RFID Tag Assembly for Accurate Race Timing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Race management systems face challenges in coordinating large numbers of participants, accurately timing runners, and accessing medical information during marathons, particularly due to issues with bibs becoming unreadable and the need for efficient data collection at the finish line.
Innovation Solution
A customizable RFID tag system integrated into a bib, where a programmable tag is secured between outer and inner layers, allowing it to be removable and secured around shoelaces, transmitting data to antennas for accurate timing and medical information access, even in damp conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional bibs with printed information are used, then runners can be identified and medical information can be stored, but the information becomes unreadable when runners perspire during the race
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/print-based information storage system with an electronic RFID system. Instead of relying on printed text that can be damaged by perspiration, the invention uses an RFID tag that stores medical information and runner identification electronically, which can be read by antennas without physical contact or visual inspection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a digital copy of the runner's medical information and identification data stored in the RFID tag, separate from the physical bib. This digital copy can be accessed multiple times without degrading the original information, solving the problem of information becoming unreadable due to perspiration.
2Measurement precision
If multiple organizers are deployed to monitor the finish line and verify medical information, then accurate timing and medical verification can be achieved, but the cost and complexity of the race management system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID system enables self-service timing and identification. As runners pass through the finish line, antennas automatically detect and read the RFID tags without requiring human intervention for timing or verification. The system self-records finish times and can self-verify identification, reducing the need for multiple organizers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automated feedback loops where RFID antennas continuously detect tags, record timing data, and verify information against the database. This automated feedback mechanism replaces manual verification by organizers, maintaining measurement precision while reducing human resource requirements.
3Measurement precision
If runners wait for all previous runners to cross the start line before beginning, then the official timing system can accurately measure race distance, but runners experience delayed start times and extended race durations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical crowd-control-based starting system with an electronic RFID tracking system. Instead of requiring all runners to physically line up and wait, the RFID system can electronically track and time each runner individually as they pass through the start line, enabling more flexible and efficient race start procedures.
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
The system enables efficient participant tracking, accurate race timing, and quick access to medical information, reducing the need for multiple organizers and improving runner safety by maintaining readable data throughout the race.
Implementation Method 1
An antenna may be disposed on the course which activates the programmable tag and the programmable tag transmits the encoded data to the antenna
Data Source
AI summary
A race management system which includes an RFID tag located between an inner and outer layer and is removably secured to a participant's bib through a mounting film. The inner layer is secured to a second inner layer having at least one fold line and an adhesive portion outward of the at least one fold line. The RFID tag is secured around a portion of the participant's shoe and is activated by at least one antenna to transmit identification data encoded on the tag. The encoded data corresponds to indicia printed on the bib and allows automatic collection of running times.