Modular RFID Timing Channel for Fast Race Setup
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current sports timing systems for RFID tags are inflexible and complex to set up, requiring skilled personnel and are vulnerable to environmental and mechanical stress, with limited adaptability to varying track widths and conditions.
Innovation Solution
A detection assembly with a channel element protecting an antenna and calculation unit, connectable to form a flexible floor cable channel, using a voltage detection circuitry to ensure power supply and a CAN bus communication for data transfer, allowing easy setup and reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a suitcase-sized decoder with RFID reader is used for detecting passive RFID tags, then the timing function is achieved, but the system becomes complex and difficult to set up quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular detection assemblies, each comprising an RFID reader, antenna, and processing unit that can be independently deployed. These modular units can be quickly assembled and configured without requiring complex centralized setup, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable timing detection through distributed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection assembly incorporates automatic calibration and self-configuration capabilities. The system automatically adjusts detection parameters and configures itself upon deployment, eliminating the need for skilled personnel to perform complex manual setup procedures while ensuring reliable timing detection functionality.
2Measurement precision
If traditional fixed timing systems are installed, then timing accuracy is ensured, but flexibility for accommodating varying track widths and conditions is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The detection assembly incorporates adjustable detection zones and reconfigurable antenna patterns that can be dynamically modified to match different track widths and event conditions. The system can adapt its detection parameters in real-time while maintaining measurement precision through automated calibration routines that adjust to the specific geometric conditions of each event.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection assembly is designed as a universal platform capable of detecting RFID tags across various track configurations and event types. By integrating multiple detection modes and adjustable parameters, the same hardware can accurately measure passing times for different track widths and conditions without requiring specialized equipment for each scenario.
3Loss of time
If rapid deployment is prioritized, then setup time is reduced, but system robustness against environmental and mechanical stress may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The detection assemblies are pre-configured and pre-calibrated during manufacturing, with all necessary software and hardware settings prepared in advance. This preliminary preparation allows the systems to be rapidly deployed on-site without requiring time-consuming setup procedures, while the pre-tested configurations ensure robustness against environmental and mechanical stress from the outset.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates environmental sensors and adaptive algorithms that automatically adjust detection parameters in response to changing environmental conditions. This allows the rapidly deployed system to maintain reliability and resilience by dynamically optimizing its operation based on actual environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and mechanical stress levels.
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
Facilitates quick and adaptable setup of race timing systems, accommodating varying track widths and conditions, enhancing reliability and resilience against environmental impacts, with decentralized RFID reader setup for improved robustness and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a person, a vehicle or an animal, whose time is to be measured, carries a radio element (sports timing transponder, in particular an active or passive RFID tag) for non-contact, automated timing
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a detection assembly (102) for detecting passing sports timing transponders (14) in a sports event, comprising: an antenna (106) and a calculation unit (104) connected to the antenna; and a channel element (22) for positioning the antenna and the calculation unit on an underlying surface and for protecting the antenna and the calculation unit from external forces, wherein said channel element is connectable to a preceding channel element (108) and a following channel element (110) to form a line; said calculation unit is connectable to a first neighboring calculation unit (112) via a first cable (114) extending into the preceding channel element and to a second neighboring calculation unit (116) via a second cable (118) extending into the following channel element; and said calculation unit includes a voltage detection circuitry (124) for detecting whether power is provided to the calculation unit via the first cable or via the second cable. The present invention further relates to a floor cable channel (20) and a race timing system (16).