Transponder Motion Sensor Automated Timing Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sports competition measurement systems require multiple devices and manual intervention due to limited precision, leading to non-automated processes and potential electrostatic discharges, especially when measuring time differences that are below the precision of transponders used.
Innovation Solution
A transponder module with a motion sensor, activated by a low-frequency signal, transmits high-frequency information to a decoder unit for precise automated time measurement, capable of detecting motion variations or vibrations, suitable for various sports competitions, including cycling, swimming, and athletics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional transponders are used for time measurement, then basic time detection is possible, but measurement precision deteriorates when time differences are below transponder precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a transponder module with a motion sensor into an integrated measurement system. The transponder provides identification and basic timing, while the motion sensor detects movement variations to precisely determine passage times. This merging allows the system to achieve high measurement precision for small time differences while maintaining full automation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The motion sensor acts as an intermediary between the transponder and the timing system. It detects mechanical motion (such as a cyclist crossing a finish line) and converts it into signals that trigger precise time recording. This intermediary enables accurate measurement of passage times even when the time difference is below the transponder's inherent precision.
2Reliability
If multiple devices are used for time detection, then measurement reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using separate transponder and motion detection devices, the patent merges them into a single integrated transponder module. The module contains both the transponder circuitry and the motion sensor, along with processing logic. This integration maintains measurement reliability by combining multiple detection functions while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transponder module is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both an identification device and a motion detection device. It can detect various types of motion (linear movement, rotation, vibration) and adapt to different sports applications. This universal design reduces the need for multiple specialized devices while maintaining high measurement reliability.
3Measurement precision
If electrical contactors are used for finish line detection, then arrival time measurement is possible, but electrostatic discharges occur affecting runners
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical contactor system with a motion sensor-based detection system. Instead of using electrical contacts that create electrostatic discharges, the motion sensor detects mechanical motion (such as the cyclist's movement or the bicycle wheel rotation) to trigger arrival time recording. This substitution eliminates harmful electrostatic effects while maintaining precise arrival time measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The motion sensor serves as an intermediary that detects arrival without direct electrical contact with the athlete. It senses mechanical motion through non-contact or minimal-contact means, preventing electrostatic discharge while still accurately determining arrival time. This intermediary approach resolves the conflict between measurement precision and athlete safety.
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
Enables precise and automated time measurement in sports competitions with reduced system complexity, allowing for accurate detection of passage or arrival times and eliminating the need for manual control, while being adaptable to different types of sports events.
Implementation Method 1
a motion sensor which is capable of supplying at least one detection signal for measuring at least one detection of a variation in movement of the transponder module or a level of vibration of the transponder module
Implementation Method 2
activated by a low-frequency signal transmitted by an antenna of a transmission unit
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The measuring method involves activating personalized transponder module (10) at start or in one or more intermediate positions or at the finish line (6) of competition. A motion sensor in transponder module detects at least one variation in motion or level of vibrations. Data, linked to one or more detections by motion sensor on competition route or in intermediate positions or at finish line of competition, is transmitted to decoder unit (4) of time measuring system (1) in order to check at least one time or elapsed period linked to one or more detections by motion sensor of competitor.