JP6985800B2 - Vertical antenna structure for timekeeping system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a portable vertical antenna structure, and specifically, but not exclusively, to a portable vertical antenna structure for a timekeeping system and a timekeeping system using the vertical antenna structure.

In recent years, ultra high frequency (UHF) tags have been commonly used in timekeeping systems for large sporting events, such as mass sporting events for running, cycling or motorcycling, for example. UHF tags are inexpensive, lightweight, and can be read quickly and even from relatively long distances. For example, WO20102072382 describes a sports timekeeping system comprising an antenna mat configuration including a modular mat body that can be fixed to the ground. Each mat body is equipped with an antenna capable of high frequency communication with a UHF tag worn on the chest of a sporting event participant.

When the tag enters the radiation field of the antenna mat, the tag initiates transmission of an ID message as a result of activation by the radiation field. The antenna in the mat receives the ID message and transfers the ID message to the decoder (analyzer). The decoder is connected to the antenna mat and is programmed to determine the time of passage of the tag with a unique ID based on the signal strength of the received message. Since the electromagnetic field generated by the antenna in the mat is the strongest on the center of the mat, it is possible to determine when the tag passes through the antenna with reasonable accuracy.

Today's state-of-the-art mat-based timekeeping systems provide reliable timekeeping results with a reliability of over 99.9% to 100% for mass sporting events. Has some drawbacks. For example, in order to install a timekeeping system, it is necessary to place the mat body of the main mat and possibly one or more backup mats in place and perform the test. This procedure requires the track to be blocked for a period of time, which can interfere with the organization of the sporting event. This is especially inconvenient for mass sporting events such as marathons. Further, although the mats are modular and each mat body is made of a lightweight material, the total weight of the mat bodies forming the full finish line can be considerable.

In addition, when athletes pass through the antenna mat, they may step on the mat and apply force to the mat, which is considerable, especially when a large number of athletes cross the mat at once. May become. Such forces may adversely affect the performance of the antenna due to the detuning effect. In addition, these forces induce friction between the mats, which can adversely affect the HF connection that connects the mats to the decoder. Also, in certain sports such as cycling, the mat may interfere with the athlete as it passes. Also, in other sports such as mud run and ice skating, the conditions of use are completely unsuitable for using mats.

By using side antennas instead of matte antennas, at least some of the above problems can be avoided. In the prior art, a timekeeping system using a portable side antenna is known. Such a side antenna is generally configured as a flat RFID antenna connected to a tripod support structure, which fixes the antenna at a predetermined height above the ground. However, such side antennas have some drawbacks. For example, unlike the matte antenna configuration, in the side antenna configuration, the competitor may interfere with the reading of other competitors. This is because UHF spectra, such as signals from 0.8 to 2.4 GHz, are easily absorbed or at least attenuated by the human body, especially the torso. Therefore, in a side antenna configuration, a competitor located between the antenna and a passing competitor may interfere with the activation and / or reading of the passing competitor's tag, and thus the passing competitor. May result in an error when detecting.

Moreover, in a timekeeping system, a high read rate, or at least a read rate that meets the specifications of the timekeeping system, cannot be guaranteed unless the antenna of the RF antenna structure is accurately positioned with respect to the track. In contrast to the matte antenna (in the case of a matte antenna, the alignment and positioning of the antenna body can be easily controlled by the lateral alignment of the matte body), the side antenna should have the optimum read rate. It is more difficult to align and set the position. The side antennas need to be positioned and configured so that a radiation field of sufficient size and power is generated across the track.

For this reason, to date, no side antenna-based timekeeping system is suitable for timing mass events with reliability consistent with current state-of-the-art mat-based timekeeping systems.

US8373548 discloses an example of a timekeeping system using a portable vertical bollard structure with a tag reader. The tag reader is configured to form an ad-hoc network so that the data measured by the bollard of the network can be relayed to the central data collection system via other bollards. However, no information about the antenna configuration or read rate in the bollard is disclosed. Furthermore, no mention is made or addressed regarding the problem of absorption of UHF signals by the athlete's body.

Therefore, in the prior art, there is a need for an improved portable RF side antenna suitable for use in timekeeping systems for mass sporting events. In particular, there is a need for an improved UHF timekeeping system that uses side antennas that can be easily positioned and installed on the sides of the truck, are highly portable, and have very high read rates. It exists in the prior art.

An object of the present invention is to mitigate or eliminate at least one of the known drawbacks of prior art. In one aspect, the present invention relates to a portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure used in a UHF timing system, wherein the portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure is at least one on a substantially horizontal surface. The first vertical antenna device comprises a base structure for supporting one first vertical antenna device and at least one second vertical antenna device, and the first vertical antenna device comprises a first planar RF antenna and. , The second vertical antenna device comprises a second planar RF antenna, the first antenna device and the second antenna device are connected to a base structure, and the first of the first RF antennas. The first tilt angle between the main axis of the radiation field and the horizontal plane is selected between 10 degrees and 50 degrees, preferably between 20 degrees and 40 degrees, and the second. The second tilt angle between the main axis of the second radiation field of the RF antenna and the horizontal plane is selected between -20 degrees and 20 degrees, preferably between -10 degrees and 10 degrees. It is characterized by.

The first tilt angle selected has the effect that the main axis of the generated radiation field points upwards towards the centerline of the track. That is, when the first antenna device is positioned at a first height relatively close to the support surface, the tag of the participant passing through the side antenna relatively close is activated by the radiation field. become. The selected second tilt angle has the effect of generating a radiation field that is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane of the support plane and has a principal axis oriented towards the center of the track. That is, the tag of the participant passing through the side antenna relatively far away will be activated by the radiation field. A significant portion of the radiation field can pass through the lower part (legs) of the participant passing through the side antenna relatively close.

Therefore, in the present invention, the first antenna device in which the tag of the athlete passing the side antenna relatively close is oriented so as to be activated by the radiation field, and the competitor passing the side antenna relatively far away. A combination with a second antenna device in which the tag is oriented to be activated by a radiation field has been accomplished.

In one embodiment, the second antenna device can be set at a position above the first antenna device. In one embodiment, the lower end of the second antenna device can be positioned near the upper end of the first antenna device. In one embodiment, the frame connected to the base structure can be used to set the second antenna device at a position above the first antenna device.

In one embodiment, the second antenna device can be positioned adjacent to the first antenna device. In one embodiment, the frame connected to the base structure can be used to position the first antenna device adjacent to the second antenna device.

In one embodiment, the main axis of the radiation field of the first RF antenna can be perpendicular to the plane of the first RF antenna. In one embodiment, the main axis of the radiation field of the second RF antenna can be perpendicular to the plane of the second RF antenna.

In one embodiment, the first planar RF antenna and / or the second planar RF antenna are at least one patch antenna, preferably a linearly polarized patch antenna, more preferably a linearly polarized butterfly and / or butterfly. It comprises a tie-type patch antenna, which resonates at at least one frequency selected between 870 MHz and 930 MHz and / or is configured to include a metal ground plane.

In one embodiment, the first antenna device and the second antenna device can have a substantially rectangular shape. In one embodiment, the length of the first planar antenna device and / or the length of the second planar antenna device can be selected between 30 cm and 60 cm. In one embodiment, the width of the first planar antenna device and / or the width of the second planar antenna device can be selected between 20 cm and 50 cm. In one embodiment, the height of the vertical RF antenna structure can be selected between 60 cm and 120 cm.

In one embodiment, the first antenna device and the second antenna device can be arranged to form a foldable RF antenna structure, the foldable RF antenna structure being a foldable antenna configuration and a non-foldable antenna structure. Includes folding vertical antenna configuration.

In one embodiment, the base structure can be arranged to form a housing structure that accommodates the first antenna device and the second antenna device in a folded antenna configuration.

In one embodiment, the first planar antenna device can be pivotally connected to the base structure by a pivotably first connection. In one embodiment, the first planar antenna device can be pivotally connected to the second planar antenna device by a second pivotally movable connection.

In one embodiment, the pivotally movable first connection portion and the pivotally movable second connection portion have a foldable antenna configuration of a first planar antenna device and a second planar antenna device, and a non-foldable antenna. Each can be configured to be positioned in the configuration, and in the folding antenna configuration, the first flat surface of the first RF antenna faces the first flat surface of the second RF antenna. There is.

In one embodiment, the first antenna device and the second antenna device can be arranged to form a modular RF antenna structure, wherein the modular RF antenna structure has an assembly configuration and a disassembly configuration. Including, the base structure is arranged to form a housing structure that accommodates the first antenna device and the second antenna device in a disassembled antenna configuration.

In one embodiment, the first antenna device and the second antenna device have a connecting member and a second antenna device fixed to the first antenna device so as to fix the first antenna device to the base structure. It can be equipped with a connecting member that is designed to do so.

In one embodiment, the RF antenna structure may further comprise one or more imaging devices and / or one or more display devices and / or GPS devices.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a portable and foldable RF antenna structure used in a UHF timing system, wherein the foldable RF antenna structure has a foldable antenna configuration or a non-foldable vertical antenna configuration. The RF antenna structure comprises a base structure arranged in a non-folding vertical antenna configuration so as to support the RF antenna structure on a substantially horizontal plane, and the non-folding vertical direction is provided. The oriented antenna configuration includes at least one first planar antenna device and at least one second planar antenna device, and the first planar antenna device and the second planar antenna device are vertical with respect to a horizontal surface. Oriented, the base structure is further disposed as a housing that accommodates the first planar antenna device and the second planar antenna device in a foldable antenna configuration. Can be related to a foldable RF antenna structure.

In one embodiment, the first planar antenna device can be pivotally connected to the base structure by a pivotably first connection. In one embodiment, the first planar antenna device can also be pivotally connected to the second planar antenna device by a pivotable second connection, and the pivotable first connection. The pivotally flexible second connection portion is configured to position the first planar antenna device and the second planar antenna device in a foldable antenna configuration and in a non-foldable antenna configuration, respectively.

In one embodiment, the folding antenna configuration can include a first flat surface of the first RF antenna facing a first flat surface of the second RF antenna. In one embodiment, in a non-folding antenna configuration, the spindle of the first RF antenna can be arranged so as to form a horizontal surface and a first tilt angle. In one embodiment, the spindle of the second RF antenna can be arranged so as to form a horizontal surface and a second tilt angle. In one embodiment, the first tilt angle can be selected between 10 degrees and 50 degrees, preferably between 20 and 40 degrees. In one embodiment, the second tilt angle can be selected between -20 degrees and 20 degrees, preferably between -10 degrees and 10 degrees.

In another aspect, the sports timekeeping system may include a decoder system connected to a plurality of portable self-contained vertical RF antenna structures, wherein the sports timekeeping system comprises at least one first antenna device. The first portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure, wherein the first antenna device includes a first planar RF antenna and the first portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure. A second portable self-contained vertical RF antenna structure comprising at least one second antenna device, wherein the second antenna device comprises a second planar RF antenna. A portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure, including an inclination between the principal axis of the first radiation field of the first RF antenna and the horizontal plane on which the first vertical RF antenna structure stands. The angle is selected between 10 degrees and 50 degrees, preferably between 20 degrees and 40 degrees, and the main axis of the second radiation field of the second RF antenna and the second vertical RF. The angle of inclination with respect to the horizontal surface on which the antenna structure stands is selected between -20 degrees and 20 degrees, preferably between -10 degrees and 10 degrees.

In one embodiment, the first self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure and the second self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure are positioned on one side of the sports track and the first portable self-supporting vertical. The main axis of the radiation field of the oriented RF antenna structure and the main axis of the radiation field of the second portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure are oriented toward the center line of the sports track.

In one embodiment, each of the plurality of portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structures is equipped with a GPS device, and the decoder system is to determine the position of each portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure. , Optionally, is configured to display the position of the portable, self-contained, vertical RF antenna structure to the user using a graphical user interface.

In yet another aspect, the invention may relate to a sports timekeeping system comprising at least one decoder system connected to one or more of the portable self-contained vertical RF antenna structures described above.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, whereby embodiments according to the present invention will be schematically shown. It will be appreciated that the invention is not limited in any way to these particular embodiments.

It schematically shows the portable RF antenna structure which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It schematically shows the portable RF antenna structure which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It schematically shows the portable RF antenna structure which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It schematically shows the portable RF antenna structure which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. The portable RF antenna structure according to the embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown in (A) to (E). It schematically shows the portable RF antenna structure which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It schematically shows the portable RF antenna structure which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It schematically shows the timekeeping system using the portable RF antenna structure which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a timekeeping system using a portable RF antenna structure according to another embodiment of the present invention. It schematically shows a portable RF antenna structure which concerns on another embodiment of this invention. It schematically shows a portable RF antenna structure which concerns on another embodiment of this invention. It schematically shows a portable RF antenna structure which concerns on another embodiment of this invention. It schematically shows a portable RF antenna structure which concerns on still another embodiment of this invention. It schematically shows a portable RF antenna structure which concerns on still another embodiment of this invention.

1A to 1D schematically show a vertical RF antenna structure according to various embodiments of the present invention. These structures are configured to be used in the UHF timekeeping system used in mass sporting events. In this application, the term vertical antenna structure refers to an antenna structure that includes a planar RF antenna that creates a radiation field in the lateral direction. When such a vertical RF antenna structure is positioned to the side of the sports track and the main axis of the radiation field is oriented toward the track, the participants cross the entire width of the track and wear the tag. Can generate a radiation field with the highest intensity at a height that passes through the measurement point (eg, chest height).

1A and 1B schematically show a cross section and a front surface of a portable self-supporting vertical antenna RF antenna structure, and the portable self-supporting vertical antenna RF antenna structure is at least one first. The base structure 102 holds a vertical array composed of the planar antenna device 104 of the above and at least one second planar antenna device 106 in an upright and substantially vertical direction. The base structure can be positioned on a substantially horizontal support surface 100 (ground). The antenna device may include one or more planar RF antennas 103, 105 (generally one or more planar patch antennas) configured to generate directional radiation fields 118, 120. The main axes 114, 116 of the radiation field can be perpendicular to the plane of the planar RF antenna. Therefore, by inclining the surface of the RF antenna (or planar antenna device), the direction indicated by the main axis of the radiation field can be changed.

In general, the antenna device can have a rectangular shape. The dimensions of the antenna device can include a width selected between 20 cm and 50 cm and a length selected between 30 cm and 60 cm. Further, the height of the vertical RF antenna structure including the base structure (height measured from the support surface to the upper surface of the second antenna device) can be between about 60 cm and 120 cm.

One or more portable self-contained vertical RF antenna structures as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B are lateral to the track used for sporting events, preferably mass sporting events such as running or cycling. It can be installed alongside and connected to a decoder. Participants in sporting events may be equipped with UHF tags, typically passive UHF tags (eg, tags attached to bib tags or motorcycle steering plates), where participants may be in the radiation field of one or more antennas. Upon entering, the tag is activated and the antenna will pick up the backscatter signal transmitted to the antenna by the activated tag. The backscattered signal can be modulated to give it digital information, eg, an identifier.

Typical frequencies used by timekeeping systems are within the UHF spectrum, eg, between 0.8 GHz and 2.4 GHz. The signal at this frequency is easily absorbed by the human body, especially the torso. Therefore, in the typical side antenna structure described above, the competitor located between the antenna and the passing competitor interferes with the activation and / or reading of the passing competitor's tag, thereby passing. Errors can occur when detecting a player to do so.

For this reason, conventional vertical side antennas are not suitable for mass sporting events where many tags worn by athletes pass through a time measurement point (eg, finish) at the same time or almost simultaneously. In such situations, conventional vertical side antennas cannot provide high read rates. Therefore, portable timekeeping systems that require a very high read rate of about 100% generally use modular matte antennas known in the art.

In order to solve this problem, in the first antenna device 104 of the vertical antenna structure, the main axis of the radiation field of the first RF antenna is tilted with respect to the support surface 100 on which the base structure is installed. Arranged. The tilt angle or degree of tilt is selected so that the spindle 114 of the radiation field 118 points upward according to the tilt angle φ, where the tilt angle φ is the principal axis and support surface 100 of the radiation field of the first RF antenna. Defined as the angle between the horizontal plane.

The first tilt angle of the first antenna device can be selected between 10 degrees and 50 degrees. In a further embodiment, the first tilt angle of the first antenna can be selected between 20 degrees and 40 degrees, preferably about 30 degrees. The first tilt angle selected has the effect that the main axis of the generated radiation field points upwards towards the centerline of the track. That is, if the first antenna device is positioned at a first height that is relatively close to the support surface, the tag of the participant passing through the side antenna that is relatively close will be activated by the radiation field. Become.

Further, the second planar antenna device 106 can be positioned at a second height (preferably higher than the position of the first planar antenna device) with respect to the support surface. The second tilt angle of the second antenna device can be selected between -20 degrees and 20 degrees, preferably between -10 degrees and 10 degrees. The selected second tilt angle has the effect of generating a radiation field that is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane of the support plane 100 and has a main axis oriented towards the center of the track. That is, the tag of the participant passing through the side antenna relatively far away will be activated by the radiation field. A significant portion of the radiation field can pass through the lower part (legs) of the participant, who passes through the side antenna relatively close.

Therefore, the first antenna device oriented so that the tag of the athlete passing the side antenna relatively close is activated by the radiation field, and the tag of the athlete passing the side antenna relatively far from the radiation field. A second antenna device, oriented to be activated by, will be provided.

In one embodiment, the first antenna and the second antenna can be positioned at different heights, i.e., the first height and the second height. In one embodiment, the second antenna device 106 can be located above the first antenna 104. In one embodiment, the lower end 109 of the second antenna device can be positioned (or connected to the upper end 107 of the first antenna device) near the upper end 107 of the first antenna device. That is, the second antenna device does not interfere with the radiation field of the tilted first antenna device. The antenna device and the planar RF antenna of the antenna device can have a rectangular shape.

In one embodiment, the first antenna device and the second antenna device can be held in place using the frame structure 122. In another embodiment, the vertical antenna structure can have a frameless structure. In that case, the planar antenna device can be configured as an antenna housing with a planar RF antenna so that the antenna housing comprises a rigid mechanical structure. The lower end of the first antenna device can be connected to the base structure, and the upper end of the first planar antenna device can be connected to the lower end of the second planar antenna device.

The second antenna device is arranged at a first height at a position inclined from the vertical position, and the second antenna device is arranged at a second height higher than the first height as the first antenna device. Combined, it provides a portable, self-contained, vertical RF antenna structure suitable for timekeeping systems that require very high read rates.

The decoder drives the first antenna device and the second antenna device in sequence, so that the tag of the passing player is exposed to the radiation field directed in different directions, so that many players It maximizes the chance that each tag will be activated at the same time as it passes. That is, substantially all tags of a group of competitors passing through the timekeeping line of the track can be activated and the backscatter signal can be detected by a decoder connected to the antenna structure. The plurality of antennas are sequentially driven to avoid the interference effect between the radiation fields between the first antenna device and the second antenna device.

For example, when using two vertical antenna structures connected to a decoder, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, 90-300 competitors per minute at frequencies between 870 MHz and 930 MHz. A reading rate of 99.4 to 100% was obtained with respect to the passing density of. In this experimental configuration, the directional patch antenna design described below with reference to FIG. 3 was used.

1C and 1D show examples of arrays of different structures of antenna devices that provide the assumed effects as described above. FIG. 1C is attached to an inclined vertical first antenna device 104 and a base structure 102 attached to the base structure 102 and positioned at a first height 115 close to the support surface. The structure described with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B, comprising a vertical second antenna device 106 positioned at a second height 113 above the first antenna device. Shows. FIG. 1D shows another arrangement in which the first antenna device and the second antenna device are arranged adjacent to each other. The first antenna device and the second antenna device can be oriented in the same manner as described above with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B. In a further embodiment, each antenna device can be attached to a separate base structure.

Therefore, the present invention makes it possible to realize a timekeeping system using a side antenna suitable for measuring mass events with reliability commensurate with the current state-of-the-art mat-based timekeeping system.

2 (A) to 2 (E) schematically show a portable RF antenna structure according to another embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIGS. 2 (A) to 2 (E) show a foldable RF having a non-foldable configuration (FIGS. 2 (A) and 2 (B)) and a foldable configuration (FIG. 2 (E)). The antenna structure is shown. In the non-folding configuration, the RF antenna structure is a self-contained vertical RF antenna structure with at least two antenna devices that can be similar to the antenna structure described with reference to FIGS. 1A-1B. Can be represented. In the folding configuration as shown in FIG. 2 (E), the antenna devices 204 and 206 can form a stacked assembly. The stacking assembly can include the flat surface of the first antenna device facing the flat surface of the second antenna device. In one embodiment, the base structure 202 can be configured as a housing structure for accommodating a stacked assembly of antenna devices.

The foldable RF antenna structure comprises a base structure 202 for holding the antenna device in a vertical position on the support surface. The first antenna device and the second antenna devices 204 and 206 can include a first planar RF antenna and a second planar RF antenna, respectively. The first antenna device can be pivotally connected to the base structure 202 by the pivotally flexible first connecting portion 208. Similarly, the first antenna device can be pivotally connected to the second antenna device by the pivotally movable second connection unit 210. In one embodiment, the first antenna device can be pivotally connected to the base structure and the second antenna device using a pivotable frame. In another embodiment, the foldable RF antenna structure has a lower end of the first antenna device that can be pivotally connected to the base structure and / or an upper end of the first antenna device. It is possible to have a frameless structure that can be pivotally connected to the lower end of the second antenna device.

In one embodiment, the antenna device can be configured as an antenna housing with an RF antenna. In one embodiment, the RF antenna can be configured as a (planar) RF antenna that includes one or more patch antennas, one or more slot antennas, or one or more Yagi antennas. ..

The pivotable first connection and the pivotable second connection are a folded (sideways state) of the first antenna device and the second antenna device as shown in FIG. 2 (E). The first antenna device and the second antenna device are shown in FIGS. 2 (A) (front view) and 2 (B) (side view) so that the positions can be set in the configuration (stacked in). , Can be configured so that it can be positioned in a non-folding (stacked vertically) configuration.

In the non-folding configuration, the antenna can be used as a side antenna for the UHF timekeeping system. The tilt angle of the first antenna device and the second antenna device is such that the radiation pattern of the RF antenna has a tag attached to a shirt at chest height or a tag attached to a vehicle (eg, a motorcycle). Participants can be set to provide very high read rates.

In the folding configuration, the antenna structure forms a compact portable structure that can be easily transferred and handled. The folding process pivots the second antenna device towards the first antenna device (FIG. 2C) and brings the first flat surface of the first antenna device to the second antenna device. This is accomplished by facing the first flat surface of the antenna device so that the first antenna device and the second antenna device form a stacked assembly in parallel with each other (FIG. 2 (D)). .. After that, the folded first antenna device and the second antenna device can be folded on the base structure (FIG. 2 (E)).

In one embodiment, the base structure can be configured as a housing structure configured to accommodate a folded first RF antenna device and a second RF antenna device. That is, the antenna device can be protected during transfer. In addition, the housing can be configured so that multiple portable RF antenna structures in a folded state can be stacked on top of each other.

As shown in FIGS. 2A to 2E, the foldable vertical RF antenna structure is easy to install and highly configurable for timekeeping systems that require high read rates. It is a portable antenna structure.

3A and 3B schematically show an RF antenna structure according to a further embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 3A shows an RF antenna structure, but the housing of the antenna device is shown open so that the planar RF antenna of the antenna device can be clearly seen. As shown in FIG. 3A, each antenna device 304, 306 may include at least one planar patch antenna structure. The patch antenna structure can include PCB boards 308, 310 containing one or more metal antenna structures. In a preferred embodiment, the metal antenna structure can include a butterfly antenna structure optimized for frequencies in the range between 870 MHz and 930 MHz. In one embodiment, the dimensions of the metal antenna structure can be about 200-300 mm in length and 100-200 mm in width. The radiation field generated by the butterfly antenna structure is linearly polarized.

The metal layers 312 and 314 on the back of the PCB board can act as ground planes and reflectors to improve the directivity of the radiation field of the patch antenna. The antenna design shown in FIG. 3A has been experimentally shown to provide good directivity of the radiation field and good coupling of the radiation field to the tag of the passing participant.

FIG. 3B shows a stacked array of foldable RF antenna structures 312 to _{4 in} a folded state, and the base structure of the foldable RF structure can be configured as a housing of the foldable antenna device. .. In one embodiment, the housing can include a stack of 312 connected to a base structure, which allows a plurality of foldable RF antenna structures to be stacked up and down in a folded state. It is something to do.

FIG. 4 schematically shows a timekeeping system using a vertical RF antenna structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 4 shows a first antenna device 402 and a second antenna device 404 of the first portable RF antenna structure connected to the decoder system 420, and a second antenna device connected to the decoder system 420. 2 shows a first antenna device 406 and a second antenna device 408 of the portable RF antenna structure. The decoder system can be configured as a portable box or the like. Alternatively, in one embodiment, the decoder system can be integrated with one of a plurality of portable RF antenna structures. For example, the decoder system can be incorporated into the base structure of the portable RF antenna structure.

The transceiver 422 in the decoder system can be configured to sequentially drive the antennas of the first RF antenna structure and the second RF antenna structure. That is, each RF antenna sequentially generates a modulated electromagnetic radiation field (for example, a first radiation field 410 and a second radiation field 412 having a first spindle and a second spindle, respectively) of the radiation field. The direction of the spindle is perpendicular to the direction of the track of the sporting event where multiple competitors 414 _{1, 2 with tags 416 1, 2 (bib tags in this example) pass through the portable vertical antenna structure.} ing.

The tag can include a dipole antenna connected to a chip having a processor that produces a modulated backscatter signal in response to the modulated signal of the RF antenna. The non-folding length of the tag antenna can be about half the wavelength of the operating frequency, for example 10 cm to 20 cm (900 MHz equals about 16 cm). The tag can be securely attached to the support sheet forming the bib.

Therefore, when the tag enters the modulated radiation field, the tag is activated and the information, for example, the tag ID stored in the tag's memory 426, is transferred in the form of the _{modulated backscatter signals 418 1, 2 and so on.} The detection antenna can start transmission. The tag can continue to send messages as long as the tag is within the radiation field of one of the antennas.

The transceiver receives one or more messages picked up by one or more antennas, time stamps the received messages, determines the signal strength of the received messages, eg RSSI, and signals. Can be converted into digital information. These data are then processed by the data processor 424. The electromagnetic field created by the antenna is strongest in the direction of the main axis of the radiation field created by the antenna. The data processor 424 in the decoder can execute an algorithm capable of determining the passing time of the tag based on the received time stamped message and the signal strength of the received message. The time associated with the strongest signal strength of the tag (identified by the tag ID) can be interpreted as the transit time. The transit time and tag ID are then stored in memory for further use.

As shown in FIG. 4, depending on the orientation (both height and <or> tilt) of the antenna devices 406, 408 of each vertical RF antenna structure, the at least one first radiation field 410 of the antenna device 406 It is controlled so as to start the tag closer competitor 414 ₁ to the side antenna, and at least one radiation field 412 of the antenna device 408 is controlled to start the relatively distant athlete 414 ₂ of the tag from the side antenna ..

At least one of the decoder system or RF antenna structure may further be equipped with a GPS device to know the location of the timekeeping system or antenna structure. Further, the decoder system includes a wireless interface 428 (eg, WiFi or LTE wireless connection) and can send the measured data to the central server 432 to process the data and store it in the central database 434. .. The decoder system can further include a (graphical) user interface 430.

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a timekeeping system using a portable and foldable RF antenna according to another embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 5 shows a track 500 having a predetermined width, eg, 4-12 meters (preferably about 8 meters), which comprises two timing systems 502,504. The first (main) timing system 502 comprises a first decoder system 506 connected to at least both the first portable vertical antenna structure 503 and the second portable vertical antenna structure 505. The first portable vertical antenna structure 503 and the second portable vertical antenna structure 505 are at least the first antenna device 508 ₁ , 510 ₁ and the second antenna device 508 ₂ , 510 _{2, respectively.} These are installed on the first side of the truck (the distance between them is about 1 meter).

Further, the second (backup) timing system comprises a second decoder system 516 connected to at least both the first portable vertical antenna structure 519 and the second portable vertical antenna structure 521. , which are provided respectively, the other track (second) at least a first antenna device installed in a side ₅₁₈ 1, 520 ₁ and a second antenna device ₅₁₈ 2, 520 _2. The portable antenna structure of the second timekeeping system can be installed on the other side of the truck at a predetermined distance (eg, at least 3 meters) from the portable antenna structure of the first timekeeping system. That is, it is guaranteed that no interference occurs between the radiation fields 512,514 of the antenna of the first timekeeping system and the radiation fields 522,524 of the antenna of the second timekeeping system. The backup timekeeping system can ensure that the backup timekeeping system can detect participants that the main timekeeping system could not detect. This configuration maximizes the tag read rate.

In one embodiment, each portable vertical antenna structure can include GPS devices 507, 509, 511, 513 configured to determine the position of the antenna structure. Further, at least one of the decoder systems comprises a position setting module 526, wherein the position setting module 526 receives the position setting information from the GPS device and is one between the portable vertical antenna structures. It can be arranged to determine one or more relative positions. The position setting module 526 can be connected to a graphical user interface 528, which displays the position of the portable vertical antenna structure 532 connected to the decoder system 506 and optionally. It is configured to display the position of a portable vertical antenna structure 530 connected to one or more other decoder systems 516. Based on these positions, it is possible to determine and display the relative distance between different antenna structures. Further, in one embodiment, the graphical display of each radiation field of the antenna body can be performed by the graphical user interface. The decoder can be configured to control the output power of the antenna, and the output power of the antenna can be used to control the magnitude of the radiation field. Therefore, using the position information displayed to the user, one or more side antennas of the UHF timekeeping system can be installed and positioned so that the timekeeping system operates according to the specifications.

6A-6C schematically show a portable RF antenna structure according to another embodiment of the present invention. The portable RF antenna structure shown in FIGS. 6A to 6C is a modification of the structure described with reference to FIGS. 2A to 2E. This embodiment provides a modular vertical antenna structure comprising a base structure 602 and planar antenna devices 604 to 608 instead of a foldable antenna structure, wherein the planar antenna devices are mutually exclusive. It is configured to be stacked on top of the others. In this embodiment, the portable RF antenna structure can be configured to have an assembly configuration and a disassembly configuration.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the portable RF antenna structure includes three modular antenna devices, each antenna device being capable of comprising a planar RF antenna. Further, each antenna device may be provided with connecting members on the lower side and the upper side of the antenna device. The connecting member is configured such that the first antenna device 604 is vertically fixed on the base structure and additional antenna devices 606 and 608 can be stacked on top of each other. In the assembly configuration, the connecting members 614 and 616 are configured such that the antenna device is vertically fixed at a predetermined tilt angle (in the same manner as described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2). Can be done. In one embodiment, the connecting member may include one or more electrical connectors for electrically connecting the antenna to an electrical bus (eg, CAN bus).

The base structure can be configured as a housing for accommodating the modular antenna structure in a disassembled configuration. In that case, the individual modular antenna devices of the portable RF antenna structure can be stacked sideways in the housing (similar to FIG. 2E), and the housing is assembled. Is configured to form the base of the portable RF antenna structure.

7A and 7B schematically show a portable RF antenna structure according to another embodiment of the present invention. In this example, the portable RF antenna structure can be the foldable antenna structure described with reference to FIG. 2 or the modular antenna structure described with reference to FIG. In this embodiment, the antenna structure can include one or more additional devices (eg, an imaging device 708 with one or more cameras 710,712). The image pickup device can be controlled by a processor in the decoder system. In one embodiment, when the decoder system detects a passing tag, the decoder system can trigger the image pickup device to initiate capture of the passing participant's video, which is the decoder. It can be stored in the system's memory or transmitted wirelessly to the media server via a wireless interface. In one embodiment, each portable RF antenna structure can have one or more cameras. It is possible to obtain a 3D video clip based on a plurality of video clips captured from different camera positions. Such a 3D video clip will provide information about the position of the passing participant as a function of time. This information can be used in combination with the transit time determined based on the tag signal.

Alternatively and / or additionally, in one embodiment, the antenna structure may include a display device. The display device can display the passing time of the passing participant and the tag number determined by the timekeeping system.

Any feature described in connection with any one of the aforementioned embodiments can be used alone or in combination with the other features described above. And it should be understood that it can be used in combination with one or more features of other embodiments, or in combination with any combination of other embodiments. Further, equivalents and variations not described above can also be used without departing from the scope of the invention, the scope of the invention being defined in the accompanying claims. For example, the present invention is not limited to use in sporting events, but can also be applied to tags used in other fields, such as those attached to animals.

Claims (20)

A portable free-standing vertical RF antenna structure used in the UHF timing system, the movable transportable self-contained R F antenna structure,
It comprises a base structure, a first antenna device and a second antenna device, and is configured to have a first configuration and a second configuration.
The first configuration is a folding or disassembling configuration, and the second configuration is a vertical configuration.
In the second configuration, the base structure is in its substantially horizontal on the surface, vertical position of at least one of the first antenna device and to support the at least one second antenna device Configured,
The first antenna device includes a first planar RF antenna and the second antenna device comprises a second planar RF antenna and the first antenna device and the second antenna device, It is connected to the base structure and
In the second configuration, the first antenna device, between the first inclination angle is 10 degrees and 50 degrees between the first field of radiation spindle and horizontal surface of the first RF antenna , preferably a so that selected between 20 degrees and 40 degrees, is configured to be unfolded state or assembled state, and the second antenna device, the second of the second RF antenna the second angle of inclination between the spindle and a horizontal plane of the radiation field, -20 degrees and 20 degrees, preferably, a so that selected between -10 degrees and 10 degrees, unfolded state or assembly A portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure characterized by being configured to be in a state. In the second configuration, the lower end of the second antenna device is positioned near the upper end of the first antenna device, provided that the second antenna device is positioned above the first antenna device. At least one of the conditions is satisfied, and preferably, the frame connected to the base structure positions the first antenna device and the second antenna device. The antenna structure according to claim 1. In the second configuration, the second antenna device is positioned adjacent to the first antenna device, preferably the frame connected to the base structure is the first antenna device and the second. The antenna structure according to claim 1, wherein the position of the antenna device is set. The main axis of the radiation field of the first RF antenna is perpendicular to the plane of the first RF antenna, and / or the main axis of the radiation field of the second RF antenna is perpendicular to the plane of the second RF antenna. The antenna structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3. At least one of the first planar RF antenna and the second planar RF antenna is at least one patch antenna, preferably a linearly polarized patch antenna, more preferably a linearly polarized butterfly patch antenna and a bow tie patch antenna. of comprises at least one, the patch antenna, the conditions referred to resonate on at least one frequency selected between 870MHz and 930 MHz, at least one condition is satisfied among the conditions that comprises a metal ground plane The antenna structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the antenna structure is configured in 1. The first antenna device and the second antenna device have a substantially rectangular shape, preferably at least one of the length of the first antenna device and the length of the second antenna device is 30 cm and 60 cm. The condition that at least one of the width of the first planar RF antenna and the width of the second planar RF antenna is selected between 20 cm and 50 cm, the second configuration. One of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one of the conditions that the height of the vertical RF antenna structure in the above is selected between 60 cm and 120 cm is satisfied. The antenna structure described in one. The first antenna device and the second antenna device form a foldable RF antenna structure, and the foldable RF antenna structure includes a foldable antenna configuration corresponding to the first configuration and a second. The antenna structure according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the non-folding vertical antenna configuration corresponding to the configuration is included. The base structure is one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the base structure forms a housing structure in which the first antenna device and the second antenna device are housed in a folded antenna configuration. The antenna structure described. The first planar antenna device is pivotally connected to the base structure by a pivotable first connection, and the first planar antenna device is further pivotally free second. The antenna structure according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the antenna structure is pivotally connected to the second planar antenna device by the connecting portion of the above. The pivotally flexible first connection and the pivotally free second connection position the first planar antenna device and the second planar antenna device in a foldable antenna configuration and a non-foldable antenna configuration, respectively. 9. According to claim 9, in the folding antenna configuration, the first flat surface of the first RF antenna faces the first flat surface of the second RF antenna. Antenna structure. The first antenna device and the second antenna device form a modular RF antenna structure, and the antenna structure has an assembly configuration corresponding to the second configuration and a disassembly configuration corresponding to the first configuration. Any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the base structure forms a housing structure that accommodates the first antenna device and the second antenna device in a disassembled antenna configuration. The antenna structure described in one. The first antenna device and the second antenna device are adapted to fix the connecting member and the second antenna device, which are designed to fix the first antenna device to the base structure, to the first antenna device. The antenna structure according to claim 11, wherein the antenna structure is provided with a connecting member. The antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising at least one of one or more image pickup devices, one or more display devices, and a GPS device. Structure. A portable, foldable RF antenna structure used in a UHF timing system, wherein the foldable RF antenna structure is arranged in a foldable antenna configuration or a non-foldable vertical antenna configuration, and the RF antenna structure. The body is
The non-folding vertical antenna configuration comprises a base structure disposed to support the RF antenna structure in a non-folding vertical antenna configuration on a substantially horizontal plane, and the non-folding vertical antenna configuration is at least one first. The first planar antenna device and the second planar antenna device include a planar antenna device and at least one second planar antenna device, and the first planar antenna device and the second planar antenna device are oriented vertically with respect to a horizontal surface.
In the non-folding antenna configuration, the spindle of the first RF antenna has a horizontal surface and a first tilt angle, and the spindle of the second RF antenna has a horizontal surface and a second tilt angle. , The first tilt angle is selected between 10 degrees and 50 degrees, preferably between 20 and 40 degrees, and the second tilt angle is between -20 degrees and 20 degrees. And preferably selected between -10 degrees and 10 degrees.
The base structure is further arranged as a housing that accommodates the first planar antenna device and the second planar antenna device in a folded antenna configuration.
A portable and foldable RF antenna structure. The first planar antenna device is pivotally connected to the base structure by a pivotable first connection, and the first planar antenna device is further pivotally connected to a second connection. The second planar antenna device is pivotally connected to the second planar antenna device, and the pivotable first connection portion and the pivotable second connection portion are a first planar antenna device and a second planar antenna. The antenna structure according to claim 14, wherein the device is positioned so as to have a foldable antenna configuration and a non-foldable antenna configuration. The antenna structure according to claim 14 or 15, wherein in the folding antenna configuration, the first flat surface of the first RF antenna faces the first flat surface of the second RF antenna. A sports timekeeping system comprising a decoder system connected to a plurality of portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structures.
A first portable self-contained vertical RF antenna structure comprising at least one first antenna device, wherein the first antenna device comprises a first planar RF antenna. A portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure and
A second portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure comprising at least one second antenna device, wherein the second antenna device comprises a second planar RF antenna. A portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure and
Including
The tilt angle between the main axis of the radiation field of the first RF antenna and the horizontal surface on which the first vertical RF antenna structure stands is between 10 degrees and 50 degrees, preferably 20 degrees. And 40 degrees, and
The tilt angles between the main axis of the radiation field of the second RF antenna and the horizontal surface on which the second vertical RF antenna structure stands are -20 degrees and 20 degrees, preferably -10 degrees and 10 degrees. Selected between degrees,
A sports timekeeping system featuring that. The first free-standing vertical RF antenna structure and the second free-standing vertical RF antenna structure are positioned on one side of the sports track, and the first portable free-standing vertical RF antenna structure is provided. 17. The sports timing system according to claim 17, wherein the main axis of the radiation field of the body and the main axis of the radiation field of the second portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure are oriented toward the center line of the sports track. .. Each of the plurality of portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structures is equipped with a GPS device, and the decoder system is to determine the position of each portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure, and optionally. 17. The sports timing system according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the position of the portable self-supporting vertical RF antenna structure is configured to be displayed to the user using a graphical user interface. A sports timekeeping system comprising at least one decoder system connected to one or more of the RF antenna structures according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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