JP5642718B2 - Competition timing system and timing device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a competition timing system, a timing device, and a timing method. In particular, the present invention relates to a timing system, timing device, and timing method for competition that can be applied to athletics and the like and can accurately determine the time of the athlete.

  Recently, in athletics, etc., a radio tag (transponder) equipped with a transmitter is held by each athlete, and the competition time (a competitor's time) is accurately measured by information sent from the transmitter of the radio tag. Attempts have been made.

  An example of a competition time counting method using such a wireless tag will be described. When measuring the competition time when the athlete reaches the timing line (finish line, etc.), for example, an elliptical magnetic field is generated on the timing line by a single loop coil and the center of the ellipse is generated. Make sure the line overlaps the timing line. Then, the player is allowed to hold a wireless tag including the magnetic field detector and the transmitter. When the competitor holding the wireless tag reaches the time line, the magnetic field detector of the wireless tag detects the magnetic field. In response to the detection of the magnetic field, the transmitter of the wireless tag transmits a predetermined ID (such as an identification number) a plurality of times. Among multiple ID transmissions, the first ID transmission time (hereinafter referred to as time ST), the last transmission time (hereinafter referred to as time ET), or a value that is half the sum of the first and last transmission times. Is calculated as the competition time (hereinafter referred to as time MT).

  With regard to a timing system using such a wireless tag, a technique (Patent Document 1) for counting the number of laps of a competitor from the received number of received IDs and a transmitter of the wireless tag as a weak transmitter in the UHF band A technique (Patent Document 2) for increasing the communication distance of a transmitter is disclosed.

JP 2003-141497 A JP 2004-125765 A

However, in the above-described timing system, there are cases where the competition time cannot be accurately measured. Specifically, when the above-described time ST or time ET is used as the competition time, there are the following problems.
(1) The magnetic field area is elliptical when viewed from above. For this reason, an error occurs between the detection position of the magnetic field near the center of the coil and the detection position of the magnetic field near the end of the coil.
(2) When a plurality of wireless tags are used, there is a variation in the magnetic field detection capability of each wireless tag, so the detection positions are not necessarily the same with respect to the magnetic field on the coil.
(3) Since the magnetic field changes when the current flowing in the coil is controlled, it is difficult to overlap the magnetic field (ellipse center line) with the finish line.

  Due to these problems, the conventional timekeeping system has an error in any of the time ST, the time ET, and the time MT, and there is a problem that the competition time cannot be accurately measured.

  This invention is made | formed in view of the said actual condition, and it aims at implement | achieving the time-measurement system, time-measurement apparatus, and time-measurement method which can obtain | require a player's time correctly.

In order to achieve the above object, a timing system for competition according to the first aspect of the present invention is:
A timekeeping system for competition, including a timekeeping device held by the athlete and an electromagnetic field generating device for generating an electromagnetic field on the runway,
The electromagnetic field generator is
An antenna that is formed in an approximately eight-letter shape and is placed over the timekeeping line on the runway;
An oscillation means for supplying an oscillation signal of a predetermined frequency to the antenna, and the antenna and the oscillation means generate two adjacent electromagnetic fields so as to sandwich the time measurement line,
The timing device is
A time measuring means for measuring a standard time in the competition;
Detecting means for detecting the two electromagnetic fields generated so as to sandwich the time measurement line, and a slit between the two electromagnetic fields by a rising edge and a falling edge of a detection signal;
A calculation means for calculating the speed of the athlete;
Based on the speed calculated by the calculating means, setting means for setting a time- out time for aborting the detection of the slit to be longer than the time width of the slit ;
When the second electromagnetic field is detected between the time when the detection means finishes detecting the first electromagnetic field and the time-out time set by the setting means elapses, the time is measured at both ends of the slit. The competition time was measured by dividing the sum of the times calculated by 2, and when the timeout time had passed without detecting the second electromagnetic field, the time was counted at the rise and fall of the detection signal. Measuring means for measuring the competition time by dividing the sum of times by 2;
It is characterized by that.

According to the present invention, the electromagnetic field generating device generates two adjacent electromagnetic fields so as to sandwich the time measurement line by the antenna and the oscillating means.
In the timekeeping device held by the athlete, the time measuring means measures the time (for example, running time, etc.) serving as a reference in the competition. The detection means detects two electromagnetic fields generated so as to sandwich the time measurement line and a slit between the two electromagnetic fields by the rising and falling edges of the detection signal. The calculation means also calculates the speed of the competitor. The setting means, based on the calculated speed, set the timeout time for aborting detection of slits so as to be longer than the time width of the slit. And a measurement means measures competition time with a different method according to whether the detection means has detected the slit used as a break of two electromagnetic fields. This is because the slit width becomes narrow due to various factors, and it is actually possible that the detection means cannot detect the slit.
That is, the measuring means measures the time measured at both ends of the slit when the second electromagnetic field is detected after the detection means finishes detecting the first electromagnetic field and before the timeout time elapses. The competition time is measured by dividing the sum of 2 by 2. On the other hand, when the timeout period elapses without the detection means detecting the second electromagnetic field, the competition time is measured by dividing the sum of the time measured at the rise and fall of the detection signal by 2. To do.
As a result, the competitor's time can be accurately obtained.

The timing device is
A communication means for transmitting the competition time measured by the measuring means to a nearby receiving device;
The setting means finishes the first detection of the electromagnetic field that enables the communication means to transmit the competition time based on a communicable area where the communication means can communicate with the receiving device. Further set the upper time limit from
Said measuring means, from said detection means is completed detection of the first electromagnetic field, even before the time-out time elapses, and the detection of pre-Symbol second electromagnetic field, such Imama the upper limit time is elapsed In this case, the competition time is measured by dividing the sum of the time measured at the rise and fall of the detection signal by 2.
The communication means may transmit the competition time to the receiving device within a range not departing from the communicable area even if the measurement means measures the competition time when the upper limit time elapses. .
That is, the measuring means forcibly determines that the slit has not been detected if the upper limit time has elapsed without detecting the second electromagnetic field, even before the time-out time has elapsed. The time in the middle of the electromagnetic field is measured as the competition time. And a communication means transmits competition time toward a receiving device in the range which does not deviate from a communicable area.
As a result, the competitor's time can be accurately obtained, and the transmission of the time can be appropriately performed within the communicable area.

In order to achieve the above object, the timing device according to the second aspect of the present invention is:
A timing device held by the competitor,
A time measuring means for measuring a standard time in the competition;
Detection means for detecting two electromagnetic fields generated adjacent to each other across the time line on the runway, and a slit between the two electromagnetic fields by a rising edge and a falling edge of the detection signal;
A calculation means for calculating the speed of the athlete;
Based on the speed calculated by the calculating means, setting means for setting a time- out time for aborting the detection of the slit to be longer than the time width of the slit ;
When the second electromagnetic field is detected between the time when the detection means finishes detecting the first electromagnetic field and the time-out time set by the setting means elapses, the time is measured at both ends of the slit. The competition time was measured by dividing the sum of the times calculated by 2, and when the timeout time had passed without detecting the second electromagnetic field, the time was counted at the rise and fall of the detection signal. Measuring means for measuring the competition time by dividing the sum of times by 2;
It is characterized by providing.

According to this invention, the time measuring means measures the time (for example, running time etc.) serving as a reference in the competition. The detection means detects two electromagnetic fields generated so as to sandwich the time measurement line and a slit between the two electromagnetic fields by the rising and falling edges of the detection signal. The calculation means also calculates the speed of the competitor. The setting means sets the time-out time for aborting the detection of the slit to be longer than the time width of the slit based on the calculated speed. And a measurement means measures competition time with a different method according to whether the detection means has detected the slit used as a break of two electromagnetic fields. This is because the slit width becomes narrow due to various factors, and it is actually possible that the detection means cannot detect the slit.
That is, the measuring means measures the time measured at both ends of the slit when the second electromagnetic field is detected after the detection means finishes detecting the first electromagnetic field and before the timeout time elapses. The competition time is measured by dividing the sum of 2 by 2. On the other hand, when the timeout period elapses without the detection means detecting the second electromagnetic field, the competition time is measured by dividing the sum of the time measured at the rise and fall of the detection signal by 2. To do.
As a result, the competitor's time can be accurately obtained.

A communication means for transmitting the competition time measured by the measuring means to a nearby receiving device;
The setting means finishes the first detection of the electromagnetic field that enables the communication means to transmit the competition time based on a communicable area where the communication means can communicate with the receiving device. Further set the upper time limit from
Said measuring means, from said detection means is completed detection of the first electromagnetic field, even before the time-out time elapses, and the detection of pre-Symbol second electromagnetic field, such Imama the upper limit time is elapsed In this case, the competition time is measured by dividing the sum of the time measured at the rise and fall of the detection signal by 2.
The communication means may transmit the competition time to the receiving device within a range not departing from the communicable area even if the measurement means measures the competition time when the upper limit time elapses. .
That is, the measuring means forcibly determines that the slit has not been detected if the upper limit time has elapsed without detecting the second electromagnetic field, even before the time-out time has elapsed. The time in the middle of the electromagnetic field is measured as the competition time. And a communication means transmits competition time toward a receiving device in the range which does not deviate from a communicable area.
As a result, the competitor's time can be accurately obtained, and the transmission of the time can be appropriately performed within the communicable area.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the time measuring system, time measuring apparatus, and time measuring method for a competition which can obtain | require a competitor's time correctly are realizable.

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 single loop LF mat antenna arrange | positioned on a runway, (b) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the electromagnetic field produced | generated on a single loop LF mat antenna. (A) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the 8-shaped LF mat antenna arrange | positioned on a runway, (b) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the electromagnetic field produced | generated on an 8-shaped LF mat antenna, (C) is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the point information superimposed on an electromagnetic field. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a structure of a transponder. (A) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the mode of detection of the electromagnetic field on a single loop LF mat antenna, (b) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the mode of detection of the electromagnetic field on an 8-shaped LF mat antenna It is. (A)-(e) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the relationship between detection of an electromagnetic field, timeout time, etc. FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the time measurement process which concerns on embodiment of this invention.

  A competition timing system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. As an example, a case where the competition timekeeping system of the present invention is applied to a marathon competition will be described. In this marathon competition, the competition time (the competitor's time) is measured not only at the goal point (finish point) but also at a relay point on the way. Hereinafter, these points where the competition time is measured will be collectively described as a time measurement point for convenience.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a specific configuration of the game timing system according to the present embodiment.
As shown in the figure, this timing system for competition includes a timer device 10, a time distribution LF transmitter 20, a single loop LF mat antenna 21, a time measurement LF transmitter 30, an 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31, an RF receiver. 40, a processing device 50, and a transponder 60.
The timer device 10 to the processing device 50 are appropriately arranged at the time measurement point, the transponder 60 is held by the player RN, and the running direction D of the player RN is the direction indicated by the arrow. It is.

The timer device 10 measures the running time that is the reference time in the marathon competition.
For example, the timer device 10 counts down to the scheduled start time of the competition and up-counts the running time from the scheduled start time.
In marathon competitions, the competition may not start as scheduled. Therefore, when the competition is actually started, the timer device 10 receives the start signal from another timer device (for example, a starter pistol, for example) that is measuring the accurate running time, and then counts the running time. A predetermined time synchronization process is performed with a timer console or the like.

The LF (Low Frequency) transmitter 20 for time distribution is arranged along the runway where the competition is performed, and supplies the LF signal to the single loop LF mat antenna 21 arranged on the runway for time distribution. Generate electromagnetic fields for use.
Specifically, the time distribution LF transmitter 20 sequentially acquires a signal generation circuit that generates an LF signal of a predetermined frequency (for example, 125 kHz) and a running time (data) that the timer device 10 measures. A circuit, a modulation circuit that modulates the LF signal according to the obtained running time, a power amplification circuit that amplifies the modulated LF signal (a modulated LF signal on which the running time is superimposed) and supplies the amplified signal to the single loop LF mat antenna 21; It is comprised including.
In other words, the time distribution LF transmitter 20 generates an electromagnetic field on which the running time is superimposed on the single loop LF mat antenna 21 so that the running time is directed toward the transponder 60 of the player RN passing thereover. To deliver.

The single loop LF mat antenna 21 is, for example, a coil formed along a rectangular outer periphery of a predetermined size, and is disposed on a runway where a competition is performed. The single-loop LF mat antenna 21 is arranged on the front side (the player RN side facing the time measurement point) with respect to the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31.
A specific single loop LF mat antenna 21 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2A is a plan view (xy direction) of the runway (ground surface) as viewed from above, while FIG. 2B is a side view of the runway as viewed from the side (xz). Direction).
As shown in FIG. 2A, the single loop LF mat antenna 21 has a straight line a, which is separated by a predetermined distance in parallel, with a straight line b extending perpendicularly to the running direction D of the player RN as a center line. It is formed in a substantially rectangular shape along c. A feeding point s is provided on one side, and a current flows from the feeding point s in the direction of the arrow.

The single loop LF mat antenna 21 generates an alternating electromagnetic field on the coil when a modulated LF signal is supplied from the time distribution LF transmitter 20 through the feeding point s. Specifically, an electromagnetic field 210 as shown in FIG. 2B is generated. For example, a running time is superimposed on the electromagnetic field 210 by an amplitude modulation method such as OOK (On-Off-Keying).
As will be described later, when the transponder 60 detects such a modulated electromagnetic field 210, the transponder 60 shifts from the sleep mode (low power consumption mode) to the active mode (normal operation mode) and receives the distributed running time. It can be done.

Returning to FIG. 1, the LF transmitter 30 for time measurement is arranged along the runway where the competition takes place, and supplies an LF signal to the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31 arranged on the runway. Generate electromagnetic field for time measurement.
Specifically, the time measurement LF transmitter 30 includes a signal generation circuit that generates an LF signal having a predetermined frequency, a modulation circuit that modulates the LF signal according to point information (for example, identification information indicating a time measurement point, etc.), and modulation. And a power amplifying circuit that amplifies the LF signal (modulated LF signal on which point information is superimposed) and supplies the amplified LF signal to the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31.

The 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31 is a coil formed around the outer circumference of two rectangles (rectangular shapes having a predetermined size) arranged at a predetermined interval along a substantially 8-shaped shape. Are appropriately stacked.
A specific 8-character LF mat antenna 31 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3A is a plan view (xy direction) of the runway (ground surface) viewed from above, while FIG. 3B is a side view of the runway viewed from the side (xz). Direction).
As shown in FIG. 3A, the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31 has an 8-shaped shape in which two rectangular coil portions are continuous in the running direction D of the player RN. That is, the two coil portions having a straight line b extending perpendicularly to the traveling direction D as one side (each side) and straight lines a and c separated from each other by a predetermined distance in parallel with the straight line b as the other side. It is formed in the shape of 8 having. The figure LF mat antenna 31 is arranged so that the straight line b overlaps the measurement line L described above.
Further, the figure-eight LF mat antenna 31 is wound in a figure-eight forward direction, and a feeding point s is provided at the center (middle point) of the figure, that is, at the intersection, from the feeding point s. Current flows in the direction of the arrow.

When the modulated LF signal is supplied from the time measurement LF transmitter 30 through the feeding point s, the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31 generates an alternating electromagnetic field on each coil portion. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3B, a first electromagnetic field 310a is generated on one coil part, and a second electromagnetic field 310b is generated on the other coil part. The first electromagnetic field 310a and the second electromagnetic field 310b are adjacent along the traveling direction D, and the directions of the electromagnetic fields are different from each other in the vicinity of the adjacent straight line b. Therefore, on this straight line b (that is, on the measurement line L), electromagnetic forces cancel each other, and a gap (slit) between electromagnetic fields is generated.
As will be described later, the transponder 60 can measure the competition time by detecting such a slit or the like.
In addition, point information is superimposed on the first electromagnetic field 310a and the second electromagnetic field 310b by, for example, an amplitude modulation method such as OOK. As an example, as shown in FIG. 3C, one packet includes a 7 ms (millisecond) preamble (no modulation), a 1 ms start gap (signal stop), and 24 ms location information (modulated data). And is repeatedly output in 32 mS cycles.

Returning to FIG. 1, the RF (Radio Frequency) receiver 40 is disposed in the vicinity of the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31 and is transmitted from the transponder 60 of the player RN that has passed over the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31. RF signal to be received is received. This RF signal includes a competition time measured (calculated) on the measurement line L, a transponder ID for identifying the transponder 60 (competitor RN), and the like.
As will be described later, the transponder 60 transmits an RF signal multiple times at random intervals in consideration of the occurrence of collision (collision) with other transponders 60.
The RF receiver 40 receives such an RF signal, acquires competition time, and supplies the acquired competition time to the processing device 50.

The processing device 50 is composed of a personal computer or the like arranged in the vicinity of the RF receiver 40, and totals the competition time and the like of each competitor RN.
For example, when acquiring the competition time supplied from the RF receiver 40, the processing device 50 stores it in a predetermined storage unit (such as a hard disk). Then, at a predetermined timing, the totaled competition time and the like are transmitted to a recording room (not shown) (such as a data center located in a remote place). As an example, the processing device 50 transmits the totaled competition time and the like to the recording room through a communication line (such as a telephone line).

On the other hand, the transponder 60 held by the player RN is, for example, a timing device attached to the chest bib of the player RN, and moves along the runway with the player RN to time the competition time.
That is, with the movement of the player RN, the transponder 60 acquires the running time on the single loop LF mat antenna 21 and measures the competition time on the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31.
Details of the transponder 60 will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a specific configuration of the transponder 60 according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the transponder 60 includes an LF antenna 61, an amplification circuit 62, a detection circuit 63, a demodulation circuit 64, a control unit 65, a timer unit 66, a storage unit 67, and a communication circuit 68. And an RF antenna 69.

The LF antenna 61 includes, for example, a planar coil antenna and the like, and efficiently converts an electromagnetic signal into a voltage signal. Specifically, with the transponder 60 attached to the player RN, the detection surface is set in the horizontal direction so that the electromagnetic field in the direction perpendicular to the runway can be detected, and the single-loop LF mat antenna 21, And the electromagnetic field produced | generated on the 8-shaped LF mat | matte antenna 31 is detected, and the modulated LF signal is received.
The receiving antenna 61 supplies the received LF signal (voltage signal) to the amplifier circuit 62.

  The amplifier circuit 62 amplifies the LF signal supplied from the LF antenna 61 as appropriate. For example, the amplification factor is automatically adjusted by AGC (Automatic Gain Control) using the preamble of the LF signal as a reference, and the amplified LF signal is supplied to the detection circuit 63 and the demodulation circuit 64.

The detection circuit 63 generates a detection signal indicating the presence or absence of an electromagnetic field based on the LF signal (electromagnetic field strength) supplied from the amplification circuit 62 and supplies the detection signal to the control unit 65 and the like.
For example, on the single loop LF mat antenna 21, the detection circuit 63 sets the detection signal to Hi (High) when the LF signal (the electromagnetic field intensity of the electromagnetic field 210) exceeds a threshold, as shown in FIG. On the other hand, when the LF signal falls below the threshold, the detection signal is set to Lo (Low).
That is, when the player RN moves along the running direction D, the detection circuit 63 that has set the detection signal to Lo changes the detection signal to Hi at time Ta when the electromagnetic field intensity of the electromagnetic field 210 exceeds the threshold value. Thereafter, the detection circuit 63 that has set the detection signal to Hi changes the detection signal to Lo at time Tb when the electromagnetic field intensity of the electromagnetic field 210 becomes equal to or less than the threshold value.

Similarly, on the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31, as shown in FIG. 5 (b), the detection circuit 63 causes the LF signal (the electromagnetic field strength of the first electromagnetic field 310a and the second electromagnetic field 310b) to have a threshold value. When it exceeds, the detection signal is set to Hi, and when the LF signal falls below the threshold value, the detection signal is set to Lo.
That is, when the player RN moves along the running direction D, the detection circuit 63 that has set the detection signal to Lo first outputs the detection signal at time Ta when the electromagnetic field intensity of the first electromagnetic field 310a exceeds the threshold value. Change to Hi. Thereafter, the detection circuit 63 that has set the detection signal to Hi changes the detection signal to Lo at time Tb when the electromagnetic field intensity of the first electromagnetic field 310a becomes equal to or less than the threshold value. Subsequently, the detection circuit 63 changes the detection signal to Hi at time Tc when the electromagnetic field intensity of the second electromagnetic field 310b exceeds the threshold value. Thereafter, the detection circuit 63 that has set the detection signal to Hi changes the detection signal to Lo at time Td when the electromagnetic field intensity of the second electromagnetic field 310b becomes equal to or less than the threshold value.
In this way, from the time Tb to the time Tc on the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31, that is, from the first fall (Hi to Lo) of the detection signal to the second rise (Lo to Hi), Detected as a slit (between electromagnetic fields).

As described above, since the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31 is arranged so that the straight line b that is the boundary between the first electromagnetic field 310a and the second electromagnetic field 310b is on the measurement line L, such a slit is formed. The time between the two times, that is, (time Tb + time Tc) / 2, is the competition time on the measurement line L.
Nevertheless, the slit width may become narrow (narrow) due to the following factors.
-Vertical movement of competitor RN-Fluctuation of transponder 60 due to bent number attached-Transponder 60 (number) position is lower than standard-Variation in LF reception sensitivity Due to these factors, slit width is narrow Then, a situation where a slit cannot be detected may occur due to the start gap of the LF signal. That is, as shown in FIG. 3C described above, since the start gap of the LF signal is 1 mS, a slit width larger than that is required, and when the slit width becomes narrower than 1 mS due to the above-described factors. Therefore, the detection circuit 63 cannot detect the slit.
Therefore, as will be described later, the control unit 65 measures the competition time in consideration of the case where such a slit cannot be detected.

Returning to FIG. 4, the demodulation circuit 64 demodulates the modulated LF signal. For example, when the detection signal of the detection circuit 63 is Hi, the LF signal supplied from the amplification circuit 62 is demodulated.
Specifically, the demodulation circuit 64 demodulates the LF signal on the single loop LF mat antenna 21 to obtain a running time. Similarly, on the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31, the LF signal is demodulated to obtain point information.
The demodulation circuit 64 supplies demodulated data (running time and point information) to the control unit 65.

  The control unit 65 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) / RAM (Random Access Memory), and controls the entire transponder 60. The ROM stores in advance a program for executing a time measurement process described later. That is, the program in the ROM is read and executed by the CPU, thereby functioning as the control unit 65. The RAM stores various information necessary for processing.

The control unit 65 can be switched between a sleep mode in which power consumption is suppressed and an active mode in which an actual operation is performed.
For example, when the confirmation of the predetermined operation is finished before the start of the competition, the control unit 65 shifts to the sleep mode. Thereafter, the competition is started, and when the player RN reaches the single loop LF mat antenna 21, the control unit 65 shifts from the sleep mode to the active mode. And the control part 65 will set this lining time to the time measuring part 66, if the running time distributed is acquired via the demodulation circuit 64 (time synchronization).
That is, the controller 65 shifts from the sleep mode to the active mode by detecting the LF signal modulated on the single loop LF mat antenna 21. Then, the running time superimposed on the LF signal is received and time synchronization is performed.

Further, when the player RN reaches the figure LF mat antenna 31, the control unit 65 detects the above-described slit of the LF signal and measures the time of the player RN.
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6A, the control unit 65 calculates a competition time Tm that is the middle of the slit by the following Equation 1.

[Equation 1]
Tm = (Tb + Tc) / 2
Tm: Competition time Tb: First fall time Tb: Second rise time

As described above, when the slit width becomes narrow due to various factors, the detection circuit 63 may not be able to detect the slit. For this reason, when detecting the first fall (that is, time Tb), the control unit 65 starts measuring the timeout time To for ending the slit detection. If the second rise (that is, time Tc) is not obtained before the timeout time To elapses, it is determined that the slit has not been detected. In such a case, the control unit 65 calculates an intermediate time in the Hi period as the competition time.
Specifically, when the time-out time To elapses and the slit cannot be detected, the control unit 65 calculates the competition time Tm, which is the middle of the Hi period, as shown in FIG. To do.

[Equation 2]
Tm = (Ta + Tb) / 2
Tm: Competition time Ta: first rise time Tb: first fall time

It is not appropriate to set this timeout time To to a constant value. For example, when the speed of the player RN is low, as shown in FIG. 6C, the timeout time To may elapse before the second rise (that is, time Tc) is obtained. . In this case, inconvenience that an incorrect competition time Tm ′ (intermediate time of Hi period) is measured instead of the original competition time Tm (intermediate time of the slit).
Therefore, the control unit 65 adjusts the length of the timeout time To according to the speed of the player RN. That is, when the speed of the player RN is low, as shown in FIG. 6 (d), the timeout time To is set long, and the timeout time To is prevented from passing before the time Tc is obtained. . Thereby, even when the speed of the player RN is slow, the control unit 65 can appropriately obtain the competition time Tm that is the intermediate time of the slit.

The control unit 65 also copes with the adverse effects when the timeout time To is set to be long. This harmful effect may occur, for example, when the speed of the player RN is slow and no slit can be detected. In this case, as shown in FIG. 6 (e), there is no problem with appropriately obtaining the competition time Tm, which is the intermediate time of the Hi period. Still, in order to measure (calculate) the competition time Tm, it is necessary to wait for the timeout time To to elapse, and during that time, the competitor RN may deviate from the RF communication coverage area. .
Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6E, the control unit 65 provides an upper limit time TLM for switching to communication processing within the communicable area, and the upper limit time TLM has elapsed even before the timeout time To elapses. Then, immediately, the competition time Tm, which is the intermediate time of the Hi period, is calculated by the above mathematical formula 2. The competition time Tm can be transmitted within a range that does not deviate from the communicable area of the RF communication.

Further, as described above, the control unit 65 shifts from the sleep mode to the active mode by detecting the modulated LF signal. Therefore, even if the electromagnetic field on the single-loop LF mat antenna 21 cannot be detected for some reason, or even if the single-loop LF mat antenna 21 itself cannot be arranged due to some restrictions, the control unit 65 has a figure of 8. It is possible to shift from the sleep mode to the active mode on the LF mat antenna 31.
In addition, even when setting (programming) to return to the sleep mode after performing time synchronization of the running time, the control unit 65 similarly activates from the sleep mode on the figure LF mat antenna 31. You can enter mode.
As described above, when the sleep mode is shifted to the active mode on the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31, the control unit 65 determines from the demodulated point information that the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31 has been reached. The competition time can be measured in the same manner as described above.
And the control part 65 will return to sleep mode again, if time information (game time, transponder ID, etc.) is transmitted so that it may mention later.

Returning to FIG. 4, the time measuring unit 66 is appropriately corrected (set) by the control unit 65, and measures the running time as a reference in the competition in the transponder 60. That is, when the running time is distributed on the single loop LF mat antenna 21, the control unit 65 performs time synchronization processing, and the running time to be timed is corrected as appropriate.
The timer unit 66 includes a highly stable crystal oscillator, and can stably keep the running time after the correction.

The storage unit 67 includes, for example, a non-volatile memory and stores the competition time measured by the control unit 65 and point information (acquired on the 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31) as a set.
For example, storage areas for all the time measurement points are provided in the storage unit 67, and the competition time and point information measured at each time measurement point (on each 8-shaped LF mat antenna 31) are respectively provided. It can be stored in another storage area. Therefore, the competition time at each time measurement point can be totaled again after the competition.
Note that the storage unit 67 stores in advance, in another area, identification information for identifying the transponder 60 (transponder ID as an example).

When the control unit 65 measures the competition time, the communication circuit 68 transmits the competition time and time information including the transponder ID to the RF receiver 40 described above.
For example, the communication circuit 68 superimposes such time information on a 315 MHz RF signal and transmits it via the RF antenna 69.
In consideration of collisions with other transponders 60, the communication circuit 68 transmits time information a plurality of times at random intervals.

  The RF antenna 69 emits an RF signal on which time information is superimposed by the communication circuit 68 into the air with a predetermined output.

Hereinafter, the operation of the game timing system having the above-described configuration will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a time measurement process executed by the control unit 65 of the transponder 60. As an example, this time measurement process is started from the time when the transponder 60 (chest number) is distributed to the competitor RN (at the time of distribution, the apparatus waits in the sleep mode).
In the process of FIG. 7, the case where the transponder 60 shifts to the sleep mode not only after measuring and transmitting the competition time but also after synchronizing the running time will be described as an example.

  First, the control unit 65 stands by in the sleep mode (step S101) and waits until an LF signal is detected (step S102). That is, the detection of the LF signal is determined at every predetermined timing, and when the LF signal is not detected (step S102; No), the process returns to step S101. That is, it keeps waiting in the sleep mode.

On the other hand, when the LF signal is detected (step S102; Yes), the control unit 65 shifts to the active mode (step S103), and determines whether or not the detected LF signal is a time distribution LF signal (step S104). ).
For example, when the demodulation circuit 64 demodulates the running time, the control unit 65 determines that the LF signal is a time distribution LF signal. That is, it is determined that the single-loop LF mat antenna 21 has been reached.

When determining that the detected LF signal is the time distribution LF signal (step S104; Yes), the control unit 65 corrects the running time of the time measuring unit 66 (step S105).
That is, the control unit 65 sets the distributed lining time in the time measuring unit 66 (time synchronization).
And the control part 65 returns a process to step S101 mentioned above. That is, the mode again enters the sleep mode.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the detected LF signal is not the time distribution LF signal (step S104; No), the control unit 65 next determines whether or not the LF signal is a time measurement LF signal ( Step S106).
For example, when the demodulation circuit 64 demodulates the point information, the control unit 65 determines that the LF signal is a time measurement LF signal. That is, it is determined that it has reached the figure LF mat antenna 31.

When determining that the detected LF signal is the LF signal for time measurement (step S106; Yes), the control unit 65 stores the time Ta (step S107).
That is, the control unit 65 responds to the rise of the detection signal of the detection circuit 63, that is, in response to the first rise (Lo to Hi), and uses the running time counted by the time counting unit 66 as the time Ta. To remember.
When it is determined that the detected LF signal is not the time measurement LF signal (step S106; No), the control unit 65 returns the process to step S101 described above. That is, it is determined that the detection error is due to noise or the like, and the mode is shifted to the sleep mode again.

The controller 65 waits until it detects the first fall (Hi to Lo) (step S108). That is, while the detection signal of the detection circuit 63 is Hi (step S108; No), it waits as it is.
And if a detection signal changes from Hi to Lo (step S108; Yes), the control part 65 will preserve | save time Tb (step S109).
That is, in response to the first fall of the detection signal, the control unit 65 stores the running time measured by the time measuring unit 66 in its own RAM as the time Tb.

The control unit 65 calculates the speed of the player RN and sets a timeout time To and an upper limit time TLM (step S110).
For example, the control unit 65 assumes that the width of the first electromagnetic field 310a shown in FIG. 3B (that is, between a and b) has moved by the time difference between the time Ta and the time Tb. RN speed V1 is calculated. Then, the above-described timeout time To is adjusted and set according to the calculated speed V1.
On the other hand, the control unit 65 moves the width of the first electromagnetic field 310a + the second electromagnetic field 310b shown in FIG. 3B (that is, between a and c) by the time difference between the time Ta and the time Tb. Assuming that the speed V2 of the competitor RN is calculated. Then, the above-described upper limit time TLM is adjusted and set according to the calculated speed V2. That is, assuming that no slit is detected, the time required for moving at a speed V2 from c to a boundary where RF communication is possible (a boundary measured in advance) is obtained and set as the upper limit time TLM. To do.

That is, the control unit 65 adjusts the length of the timeout time To to be shorter if the speed V1 of the player RN is faster, and conversely if the speed V1 of the player RN is slow, the time-out time To is increased. Adjust the length of. In addition, the upper limit time TLM is appropriately adjusted according to the speed V2 of the player RN so that the communication can be completed within the range of the RF communication.
At the same time as these adjustments are made, timing for determining whether the timeout time To or the upper limit time TLM has elapsed is also started.

The controller 65 determines whether a timeout or the like has occurred (step S111). That is, it is determined whether the timeout time To has elapsed or the upper limit time TLM has elapsed.
When it is determined that a timeout or the like has not occurred (step S111; No), the control unit 65 determines whether or not the second rise (Lo to Hi) is detected (step S112). That is, it is determined whether or not the detection signal of the detection circuit 63 has changed from Lo to Hi.
When determining that the detection signal remains Lo (step S112; No), the control unit 65 returns the process to step S111 described above.
That is, the control unit 65 waits for either the occurrence of a timeout or the like or the rise of the detection signal.

Here, when the detection signal changes from Lo to Hi (step S112; Yes), the control unit 65 stores the time Tc (step S113).
That is, in response to the second rise of the detection signal, the controller 65 stores the running time measured by the timer 66 in its own RAM as time Tc.
And the control part 65 calculates competition time Tm (step S114). That is, since the slit was detected, the competition time Tm that is the middle of the slit as shown in FIG. 6A and FIG.

  On the other hand, when a timeout or the like occurs (step S111; Yes), the control unit 65 calculates the competition time Tm (step S115). That is, it is determined that the slit has not been detected, and the competition time Tm that is the middle of the Hi period as shown in FIG. 6B and FIG.

The control unit 65 transmits time information including such competition time Tm (step S116).
That is, the competition time Tm measured (calculated) in step S114 or step S115 and the time information including the transponder ID are transmitted to the above-described RF receiver 40 by the communication circuit 68. At that time, the communication circuit 68 considers collisions with other transponders 60 and transmits time information multiple times at random intervals.
Then, when the processing device 50 described above receives the time information via the RF receiver 40, the processing time of each player RN is counted.

  When the transmission of the time information is finished, the control unit 65 returns the process to step S101 described above. That is, the mode again enters the sleep mode.

Through such a time measurement process, the transponder 60 can accurately determine the competition time Tm.
That is, if a slit is detected on the figure LF mat antenna 31, the competition time Tm can be appropriately calculated in step S114 described above. At this time, since the timeout time To is adjusted according to the speed of the player RN, for example, even when the speed of the player RN is slow, as shown in FIG. The time-out time To does not elapse before the rising edge (that is, the time Tc) is detected. That is, an accurate competition time Tm as shown in FIG. 6D can be calculated without calculating an incorrect competition time Tm ′ as shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, even when no slit is detected on the figure LF mat antenna 31, the competition time Tm can be appropriately calculated in step S115 described above. At that time, since the upper limit time TLM is also appropriately adjusted according to the speed of the player RN, for example, even when the timeout time To is set long, the timing at which time information can be transmitted is out of the communication range. Never become. That is, as shown in FIG. 6 (e) described above, an upper limit time TLM is provided in consideration of the communicable range, and if the upper limit time TLM is exceeded even before the timeout time To elapses, the competition time is immediately increased. Since Tm is calculated, time information can be transmitted within the range of RF communication.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the time of the player can be accurately obtained.

(Other embodiments)
In the above embodiment, the case where the timing system for competition according to the present invention is applied to marathon competitions has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to such marathon competitions, and can be appropriately applied to other track and field competitions. is there. For example, in the track competition, the competitor's time (lap time and finish time) can be accurately obtained.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to realize a competition timing system, a timing device, and a timing method that can accurately determine the time of the athlete.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Timer apparatus 20 Time distribution LF transmitter 21 Single loop LF mat antenna 30 Time measurement LF transmitter 31 8-shaped LF mat antenna 40 RF receiver 50 Processing device 60 Transponder

Claims (4)

A timekeeping system for competition, including a timekeeping device held by the athlete and an electromagnetic field generating device for generating an electromagnetic field on the runway,
The electromagnetic field generator is
An antenna that is formed in an approximately eight-letter shape and is placed over the timekeeping line on the runway;
An oscillation means for supplying an oscillation signal of a predetermined frequency to the antenna, and the antenna and the oscillation means generate two adjacent electromagnetic fields so as to sandwich the time measurement line,
The timing device is
A time measuring means for measuring a standard time in the competition;
Detecting means for detecting the two electromagnetic fields generated so as to sandwich the time measurement line, and a slit between the two electromagnetic fields by a rising edge and a falling edge of a detection signal;
A calculation means for calculating the speed of the athlete;
Based on the speed calculated by the calculating means, setting means for setting a time- out time for aborting the detection of the slit to be longer than the time width of the slit ;
When the second electromagnetic field is detected between the time when the detection means finishes detecting the first electromagnetic field and the time-out time set by the setting means elapses, the time is measured at both ends of the slit. The competition time was measured by dividing the sum of the times calculated by 2, and when the timeout time had passed without detecting the second electromagnetic field, the time was counted at the rise and fall of the detection signal. Measuring means for measuring the competition time by dividing the sum of times by 2;
A timekeeping system for competitions. The timing device is
A communication means for transmitting the competition time measured by the measuring means to a nearby receiving device;
The setting means finishes the first detection of the electromagnetic field that enables the communication means to transmit the competition time based on a communicable area where the communication means can communicate with the receiving device. Further set the upper time limit from
When the upper limit time elapses without detecting the second electromagnetic field, the measuring means is not detected until the time-out time elapses after the detection means finishes detecting the first electromagnetic field. The competition time is measured by dividing by 2 the sum of the time measured at the rise and fall of the detection signal,
The communication means transmits the competition time toward the receiving device within a range that does not deviate from the communicable area even if the measurement means measures the competition time when the upper limit time elapses.
The competition timekeeping system according to claim 1, wherein: A timing device held by the competitor,
A time measuring means for measuring a standard time in the competition;
Detection means for detecting two electromagnetic fields generated adjacent to each other across the time line on the runway, and a slit between the two electromagnetic fields by a rising edge and a falling edge of the detection signal;
A calculation means for calculating the speed of the athlete;
Based on the speed calculated by the calculating means, setting means for setting a time- out time for aborting the detection of the slit to be longer than the time width of the slit ;
When the second electromagnetic field is detected between the time when the detection means finishes detecting the first electromagnetic field and the time-out time set by the setting means elapses, the time is measured at both ends of the slit. The competition time was measured by dividing the sum of the times calculated by 2, and when the timeout time had passed without detecting the second electromagnetic field, the time was counted at the rise and fall of the detection signal. Measuring means for measuring the competition time by dividing the sum of times by 2;
A timing device characterized by comprising: A communication means for transmitting the competition time measured by the measuring means to a nearby receiving device;
The setting means finishes the first detection of the electromagnetic field that enables the communication means to transmit the competition time based on a communicable area where the communication means can communicate with the receiving device. Further set the upper time limit from
When the upper limit time elapses without detecting the second electromagnetic field, the measuring means is not detected until the time-out time elapses after the detection means finishes detecting the first electromagnetic field. The competition time is measured by dividing by 2 the sum of the time measured at the rise and fall of the detection signal,
The communication means transmits the competition time toward the receiving device within a range that does not deviate from the communicable area even if the measurement means measures the competition time when the upper limit time elapses.
The time measuring device according to claim 3.

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