Mobile RFID Transponder Programming Apparatus for On-Site Sports Event ID Assignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sports timing RFID transponder programming and labeling processes are complex, costly, and inefficient, particularly due to the need for specialized equipment and pre-production of transponders, leading to surplus and waste, as well as logistical challenges in ensuring sufficient on-site availability for late registrations.
Innovation Solution
A mobile apparatus for on-site programming of sports timing RFID transponders, comprising a supply unit, programmer unit, conveyor unit, processing unit, and reader unit, which allows for direct programming and verification of transponders without the need for pre-labeling or extensive logistics, enabling efficient and reliable ID assignment at sports events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If transponders are pre-programmed and shipped before the sports event, then logistics are simplified and participants can be registered in advance, but surplus transponders must be ordered to accommodate late registrations resulting in waste and high disposal costs
Solution Approach 1:
The system preps transponders with event-specific identification information and stores them in the mobile apparatus before the sports event. This allows rapid on-site programming without needing to order surplus transponders, as the apparatus can program transponders as needed for late registrations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile apparatus dynamically changes the identification information parameter in transponders based on real-time registration data. This allows the system to adapt to varying registration numbers without wasting pre-programmed transponders, as each transponder is programmed with the correct ID at the moment of registration.
2Manufacturing precision
If specialized RFID-printer equipment is used for programming and labeling transponders, then transponders can be programmed with unique identification information, but the equipment is heavy, expensive, and designed for stationary use making it unsuitable for on-site operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the programming function from the labeling function. The mobile apparatus handles only the RFID programming task with high precision, while labeling is performed separately using simpler, more portable equipment. This segmentation allows the programming device to be compact and mobile while maintaining programming accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile apparatus is designed as a universal programming device that can work with different transponder types and integrate with various registration systems. It provides the essential programming function portably, while other specialized functions (like printing) can be handled by separate, simpler devices.
3Quantity of substance
If transponders are ordered late to reduce costs, then budget is optimized, but logistical challenges increase to ensure sufficient availability for late registrations
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile apparatus enables on-site self-service programming of transponders directly at the registration location. Participants can register and receive programmed transponders immediately without requiring advance logistics coordination for transponder distribution, simplifying the entire process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds the dimension of time by enabling just-in-time transponder programming at the event location. Instead of requiring all transponders to be prepared in advance (temporal dimension), the mobile apparatus allows programming to occur in the spatial dimension at the registration point, eliminating the need for early ordering and surplus inventory.
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 solution reduces costs and logistical complexities by allowing on-site programming of transponders as needed, eliminating the need for surplus production and labeling, ensuring adequate supply and minimizing errors in ID assignment, while enabling efficient and reliable RFID identification at sports events.
Implementation Method 1
a programmer unit (28) including a programming antenna (30) for programming the transponder (16) with an identification information
Implementation Method 2
a reader unit (50) including a reader antenna (54) for reading a transponder (16) in a reading position (52)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a mobile apparatus (22) for programming a sports timing RFID transponder (16) on-site at a sports event, comprising: a supply unit (24) for holding a supply (26) of transponders; a programmer unit (28) including a programming antenna (30) for programming the transponder with an identification information; a conveyor unit (32) for conveying the transponder from the supply unit to a programming position (34), in which a transponder antenna (18) of the transponder is aligned with the programming antenna, and from the programming position to a dispensing position (36), in which the transponder can be removed after programming; a processing unit (38) for controlling the programmer unit and the conveyor unit; and a robust housing (40) for protecting the programmer unit, the conveyor unit and the processing unit from external force effects. The present invention further relates to use of a mobile apparatus on-site at a sports event as well as to a method and a system for programming a sports timing RFID transponder on-site at a sports event.