Line Array Sensor Timing System for Finish Line Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for measuring passage time in sporting events often record incorrect times due to parasitic objects or people, especially in adverse weather conditions or during events like cycling where non-competitors can cross the finish line.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing an image sensor with a matrix of pixels to capture and process optical signals, detecting additional information about the object's movement and dimensions to verify it is a competitor, allowing accurate measurement of passage time without additional devices on the opposite side of the timing line.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a photoelectric cell with pulsed infrared light transmitter is used to measure passage time, then the measurement can be performed with a simple sensor system, but measurement errors occur due to parasitic objects detected by the sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-point sensor measurement to a line-array sensor measurement. Instead of using a single photoelectric cell that detects objects passing through a point, the invention uses a line array of sensors that detect objects passing across a line. This dimensional change allows the system to distinguish between competitors crossing the finish line and parasitic objects (cars, spectators) by analyzing the spatial pattern of detections along the line, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining relatively simple device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the measurement function across multiple sensors arranged in a line array. Instead of relying on a single sensor that may be triggered by any object, the system divides the detection task across multiple sensor elements. Each sensor detects objects at different positions along the timing line, and the system analyzes the pattern of activations to determine whether a competitor has officially crossed the finish line, thus reducing false measurements.
2Ease of operation
If sensors are placed near the finish line to measure passage time, then the measurement is simple to implement, but parasitic objects like cars or spectators can cross the timing line and cause incorrect measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by extending the sensor detection from a point to a line. The line array of sensors creates a spatial profile of detections along the timing line. By analyzing which specific sensors in the array are activated and in what sequence, the system can determine whether the object crossing is a competitor moving in the correct direction or a parasitic object, thereby improving reliability without complicating the implementation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the control unit continuously monitors the pattern of sensor activations along the line array. When an object crosses the timing line, the system analyzes the spatial-temporal pattern of detections and provides feedback to determine whether it should record a measurement. This feedback loop filters out false positives from parasitic objects while maintaining simple implementation.
3Device complexity
If a single sensor system is placed at one end of the line, then the device complexity is reduced, but additional devices would be needed on the opposite side to prevent parasitic object detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by introducing spatial dimensionality through the line array. Instead of adding more sensor systems at different locations, the invention expands the single system's detection capability along the timing line. The line array provides the additional dimension of spatial information needed to discriminate between competitors and parasitic objects, eliminating the need for opposite-side devices while maintaining precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach ensures accurate measurement of competitor passage times by differentiating between competitors and parasitic objects, reducing errors and allowing for single-sided system implementation, with options for displaying measured times.
Implementation Method 1
acquiring electrical signals representative of the image of the timing line captured by the image sensor, the electrical signals being produced as a function of optical signals received by the sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system and a method for improving the time taken by a competitor to cross a timing line (20) in a race, particularly for a sporting discipline, the method being implemented by a measuring system (23) comprising at least one image sensor, characterized in that the method comprises the following consecutive steps: acquiring electrical signals representative of the image of the timing line (20) captured by the image sensor, the electrical signals being produced as a function of optical signals received by the sensor, transmitting the electrical signals to an image processing unit (21), detecting the passage of an object across a timing line (20), detecting at least one additional piece of information concerning the movement or dimensions of the object to verify that the object corresponds to a competitor (28), transmitting a measurement command for the crossing time to a measuring unit,to measure the time it takes for the said object to pass over the timing line corresponding to the moment the object passed.