Race Bib With Programmable RFID Tag Encoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for manufacturing race bibs with programmable RFID tags are labor-intensive and prone to errors, requiring manual programming and matching of tags with competitor numbers, which can lead to tracking system failures if incorrectly applied.
Innovation Solution
A race bib design featuring a programmable RFID tag embedded between two layers, where the competitor number is printed on one layer and encoded into the tag using a combined printer and RFID reader, allowing for efficient and accurate encoding during the assembly process, ensuring the tag number corresponds to the competitor number.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual programming and matching of RFID tags with competitor numbers is used, then flexibility in tag assignment is maintained, but labor intensity increases and error risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service through automatic tag programming where the RFID reader automatically detects the printed competitor number and programs the RFID tag with the corresponding identifier, eliminating the need for manual intervention in tag programming and matching
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations (handwriting, manual tag attachment, manual data entry) with automated systems including digital printing for competitor numbers and RFID readers with automatic programming capability, substituting human labor with automated electromechanical systems
2Productivity
If automated printing and encoding is used, then productivity increases and error risk decreases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated devices: the RFID reader is integrated with the digital printer system, allowing the same device to both print competitor numbers on the bib and automatically program the RFID tag with the corresponding number, reducing the number of separate devices needed
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID reader is designed with multi-functionality, serving both to read the printed competitor number from the bib and to programmatically encode the RFID tag with the same number, eliminating the need for separate programming devices and manual data transfer
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 method significantly reduces labor intensity and eliminates the risk of incorrect tag assignments, enabling faster and more reliable tracking of competitors during races by embedding the encoded tag within the bib, ensuring accurate data correlation and minimizing human error.
Implementation Method 1
the invention relates to a race bib that includes a passive programmable tag that is attached to the bib and is activated when passing antennae on a race course. Specifically, the invention is directed to a race bib that includes a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag
Data Source
AI summary
A race bib and a method of assembling the same. The bib includes a first and second layers with a programmable tag embedded between them. Indicia are provided on a first surface or a second surface of the first layer. A backer is positionable between the tag and the first or second layers. During assembly, a competitor number is printed on the first layer with a digital printer, a tag number correlating to or corresponding to the competitor number is encoded into the tag with a RFID reader. The printing and encoding can be accomplished by a combined printer. Alternatively, an optical scanner reads the printed competitor number and transmits the same to the reader. The second layer overlays the first layer and is thermally welded or adhesively secured to the first layer.