Real-Time RFID Assignment for Event Participants
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current process of assigning RFID chips and participant numbers in events is labor-intensive and error-prone, requiring manual entry and pre-assignment before the participant picks up their race bib, which is time-consuming and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for real-time assignment of RFID chips and participant numbers using mobile devices that read unique identifiers via radio frequency communication, optical codes, or manual entry, allowing simultaneous or separate assignment at a designated pick-up location, reducing manual errors and increasing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If manual entry and pre-assignment of RFID chips and participant numbers are used, then the assignment can be completed before participant pick-up, but the process becomes labor-intensive and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical entry of RFID chip numbers and participant numbers with automated optical scanning systems. Barcode scanners and RFID readers automatically capture identification data, eliminating manual typing and reducing human error while maintaining pre-assignment capability before participant pick-up.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical copies (barcodes printed on participant identification materials) and electronic copies (RFID chip data) to represent the unique identifiers. These copies can be rapidly scanned and transferred to the database without manual intervention, improving both speed and accuracy of the assignment process.
2Productivity
If real-time assignment using mobile devices is implemented, then labor intensity and errors are reduced, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs mobile devices that perform multiple functions: they serve as barcode scanners, RFID readers, data input terminals, and database communication interfaces. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple specialized devices into a single universal tool, improving productivity without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service assignment where participants can complete their own registration and RFID chip assignment by presenting their identification materials to automated scanners. The mobile device facilitates this self-service process, reducing the need for manual intervention from event staff while maintaining system manageability.
3Speed
If automated reading methods are used, then assignment speed increases, but the requirement for additional equipment and infrastructure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines barcode scanning capability and RFID reading capability into a single mobile device platform. This merging of functions allows the system to support multiple automated reading methods without requiring separate dedicated equipment for each method, thereby increasing assignment speed while limiting the growth of equipment requirements.
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 streamlines the assignment process, reducing errors and time consumption by enabling real-time association of RFID chips and participant numbers with registered participants, enhancing event organization efficiency and participant tracking.
Implementation Method 1
RFID chips and readers use Radio Frequency (RF) waves to communicate
Implementation Method 2
These RFID chips, usually referred to as passive chips, harvest all of their power from the incident RF wave
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of assigning an RFID chip and/or a participant number to an event participant who has preregistered for the event. The assignment of the RFID chip and/or participant number to the participant occurs in real-time while the event participant or a designated representative thereof is present at a designated pick-up location to pick up the RFID chip and/or participant number.