previously participated, using increased prior participation in an event to increase the weight given for that particular event.

[0033] As a practical example, if an image of an athlete is taken at the beginning, whether for registration purposes and / or for timekeeping, and the image is partially obscured or the image only provides, for example, an identification accuracy of 98%, the processor 102 can use an enhanced recognition algorithm with a feature set that includes participation history, geolocation data, calendar event data, and biometric data to increase accuracy and the positive identification rate.The processor can be configured to check if the person has already been identified, and if not, to search the database for individuals residing within the race's finish area who have participated in the current event (if it is a regular or annual event), who have participated in the same or a similar event type and distance in the past, and who possess biometric characteristics such as gender, age, and body type. These characteristics can be weighted and varied to optimize accuracy (e.g., geolocation is weighted more heavily than event participation history).

[0034] Enhanced detection can be used at the start, finish, or any point where a camera is located. This increased detection can be used for event recording and / or athlete timing.

[0035] It goes without saying that pattern recognition and machine learning can be implemented using suitable classifiers such as an artificial neural network. The basic details of machine learning and pattern recognition methods would be understood by the average professional and are therefore not repeated here for the sake of simplicity.

[0036] Having described the preferred components of system 100, a preferred method 200 for registering an athlete in a sporting event is now described with reference to the Fig. 1 to 5 described. The method preferably comprises step 202 of capturing a digital profile picture of the athlete with an image capture device, such as a camera, before the start of the sporting event. Next, in step 204, a digital personal profile is created that includes the digital profile picture, identity data, and preferably payment information. Examples of identity data include, but are not limited to, names and / or contact information such as address, telephone number, and / or social media account information. Examples of payment information include credit or debit card details, PayPal, or other electronic payment account details. Step 206 comprises capturing a digital starting image of the athlete with an image capture device as the athlete enters the sporting event. With reference to Fig. 2. For example, camera 106b captures a starting image of the athlete when the athlete crosses the starting line 112. Step 208 includes assigning a start time to the starting image of the athlete, for example, by timestamping or marking the image. Step 210 includes identifying the athlete by comparing the athlete's profile image with the starting image of the athlete using a processor. Preferably, the identification step is performed without the use of a timing chip or a bib number. Preferably, the identification step is performed using only image recognition, more preferably only facial recognition.Improved recognition using artificial intelligence can be used as a supplement to enhance the accuracy of identification, if desired, or, as outlined below, as a secondary identification method when image or face recognition provides insufficient accuracy for a particular image.

[0037] Step 212 determines whether the athlete has been identified in a captured image. If the athlete has not been identified, one or more secondary identification methods are used in step 214 to identify the athlete. Examples of secondary methods include the use of a chip or bib number (if worn), the use of a device registered with the system such as a smartwatch, wristband, and / or glasses, and / or the use of Mat 130, as described above. If desired, enhanced recognition using artificial intelligence can be used as a secondary identification method. If the athlete is identified, the athlete is marked as registered in step 216 and entered into the sporting event. Step 218 determines whether an entry fee will be charged.If an entry fee is charged, the athlete will be billed for it in step 220 using the payment information associated with their digital personal profile. A ledger of payments can be recorded using blockchain technology.

[0038] After determining whether an entry fee is charged and payment (if applicable) has been made, in step 222 a digital finish image of the athlete is captured with an image capture device when the athlete finishes the sporting event. For example, capture with reference to the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. One or more of the cameras 106b capture an image of the athlete when the athlete crosses the finish line 114. Step 224 involves assigning a finish time to the finish image of the athlete, for example, by timestamping or marking the image. Step 226 involves using a processor to determine the athlete's race time by comparing the start image and the athlete's start time with the finish image and the athlete's finish time, and subtracting the start time from the athlete's finish time. For example, the start time from the timestamp assigned to the start image can be subtracted from the finish time from the timestamp assigned to the finish image to obtain the athlete's race time.The method preferably further comprises forwarding a link to the athlete identified in one of the images taken during the sporting event and providing the athlete with the opportunity to acquire at least one image of the athlete identified in the image. The method further preferably comprises storing an acquired image of the athlete in an online database to which the athlete can selectively access.

[0039] It is understood that the steps described above may be performed in a different order, varied, or some steps may be added or omitted entirely without altering the scope of the disclosure. For example, if a secondary identification method is used, the athlete may be required to register their own personal device (e.g., watch, glasses, smartphone, wristband) with the system before the start of the competition. The athlete may, for example, pre-register a device identification with the system using a remote terminal via the internet and / or register the device on-site by using the device's built-in communication to register with a suitable system interface, e.g., via Near Field Communication (NFC), WLAN, Bluetooth, and / or Wi-Fi Direct.In a preferred embodiment, a portable device that relies on RFID technology for device identification is expressly excluded. Instead of using an athlete's specific start time to determine their race time, the start time can be assigned a default value of zero, so that the athlete's race time is the actual race time (i.e., the total race time). This may be suitable when the number of participants is small. The step of charging the athlete an entry fee can occur when the athlete crosses the start line, at any time after the athlete has crossed the start line and before the athlete crosses a finish line, when the athlete crosses the finish line, or after the athlete has finished the sporting event.

[0040] Additional steps can be included if desired. For example, a pre-registration check can be performed to determine if the athlete has pre-registered for the event. If the pre-registration check indicates that the athlete has already registered for the sporting event (e.g., no registration on race day), any image of the athlete captured by an event camera can be used to identify and schedule the athlete without requiring a registration check on race day.

[0041] In another preferred embodiment, the system 100 can be part of a web platform that can be accessed via a communication network from one or more client computers and / or mobile devices such as laptops, tablets, smartphones, and / or wearable smart devices. The electronic athlete database 104 can be configured to preferably manage and store multiple user profiles 108 that can be completed by users via the internet. Each user profile 108 preferably contains identification data and a profile picture 110 of the user, which is preferably uploaded to the platform by the user.

[0042] If desired, the platform can facilitate any commercial transaction for purchasing media. For example, if a user is interested in purchasing media content featuring their image, they can access a link associated with the desired thumbnail. This link takes the user to a page where they can order the media. Afterward, the user can select a delivery option, such as sending the media content via email to their email account or transferring it to a restricted access area associated with their account on the platform, such as photo album 136. Fig. 6.

[0043] System 100 can be configured to automatically provide an athlete with their participation photos, as well as to use these photos to register the athlete for a sporting event and schedule their participation. For example, with reference to Fig. 3. The device 128 is configured to operate as a beacon. When the athlete approaches the device 128, the athlete's wearable device detects a signal transmitted by a transmitter on the device 128. The athlete's wearable device then signals a communication node with a transceiver and a microprocessor in the photo zone 118, which initiates an image capture process by informing the camera 106c of the athlete's approach. The camera 106c captures the image of the athlete as the athlete passes through the photo zone 118. The image captured by the camera 106c is then uploaded to one or more processors 102, to the athlete's wearable device (if equipped with a receiver and memory), or directly to an online account associated with the athlete, such as a social media account or a photo album 136. Fig.6) The image can be uploaded while the athlete is participating in the sporting event or after the athlete has finished. Captured digital images can be delivered to the athlete in various ways, such as as a multimedia file sent via SMS, as an email attachment, or by directly uploading the data to a previously provided internet destination or account. If desired, captured digital images can be combined (overlaid) with time and placement information so that the athlete can easily determine when during the sporting event the image was taken.

[0044] The device 128 can, if desired, be configured as a sensor to detect an athlete's approach using an electronic identification transmitted by the athlete's wearable device as it approaches photo zone 118. Upon detecting an athlete's approach, the device 128 signals the communication node in photo zone 118 to initiate the image capture and transmission process described above. The contact information associated with the electronic identification transmission can be provided by the athlete before or after the sporting event.

[0045] The foregoing description serves only as an example and can be significantly varied without altering the scope of disclosure. For instance, instead of using a starting image to compare with the profile picture and register the athlete in the sporting event, an athlete could participate in the event by passing through a photo line on race day, leading to a restricted-access starting area. The athlete's registration in the sporting event would be recorded prior to the start of the race by comparing the photo line image with the profile picture, and the athlete could be time-identified by conventional means or, if desired, by image recognition. If an entry fee is charged for the sporting event, an identifying mark such as a badge, label, bib number, patch, ribbon, etc., could be issued to the athlete upon passing through a restricted access area (e.g., the photo line).Athletes can then attach identification badges to show they are registered participants who have paid. The processor can be programmed to ignore athletes in finish images without identification badges, thus limiting the final results to those who are registered athletes who have paid the fee.

[0046] If desired, the system can be used with a bib number as a secondary identification check. If desired, the system can be used with a timing chip as a secondary timing check of the athlete's time. The system can be used initially without a digital image capture device (for example, in the "photo series" embodiment described above). In such a situation, the finish time can be determined by assuming the participant's start time is zero and using the total time as the participant's finish time. The system can be configured to digitize photos or images of printed materials to identify participants using those photos or images.

[0047] It is understood that various embodiments described above can be configured for use with non-digital images as needed. As an alternative or supplement to secondary identification methods, an athlete can be identified by searching for an athlete's profile picture online after the event. Post-event profile searches can be conducted in situations where a pre-event profile picture of the athlete is unsuitable or insufficient to identify the athlete based on an image taken during the sporting event.

[0048] If desired, as an alternative or supplement to obtaining a profile picture before the event for athlete identification, an athlete identification can be obtained after the competition has ended. For example, one or more pictures of the athlete can be taken after the competition, with the athlete providing their identification details to a terminal and / or a person. This has the advantage that an image is used in which the athlete's clothing on race day is at least partially visible, in case the athlete's face is obscured in one of the timed images.

[0049] Non-stationary image capture devices can be used to record images during a sporting event. For example, images of an athlete participating in the sporting event can be obtained using a portable camera, either mounted on top of the head or integrated into goggles.

[0050] Image acquisition devices can be included only at the beginning, if desired. Such a configuration may be preferable if the system is not intended for use in a timing situation.

[0051] A laser emitter can be positioned at the starting line to create a laser detection grid, further improving the accuracy of obtaining a start time. For example, an athlete encountering or passing through the laser detection grid would activate a sensor to record the precise time the athlete crossed the starting line. A camera can be synchronized with the sensor to capture the athlete's digital starting image, which is then time-stamped and compared for race entry and / or timing purposes. A lighting system with one or more lights can be included to provide enhanced illumination when environmental factors create poor lighting conditions.

[0052] If desired, in a preferred embodiment, the system can be configured to search the internet for images of the user at sporting events and populate the user's personal profile on a web platform with one or more images that can be selectively added with the user's permission. This technique can be used to determine the user's participation in other sporting events and to link the user's participation data (e.g., finish time, location, and / or scoring) from such events with a personal sporting event history as part of the personal profile. An example of a web platform with a database for managing an athlete's competition data is described in U.S. Patent No. 1, filed on May 30, 2012.8,649,890 entitled “System and Procedure for Providing an Athlete’s Performance Profile”, to the entirety of which explicit reference is hereby made.

[0053] The platform can be configured for use with activities other than running, cycling, swimming, or multisport. For example, the platform can be configured solely for use with sports such as kayaking, crewing, hiking, and other activities, regardless of whether they involve a timed component or not.

[0054] Information or data that is normally stored in a physical location can be stored in the cloud, significantly reducing the hardware required for storage requirements that are often associated with large amounts of data.

[0055] The features described in relation to one embodiment can be applied to other embodiments or, if appropriate, combined with or replaced by the features of other embodiments without deviating from the scope of the disclosure.

[0056] The present disclosure, in one or more preferred forms, offers the benefits of registering or participating in a sporting event in a flawless manner and with reduced susceptibility to errors. This allows for a better allocation of human resources and reduces material waste. From an athlete's perspective, it offers greater freedom to train for and participate in a race, as a pre-registration fee is not forfeited in the event of non-attendance.

[0057] Other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to the person skilled in the art from considering the description and applying the embodiments disclosed herein. It is intended that the description and examples be considered merely exemplary, with the true scope and spirit of the invention being specified by the following claims. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] WO 2015 / 088795

[0029] US 8,649,890

[0052]

Claims

[1] A system for entry into a sporting event, wherein the system comprises: a video camera configured to record image data of a person crossing a photo trail leading to an area of ​​the sporting event with restricted access; a personal image database configured to store a person's profile picture data before the event begins; and a processor configured to compare the profile image data stored in the person image database with the image data of the person crossing, recorded by the video camera, using facial recognition technology, wherein the processor is configured to register the person's entry into the sporting event when crossing the photo line of the sporting event, based solely on the comparison between the profile image data and the image data of the crossing. [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to register the person's entry into the sporting event without receiving any indication prior to the start of the sporting event that the person will participate in the sporting event. [3] System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processor is configured to register the person's entry into the sporting event without using an RFID tag worn by the person. [4] System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the profile picture is configured to automatically delete itself after a predetermined period of time and / or after a predetermined action or event. [5] System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the processor is configured to register the person's entry into the sporting event solely by using facial recognition technology. [6] System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the person image database contains payment information associated with the person, wherein the processor is configured to extract the payment based on the person's payment information after the person has been allowed entry into the sporting event. [7] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the personal image database contains personal identification data. [8] System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the video camera comprises a wireless communication module with at least one Wi-Fi radio and one Bluetooth radio.

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