Athlete Identification via Image Recognition
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for timing and photographing participants in athletic events rely on bib numbers and timing chips, which can become torn, obscured, or lost, leading to delays and inaccuracies in identifying and timing participants.
Innovation Solution
A timing system that uses image recognition technology to identify participants by comparing profile images stored in a database with images captured at the start and finish of an event, eliminating the need for bib numbers and timing chips.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bib numbers and timing chips are used to identify participants, then participant identification can be achieved, but the bib numbers can become torn or obscured and timing chips can be lost, leading to delays and inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the identification function from physical bib numbers and timing chips, replacing them with image recognition technology that identifies participants through their facial features and attire. This removes the fragile physical components while maintaining identification capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical bib numbers and timing chips with an optical and computational system using image collection devices, image processing algorithms, and database matching to identify participants automatically.
2Productivity
If bib numbers are used for identification, then participants can be identified at the finish line, but the identification process is delayed when numbers are torn or obscured
Solution Approach 1:
The system captures images of participants at the start line and stores them in a database before the race begins. This preliminary action allows for immediate identification at the finish line by comparing finish line images against the pre-stored images, eliminating delays caused by damaged bib numbers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies of participant images and stores them in a database. These copies are then used for automatic identification at the finish line, replacing the need for physical bib numbers and enabling rapid, accurate identification even when participants' appearance changes during the event.
3Loss of time
If timing chips are attached to participants, then timing can be accurately recorded, but the chips can be lost during transitions such as removing wetsuits in triathlons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the timing chip from the system entirely, replacing it with image-based identification. Timing is recorded by capturing images at the start and finish lines and automatically calculating the time difference, eliminating the risk of chip loss during transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces image data as an intermediary between the participant and the timing system. Instead of directly attaching a timing device to the participant, the system uses images as a mediator to track and time participants throughout the event, including during transitions where physical chips might be lost.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for identifying and timing an athlete during a timed sporting event. The athlete is timed using image recognition technology in which one or more images of the athlete taken during the sporting event by a camera (106a, 106b, or 106c) is time-stamped to generate a finish time for the athlete. The athlete is identified by comparing one of the images taken during the sporting event with a profile image of the athlete.