JP2008142382A - Racing time counting system, wireless device, and time transmission method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a racing time counting system, etc. capable of appropriately transmitting time information of each racer even if interference occurs in a part of radio frequency bands. <P>SOLUTION: A channel setting console 60 recognizes the situation of interference in the radio frequency band according to the result of examination by a receiver 61 for examination, and selects an allocation pattern from a plurality of allocation patterns. Then, the channel setting console controls a modulation magnetic field generating device 40 to superimpose a pattern number of the selected allocation pattern on the electromagnetic field on a loop coil 41. When the pattern number is demodulated from the electromagnetic field on the loop coil 41, a wireless tag 90 reads the corresponding allocation pattern and recognizes channels to be allocated. Then, when a pole changing point of the electromagnetic field on a loop coil 51 is detected, time information including the racing time is transmitted to a receiver 71 using one of the allocated channels. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a timekeeping system, a wireless device, and a time transmission method capable of appropriately transmitting time information of individual athletes even when a failure occurs in a part of a radio frequency band.

In recent years, in marathon competitions, attempts have been made to measure (clock) the goal time of each individual athlete. For example, a measurement system that measures a competitor's individual goal time based on the time when a barcode was printed on a competitor's race bib and the reader's barcode was read by a reader has been put into practical use. Yes.
Recently, in order to be able to measure the competition time including the passing time at each timing point, an attempt has been made to measure the competition time of each athlete without contact. For example, a measurement system for measuring a competition time has been developed based on information sent from the tag transmitter by allowing a player to hold a tag transmitter, and an operation test for practical use has been attempted.

More specifically, a trigger signal is transmitted from a square loop coil or the like into the measurement area on the competition track, and when the athlete holding the tag transmitter travels within the measurement area, In response, an ID (such as an identification number) is transmitted from the tag transmitter. And ID receiving unit receives this ID, and measures the number of laps of each athlete, competition time, etc. (for example, refer to patent documents 1).
In addition to this, a technique is also disclosed in which the tag transmitter transmits an ID using weak radio waves in the UHF band, etc., so as to increase the communication distance of the tag transmitter (see, for example, Patent Document 2).
JP 2003-141497 A (page 2-4, FIG. 2) JP 2004-125765 A (page 3-4, FIG. 2)

In the techniques of Patent Documents 1 and 2 described above, the tag transmitter continues to transmit the ID without interruption while receiving the trigger signal in the timing area (Patent Document 2 at random intervals). Repeated transmission).
This is because a trigger signal is transmitted by a square loop coil, and it is extremely difficult to detect an accurate trigger point (for example, a time line such as a goal line) in the time measuring area with a tag transmitter. Due to For this reason, the tag transmitter starts transmitting ID as soon as the competitor enters the timing area and detects the trigger signal, and continues to transmit the ID until it exits the timing area and finishes detecting the trigger signal.
On the other hand, when receiving the ID for the first time, the ID receiving unit sets the time as the start time, and when receiving the ID, sets the time as the end time. And the competition time of the player corresponding to this ID was time-measured by calculating | requiring the intermediate | middle time from a start time to an end time.

However, in the techniques of Patent Documents 1 and 2, when a large number of athletes arrive in the timing area at the same time, the ID receiving unit side may not receive the ID that should be transmitted appropriately. This is because a situation in which the processing on the ID receiving unit side cannot catch up due to a plurality of tag transmitters continuously transmitting IDs to each other in the timing area, or a collision occurs when each ID is transmitted. Because.
For this reason, the start time and end time cannot be obtained correctly in the ID receiving unit, and the inaccurate competition time is timed, or the competition time to be timed is almost lost without receiving the ID. There was a problem.
In the technique disclosed in Patent Document 2, the tag transmitter transmits IDs at random intervals to suppress the occurrence of collision. In reality, however, a collision occurred while each tag transmitter repeatedly transmitted an ID within the timing area.
Therefore, it is conceivable to increase the number of channels (radio frequencies) used for communication in order to suppress the occurrence of such collisions. For example, a predetermined number of channels are used in a specific radio frequency band, and a different channel is appropriately allocated to each tag transmitter.

However, when a highly versatile radio frequency band such as specific low power is used for communication, some channels in the band may be used by other devices in the vicinity. In this case, the tag transmitter cannot perform communication using the channel at all, and even if communication is possible, the traffic (communication amount) is extremely limited.
That is, when the same channel is used by another device, a failure (communication failure) has occurred in which communication cannot be performed from the tag transmitter assigned to that channel.

Moreover, there are a wide variety of devices that can be other devices, and it is actually impossible to predict which channel will be used when other devices are used. In other words, depending on the environment, a failure may occur in any channel in the radio frequency band, and it is difficult to prevent the occurrence of the failure.
Therefore, there has been a demand for a technique that can perform appropriate communication in response to a failure occurring in an arbitrary channel.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above situation, and even if a failure occurs in a part of the radio frequency band, a timekeeping system for a competition, a wireless device, which can appropriately transmit time information of each player, And it aims at providing the time transmission method.

In order to achieve the above object, a timing system for competition according to the first aspect of the present invention is:
A competition timing system including a plurality of wireless devices carried by each athlete and a receiving device that receives information transmitted from each wireless device,
Each wireless device includes
A time measuring means for measuring time;
Pattern storage means for storing a plurality of allocation patterns of each communication channel used by allocating a predetermined number to the radio frequency band;
Designation information acquisition means for acquiring designation information for designating any one of the allocation patterns from the electromagnetic field generated by the first loop coil arranged on the runway;
A channel identifying unit that reads out an allocation pattern designated by the designation information obtained by the designation information obtaining unit from the pattern storage unit, and identifies a communication channel used by itself among the assigned communication channels;
Detection means for detecting a trigger point based on an increase or decrease in the electromagnetic field strength of the electromagnetic field generated by the second loop coil disposed on the runway;
When the detection unit detects the trigger point, time information including the time measured by the time measuring unit is directed to the receiving-side device using the communication channel specified by the channel specifying unit. Wireless communication means for transmitting
The receiving device includes
A fault condition detecting means for detecting a fault condition in the radio frequency band;
Pattern selection means for selecting any allocation pattern based on the failure status detected by the failure status detection means;
An electromagnetic field generating means for generating an electromagnetic field on which the designation information about the allocation pattern selected by the pattern selecting means is superimposed on the first loop coil;
Receiving means for receiving the time information transmitted from each wireless device using each communication channel according to the allocation pattern selected by the pattern selecting means;
It is characterized by that.

  According to this invention, in each wireless device, the time measuring means, for example, measures the running time that is the reference time in the competition. The pattern storage means stores a plurality of allocation patterns for each communication channel that are used by being assigned a predetermined number of radio frequency bands. The designation information acquisition means acquires designation information (for example, a pattern number) for designating any of the allocation patterns from the electromagnetic field generated by the first loop coil arranged on the runway. The channel specifying means reads the assignment pattern designated by the designation information obtained by the designation information obtaining means from the pattern storage means, and identifies the communication channel used by itself among the assigned communication channels. A detection means detects a trigger point based on increase / decrease in the electromagnetic field intensity of the electromagnetic field produced | generated by the 2nd loop coil arrange | positioned on a runway. Then, when the trigger point is detected by the detecting means, the wireless communication means sends the time information including the time measured by the time measuring means to the receiving side device using the communication channel specified by the channel specifying means. Send to. On the other hand, in the receiving device, the failure status detection means detects the failure status in the radio frequency band. The pattern selection means selects any one of the allocation patterns based on the failure situation detected by the failure situation detection means. The electromagnetic field generating means causes the first loop coil to generate an electromagnetic field on which designation information on the allocation pattern selected by the pattern selecting means is superimposed. And a receiving means receives the time information transmitted from each radio | wireless apparatus using each communication channel according to the allocation pattern which the pattern selection means selected.

  As a result, even when a failure occurs in a part of the radio frequency band, the time information of each player can be transmitted appropriately.

Each wireless device is further provided with transmission control means for transmitting the time information transmitted by the wireless communication means over a plurality of times,
The wireless communication means determines the presence / absence of transmission from the other wireless device to the receiving device in the communication channel specified by the channel specifying means, and is specified only when it is determined that there is no transmission. The time information may be transmitted to the receiving device using the communication channel.

The channel specifying means specifies a plurality of communication channels used by itself among the communication channels assigned according to the assignment pattern,
The transmission control means may transmit the time information transmitted by the wireless communication means while changing each specified communication channel.

The allocation pattern defines the allocation to the radio frequency band for the communication channel used regularly and the auxiliary communication channel used auxiliary.
The transmission control unit may transmit the time information using the standby communication channel when the wireless communication unit has obtained a plurality of communication opportunities but has not transmitted the time information even once. Good.

The failure status detection means detects whether or not a failure has occurred for all communication channels divided into the radio frequency bands,
The pattern selection means may select an allocation pattern that is allocated avoiding a communication channel in which a failure has occurred.

In order to achieve the above object, the wireless device according to the second aspect of the present invention is a wireless device that is carried by each athlete and transmits information to the receiving device,
A time measuring means for measuring time;
Pattern storage means for storing a plurality of allocation patterns of each communication channel used by allocating a predetermined number to the radio frequency band;
Designation information obtaining means for obtaining designation information for designating any of the allocation patterns from the first electromagnetic field generated on the runway;
A channel identifying unit that reads out an allocation pattern designated by the designation information obtained by the designation information obtaining unit from the pattern storage unit, and identifies a communication channel used by itself among the assigned communication channels;
Detecting means for detecting a trigger point based on an increase or decrease in the electromagnetic field intensity of the second electromagnetic field generated on the runway;
When the detection unit detects the trigger point, time information including the time measured by the time measuring unit is directed to the receiving-side device using the communication channel specified by the channel specifying unit. Wireless communication means for transmitting
It is characterized by providing.

  According to this invention, the time measuring means, for example, measures the running time that is the reference time in the competition. The pattern storage means stores a plurality of allocation patterns for each communication channel that are used by being assigned a predetermined number of radio frequency bands. The designation information acquisition means acquires designation information (for example, a pattern number or the like) for designating any one of the allocation patterns from the first electromagnetic field generated on the runway. The channel specifying means reads the assignment pattern designated by the designation information obtained by the designation information obtaining means from the pattern storage means, and identifies the communication channel used by itself among the assigned communication channels. A detection means detects a trigger point based on increase / decrease in the electromagnetic field intensity of the 2nd electromagnetic field produced | generated on the runway. Then, when the trigger point is detected by the detecting means, the wireless communication means sends the time information including the time measured by the time measuring means to the receiving side device using the communication channel specified by the channel specifying means. Send to.

  As a result, even when a failure occurs in a part of the radio frequency band, the time information of each player can be transmitted appropriately.

In order to achieve the above object, a time transmission method according to a third aspect of the present invention includes:
A time transmission method in a competition timing system including a plurality of wireless devices carried by each athlete, and a receiving device that receives information transmitted from each wireless device,
Each of the wireless devices has a storage unit that stores a plurality of allocation patterns of each communication channel used by allocating a predetermined number to a radio frequency band,
In the receiving device, a failure status detection step of detecting a failure status in the radio frequency band;
In the receiving device, a pattern selection step of selecting any allocation pattern based on the failure status detected in the failure status detection step;
In the receiving device, an electromagnetic field generation step for causing the first loop coil to generate an electromagnetic field on which designation information on the allocation pattern selected in the pattern selection step is superimposed;
In each wireless device, a time measuring step for measuring time;
In each of the wireless devices, a designation information acquisition step of acquiring designation information for designating any of the allocation patterns from the electromagnetic field generated by the first loop coil arranged on the runway;
In each of the wireless devices, a channel for specifying a communication channel to be used by itself among the communication channels to be allocated is read out from the storage unit and specified by the specification information acquired in the specification information acquisition step. Specific steps,
In each of the wireless devices, a detection step of detecting a trigger point based on an increase or decrease in the electromagnetic field intensity of the electromagnetic field generated by the second loop coil disposed on the runway;
In each wireless device, when the trigger point is detected in the detection step, time information including the time measured in the time measurement step is used for the communication channel specified in the channel specification step. A wireless communication step for transmitting to the receiving device;
In the receiving side device, according to the allocation pattern selected in the pattern selection step, a receiving step of receiving the time information transmitted from the wireless devices using the communication channels;
It is characterized by providing.

  According to the present invention, in the failure side detection step, the failure state in the radio frequency band is detected in the reception side device. In the pattern selection step, any allocation pattern is selected based on the failure status detected in the failure status detection step. In the electromagnetic field generation step, the first loop coil is caused to generate an electromagnetic field on which the designation information on the allocation pattern selected in the pattern selection step is superimposed. On the other hand, in each wireless device, in the time measuring step, for example, a running time that is a reference time in the competition is measured. In the designation information acquisition step, designation information (for example, a pattern number or the like) for designating any of the allocation patterns is acquired from the electromagnetic field generated by the first loop coil arranged on the road. In the channel identification step, the allocation pattern designated by the designation information acquired in the designation information acquisition step is read from the storage unit, and the communication channel used by itself is specified among the allocated communication channels. In the detection step, a trigger point is detected based on an increase or decrease in the electromagnetic field intensity of the electromagnetic field generated by the second loop coil arranged on the runway. In the wireless communication step, when the trigger point is detected in the detection step, the time information including the time measured in the time measurement step is received using the communication channel specified in the channel specification step. Send it to the device. Further, in the receiving device, in the receiving step, time information transmitted from each wireless device is received using each communication channel in accordance with the allocation pattern selected in the pattern selecting step.

  As a result, even when a failure occurs in a part of the radio frequency band, the time information of each player can be transmitted appropriately.

  According to the present invention, even when a failure occurs in a part of the radio frequency band, it is possible to appropriately transmit time information of each player.

  A game timing system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. As an example, a timing system for competition that is applied to a marathon competition and counts the competition time of each athlete will be described.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a configuration of a game timing system applied to the embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, the relay points and goal points for time measurement will be collectively described as time points for convenience. That is, the timekeeping points in the figure indicate relay points and goal points.

  As shown in the figure, the timing system for competition includes a transmission control box 10 installed at the start point, a transmitter 11, a time synchronization console 20, a timer device 30, a modulated magnetic field generator 40 installed at the time point, and a loop coil. 41, magnetic field generator 50, loop coil 51, channel setting console 60, inspection receiver 61, reception control box 70, receiver 71, processing device 80, and wireless tag 90 carried by each player RN, It is comprised including.

The transmission control box 10 disposed at the start point is connected to the timer device 30 and transmits the running time to the wireless tag 90 of the player RN via the transmitter 11.
For example, the transmission control box 10 performs time distribution toward the wireless tag 90 after the competition starts (after the running time of the timer device 30 is corrected).

The transmitter 11 is controlled by the transmission control box 10 and transmits time information for time synchronization. That is, time distribution is performed toward the wireless tag 90.
For example, the transmitter 11 transmits time information including a running time (Hr: Mr: Sr.sr) measured by the timer device 30 to the wireless tag 90 and synchronizes with the running time.

  The time synchronization console 20 is a console terminal that controls the transmission control box 10 and displays the operation status of the transmission control box 10 and is appropriately used for control and monitoring by the competition officials.

  The transmission control box 10, the transmitter 11, and the time synchronization console 20 are also arranged at the time point, for example, time information is transmitted immediately before the competition time is measured, and the running time is re-established to the wireless tag 90. You may make it set.

The timer device 30 measures the running time that is the reference time in the competition. As an example, each timer device 30 counts down to the scheduled start time of the competition and up-counts the running time from the scheduled start time.
The timer device 30 is connected to the start pistol SP, and when a start signal is supplied from the start pistol SP together with a signal for starting the competition, the time difference between the actual start time and the running time is obtained. Then, the running time is corrected according to this time difference, and then the accurate running time is measured.

The modulation magnetic field generation device 40 at the time point is disposed, for example, along the roadway, and generates an electromagnetic field on the loop coil 41. Specifically, the modulation magnetic field generator 40 modulates the sine wave by a predetermined method in accordance with a sine wave generation circuit that generates a sine wave synchronized with a predetermined frequency and information (pattern number to be described later) to be transmitted to the wireless tag 90. And a power amplifier circuit that amplifies the modulated signal (modulated signal) and supplies the amplified signal to the loop coil 41.
The modulation magnetic field generator 40 is controlled by the channel setting console 60 and appropriately sets (changes) the pattern number to be transmitted.

The loop coil 41 is a coil formed in a substantially square shape, and is appropriately arranged on the runway on which the player RN runs. In addition, the loop coil 41 is arrange | positioned on the runway before the loop coil 51 (time-measurement point).
As an example, as shown in FIG. 2A, the loop coil 41 is separated by a predetermined distance in parallel with a straight line b extending in a direction orthogonal to the running direction (direction of arrow A) of the player RN as a center line. It is formed in a substantially rectangular (rectangular) shape along the straight lines a and c. And it forms so that it may have the feeding point s on one side, and a current flows from this feeding point s in the direction of the arrow.
When the modulation signal is supplied from the modulation magnetic field generator 40 through the feeding point s, the loop coil 41 generates a modulated AC electromagnetic field on the coil. Specifically, an electromagnetic field as shown in FIG. 2B is generated. For example, a pattern number (preamble and pattern number) as shown in FIG. 2C modulated by an amplitude modulation method such as OOK (On-Off-Keying) is superimposed on the electromagnetic field.
This pattern number is information for designating the allocation pattern of each communication channel used by allocating a predetermined number (for example, 23 channels) to the radio frequency band. Although details of the allocation pattern will be described later, a plurality of (for example, five types) allocation patterns are defined in advance, and an allocation pattern corresponding to this pattern number is designated.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the magnetic field generator 50 is disposed along the road, for example, and generates an electromagnetic field on the loop coil 51. Specifically, the magnetic field generation device 50 includes a sine wave generation circuit that generates a sine wave synchronized with a predetermined frequency, and a power amplification circuit that amplifies the generated sine wave and supplies the sine wave to the loop coil 51. .

The loop coil 51 is a coil formed in a substantially “eight-figure” shape, and is appropriately arranged at a timing point on the runway.
As an example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the loop coil 51 is formed in an 8-character shape in which two rectangular (rectangular) coil portions are connected in the running direction of the player RN (the direction of arrow A). ing. More specifically, the loop coil 51 is wound in the forward direction of the figure 8, and is formed so as to have a feeding point s at the center (middle point) of the figure 8, that is, at the intersection, and passes through the feeding point s. The upper and lower portions of the figure 8 are formed along the straight lines a and b that are substantially parallel to each other with a predetermined distance, with the straight line b extending in the direction orthogonal to the running direction of the player RN as the center line. The loop coil 51 is arranged so that the straight line b overlaps with the time line L shown in FIG.

The loop coil 51 is configured such that a current flows in the direction of the arrow from the feeding point s in FIG. 3A. When a sine wave is supplied from the magnetic field generator 50, an AC electromagnetic field is generated on the coil. . Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3B, the first electromagnetic field 510a is generated on one coil part, and the player RN runs against the first electromagnetic field 510a on the other coil part. A second electromagnetic field 510b that is adjacent to the direction (the direction of arrow A) and cancels the electromagnetic force with the first electromagnetic field 510a is generated.
That is, the electromagnetic field strength of the electromagnetic field on the straight line b is extremely smaller than the electromagnetic field strengths on both sides of the first electromagnetic field 510a and the second electromagnetic field 510b due to the cancellation of the magnetic force of the electromagnetic field (for example, the electromagnetic field). The field strength is “0”).

In the electromagnetic field as shown in FIG. 3B, the electromagnetic field detection direction (direction perpendicular to the detection coil surface D) is perpendicular to the travel path (that is, the detection coil surface D is parallel to the travel path). When the electromagnetic field detection coil C (LF antenna 91 of the wireless tag 90 described later) moves in the direction of arrow B, an electromagnetic field intensity distribution as shown in FIG. That is, the electromagnetic field detection coil C captures the magnetic flux in the direction perpendicular to the running path at the detection coil surface D, and therefore the electromagnetic field strength is extremely small (for example, the electromagnetic field strength is “0”). An electromagnetic field intensity distribution as shown in 3 (c) is detected.
For this reason, when the player RN passes on the loop coil 51 along the arrow B direction, the wireless tag 90 moves on the time line L (on the straight line b) on the first electromagnetic field 510a and the second electromagnetic field. It can be detected as an inflection point (trigger point described later) of the electromagnetic field between 510b.

Returning to FIG. 1, the channel setting console 60 arranged at the timing point is composed of a personal computer or the like, and determines whether or not a failure has occurred in the radio frequency band from the inspection result (detection result) of the inspection receiver 61. Then, when a failure occurs, the modulation magnetic field generator 40 and the reception control box 70 are controlled so that communication avoiding the channel where the failure has occurred is performed.
Specifically, the channel setting console 60 stores, for example, five types of allocation patterns as shown in FIGS. 4A to 4E, and any one of them is appropriately selected according to the failure state of the radio frequency band. select. That is, when a failure occurs in some channels in the radio frequency band, an allocation pattern that does not include the channels is selected.
Then, the channel setting console 60 controls the modulation magnetic field generator 40 to superimpose a pattern number for designating the selected allocation pattern on the electromagnetic field on the loop coil 41. Further, the selected allocation pattern is supplied to the reception control box 70, and communication using the allocated channel (reception of information transmitted from the wireless tag 90) is performed.

Hereinafter, the assignment pattern shown in FIG. 4 will be described.
Each allocation pattern shown in FIG. 4 is information that defines an allocation pattern for 23 channels to be used among all 46 channels divided into radio frequency bands. “1st” in the figure indicates the first area, and 10 channels are allocated. “2nd” indicates the second area, and similarly, 10 channels are allocated.
As will be described later, the wireless tag 90 transmits time information twice using any one channel of the first area, and then uses one channel of the second area to transmit time. Send information once.
Also, “Busy-1”, “Busy-2”, and “Busy-3” in the figure are auxiliary channels that are used supplementarily, and as described later, the wireless tag 90 has three communication opportunities. In FIG. 1, communication using these spare channels is performed when transmission is not possible even once because other wireless tags 90 are busy (transmitting on the same channel).
“Busy-1” is assigned immediately after the second area (2nd), “Busy-2” is assigned immediately before the second area, and “Busy-3” is assigned to the first area. Allocated immediately before the area (1st).

More specifically, the allocation pattern (pattern No. 1) shown in FIG. 4A is an allocation used when no failure occurs in the radio frequency band (or when a failure occurs in the entire area). It is a pattern, and 23 channels out of 46 channels are assigned so that every other channel is used in the entire area. In addition, the first area and the second area are allocated separately in the first half and the second half of the entire area.
On the other hand, each allocation pattern (pattern No. 2 to No. 5) shown in FIGS. 4B to 4E is an allocation pattern used when a failure occurs in a part of the area, and has 46 channels. The middle 23 channels are assigned to be used in the half zone (Zone 1 to 4) of the entire area without being spaced.

The channel setting console 60 storing such an allocation pattern selects any one allocation pattern according to the failure state of the radio frequency band obtained from the inspection result of the inspection receiver 61.
For example, the channel setting console 60 selects the allocation pattern shown in FIG. 4A in a situation where no failure has occurred in the radio frequency band (or a failure has occurred in the entire area). On the other hand, in a situation where a failure has occurred in a part of the radio frequency band (partial channel), the channel setting console 60 is assigned (except for) that channel (see FIG. 4). Any one of the allocation patterns b) to (e) is selected.
Then, the channel setting console 60 controls the modulation magnetic field generator 40 to superimpose the pattern number corresponding to the selected allocation pattern on the electromagnetic field on the loop coil 41, and the selected allocation pattern is received in the reception control box 70. The communication is performed using the channel allocated according to the allocation pattern.

Returning to FIG. 1, for example, the inspection receiver 61 is arranged in the vicinity of the receiver 71 and the like, and in the radio frequency band (entire area), communication by other devices (devices unrelated to the competition timing system) is performed. Detect the presence or absence.
For example, the inspection receiver 61 detects the presence / absence of communication by other devices while switching the channels every predetermined time for all channels (for example, 46 channels) in the radio frequency band. Then, the detection result in each channel is supplied to the channel setting console 60.

The reception control box 70 receives time information (competition time and tag ID described later) sent from the wireless tag 90 via the receiver 71. That is, the competition time etc. transmitted from the radio | wireless tag 90 of the player RN who passed the timing line L on the loop coil 51 mentioned above are received.
The reception control box 70 controls the receiver 71 according to the allocation pattern supplied from the channel setting console 60, tunes to the allocated channel, and receives time information sent from each wireless tag 90.

The receiver 71 is disposed in the vicinity of the loop coil 51 and the like, and receives time information sent from the wireless tag 90.
Specifically, the receivers 71 are arranged in a number (for example, 23 units) that can receive communications for 23 channels at the same time, and are controlled by the reception control box 70 to use a radio tag using channels assigned according to an assignment pattern. The time information sent from 90 is received. Then, the received time information is supplied to the reception control box 70.

  The processing device 80 collects competition time and the like of each competitor RN. For example, the competition time and tag ID included in the time information received by the reception control box 70 are collected.

On the other hand, the wireless tag 90 carried (held) by the athlete RN moves on the runway with the athlete RN at the start of the competition, and passes through a timekeeping point (such as a relay point) on the way from the starting point. Reach the time point (goal point).
At each time point, the wireless tag 90 receives the pattern number from the electromagnetic field generated on the loop coil 41, reads the corresponding assignment pattern, and grasps each channel assigned at the time point. When the inflection point (trigger point) of the electromagnetic field generated on the loop coil 51 is detected, the competition time of the player RN is obtained from the time counted at this time, and one of the assigned channels is used. Time information (competition time and tag ID) is transmitted to the receiver 71.
Specifically, the wireless tag 90 transmits time information twice using one channel of the first area in the allocation pattern, and then transmits time information once using one channel of the second area. To do.
At that time, the wireless tag 90 performs carrier sense before each transmission to determine whether another wireless tag 90 is using (busy) a channel used for communication by itself. In order to prevent the occurrence of collision, communication is not performed. Then, when the transmission cannot be performed once in three communication opportunities, communication using the backup channels (Busy-1 to Busy-3) is performed.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the wireless tag 90 includes an LF antenna 91, an amplifier circuit 92, a detection circuit 93, a demodulation circuit 94, a control unit 95, a timer unit 96, a storage unit 97, A communication circuit 98 and a communication antenna 99 are included.

An LF (Low Frequency) antenna 91 detects an electromagnetic field generated from the loop coil 41 and the loop coil 51 described above. That is, the electromagnetic field (with modulation) generated on the loop coil 41 by the modulated magnetic field generator 40 is detected, and the electromagnetic field (without modulation) generated on the loop coil 51 by the magnetic field generator 50 is detected.
Then, the LF antenna 91 supplies a detection signal indicating the detected electromagnetic field intensity to the amplifier circuit 92.

  The amplifier circuit 92 appropriately amplifies the detection signal supplied from the LF antenna 91 and supplies the amplified detection signal to the detection circuit 93 and the demodulation circuit 94.

The detection circuit 93 detects the arrival on the loop coil 41 or the loop coil 51 in accordance with the detection signal supplied from the amplification circuit 92, and further detects the inflection point of the electromagnetic field on the loop coil 51.
For example, on the loop coil 41, as shown in FIG. 6A, the detection circuit 93 sets the detection output to “HI” when the electromagnetic field strength of the electromagnetic field becomes equal to or higher than the threshold value, and detects when the electromagnetic field strength becomes lower than the threshold value. The output is “LO”. The detection circuit 93 also detects the presence or absence of modulation. That is, since the combination of “HI” and “LO” indicating the communication timing pattern is expressed by the modulation speed from the state of “HI” once, the detection circuit 93 detects the player RN (wireless tag) when detecting this pulse train. 90) can be detected on the loop coil 41.
On the other hand, on the loop coil 51, as shown in FIG. 6B, the detection circuit 93 sets the detection output to “HI” when the electromagnetic field intensity of the first electromagnetic field 510a and the second electromagnetic field 510b is equal to or higher than the threshold value. To do. At this time, since the electromagnetic field on the loop coil 51 is not modulated, the state of “HI” at the first time continues for a predetermined period or more, and the detection circuit 93 detects that there is no modulation. That is, the detection circuit 93 detects that the player RN has reached the loop coil 51 because there is no modulation in the electromagnetic field.
When the electromagnetic field intensity falls below the threshold between the first electromagnetic field 510a and the second electromagnetic field 510b, the detection circuit 93 sets the detection output to “LO”, and then detects the second electromagnetic field 510b. The state of “HI” for the second time is detected as an inflection point of the electromagnetic field. That is, the detection circuit 93 specifies the state of “HI” in the second time shown in FIG. 6B as the trigger point on the loop coil 51.

Returning to FIG. 5, when the demodulation circuit 94 detects that the detection circuit 93 has reached the loop coil 41 (when modulation is detected from the state of “HI”), the demodulation circuit 94 demodulates and acquires the pattern number. That is, a pattern number for designating an allocation pattern set (selected) by the channel setting console 60 described above is received.
For example, when the mat ID (preamble and pattern number) as shown in FIG. 7B is superimposed on the electromagnetic field as shown in FIG. 7A, the demodulation circuit 94 is a well-known AGC circuit (not shown). After adjusting the level by (Automatic Gain Control), the pattern number is demodulated. Thereby, even when the level of the generated electromagnetic field differs due to individual differences or environment of the loop coil 41 (modulated magnetic field generator 40), the pattern number can be appropriately acquired.

Returning to FIG. 5, the control unit 95 controls the entire wireless tag 90.
For example, when time information (running time) is sent from the transmitter 11 after the start of the game (after the running time of the timer device 30 is corrected), the time counting unit 96 measures the time synchronized with the running time. Thereafter, when the player RN reaches the loop coil 41 at the time point, the control unit 95 reads out an assignment pattern corresponding to the pattern number demodulated by the demodulator circuit 94 from the storage unit 97, and each assigned at this time point. Know your channel.
Subsequently, when the player RN reaches the loop coil 51 and the detection circuit 93 detects an inflection point (trigger point) of the electromagnetic field, the control unit 95 determines the running time that the time measuring unit 96 measures at that time. Time is measured as competition time. Then, the communication circuit 98 is controlled, and the time information including the measured competition time and the tag ID is transmitted to the receiver 71 using one of the assigned channels.

  Hereinafter, wireless communication controlled by the control unit 95 will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. As a countermeasure against collision or data corruption, the control unit 95 causes the communication circuit 98 to perform the same transmission three times.

The control unit 95 reads out the allocation pattern corresponding to the demodulated pattern number from the storage unit 97, and grasps each channel allocated at the timing point. For example, when the demodulated pattern number is 1 (No. 1), the control unit 95 reads out an assignment pattern as shown in FIG. 8A and grasps the assignment of a total of 23 channels. Then, the control unit 95 selects one channel in the first area (1st), transmits time information twice using the channel, and then transmits one time information in the second area (2nd). A channel is selected, and 2-time information is transmitted once using the channel.
One channel in the first area and the second area is selected from among 10 channels (1-10) corresponding to the numerical value (1-9, 0) at the end of the tag ID, for example. .
That is, when the number at the end of the tag ID is “5”, the control unit 95 selects the “5” channel from the first area as shown in FIG. 8B, and similarly from the second area. Select “5” channel. If the number at the end of the tag ID is “0”, the controller 95 selects the “10” channel from the first area as shown in FIG. 8C, and similarly from the second area. Select the “10” channel.

The controller 95 determines whether the channel to be used is busy (other wireless tags 90 are transmitting) before each communication, and uses the channel only when the channel is not busy. To send time information.
That is, as shown in FIG. 9A, the control unit 95 performs carrier sense (CS) before each communication and transmits time information only when not busy. That is, as shown in FIG. 9B, when the communication is in progress with carrier sense before the first communication, this communication is not performed.
And as shown in FIG.9 (c), when it has been busy 3 times, it communicates using a backup channel (Busy-1-Busy-3).

Returning to FIG. 5, the time measuring unit 96 measures the time synchronized with the running time which is a reference in the competition. For example, when time information (running time) is sent from the transmitter 11 after the competition starts, the time synchronized with the running time is counted.
Note that the timer unit 96 includes a highly stable crystal oscillator, and can stably maintain the time measurement after the synchronization.

The storage unit 97 includes, for example, a nonvolatile memory and stores information necessary for transmitting time information.
Specifically, the storage unit 97 stores in advance each allocation pattern shown in FIG. 4 described above. In addition, the storage unit 97 is provided with storage areas corresponding to each time point, for example, and the competition time measured at each time point can be stored in a separate storage area.
Further, the storage unit 97 stores in advance a tag ID (unique identification information) that is different for each wireless tag 90 (for each player RN).

The communication circuit 98 is controlled by the control unit 95 and transmits time information to the receiver 71 over a plurality of times using a channel allocated to the radio frequency band according to the allocation pattern.
Specifically, the communication circuit 98 transmits time information twice using one channel of the first region in the radio frequency band, and then uses the one channel of the second region to transmit the time information. Send once.
At this time, the communication circuit 98 performs carrier sense before each communication and detects whether the channel to be used is busy (other wireless tags are being transmitted). Only when not busy is time information transmitted using that channel.
Note that if all three communication opportunities are busy, the communication circuit 98 transmits time information using spare channels (Busy-1 to Busy-3).

  The communication antenna 99 is an antenna used for communication, and emits time information transmitted by the communication circuit 98 superimposed on radio waves of a predetermined frequency (channel used).

  Hereinafter, the operation of the game timing system having the above-described configuration will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an allocation pattern selection process executed by the channel setting console 60. FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining time transmission processing executed by the wireless tag 90.

First, the allocation pattern selection process shown in FIG. 10 will be described.
The channel setting console 60 clears the failure status table and sets the initial value 1 to the variable i (step S11). This failure status table is a table for managing a situation where a failure has occurred in the radio frequency band, and is secured in the work memory of the channel setting console 60 or the like.

The channel setting console 60 performs carrier sense for the i-th channel (step S12).
That is, the channel setting console 60 controls the inspection receiver 61 to perform carrier sense for the i-th channel in all 46 channels divided in the radio frequency band.

The channel setting console 60 determines whether or not there is a carrier in the channel (step S13). That is, it is determined whether or not the i-th channel is used for communication.
If the channel setting console 60 determines that there is no carrier, the process proceeds to step S16 described later.

On the other hand, when it is determined that there is a carrier, the channel setting console 60 determines whether or not it is based on another device (step S14). That is, it is determined whether another device unrelated to the competition timing system is using the i-th channel for communication. For example, even if there is a carrier, when the ID of the wireless tag 90 cannot be acquired within a certain period, it is determined that another unrelated device is using it. Further, the operator who has determined whether or not the ID of the wireless tag 90 has been successfully acquired is displayed on the channel setting console 60 or the radio wave state is displayed on another inspection receiver. The determination result may be confirmed by operating 60.
If it is determined that the channel setting console 60 is not from another device (communication by the wireless tag 90), the process proceeds to step S16 described later.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that it is due to another device, the channel setting console 60 registers the i-th channel in the failure status table (step S14). That is, the fact that a failure has occurred in the i-th channel is set in the failure status table.

The channel setting console 60 adds 1 to the variable i (step S16). That is, the channel is switched (advanced) to the next channel to be inspected.
And it is discriminate | determined whether the variable i is larger than 46 (step S17). That is, it is determined whether or not carrier sense for all channels in the radio frequency band has been completed.
If the channel setting console 60 determines that the variable i is not larger than 46 (below 46 or less), the channel setting console 60 returns the process of step S12 and repeatedly executes the processes of steps S12 to S17 described above.

On the other hand, when determining that the variable i is larger than 46, the channel setting console 60 selects an allocation pattern based on the failure status table (step S18).
For example, when it is determined from the failure status table that no failure has occurred (or failure has occurred in the entire area), the channel setting console 60 selects the allocation pattern shown in FIG. Further, when it is understood from the failure status table that a failure has occurred in some channels (partial regions), the channels (regions) are not included and assigned (FIGS. 4B to 4E). One of the allocation patterns is selected.

The channel setting console 60 superimposes the pattern number of the selected allocation pattern on the electromagnetic field (step S19).
That is, the channel setting console 60 controls the modulation magnetic field generator 40 to superimpose the pattern number for designating the selected allocation pattern on the electromagnetic field on the loop coil 41.
Thus, when the player RN reaches the loop coil 41, the wireless tag 90 receives the pattern number and can grasp each channel assigned at this timing point.
Further, the channel setting console 60 supplies the selected assignment pattern to the reception control box 70 so that communication with the wireless tag 90 using the assigned channel can be performed as appropriate.

  By such an assignment pattern selection process, an actual failure situation at the timing point is detected, and any assignment pattern is selected according to this failure situation. For example, when a failure occurs in some channels in the radio frequency band, an allocation pattern that does not include the channels is selected. That is, an appropriate allocation pattern is selected according to the communication environment at the time point.

  Next, the time transmission process shown in FIG. 11 will be described. It is assumed that the wireless tag 90 has received time information (running time) at the start point, and the time counting unit 96 keeps time synchronized with the running time.

First, the wireless tag 90 waits until it detects an electromagnetic field with modulation (step S21). That is, the detection circuit 93 waits for subsequent processing until it detects a modulated electromagnetic field on the loop coil 41.
Eventually, when the player RN reaches the loop coil 41 and detects the modulated electromagnetic field, the pattern number is demodulated, and the designated allocation pattern is read (step S22).
That is, when the demodulating circuit 94 demodulates the pattern number, the control unit 95 reads the allocation pattern corresponding to the demodulated pattern number from the storage unit 97. Thereby, the wireless tag 90 grasps each channel assigned at the timing point.

The wireless tag 90 waits until it detects an unmodulated electromagnetic field (step S23). That is, the detection circuit 93 waits for subsequent processing until it detects an unmodulated electromagnetic field on the loop coil 51.
Eventually, when the player RN reaches the loop coil 51, the wireless tag 90 detects an unmodulated electromagnetic field.

The wireless tag 90 detects the trigger point from the electromagnetic field and measures the competition time (step S24).
That is, when the detection circuit 93 detects the inflection point of the electromagnetic field on the loop coil 51, the control unit 95 measures the running time that the time measuring unit 96 measures at that time as the competition time.

The wireless tag 90 sets an initial value of 1 to a variable n for counting communication opportunities, and sets an initial value of 0 to a variable k for counting the number of communications (step S25).
Then, one channel in the first area is set as a communication channel to be used from now on (step S26). For example, the wireless tag 90 selects one of the 10 channels in the first area according to the numerical value at the end of the tag ID, and sets that channel as a communication channel to be used.

The wireless tag 90 performs carrier sense (step S27). That is, it is detected whether or not the channel is being used by another wireless tag 90. Then, it is determined whether or not the channel is busy (the other wireless tag 90 is transmitting) (step S28).
If it is determined that the wireless tag 90 is busy, the process proceeds to step S31 described later.

On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not busy, the wireless tag 90 transmits n-th time information (step S29).
That is, the control unit 95 controls the communication circuit 98 to transmit time information including the competition time and the tag ID to the receiver 71.

The wireless tag 90 adds 1 to the variable k due to communication (step S30).
The wireless tag 90 adds 1 to the variable n (step S31), and determines whether or not the variable n has become 3 (step S32). That is, it is determined whether or not the next communication opportunity is the third time.
If the wireless tag 90 determines that the variable n is not 3, the wireless tag 90 proceeds to step S34 described later.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the variable n is 3, the wireless tag 90 sets one channel in the second region as a communication channel to be used (step S33). Note that the wireless tag 90 selects, for example, one of the ten channels in the second area according to the numerical value at the end of the tag ID, and sets that channel as a communication channel to be used.

The wireless tag 90 determines whether or not the variable n is greater than 3 (step S34). That is, it is determined whether or not the third communication opportunity has been completed.
When the wireless tag 90 determines that the variable n is not greater than 3 (3 or less), the wireless tag 90 returns the process to step S27 and repeatedly executes the processes of steps S27 to S34 described above.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the variable n is greater than 3 (the third communication opportunity has ended), the wireless tag 90 determines whether the variable k is greater than 0 (step S35). That is, it is determined whether or not one or more communications have been performed.
If the wireless tag 90 determines that the variable k is greater than 0, the wireless tag 90 ends the time transmission processing here.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the variable k remains 0 (no communication has been performed once), the wireless tag 90 sets the initial value 1 to the variable n and sets the busy channel as the communication channel to be used. 1 is set (step S36). That is, the communication shifts from here to using the backup channel.

The wireless tag 90 performs carrier sense (step S37) and determines whether or not the channel is busy (step S38).
If it is determined that the wireless tag 90 is busy, the process proceeds to step S40 described later.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not busy, the wireless tag 90 transmits n-th time information (step S39). In other words, time information is transmitted to the receiver 71 using the spare channel.

The wireless tag 90 adds 1 to the variable n (step S40), and determines whether the variable n has become 2 (step S41). That is, it is determined whether or not the next communication opportunity on the backup channel is the second time.
If the wireless tag 90 determines that the variable n is not 2, the wireless tag 90 advances the processing to step S43 described later. On the other hand, when it is determined that the variable n is 2, the wireless tag 90 sets Busy-2 as a communication channel to be used (step S42).

The wireless tag 90 determines whether or not the variable n has become 3 (step S43). That is, it is determined whether or not the next communication opportunity in the backup channel is the third time.
If the wireless tag 90 determines that the variable n is not 3, the wireless tag 90 advances the processing to step S45 described later. On the other hand, when it is determined that the variable n is 3, the wireless tag 90 sets Busy-3 as the communication channel to be used (step S44).

The wireless tag 90 determines whether or not the variable n is greater than 3 (step S45). That is, it is determined whether or not the third communication opportunity in the backup channel has been completed.
If the wireless tag 90 determines that the variable n is not greater than 3 (3 or less), the wireless tag 90 returns the process to step S37 and repeats the processes of steps S37 to S45 described above.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the variable n is larger than 3 (the third communication opportunity in the backup channel has ended), the wireless tag 90 ends the time transmission process as it is.

Through such time transmission processing, the selected assignment pattern is transmitted to the wireless tag 90, and one of the channels assigned at the timing point (one channel in the first area and one channel in the second area). ) To communicate a plurality of times.
In other words, since an appropriate allocation pattern is selected according to the communication environment at the time point, communication can be performed using channels other than the channel where the failure has occurred.
Further, before each communication, it is determined whether or not the channel to be used is busy. Only when the channel is not busy, time information is transmitted using the channel. Thereby, generation | occurrence | production of a collision can be suppressed.
Then, when communication cannot be performed once in a plurality of communication opportunities, communication over a plurality of times using different backup channels can be performed.

  As a result, even when a failure occurs in a part of the radio frequency band, the time information of each player can be transmitted appropriately.

(Other embodiments)
In the above embodiment, the case where each wireless tag 90 performs communication three times has been described. However, the number of communications is not limited to three, and may be four or more.

  In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the time synchronized with the running time is counted by the timing unit 96 of the wireless tag 90 and the competition time is counted on the wireless tag 90 side. The device 30 may be connected and the competition time may be measured on the receiving device side.

For example, when the wireless tag 90 detects an inflection point (trigger point) of the electromagnetic field generated on the loop coil 51, the wireless tag 90 obtains an elapsed time ΔT required from the detection time to the end of communication, and includes the elapsed time ΔT. The time information is transmitted to the receiver 71.
On the other hand, the reception control box 70 is connected to the timer device 30 that measures the running time, and acquires the running time that the timer device 30 measures when the time information transmitted from the wireless tag 90 is received. Then, by subtracting the elapsed time ΔT from the running time, the competition time when the athlete RN reaches the time line L is calculated.
In this case as well, the wireless tag 90 performs communication over a plurality of times using one of the channels allocated in accordance with the allocation pattern (one channel in the first area and one channel in the second area). Do. For this reason, the wireless tag 90 calculates the elapsed time ΔT each time.
Also, before each communication, it is determined whether or not the communication is in progress by carrier sense, and time information is transmitted only when the communication is not in progress. Then, when communication cannot be performed once in a plurality of communication opportunities, communication is performed over a plurality of times using different backup channels.

  Also in this case, as in the above-described embodiment in which the competition time is counted on the wireless tag 90 side, even if a failure occurs in a part of the radio frequency band, the time information of each athlete can be transmitted appropriately. .

In the above embodiment, the marathon competition has been described as an example, but the competition to be timed is not limited to this and is arbitrary.
For example, the present invention can be applied as appropriate to relay races, racewalking, disabled wheelchair road races, bicycle road races, triathlons, and mountain sports such as running and orientation.

  As described above, according to the present invention, even when a failure occurs in a part of the radio frequency band, it is possible to appropriately transmit time information of each player.

It is a mimetic diagram showing an example of composition of a game timekeeping system concerning an embodiment of the present invention. (A) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the loop coil (substantially rectangular shape) arrange | positioned on a runway, (b) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the direction of the electromagnetic field and magnetic field detection coil which are produced | generated, (C) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the pattern number superimposed on an electromagnetic field. (A) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the loop coil (substantially 8 character shape) arrange | positioned on a runway, (b) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the direction of the electromagnetic field and magnetic field detection coil which are produced | generated. (C) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the intensity distribution of an electromagnetic field. (A)-(e) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of an allocation pattern. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a structure of a wireless tag. (A), (b) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the mode of detection of an electromagnetic field. (A) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the electromagnetic field produced | generated, (b) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the pattern number etc. which were demodulated. (A)-(c) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating a mode that the channel used for communication is selected among the channels of an allocation pattern. (A)-(c) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating a mode that it communicates over multiple times. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the allocation pattern selection process which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the time transmission process which concerns on embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Transmission control box 11 Transmitter 20 Time synchronization console 30 Timer apparatus 40 Modulation magnetic field generator 41 Loop coil 50 Magnetic field generator 51 Loop coil 60 Channel setting console 70 Reception control box 71 Receiver 80 Processor 90 Wireless tag

Claims (7)

A competition timing system including a plurality of wireless devices carried by each athlete and a receiving device that receives information transmitted from each wireless device,
Each wireless device includes
A time measuring means for measuring time;
Pattern storage means for storing a plurality of allocation patterns of each communication channel used by allocating a predetermined number to the radio frequency band;
Designation information acquisition means for acquiring designation information for designating any one of the allocation patterns from the electromagnetic field generated by the first loop coil arranged on the runway;
A channel identifying unit that reads out an allocation pattern designated by the designation information obtained by the designation information obtaining unit from the pattern storage unit, and identifies a communication channel used by itself among the assigned communication channels;
Detection means for detecting a trigger point based on an increase or decrease in the electromagnetic field strength of the electromagnetic field generated by the second loop coil disposed on the runway;
When the detection unit detects the trigger point, time information including the time measured by the time measuring unit is directed to the receiving-side device using the communication channel specified by the channel specifying unit. Wireless communication means for transmitting
The receiving device includes
A fault condition detecting means for detecting a fault condition in the radio frequency band;
Pattern selection means for selecting any allocation pattern based on the failure status detected by the failure status detection means;
An electromagnetic field generating means for generating an electromagnetic field on which the designation information about the allocation pattern selected by the pattern selecting means is superimposed on the first loop coil;
Receiving means for receiving the time information transmitted from each wireless device using each communication channel according to the allocation pattern selected by the pattern selecting means;
A timekeeping system for competitions. Each wireless device is further provided with transmission control means for transmitting the time information transmitted by the wireless communication means over a plurality of times,
The wireless communication means determines the presence / absence of transmission from the other wireless device to the receiving device in the communication channel specified by the channel specifying means, and is specified only when it is determined that there is no transmission. Transmitting the time information to the receiving device using the communication channel
The competition timekeeping system according to claim 1, wherein: The channel specifying means specifies a plurality of communication channels used by itself among the communication channels assigned according to the assignment pattern,
The transmission control means causes the time information transmitted by the wireless communication means to be transmitted while changing each specified communication channel.
The game timing system according to claim 2, wherein: The allocation pattern defines the allocation to the radio frequency band for the communication channel used regularly and the auxiliary communication channel used auxiliary.
The transmission control means causes the wireless communication means to transmit the time information using the backup communication channel when the time information cannot be transmitted even once although the communication opportunity has been obtained a plurality of times.
The competition timekeeping system according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that. The failure status detection means detects whether or not a failure has occurred for all communication channels divided into the radio frequency bands,
The pattern selection means selects an allocation pattern to be allocated avoiding a communication channel in which a failure has occurred,
The game timing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the timing system is for competition. A wireless device that is carried by each competitor and transmits information to the receiving device,
A time measuring means for measuring time;
Pattern storage means for storing a plurality of allocation patterns of each communication channel used by allocating a predetermined number to the radio frequency band;
Designation information obtaining means for obtaining designation information for designating any of the allocation patterns from the first electromagnetic field generated on the runway;
A channel identifying unit that reads out an allocation pattern designated by the designation information obtained by the designation information obtaining unit from the pattern storage unit, and identifies a communication channel used by itself among the assigned communication channels;
Detecting means for detecting a trigger point based on an increase or decrease in the electromagnetic field intensity of the second electromagnetic field generated on the runway;
When the detection unit detects the trigger point, time information including the time measured by the time measuring unit is directed to the receiving-side device using the communication channel specified by the channel specifying unit. Wireless communication means for transmitting
A wireless device comprising: A time transmission method in a competition timing system including a plurality of wireless devices carried by each athlete, and a receiving device that receives information transmitted from each wireless device,
Each of the wireless devices has a storage unit that stores a plurality of allocation patterns of each communication channel used by allocating a predetermined number to the radio frequency band,
In the receiving device, a failure status detection step of detecting a failure status in the radio frequency band;
In the receiving device, a pattern selection step of selecting any allocation pattern based on the failure status detected in the failure status detection step;
In the receiving device, an electromagnetic field generation step for causing the first loop coil to generate an electromagnetic field on which designation information on the allocation pattern selected in the pattern selection step is superimposed;
In each wireless device, a time measuring step for measuring time;
In each of the wireless devices, a designation information acquisition step of acquiring designation information for designating any of the allocation patterns from the electromagnetic field generated by the first loop coil arranged on the runway;
In each of the wireless devices, a channel for specifying a communication channel to be used by itself among the communication channels to be allocated is read out from the storage unit and specified by the specification information acquired in the specification information acquisition step. Specific steps,
In each of the wireless devices, a detection step of detecting a trigger point based on an increase or decrease in the electromagnetic field intensity of the electromagnetic field generated by the second loop coil disposed on the runway;
In each wireless device, when the trigger point is detected in the detection step, time information including the time measured in the time measurement step is used for the communication channel specified in the channel specification step. A wireless communication step for transmitting to the receiving device;
In the receiving side device, according to the allocation pattern selected in the pattern selection step, a receiving step of receiving the time information transmitted from the wireless devices using the communication channels;
A time transmission method comprising:

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