WO2017025628A1

WO2017025628A1 - Sports timekeeping

Info

Publication number: WO2017025628A1
Application number: PCT/EP2016/069242
Authority: WO
Inventors: Nikias Klohr
Original assignee: race result AG
Priority date: 2015-08-13
Filing date: 2016-08-12
Publication date: 2017-02-16
Also published as: DE102015010398A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a transponder (10) for sports timekeeping, comprising: a receiving unit (12) for receiving at least one message from a measuring point (22) when passing the measuring point, wherein the message contains a measuring point parameter which displays whether the passed measuring point is an indirect measuring point (22b, 22c, 22d, 22e) without a communications connection to a central information collection point, or a direct measuring point (22a) with a communications connection to the central information collection point; a processor (14) for calculating a passing time of the measuring point based on the at least one message; a counter (16) for determining a time difference between a passing time of an indirect measuring point and a passing time of a direct measuring point; and a transmission unit (18) for transmitting the determined time difference to the direct measuring point when passing the direct measuring point. The invention also relates to a corresponding method as well as a measuring point and a system (32) for sports timekeeping.

Description

Sport time measurement [1] The present invention relates to a transponder and a

System and a method for sports time measurement.

In the field of sports time measurement, such as running events, marathons, cycling, ski racing, motor racing, horse racing or other similar events, the recording of time plays an important role. Both in mass sports, for example, in company runs, as well as in the professional field, the capture of intermediate and total times is indispensable. An increasingly important approach here is the non-contact automatic time measurement by means of wireless technologies.

[3] For this purpose, a person, a vehicle or an animal whose time is to be measured carries a radio element (eg an active or passive RFID tag) with it. Running athletes, for example, carry wireless elements that are integrated into a start number or attached to the laces. In the case of cycling events, it is possible to mount corresponding radio elements on the handlebars of a bicycle, in other vehicles, a radio element can be connected to the body. [4] In this context, a transponder refers in particular to a radio element that allows both the transmission and the reception of signals. On the one hand, passive RFID systems are to be mentioned, which do not have their own energy source and transmit their own identifier (ID) in response to a 5 excitation by a base station. On the other hand, active RFID systems usually have their own power supply and thus allow a comparatively higher degree of data processing in the transponder. Usually, active RFID systems allow a higher precision of the measurement. [5] At start, finish and intermediate time positions along a route, measuring points are provided which make it possible to detect a radio element in the vicinity or to communicate with it. In particular, a measuring point comprises an antenna and a corresponding evaluation unit for controlling the antenna and exchanging it for processing.

15 ter signals. The measuring point registers times at which a particular radio element is located in its vicinity or passes the measuring point. A Passierzeitpunkt here refers to a determined exact moment at which the transponder passes the measuring point, so for example, crosses the finish line. The determination of this passing time based on

20 exchanged messages between transponder and measuring point while the transponder is within a communication range of the measuring point, can be done in various ways, for example, based on an evaluation of the signal strengths of exchanged messages.

[6] In addition to recording start and finish times, there are often 25 sporting events where the desire to record intermediate or sector or section times by means of further measuring points is often required. The detection of such parameters can be made available on the one hand to the athletes and on the other hand to the public as additional information. [7] Traditionally, a passing of a transponder is detected at a measuring point and the corresponding information is communicated to a central evaluation point. Through a synopsis and an evaluation of the registered times a time recording becomes possible. In this case, the time recording in particular relates to the detection of a start, finish or intermediate time or a corresponding time duration between start and finish, between an intermediate point and the destination or a time span in a sector or section. The determination of these parameters usually takes place from an overall view of different passing times at different measuring points.

[8] EP 2 009 595 A1 discloses a timing system for sports events. The system is based on backscatter modulation in the UHF frequency band and includes wirelessly encoding writable data tags with a start number of a participant of a sporting event and attaching these data tags to the starting numbers of the participants. In a preferred embodiment, the participants are assigned an ID number and a printed start number with a data tag with the ID number. Before starting the start, the athletes attach the data tags to their shoes. Appropriate antennas designed for use with the data tags are used to communicate with the data tags.

US 2008/0258917 A1 discloses an RFID-triggered training device. The exerciser is worn by a runner during a race. A race track is equipped with a variety of mats along the race track. The mats have antennas and generate a magnetic field. The training device has a chip system with an RFID tag and a display. As the runner moves along the route, the RFID tag on each mat is triggered and race data is displayed on the exerciser. In WO 01/54072 A1 a recording device is disclosed. The recording device has evaluation means, storage means connected to the evaluation means for storing data, and a receiving unit connected to the evaluation means for receiving at least one signal, the evaluation means being arranged in the storage means for data after having received the at least one signal, the at least one signal being coupled to a particular position. For example, the recorder may be used to record split times along a route and to calculate and display derived data (average speed, estimated times at which points are passed).

In US 2014/0169140 A1, a method is provided for measuring a time and / or an elapsed period of a competitor in a sports competition by a transponder module that is personal to the competitor and accompanies the competitor in a measuring system through the competition. The personal transponder module is activated at the start of the competition or at intermediate positions or at the finish line of the competition. A detection of a change in the movement and / or a vibration level is effected by a motion sensor which is integrated in the transponder module. The transponder module transmits data related to the detection by the motion sensor on the track or at intermediate positions or at the finish line of the competition to a decoding unit of the measuring system for a time or elapsed period associated with the detection of the motion sensor of the competitor Reference is to be examined. The time measurement for the transponder is therefore traditionally decentralized at various measuring points, which are distributed along the route. A measuring point determines which transponder passes the measuring point at which time (passing time). A requirement for the utilization of the acquired information is therefore a central information collecting point or a communication of the different measuring points with such a central information collecting point. At this central information collecting point, an evaluation and a Compilation of the measured Passierzeitpunkte done. For example, difference times can be determined by subtracting individual Passierzeitpunkte. For example, communication between the measuring points or between the measuring points and a central information collection point is possible via GSM or via an Internet connection.

Depending on the nature of the sporting event, it is possible that such communication for some or more sites can not be guaranteed or only at high additional cost. For example, interim acquisition may be required at hard to reach locations such as mountain passes. Also, the detection of a plurality of split times (sector times) may be required, which would require a high communication data rate. This can be achieved, for example, by using a transponder for transporting the passing times. The transponder receives its own passport from the measuring point.

15 time, for example in the form of a time, transmitted and transported this in a memory to the destination.

[11] If a passing time is determined in the measuring point and communicated directly to the central information collecting point, it may be sufficient if a unitary point has been established in the central information collecting point.

20 liehe time base for the different measuring points is present. However, if direct communication is not possible and a passing time is stored on the transponder and transported with the transponder, it is necessary for the different measuring points to have a common time base, that is to say synchronized clocks. Usually even

25 de possibilities of having a synchronized time base at all measuring points, since communication often involves nondeterministic delays.

[12] Depending on the location of the relevant site, this can lead to increased costs or even insurmountable problems. 30 For example, it is not always possible to guarantee GPS reception. This requires the use of a high accuracy clock or regular re-synchronization with other sites. On the one hand this can result in higher system costs and on the other hand in a lower accuracy of the time measurement.

5 [13] The present invention has the object of the systems of

Prior art to improve the accuracy and system costs. In particular, the present invention has the task of enabling an accurate time measurement even in scenarios with several measuring points, in which at least a part of the measuring points can not communicate with one another.

[14] According to one aspect of the present invention, this object is achieved by a transponder for sports time measurement. The transponder includes:

a receiving unit for receiving at least one message from a measuring point when passing the measuring point, wherein the message contains a measuring point parameter indicating whether the passing measuring point is an indirect measuring point without a communication connection to a central information collecting point or a direct measuring point communicating with the central information collection point;

a processor for calculating a passing time of the measuring point based on the at least one message;

a counter for determining a time difference between a passing time of an indirect measuring point and a passing time point of a direct measuring point; and

a transmitting unit for transmitting the determined time difference to the direct measuring point when passing the direct measuring point.

[15] According to another aspect of the invention, this object is achieved by a method for sports time measurement. The procedure includes the following steps: Receiving at least one message from a measuring point when passing the measuring point, wherein the message contains a measuring point parameter indicating whether the passing measuring point is an indirect measuring point without communication connection to a central information collecting point, or a direct measuring point with communication connection to the central information collection point acts;

Calculating a passing time of the measuring point based on the at least one message;

Determining a time difference between a passing time of an indirect measuring point and a passing time of a direct measuring point; and

Transfer of the determined time difference to the direct measuring point when passing the direct measuring point.

[16] According to another aspect of the present invention, the object is achieved by a system for sports time measurement. The system includes:

a sports timing transponder as described herein;

an indirect measuring point without a communication connection to a central information collecting point, wherein the indirect measuring point is designed for wireless transmission of at least one message to the transponder when passing the indirect measuring point;

a direct measuring point with communication connection to the central information collecting point, wherein the direct measuring point for wireless transmission of at least one message to the transponder when passing the direct measuring point and for receiving a time difference from the transponder wirelessly when passing the direct measuring point is formed.

[17] In another aspect, the object is achieved by a computer program product having a volume on the program code which is adapted to execute a method as described above, when the program code is executed, solved.

[18] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims. It is understood that the transponder, the method, the system and the computer program product can be configured according to the embodiments described for the transponder or for the system in the dependent claims.

[19] The receiving unit of the inventive transponder i o preferably communicates wirelessly with a measuring point as soon as the transponder is located in a communication radius of the measuring point. In particular, the transponder receives one or more messages with a parameter indicating which type of measuring point is the passing measuring point. Based on the at least one received message

15, the processor determines a passing time. In the - usual - case that several passages occur when passing, so several messages are received, the Passierzeitpunkt can be calculated, for example, based on the received signal strengths of the received messages. For example, the receiving time of the message with the highest

20 signal strength are evaluated as Passierzeitpunkt. Also, other parameters may be taken into account in the calculation, such as signal strengths applied to different antennas, for example to three orthogonally arranged antennas. The Passierzeitpunkt therefore refers to a time base of the transponder, especially in relation to

25 several messages that are received while the transponder is in communication range of the measuring point.

[20] Compared to previous solutions, the calculation of the passing time point thus takes place completely in the transponder and not in the measuring point. Communication from the transponder to the measuring point is not necessary to calculate the passing time. In particular, It is sufficient that the transponder can receive messages from this measuring point when passing through an indirect measuring point. A return channel is not required. As a result, the hardware costs at the measuring point can be reduced. In previous solutions in which the passing time is calculated in the measuring point, it must be ensured that it is also possible to determine the passing times for a large number of transponders which pass the measuring point at the same time. This usually requires a more powerful and therefore more cost-intensive processor, for example an FPGA. According to the calculation of Passierzeitpunktes decentralized in the transponder, so that the calculation of Passierzeitpunkts must be performed only for a transponder. For this purpose, a much less powerful processor is sufficient.

[21] On the one hand, an indirect measuring point can be passed, which has no communication link to other measuring points or to a central information collecting point. On the other hand, a direct measuring point can be passed, which has means for further processing of the measured times. An indirect measuring point may, for example, correspond to an intermediate time measuring point or a start time measuring point in a location which is difficult to access. A direct measuring point may, for example, correspond to a target time measuring point or a connected intermediate time measuring point. The type of measuring point passed is indicated to the transponder by a measuring point parameter in the message transmitted by the measuring point.

[22] According to the invention, when passing an indirect measuring point, a counter is started at the determined passing time. This counter is only stopped when a direct measuring point is passed. The time difference is transmitted by the transponder via a transmitting unit to the direct measuring point. On the basis of the measuring point parameter, it can therefore be determined whether the counter should be started (at an indirect measuring point) or whether the counter should be read out and the determined time difference should be transmitted (at a direct measuring point). In the transponder, the counter is used to determine a time difference between the first indirect measuring point that has passed first and the direct measuring point that subsequently passes. In the direct measuring point, after receiving a time difference of a transponder, different time differences of different transponders or different time differences of a transponder, the further processing and synopsis can take place with respect to one or more passed indirect measuring points. In particular, the measured time difference or the measured time differences are forwarded via the direct measuring point to a central information collecting point and further processed there. In contrast to an indirect measuring point, a direct measuring point has a communication connection (data connection) with the central information collecting point. To establish the communication connection, for example, a wired or wireless interface can be provided. The present invention also enables time measurement at an indirect measuring point. In the central information collecting point, the time difference or the time differences are evaluated and further processed. In particular, start times and / or split times (on the time base of the central information collecting point or the direct measuring point) can be determined, even if only an indirect measuring point is provided at the corresponding positions on the route. For example, on the basis of a point in time at which a direct measuring point has been passed and a time difference which is assigned to an indirect measuring point, the time of passing the indirect measuring point (on the time base of the central information collecting point) can be subsequently calculated. The calculated split times can be made available to the public, the athletes or the race director. It goes without saying that, with regard to the hardware used, there must be no difference between a direct measuring point and an indirect measuring point. The same measuring point can be operated as a direct or indirect measuring point, depending on whether there is a communication connection to the central information collecting point or not. It is understood that the central information collecting point can also be integrated in a direct measuring point. [24] Herein, a time difference may on the one hand indicate a difference between two time stamps with respect to the clock represented by the counter in the transponder (passing time of the indirect measuring point and passing time of the direct measuring point). On the other hand, the transmission 5 of a time difference can also indicate the transmission of the two time stamps per se.

[25] According to the invention, therefore, no time of passage (corresponding to an absolute time stamp) is stored in the transponder. Rather, a time difference between the passing of two measuring points is determined and stored. Accordingly, the presence of a time is not required. It is sufficient if the time base is finally adjusted as soon as the time difference is to be set in relation to an absolute time, for example after transmission to a direct measuring point.

[26] Compared to previous solutions, it is not necessary 15 that all measuring points have a synchronized clock and / or a data connection. In particular, the transponder according to the invention makes it possible for an indirect measuring point to comprise neither a synchronized clock nor a data connection to other measuring points or to a central information collecting point. Accordingly, the use of a transponder according to the invention enables a simple and cost-effective time measurement at indirect measuring points.

In a preferred embodiment, the receiving unit is designed for evaluating an inductive field, wherein the message is transmitted wirelessly by a modulation of the inductive field. The

25 measuring point generates an inductive field, which is registered by the receiving unit in the transponder. Usually, the measuring point for this purpose comprises a corresponding induction loop, which corresponds to an antenna. The message and the measuring point parameters contained therein are transmitted by a modulation of the inductive field. Usually, the inductive field

30 is modulated at a relatively high frequency so that the message transmissions Transmission takes place at a relatively high frequency, for example in the range of 100-200 Hz. Depending on the speed of the transponder with respect to the measuring point, this ensures that the transponder can receive several messages during the passage curtain, that is to say while it is in the communication range of the measuring point. The advantage here is that the message reception can be achieved with a very low energy consumption in the transponder. A further advantage is that a possible parallel radio transmission, for example in the 2.4 GHz frequency band, is not disturbed. In a further embodiment, the receiving unit as

A wake-up receiver adapted to wirelessly receive the at least one inductive field message generated by a measurement site. A wake-up receiver is adapted to be triggered by a first received message from a power-saving mode (sleep mode) in which

15 parts of the units of the transponder are disabled or in sleep mode, can be put into a normal operating mode. The following messages can then be received in the normal operating mode after waking up. One advantage of this is that the transponder can be in energy-saving mode much of the time, and only when needed

20 (for message reception) is put into the normal operating mode.

This energy can be saved in the transponder. In addition, by setting a pre-defined wake-up pattern, an increase in security can be achieved. For example, a 16-bit "wakeup pattern" can be modulated on the induction loop, which ensures that a

25 transponders is always woken up only at a measuring point that belongs to the current system. This avoids randomly misinterpreting other signals and causing inaccuracies.

[29] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one message contains a measuring point ID for distinguishing between several indirect measuring points; is the counter for determining a plurality of time differences between a plurality of passing times of the plurality of indirect measuring points and formed the passing time of the direct measuring point; and the transmitting unit is configured to transmit the plurality of detected time differences. It is possible that several indirect measuring points are passed before a direct measuring point is passed. Preferably, a plurality of time differences are then determined and transmitted on the basis of the counter. On the one hand, time differences between different indirect measuring points and, on the other hand, time differences between the several indirect measuring points and the direct measuring point at which the time differences are transmitted can be determined. This makes a variety of different configurations possible.

[30] In a preferred embodiment, the transponder comprises a memory for storing the determined time difference, wherein the memory is preferably designed to delete the stored time difference after receiving an acknowledgment from the direct measuring point that the time difference was obtained. In the memory, the different time differences or Passierzeitpunkte can be stored in relation to the counter in the transponder. The memory may in particular be designed so that at least the latest time difference and the oldest time difference are stored. In this way, it can be achieved that at least one start and finish time is available even in the case of a memory overflow. It may further be provided that the memory is designed to store new time differences at a (greatly) reduced rate when a predefined number of measurement points has already been stored. As a result, errors can be prevented, which arise because the same site is passed several times, for example by a longer stay within a communication range of a measuring point. The memory also allows a kind of backup of a number of time differences, if the transmitting unit can not transmit any time difference or only a part of a plurality of time differences when passing the direct measuring point. This can be the case, for example, as a result of a blocked communication channel by a multiplicity of transponders transmitting at the same time or by a disturbed communication channel. The transmission of a stored time difference can then take place when passing a following direct measuring point. Typically, the memory is configured to clear a stored time difference upon receipt of an acknowledgment of receipt of a detected time difference. As a result, multiple time differences are prevented.

5 [31] In a preferred embodiment, the transponder further comprises an energy-saving unit in order to place the transponder in a power-saving mode after a predefined idle period in which no messages are received. This rest period can be for example 24 h. If during this rest period no new messages i o received and Passierzeitpunkte have been determined, the transponder assumes that no further measurements take place and the measurement can be aborted or discarded. Usually the memory will be deleted. However, it is also possible that the data is retained in the memory for another period of time and

If necessary, they can be read out again. This can save energy in the long term and extend the life of an energy source in the transponder.

[32] In one embodiment, the transmitting unit is a radio transmitter for transmitting the determined time difference, preferably in a freely available

20 baren frequency band, trained. For example, a low power short range transmitter may be used that communicates in a shared industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) frequency band. This avoids interference with systems operating in reserved frequency ranges. There is also a wide range of available hardware

25 would be, so that a cost-effective implementation is made possible.

[33] In another embodiment, the viscous comprises a low energy quartz. Low energy quartz can maintain an internal time base in the transponder with low power consumption. By means of a quartz, for example, in conjunction with a counter 30 in a microcontroller, a time measurement can be carried out which meets the requirements. In terms of accuracy, it is sufficient in most applications of sports timing systems.

[34] In one embodiment of the system according to the invention, the indirect measuring point is designed as an intermediate-time measuring point; and the direct 5 measuring point designed as target time measuring point. Accordingly, an intermediate time is measured at the intermediate time measuring point and, in addition to the measuring of the target time, the time difference at the time of passing the intermediate time measuring point is also transmitted at the target time measuring point. Advantageously, the intermediate-time measurement at remote intermediate-time measuring points i o is thus made possible, which have no communication connection and no synchronized time.

[35] In one embodiment, the system further comprises an evaluation unit for evaluating the received time difference and for determining an intermediate time and a target time. The evaluation unit can be integrated in the target time measuring point or also be connected to it via a communication connection. The evaluation unit collects (as the central information collecting point) different start, intermediate and destination times for the participants and evaluates them.

[36] In a further advantageous embodiment, the system further comprises a display unit for displaying the intermediate time and the target time. The display unit can be, for example, a large-area monitor or a digital display. The display unit displays the determined values and informs the audience and the athletes.

[37] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those still to be explained below can be used not only in the particular combination indicated, but also in other combinations or in isolation, without departing from the scope of the present invention. Fields of application of the invention are also found in areas outside the sport time measurement. For example, the present approach may also be used to monitor dementia patients in a nursing home who are not normally expected to leave the hospital for attendance control or tracking of firefighters in a mission (for example, when deployed in a tunnel), for occupancy control in factories or other areas be used. It is understood that the transponder according to the invention is not limited to the application in the sport time measurement. In the claims, the words "comprise" and "with" do not exclude the presence of further elements or steps. The undefined article "a" or "an" does not exclude the presence of a plurality. A single element or unit may perform the functions of several of the units recited in the claims. The mere mention of some measures in several different dependent claims is not to be understood that a combination of these measures can not be used equally advantageous. A computer program can be stored / distributed on a nonvolatile data carrier, for example on an optical memory or on a semiconductor drive (SSD). A computer program may be distributed along with hardware and / or as part of a hardware, for example, via the Internet or via wired or wireless communication systems. Reference signs in the claims are not intended to be limiting.

[39] The invention will be described and explained in more detail below with reference to a few selected embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a transponder for time measurement according to an aspect of the present invention; FIG. 2 shows an illustration of a measuring point for interaction with the transponder; FIG.

Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a system according to one aspect of the invention;

4 shows a schematic illustration of a further embodiment of a system according to an aspect of the invention;

Fig. 5 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a transponder according to one aspect of the present invention; and

Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of a method for sport time measurement according to one aspect of the present invention.

[40] FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of a transponder 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The transponder 10 comprises a receiving unit 12 for receiving at least one message from a measuring point. The receiving unit 12 is preferably designed as a coil for wirelessly receiving a modulated inductive signal. The receiving unit 12 is designed to receive a message from a measuring point. The transponder 10 further comprises a processor 14 which processes the received at least one message, and calculates a passing time of the measuring point. For this purpose, the processor can, for example, evaluate the signal strengths of the received messages and analyze their fluctuations and course. Also, the processor may analyze different signal strength values measured by different antennas upon receiving the same message. The transponder 10 further comprises a counter 16. The counter 16 makes it possible to determine a time difference between a passing time of a first measuring point and a passing time of a second measuring point. The counter 16 may also be referred to as a timing unit or as a clock unit. The counter 16 speaks an internal clock. Finally, the transponder 10 comprises a transmitting unit 18 by means of which the determined time difference can be transmitted to a measuring point.

[41] The present invention relates in particular to the field of timekeeping for sports events, for example inline skating, BMX, mountain biking, ice skating, skiing, motocross, running, motorsport, skiing, cycling or else. The goal is to measure a time required to cover a certain distance. In such events, there is often a desire to also record split times. This may be desirable in part at places that are difficult to reach (for example at a mountain pass) or at a very large number of intermediate stations (sector times).

[42] Previous time measuring systems generally require a measuring point at each intermediate time point, which determines a time stamp when passing the transponder and this with the transponder ID by means of an additional time stamp

15 transmits communication medium to a central data processing. There, difference times can then be determined by subtracting the individual time stamps. Another possibility is to transmit the current time to the transponder. For both procedures, the time must be synchronized among the measuring points distributed on the route and possibly one

20 data transmission are enabled. So far, measuring point for intermediate and sector times must therefore have a synchronized time base in order to determine relative to each other as accurate as possible difference times. For this purpose, a GPS-based time base is normally used per measuring point or a synchronization process is required. alternative

25 or additionally, there must be a data connection to a central data collection point. The data connection can be achieved wirelessly, for example by WLAN / GSM etc. or also by wire, for example by LAN / PowerLine / DSL etc. It is also possible to record the data only and then to collect it centrally in order to obtain an evaluation of the data.

30 interim periods. [43] In most previous systems, the actual determination of the passing time in the measuring point is done for all passing transponders. Apart from the direct communication of the determined pass times to a central information collecting point, one possibility for data transmission is to notify the transponder of the measured current time when passing, so that the transponder can store a time stamp and transport it to the destination. However, this does not solve the problem that the measuring points need a synchronized common time base. According to the invention, the transponder (active transponder) therefore has an integrated time base (counter, usually comprising a low-energy quartz and a counter in the microcontroller) for determining one / more relative difference time stamps (time differences) since passing through a measuring point (s) / n and their respective identification number

15 mer / n.

[45] In Fig. 2, the situation at a measuring point in the case of a running event is schematically illustrated. An athlete 20 carries a transponder 10 according to the invention. The transponder 10 can be secured, for example, by means of an elastic band on the ankle of the runner 20.

20 be firm. However, other positions of the transponder 10 are conceivable. The athlete 20 moves in the vicinity of a measuring point 22. In the example shown, the measuring point comprises an antenna 24 and a readout and communication unit 26. The antenna 24 is arranged at the bottom and can, for example, in a cable channel, which is orthogonal to the running

25 track runs, be routed. The illustrated antenna 24 corresponds to a simple wire loop. Other arrangements of the antenna, for example, laterally of the route or in a bridge over the route are conceivable.

[46] An inductive field is generated above the antenna 24. The anode thus corresponds to an induction loop. The field is mostly upwards oriented in the direction of the passing runner 20. The transponder 10 or the receiving unit 12 in the transponder is designed to register the inductive field.

[47] In a preferred embodiment, the transponder 10 or the receiving unit of the transponder is designed as a wakeup receiver. A wakeup receiver is switched from a passive mode (sleep mode) with reduced power consumption into an active mode as soon as the transponder enters the inductive field. In other embodiments, the activation of the transponder 10 can also be achieved via a radio interface in the measuring point 22. Depending on how long the transponder 10 is in the field, there are then several so-called detections that correspond to messages that the transponder 10 receives.

[48] Based on these multiple detections, a passing time of the measuring point 22 is calculated in the transponder 10. The passing time

15 preferably corresponds to the time at which the rotor 20 is located directly above the antenna 24. By means of an algorithm, a passing time of a detection at the measuring point 22 can be determined precisely in the processor of the transponder 10. The calculation can be based, for example, on signal strengths or field strengths of the inductive field

20 are the directional antennas in the transponder, done. The transponder 10 can transmit the result of the detection to the readout and communication unit 26 of the measuring point 22. For this purpose, for example, a 2.4 GHz radio channel can be provided. An evaluation unit 30 for further processing of the measured times can also be applied to the measuring point 22.

25 be closed.

The measuring point 22 can be designed on the one hand as a direct or on the other hand as an indirect measuring point. In the following, the reference numeral 22 is used when it is not necessary for the aspect concerned to distinguish between a direct and an indirect measuring point). 30 A direct measuring point and an indirect measuring point do not differ necessarily with respect to the hardware used. In particular, a measuring point can be operated as an indirect measuring point based on its position if it has no communication connection. Which type of measuring point is involved or in which mode the measuring point 22 is operated is displayed to the transponder 10 via a measuring point parameter in the message transmitted by the measuring point 22. In particular, this is done by a corresponding modulation or coding of the inductive field of the measuring point 22.

[50] It is also possible that the modulation of the inductive field also transmits a measuring point ID. On the radio interface, or the induction loop, so an identifier of the measuring point is coded, by which the transponder 10 can distinguish several measuring points to assign a determined time difference later unique to a specific measuring point.

15 [51] By setting and transmitting a measuring point

Parameters indicating an indirect measuring point are signaled to the passing transponder that the pass time should be counted internally as the difference time stamp (time difference) to the next measuring point. By setting and transmitting a measuring point parameter, by

20 a direct measuring point is displayed, the passing transponder is signaled that all time differences present in the memory to be transmitted. Nevertheless, if appropriate, a time stamp can also be generated or a time difference can be determined for the direct measuring point that has happened. When passing a direct measuring point, ie an

25 ner measuring point, which can make a further processing and communication of times, so several relative difference time stamps (time differences) in the "pass by / passing" can be transferred or the memory of the transponder are read.

[52] In Fig. 3, a sports time measurement system 32 according to a 30 aspect of the invention is schematically illustrated. The system includes a direct Measuring point 22a and an indirect measuring point 22b. Both measuring points 22a, 22b are designed to detect a plurality of transponders carried by runners 20. In the illustrated example, the direct measuring point 22a with an evaluation unit 30 as a central information collecting point that can evaluate and process time differences, directly connected by cable. Based on the evaluation, a display unit 40, for example a screen, can then be activated in order to display the results of the sports event. It is understood that the display unit 40 can also be implemented by a website on which the results are shown interactively retrievable. It is further understood that the central information collecting point can also be executed integrated with the measuring point or spatially separated, for example, as an Internet server, executed. The central information collection point can be implemented both in hardware and in software. [53] In the example shown, the runners 20 are located on a circulating running route 34. The start and finish of the run are located at the direct measuring point 22a. An application of the system is also possible for routes with separate start and finish.

[54] In the present example, the direct measuring point 22a has a time source that can be made available, for example, by a GPS receiver in the evaluation unit 30. Also, the direct measuring point 22a is connected to the evaluation unit 30 with a cable. Accordingly, the direct measuring point 22a allows the processing of measured times or the application of a common time base for the run. At the direct measuring point 22a a Passierzeitpunkt can be determined on an absolute time basis, in other words, therefore, a time of passing can be determined.

[55] The indirect measuring point 22b does not have its own absolute time source because, for example, it can not communicate with a GPS satellite because of its position, nor is it in communication. tion with the direct measuring point 22a. This may for example be the case for an indirect measuring point 22b, which is located in the high mountains. Accordingly, no time measurement in the true sense or no determination of the passing time on an absolute time base (time) can take place at the indirect measuring point. According to the invention, a counter is started at the indirect measuring point 22b, which counter is stopped again only at the following direct measuring point. This determines a time difference. Only after a transmission of the time difference to the direct measuring point 22a can this be brought to an absolute time base and thus made usable. The direct measuring point 22a in the destination (target time measuring point) thus causes the transponder to transmit one or more stored time differences. In this target time measuring point, the actual time at the passing time of the passed indirect measuring point 22a can then be determined by subtraction of time differences and current time. The time difference between Passierzeitpunkten several measuring points is thus determined in the transponder based on its own internal clock. A synchronization of the clock or the counter in the transponder with a time base of the measuring points or the information collecting point is not required. An absolute time base is only produced at the direct measuring point or in the central information collection point.

[56] It should be noted here that no communication from the transponder to the measuring point is required at the indirect measuring point. As a result, an indirect metering point could possibly be implemented more cost-effectively than a direct metering point. [57] In this case, it is not relevant in principle which measuring point is operated as a direct measuring point. If, for example, no communication connection or exact time is already available at the start, the measuring point can already be designed as an indirect measuring point at the start of the run. When passing the measuring point, the counter is then started at the time of passing in the transponder. Only at the following direct measuring point is a time difference determined and transmitted. at The following direct measuring point can be both the measuring point at the finish of the run and an intermediate time measuring point which has a communication connection and is operated as a direct measuring point.

5 [58] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a running event with a plurality of indirect measuring points 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e. All indirect measuring points 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e signal by means of the measuring point parameter that it is an indirect measuring point. Furthermore, the measuring points signal by means of a measuring point ID in the message to the i o transponder each their own unique identification, for example by a number. When passing each indirect measuring point 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, a time difference, ie a difference time stamp, is determined and stored. Only at the next direct measuring point 22a, the time differences are then transmitted. The counter therefore also allows for multiple indirect

15 measuring points 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e to determine time differences to the next direct measuring point 22a and to transmit these collected, when the transponder 10 is the next time in communication range of the direct measuring point 22a.

[59] In addition, it is also possible that the radio channel is blocked when passing a direct measuring point. This can be the case, for example, when a large number of transponders simultaneously pass the direct measuring point. Then it is possible to initiate only a new time difference measurement even when passing through a direct measuring point and to transmit all time differences only when passing a subsequent direct measuring point (for example in the next 25 round). In this case, so to speak, a backup function is realized and a time saved.

[60] It is understood that it is possible to use a plurality of direct measuring points along a path in combination with a large number of indirect measuring points. [61] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a preferred embodiment of a transponder 10 according to the invention. On the left side of Fig. 5 is a front perspective view is shown. On the right side of Fig. 5, the various components in an enlarged sectional view 5 are shown.

The transponder 10 is usually worn by the athlete (for example, in running events, etc.) or attached to the sports equipment (for example, go-kart racing, etc.). In the illustrated example, eyelets 40 for receiving an elastic band for attachment to an arm or leg of the athlete are provided for this purpose. Also conceivable is an attachment by means of adhesive strips, magnets, screws, etc.

In the transponder 10, a receiving unit 12 is provided, which allows the detection of an inductive field. In particular, the receiving unit 12 comprises at least one antenna for measuring the field strength.

Preferably, three antennas are provided for detecting a three-dimensional field strength. Furthermore, a transmitting unit 18 is provided, which allows message transmission to a corresponding receiver in a measuring point. The transmitting unit 18 can be used, for example, as a 2.4 GHz radio transceiver for bidirectional communication, for example for reception

20 confirmation messages, be formed. Transmitter and receiver units can share one antenna or have separate antennas. Also, a combined version as a combined transmitting and receiving unit is possible.

[64] For controlling the transmitting, receiving and further units 25, a low-energy microcontroller 42 is provided, which is designed as a processor 14 to calculate a passing time on the basis of the inductive field strength detected by the receiving unit 12. This Passierzeitpunkt corresponds to the definition of the moment at which the transponder 10 moves over the measuring point. An exemplary approach based on this On the basis of the signal strength, a minimum distance to the measuring point is determined and based on this the passing time is determined.

[65] Furthermore, a memory 44 is provided for storing a plurality of determined passing times or time differences. The memory 44 is controlled by the microcontroller 42. The memory may be embodied, for example, as a flash memory or as a memory chip. The transmission of the time differences stored in the memory 44 at the direct measuring point usually takes place with an acknowledgment, whereby the corresponding entry in the memory 44 i o is automatically deleted only when this acknowledgment of receipt is present. This ensures that a time difference is only read out once. The memory is preferably designed so that both the most recent and oldest time differences are always retained, even when the memory is full. This ensures that at least one startup and

15 a target time are always present. If a transponder is located in the induction area of a measuring point for a long time, new time differences are stored at a greatly reduced rate so as not to fill the memory too quickly. This can be the case, for example, if a runner stops in the induction area.

[66] The integrated time base of the transponder, ie the counter, preferably comprises a low-energy quartz 46 and a very energy-saving asynchronous counter of the microcontroller 42. This asynchronous counter in the microcontroller 42 allows the quartz 46 to have an internal power supply with minimum energy consumption Maintain timebase. This time base works

25 comparable to a guided stopwatch for determining the time difference or the time differences between a first passing an indirect measuring point and a subsequent passing of a direct measuring point. The counter is only started when a measuring point signals to the transponder 10 by a message that the transponder 10

30 sierzeitpunkt this measuring point by determining a time difference, so to speak to the next read-out point, ie to the next direct measuring point, If the counter has already been started because a difference time stamp has already been stored, another stamp is generated and stored in the internal memory.The stamp is also referred to as time difference, as a prerequisite for this, the transponder must be in the 5 position be independently determined a precise time of passing (Passierzeitpunkt) a measuring point .This is ensured by the evaluation of the at least one received message in the processor 14.

[67] The transponder 10 also typically includes an energy-saving unit 48, which can put the transponder 10 or all units of the transponder 10 into an energy-saving sleep mode. For example, this can be done after a predefined time.

[68] Furthermore, the transponder usually has a battery 50, which may be designed, for example, as a button cell.

[69] It is possible that some of the above units may be combined in different ways, or some or all of the functions of a unit may be taken over by other units, so the units are, so to speak, grouped together.

[70] Referring to Fig. 6, a method of sports timing according to one aspect of the present invention is schematically illustrated. The procedure

20 initially includes a step of receiving (step S10) at least one message from a measuring point. Based on this at least one message, a passing time of the measuring point is calculated (step S12). Then a time difference between a passing time of an indirect measuring point and a passing time of a direct measuring point is determined

25 (step S14) and transmitted to the direct measuring point in passing (step S16).

[71] The method according to the invention can be implemented in particular on a microcontroller in a transponder for sports time measurement become. It is also conceivable to operate another portable device (for example a mobile phone, a smart watch or a smart wristband etc.) according to the method described herein. Usually, the individual steps of the method are implemented as instructions in a computer program.

Claims

claims

1. Transponder (10) for sports time measurement, with:

a receiving unit (12) for receiving at least one message from a measuring point (22) when passing the measuring point, wherein the message contains a measuring point parameter indicating whether the passing measuring point is an indirect measuring point (22b, 22c, 22d 22e) is without a communication connection to a central information collection point or a direct measurement point (22a) with a communication connection to the central information collection point;

a processor (14) for calculating a passing time of

Measuring point based on the at least one message;

a counter (16) for determining a time difference between a passing time of an indirect measuring point and a passing time of a direct measuring point; and

a transmitting unit (18) for transmitting the determined time difference to the direct measuring point when passing the direct measuring point.

2. transponder (10) according to claim 1, wherein

the receiving unit (12) is designed to evaluate an inductive field; and

the message is transmitted wirelessly by a modulation of the inductive field.

3. transponder (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving unit (12) as a wake-up receiver for wireless receiving the at least one message about an inductive field is formed, which is generated by a measuring point (22).

4. Transponder (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one message contains a measuring point ID for distinguishing a plurality of indirect measuring points (22b, 22c, 22d, 22e);

the counter (16) is designed to determine a plurality of time differences between a plurality of passing times of the plurality of indirect measuring points and the pass time of the direct measuring point (22a); and

the transmitting unit (18) is designed to transmit the plurality of detected time differences.

15 5. Transponder (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, with

a memory (44) for storing the determined time difference, wherein

the memory is preferably configured to clear the stored time difference after receiving an acknowledgment from the direct measuring point (22a) that the time difference has been obtained.

6. transponder (10) according to claims 4 and 5, wherein the memory (44) for storing a plurality of time differences is designed so that at least the

25 latest time difference and the oldest time difference are stored.

7. transponder (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an energy saving unit (48) to the transponder (10) after a predecessor

30 quiescent period in which no messages are received to put into a power saving mode.

8. transponder (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the transmitting unit (18) is designed as a radio transmitter for transmitting the determined time difference, preferably in a freely available frequency band.

5

A transponder (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the counter (16) comprises a low energy quartz.

i o

10. System for sports time measurement, with:

a transponder (10) for sports time measurement according to claim 1;

a central information collecting point for evaluating the time difference;

an indirect measuring point (22b, 22c, 22d, 22e) without communication connection to the central information collecting point, wherein the indirect measuring point is designed for the wireless transmission of at least one message to the transponder when passing the indirect measuring point;

a direct measuring point (22a) with a communication connection to the central information collecting point, wherein the direct measuring point for wireless transmission of at least one message to the transponder when passing the direct measuring point and for receiving a time difference wirelessly from the transponder (10) when passing the direct Measuring point is formed.

25

1 1. The sport time measurement system (32) of claim 10, wherein

the indirect measuring point (22b, 22c, 22d, 22e) is designed as an intermediate measuring point;

the direct measuring point (22a) is designed as a target time measuring point; and 30 the central information collecting point as an evaluation unit (30) for

Evaluating the received time difference and for determining an intermediate time and a target time is formed.

The system for sports time measurement according to claim 1 1, comprising: a display unit (40) for displaying the intermediate time and the target time.

13. Measuring point (22) for sports time measurement, with:

5 a generating unit with an antenna (24) for periodically wireless sending a message to a passing transponder;

a readout and communication unit (26) for receiving a time difference from the transponder; and

an interface for communication with a central information collecting point (30) for evaluating the received time difference; in which

the generating unit is designed to send out a message with a measuring point parameter which indicates that the measuring point is a direct measuring point if there is a communication link with the central information collecting point via the interface; and

the generating unit is designed to send out a message with a measuring point parameter indicating that the measuring point is an indirect measuring point if there is no communication link with the central information collecting point via the interface.

14. Method for sports time measurement, with the steps:

Receiving (S10) at least one message from a measuring point 25 (22) as it passes the measuring point, the message containing a measuring point parameter indicating whether the measuring point passed is an indirect measuring point (22b, 22c, 22d, 22e ) without a communication connection to a central information collecting point or a direct measuring point (22a) with communication connection to the central information collecting point;

Calculating (S12) a passing time of the measuring point based on the at least one message;

Determining (S14) a time difference between a passing time of an indirect measuring point and a passing time of a direct measuring point; Transferring (S16) the determined time difference to the direct measuring point when passing the direct measuring point.

15. A computer program product having a data carrier on which is stored program code which is adapted to carry out a method with the steps according to claim 14 when the program code is executed.