Facial Recognition Timing System for Athletic Events
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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 facial features captured by cameras. This eliminates the need for wearable identification devices that can be lost or damaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of bib numbers and timing chips with an optical and computational system using image capture devices and image recognition algorithms. This substitution eliminates the physical wear and loss issues associated with traditional timing devices.
2Ease of operation
If image recognition technology is used to identify participants, then the need for bib numbers and timing chips is eliminated, but the system requires capturing and processing images of participants
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically captures images and performs identification without requiring participant action beyond natural participation in the event. Participants do not need to wear, attach, or interact with any identification devices, making the system extremely easy to use.
Solution Approach 2:
The image capture devices serve multiple functions: capturing participant images for identification, timing participants at start and finish, and potentially creating a media database for additional purposes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated devices.
3Productivity
If conventional timing systems with bib numbers are used, then participant timing can be recorded, but delays occur when numbers become obscured or lost requiring alternative identification methods
Solution Approach 1:
The system captures participant images at the start line before the event begins, establishing identification data in advance. This preliminary capture ensures that timing can proceed without delays during the event, as identification has already been established.
Solution Approach 2:
The image recognition system operates continuously throughout the event, capturing images at start, finish, and potentially intermediate points. This continuous operation eliminates gaps or delays in timing recording that can occur with traditional systems when bib numbers become obscured or lost.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for identifying a person for a sporting event. The person is identified using pass-through facial recognition technology in which one or more images of the person are taken while the person is in motion. The person is identified by comparing one of the images taken while the person is in motion with a profile image of the person.