U.S. patent application number 13/980675 was filed with the patent office on 2013-12-26 for rfid tag read triggered image and video capture event timing system and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to INNOVATIVE TIMING SYSTEMS, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Kurt S Hansen. Invention is credited to Kurt S Hansen.
Application Number | 20130342699 13/980675 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46516421 |
Filed Date | 2013-12-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130342699 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hansen; Kurt S |
December 26, 2013 |
RFID TAG READ TRIGGERED IMAGE AND VIDEO CAPTURE EVENT TIMING SYSTEM
AND METHOD
Abstract
A system for automatically taking an image of a participant in
an event with a timing system determining a time of a passing a
detection line on a route by a participant having an RFID tag, the
system includes a RFID tag reader system obtaining the RFID tag
numbers of the RFID tag in RFID tag reads, time stamping each RFID
tag read, and transmitting a tag read message including the RFID
tag number, an image capture device capturing images of
participants when in proximity to one of the monitored points,
generating image data, an image capture system creating an image
capture message including the image data, and transmitting the
image capture message, and the timing system determining the RFID
tag number within the tag read messages, associating the received
image data with the identified participant, and storing the image
data associated with the determined RFID tag number.
Inventors: |
Hansen; Kurt S;
(Chesterfield, MO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Hansen; Kurt S |
Chesterfield |
MO |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
INNOVATIVE TIMING SYSTEMS,
LLC
St. Louis
MO
|
Family ID: |
46516421 |
Appl. No.: |
13/980675 |
Filed: |
January 20, 2012 |
PCT Filed: |
January 20, 2012 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US12/22126 |
371 Date: |
September 11, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61434769 |
Jan 20, 2011 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
348/157 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 7/188 20130101;
G07C 1/24 20130101; A63B 71/06 20130101; G06K 7/10425 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
348/157 |
International
Class: |
A63B 71/06 20060101
A63B071/06 |
Claims
1. A system for automatically taking an image of a participant in
an event wherein a timing system is used to determine a time of a
passing a detection line on a route by a participant having an RFID
tag on the participant or an object associated with the participant
traveling along the route, the system comprising: a RFID tag reader
system configured for communicating with the RFID tag and obtaining
the RFID tag number of the RFID tag in one or more RFID tag reads,
time stamping each RFID tag read, and transmitting over a
communication interface a tag read message including the RFID tag
number; an image capture device configured for capturing one or
more images of one or more participants when in proximity to one of
the RFID tag reader monitored points, the image capture device
generating image data over a data interface responsive to the
capturing of the one or more images; an image capture system
configured for communicating with the timing system and an
interface coupled to the image capture device for receiving the
generated image message, and creating an image capture message
including the image data, and transmitting the image capture
message over the communication interface to the timing system; and
a timing system configured for receiving the tag read message from
the RFID tag reader system and the image capture message,
determining the RFID tag number within the tag read messages,
associating the image data in the image capture message with the
identified participant, and store the image data in a database file
that is associated with the determined RFID tag number.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein the timing system is configured to
activate the capture of an image by the image capture device and
the image capture device is responsive to the timing system.
3. The system of claim 2 wherein the timing system is configured to
provide the image capture system with the RFID tag number and the
image capture system is configured to include the received RFID tag
number in the image capture message.
4. The system of claim 1 wherein the image capture system is
coupled to the RFID tag reader system, the RFID tag reader system
and image capture system being configured to activate the capturing
of an image by the image capture device when the RFID tag reader
system has detected an RFID tag, the image capture system being
responsive to the RFID tag reader system.
5. The system of claim 4 wherein the RFID tag reader system is
configured to provide the image capture system with the RFID tag
number and the image capture system is configured to include the
received RFID tag number in the image capture message.
6. The system of claim 1 wherein the image capture device is
coupled to the RFID tag reader system, the RFID tag reader system
being configured to activate the capturing of an image by the image
capture device when the RFID tag reader system has detected an RFID
tag, the image capture system being responsive to the RFID tag
reader system.
7. The system of claim 1 wherein the image capture system is
configured for coupling to a plurality of image capture devices,
and wherein the image capture system is configured for controlling
the image capture by each image capture device.
8. The system of claim 7 wherein the image capture system is
coupled to the RFID tag reader system or the timing system for
receiving a command for capturing an image by one or more of the
coupled image capture devices.
9. The system of claim 1 wherein at least one of the image capture
system and the timing system is configured to encrypt the image
data prior to storing, and wherein the timing system is configured
to transmit the stored image data along with the RFID tag number
and an identification of the encryption of the image data.
10. The system of claim 1 wherein at least one of the image capture
system and the timing system is configured to compress the image
data prior to storing, and wherein the timing system is configured
to transmit the stored image data along with RFID tag number and an
identification of the compression of the image data.
11. The system of claim 1 wherein the RFID tag reader detects a
particular RFID tag number approaching the detection line, and
wherein the image capture device is activated to capture a video
sequence of the participant associated with the RFID tag number as
they approach and pass the detection line.
12. The system of claim 1, further comprising an image capture
preorder system having an interface for receiving a request for a
photograph and/or video of the participant prior to or during an
event along the route and transmitting the received request,
wherein the timing system is communicatively coupled to the image
capture preorder system for receiving the transmitted request and
associating the RFID tag number with the image capture request,
generating a command for capturing an image associated with the
RFID tag number that includes the RFID tag number.
13. The system of claim 12 wherein the image capture device is
configured for receiving an image capture start command and
capturing one or more images responsive to receiving the image
capture start command, the image capture device generating image
data over a data interface responsive to the capturing of the one
or more images and the image capture system is configured for
receiving the image capture demand, generating the image capture
start command responsive to receipt of the image capture demand,
receiving the generated image message, creating an image capture
message including the image data, and transmitting the image
capture message over the communication interface to the timing
system, and the timing system is configured to compare the RFID tag
numbers of the tag read messages with the RFID tag number of the
image capture command, wherein the image capture command is
generated by the timing system responsive to the RFID tag number
being identified within the RFID tag read messages, receiving the
image capture message responsive to the image capture command,
associating the image data in the received image capture message
with the identified participant, and storing the image data in a
database file that is associated with the identified
participant.
14. The system of claim 13 wherein the RFID tag reader detects a
particular RFID tag number approaching the detection line, and
wherein the image capture device is activated to capture a video
sequence of the participant associated with the RFID tag number as
they approach and pass the detection line.
15. The system of claim 12, wherein the request include an
identification of one or more requested image outputs for
delivering of the captured image data during and after the event,
and wherein the timing system is configured to transmit the stored
image data for the particular RFID tag number to each of the image
outputs contained within the request during or after the event
responsive to said request.
16. A system for preordering the automatic taking of one or more
images of a participant in an event wherein a timing system is used
to determine a time of a passing a detection line on a route by a
participant having an RFID tag on the participant or an object
associated with the participant traveling along the route, the
system comprising an image capture preorder system having an
interface for receiving a request for a photograph and/or video of
the participant prior to or during an event along the route and
transmitting the received request; a timing system communicatively
coupled to the image capture preorder system for receiving the
transmitted request and associating the RFID tag number with the
image capture request, generating a command for capturing an image
associated with the RFID tag number that includes the RFID tag
number; a RFID tag reader system configured for communicating with
the RFID tag and obtaining the RFID tag number of the RFID tag in
one or more RFID tag reads, time stamping each RFID tag read, and
transmitting over a communication interface a tag read message
including the RFID tag number; an image capture device configured
for receiving an image capture start command and capturing one or
more images responsive to receiving the image capture start
command, the image capture device generating image data over a data
interface responsive to the capturing of the one or more images; an
image capture system configured for receiving the image capture
demand, generating the image capture start command responsive to
receipt of the image capture demand, receiving the generated image
message, creating an image capture message including the image
data, and transmitting the image capture message over the
communication interface to the timing system; wherein the timing
system receives the tag read message from the RFID tag reader
system, compares the RFID tag numbers of the tag read messages with
the RFID tag number of the image capture command, wherein the image
capture command is generated by the timing system responsive to the
RFID tag number being identified within the RFID tag read messages,
receiving the image capture message responsive to the image capture
command, associating the image data with the RFID tag number of the
tag read messages, and storing the image data in a database file
associated with the RFID tag number.
17. The system of claim 16 wherein the image capture system is
coupled to the RFID tag reader system, the RFID tag reader system
and image capture system being configured to activate the capturing
of an image by the image capture device when the RFID tag reader
system has detected an RFID tag, the image capture system being
responsive to the RFID tag reader system.
18. The system of claim 16 wherein the RFID tag reader system is
configured to provide the image capture system with the RFID tag
number and the image capture system is configured to include the
received RFID tag number in the image capture message.
19. The system of claim 16 wherein the image capture device is
coupled to the RFID tag reader system, the RFID tag reader system
being configured to activate the capturing of an image by the image
capture device when the RFID tag reader system has detected an RFID
tag, the image capture system being responsive to the RFID tag
reader system.
20. The system of claim 16 wherein the image capture system is
configured for coupling to a plurality of image capture devices,
and wherein the image capture system is configured for controlling
the image capture by each image capture device.
21. The system of claim 20 wherein the image capture system is
coupled to the RFID tag reader system or the timing system for
receiving a command for capturing an image by one or more of the
coupled image capture devices.
22. The system of claim 16 wherein at least one of the image
capture system and the timing system is configured to encrypt the
image data prior to storing, and wherein the timing system is
configured to transmit the stored image data along with the RFID
tag number and an identification of the encryption of the image
data.
23. The system of claim 16 wherein at least one of the image
capture system and the timing system is configured to compress the
image data prior to storing, and wherein the timing system is
configured to transmit the stored image data along with RFID tag
number and an identification of the compression of the image
data.
24. The system of claim 16 wherein the RFID tag reader detects a
particular RFID tag number approaching the detection line, and
wherein the image capture device is activated to capture a video
sequence of the participant associated with the RFID tag number as
they approach and pass the detection line.
25. The system of claim 16, wherein the request include an
identification of one or more requested image outputs for
delivering of the captured image data during and after the event,
and wherein the timing system is configured to transmit the stored
image data for the particular RFID tag number to each of the image
outputs contained within the request during or after the event
responsive to said request.
26-41. (canceled)
42. A system for automatically taking an image of a participant in
an event wherein a timing system is used to determine a time of a
passing a detection line on a route by a participant having an RFID
tag on the participant or an object associated with the participant
traveling along the route, the system comprising: a timing system
having a processor, a memory, a clock, and a data interface; a RFID
tag reader system having a processor, a memory, a clock, a
communication interface for communicating with a timing system, a
radio frequency transceiver for wirelessly communicating with the
RFID tag, and one or more antenna coupled to the radio frequency
transceiver that are positioned proximate to the detection line for
communicating with RFID tags at one or more monitored points passed
by the participant as the participant approaches the detection
line, the tag reader system transmitting a tag read request and
receiving one or more tag reads including an RFID tag number for
the RFID tag when the RFID tag is proximate to one of the monitored
points, time stamping each of the RFID tag reads, and transmitting
over the communication interface to the timing system a tag read
message including the RFID tag number and at least a portion of the
time stamped RFID tag reads; an image capture device configured for
capturing one or more images of one or more participants when in
proximity to one of the RFID tag reader monitored points, the image
capture device generating image data over a data interface
responsive to the capturing of the one or more images; an image
capture system having a processor, a memory, a clock, a
communication interface for communicating with the timing system
and an interface coupled to the image capture device for receiving
the generated image message, and creating an image capture message
including the image data, and transmitting the image capture
message over the communication interface to the timing system;
wherein the timing system receives the tag read message from the
RFID tag reader system and the image capture message, determines
the identity of the participant from the RFID tag number within the
image capture message, associating the image data in the image
capture message with the identified participant, and storing the
image data in a database file that is associated with the
identified participant.
43. A system for preordering the automatic taking of one or more
images of a participant in an event wherein a timing system is used
to determine a time of a passing a detection line on a route by a
participant having an RFID tag on the participant or an object
associated with the participant traveling along the route, the
system comprising an image capture preorder system having an
interface for receiving a request for a photograph and/or video of
the participant prior to or during an event along the route and
transmitting the received request; a timing system having a
processor, a memory, a clock, and a data interface, communicatively
coupled to the image capture preorder system for receiving the
transmitted request, the timing system associating the participant
with an RFID tag number that will be worn by the participant during
the event and generating a command for capturing of one or more
images associated with the RFID tag number, wherein the image
capture command includes the RFID tag number of the participant; a
RFID tag reader system having a processor, a memory, a clock, a
communication interface for communicating with a timing system, a
radio frequency transceiver for wirelessly communicating with the
RFID tag, and one or more antenna coupled to the radio frequency
transceiver that are positioned proximate to the detection line for
communicating with RFID tags at one or more monitored points passed
by the participant as the participant approaches the detection
line, the tag reader system transmitting a tag read request and
receiving one or more tag reads including an RFID tag number when
the RFID tag is proximate to one of the monitored points, time
stamping each of the RFID tag reads, and transmitting over the
communication interface to the timing system a tag read message
including the RFID tag number and at least a portion of the time
stamped RFID tag reads; an image capture device configured for
receiving an image capture start command and capturing one or more
images responsive to receiving the image capture start command, the
image capture device generating image data over a data interface
responsive to the capturing of the one or more images; an image
capture system having a processor, a memory, a clock, a
communication interface for communicating with the timing system, a
first data interface coupled to the timing system for receiving the
image capture demand, a second data interface for generating the
image capture start command responsive to receipt of the image
capture demand, the image capture device having a third interface
coupled to the image capture device for receiving the generated
image message, and creating an image capture message including the
image data, and transmitting the image capture message over the
communication interface to the timing system; wherein the timing
system receives the tag read message from the RFID tag reader
system, compares the RFID tag numbers of the tag read messages with
the RFID tag number of the image capture command, wherein the image
capture command is generated by the timing system responsive to the
RFID tag number being identified within the RFID tag read messages,
receiving the image capture message responsive to the image capture
command, associating the image data in the received image capture
message with the identified participant, and storing the image data
in a database file that is associated with the identified
participant.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a National Stage of International
Application No. PCT/US12/22126, filed Jan. 20, 2012 that claims the
benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/434,769, filed on
Jan. 20, 2011 entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMAGE CAPTURE
INTEGRATION AND DETECTION POINT LASER DETECTION IN AN EVENT TIMING
SYSTEM, the disclosures of which is incorporated herein by
reference.
FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to timing systems and, more
specifically, to an RFID tag reader enabled timing systems having
an integrated image or video capture capability.
BACKGROUND
[0003] The statements in this section merely provide background
information related to the present disclosure and may not
constitute prior art.
[0004] When using an RFID system or similar detection technology
system for timing sporting events, it often becomes necessary to
obtain additional participant information related to a participant
in an event. Typically, photographs and video can be taken by a
user positioned along the course of the event such as along a
particular reference point such as a waypoint or finish line. These
users take the photos and associate such with the time of the
passing of the participant by the photo point, the name of the
participant, or a bib or other participant number or code. The
participants are provided with such identifying data and the photos
are placed in a database, catalogued, and later accessed by a user
by such identifying data. The accessed database can be searched
with the photos displayed, and wherein the party doing such
searching and displaying can inspect and order the photos, such as
via a web site such as provided by U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,985,875 and
7,047,214. It is also possible with certain system that a
photovoltaic detection system such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
6,768,094 can be used to electronically trigger a photographic
system for taking a photo image participant that passes the trigger
mechanism line.
[0005] However, such current systems are not integrated into the
event timing systems that utilized RFID tag detection and tag
reading technology. Furthermore, the current process is limited by
both the human factors of attempting to take the photographic
image, associating such image with the participant and the
identifying data, such as name, time or bib number, and then
cataloging in a database for subsequent searching, review and
ordering. Such human involvement is labor intensive, is prone to
errors, and often receives unsatisfactory reviews by participants.
Further, when there are a large number of participants passing a
particular event course location, it is impossible for current
systems to take photos of every participant and to associate every
participant in a photo with a participant identifier for subsequent
association and cataloging, thereby limiting the ability of the
current system to have photos available for on-line review and
ordering by numerous participants. Such systems and limitations
also make is very difficult if not impossible for an event
photographer to pre-subscribe numerous participants in an event, as
the failure rate and complexity in ensuring that such photographers
can in fact take an photograph of each pre-subscribed participants
that can subsequently be associated, informed, catalogued,
accessed, searched, and reviewed.
[0006] As such, the inventor hereof has identified a need for an
integrated photographic and video image system that is integrated
with the RFID tag reader and/or timing system, wherein the RFID tag
reads trigger the taking of the photograph or video and
automatically associated each and every RFID tag number of such
photos or videos.
SUMMARY
[0007] The inventor hereof has succeeded at designing systems and
methods for automatically capturing photographic and video images
of each and every one of a plurality of participants in an RFID tag
timed event. The RFID tag reader system triggers the taking of the
photographs, or the video based on instructions as to the
particular RFID tag number, such that participants can presubscribe
for such photos or videos and be ensured that such photos and
videos of themselves will in fact to taken and provided to them
either in real time or immediately following the event. The present
disclosure provides for various embodiments of integrating one or
more RFID tag reads of a participant that is traversing an event
course or past a timing point as the photo capture or video capture
systems, and automatically storing such captured photos or video
with each and every participant whose RFID tag was present in such
photo or video. A presubscribed participant can immediately have
such captured photo or video provided to their predetermined
display system in real time, immediately following the event, or
for later retrieval.
[0008] In one aspect, a system for automatically taking an image of
a participant in an event wherein a timing system is used to
determine a time of a passing a detection line on a route by a
participant having an RFID tag on the participant or an object
associated with the participant traveling along the route is
disclosed. The system includes a RFID tag reader system configured
for communicating with the RFID tag and obtaining the RFID tag
number of the RFID tag in one or more RFID tag reads, time stamping
each RFID tag read, and transmitting over a communication interface
a tag read message including the RFID tag number. The system
further includes an image capture device configured for capturing
one or more images of one or more participants when in proximity to
one of the RFID tag reader monitored points, the image capture
device generating image data over a data interface responsive to
the capturing of the one or more images. The system also has an
image capture system configured for communicating with the timing
system and an interface coupled to the image capture device for
receiving the generated image message, and creating an image
capture message including the image data, and transmitting the
image capture message over the communication interface to the
timing system. Also included is a timing system configured for
receiving the tag read message from the RFID tag reader system and
the image capture message, determining the RFID tag number within
the tag read messages, associating the image data in the image
capture message with the identified participant, and store the
image data in a database file that is associated with the
determined RFID tag number.
[0009] In another aspect, a system for preordering the automatic
taking of one or more images of a participant in an event wherein a
timing system is used to determine a time of a passing a detection
line on a route by a participant having an RFID tag on the
participant or an object associated with the participant traveling
along the route is disclosed. The system has an image capture
preorder system having an interface for receiving a request for a
photograph and/or video of the participant prior to or during an
event along the route and transmitting the received request. The
system also includes a timing system communicatively coupled to the
image capture preorder system for receiving the transmitted request
and associating the RFID tag number with the image capture request,
generating a command for capturing an image associated with the
RFID tag number that includes the RFID tag number. The system
further includes a RFID tag reader system configured for
communicating with the RFID tag and obtaining the RFID tag number
of the RFID tag in one or more RFID tag reads, time stamping each
RFID tag read, and transmitting over a communication interface a
tag read message including the RFID tag number. An image capture
device configured for receiving an image capture start command and
capturing one or more images responsive to receiving the image
capture start command, the image capture device generating image
data over a data interface responsive to the capturing of the one
or more images is also provided. The image capture system is
configured for receiving the image capture demand, generating the
image capture start command responsive to receipt of the image
capture demand, receiving the generated image message, creating an
image capture message including the image data, and transmitting
the image capture message over the communication interface to the
timing system. The timing system receives the tag read message from
the RFID tag reader system, compares the RFID tag numbers of the
tag read messages with the RFID tag number of the image capture
command. The image capture command is generated by the timing
system responsive to the RFID tag number being identified within
the RFID tag read messages. The image capture message responsive to
the image capture command is received by the timing system and the
image data is associated with the RFID tag number of the tag read
messages. The image data is stored in a database file associated
with the RFID tag number.
[0010] In yet another aspect, a method for automatically taking an
image of a participant in an event wherein a timing system is used
to determine a time of a passing a detection line on a route by a
participant having an RFID tag on the participant or an object
associated with the participant traveling along the route is
disclosed. The method utilizes an RFID tag reader system which
operates by communicating with the RFID tag to obtain the RFID tag
number of the RFID tag in one or more RFID tag reads. Each RFID tag
read is time stamped and transmitted over a communication interface
a tag read message including the RFID tag number. The method also
utilizes an image capture device that captures one or more images
of one or more participants when in proximity to one of the RFID
tag reader monitored points. The image capture device generates
image data over a data interface responsive to the capturing of the
one or more images. The method also utilizes an image capture
system which receives the generated image message, creates an image
capture message including the image data; and transmits the image
capture message. The method also utilizes an a timing system which
receives the tag read message from the RFID tag reader system and
the image capture message, determines the RFID tag number within
the image capture message and associates the image data in the
image capture message with the identified RFID tag number. The
image data is stored in a database file that is associated with the
identified RFID tag number.
[0011] In still another aspect, a method for preordering the
automatic taking of one or more images of a participant in an event
wherein a timing system is used to determine a time of a passing a
detection line on a route by a participant having an RFID tag on
the participant or an object associated with the participant
traveling along the route is disclosed. The method utilizes an
image capture preorder system which receives a request for a
photograph and/or video of the participant prior to or during an
event along the route and transmits the received request to a
timing system. The timing system receives the transmitted request
from the image capture preorder system and associates the RFID tag
number with the image capture request. The timing system generates
a command for capturing an image associated with the RFID tag
number that includes the RFID tag number. The method also uses a
RFID tag reader system which communicates with the RFID tag to
obtain the RFID tag number of the RFID tag in one or more RFID tag
reads. Each RFID tag read is time stamped and transmitted through a
tag read message including the RFID tag number. An image capture
device receives an image capture start command and then captures
one or more images responsive to receiving the image capture start
command. The image capture device generates image data over a data
interface responsive to the capturing of the one or more images. An
image capture system receives the image capture demand and
generates the image capture start command responsive to receipt of
the image capture demand. Upon receiving the generated image
message an image capture message including the image data is
created and transmitted over the communication interface to the
timing system. The timing system receives the tag read message from
the RFID tag reader system and compares the RFID tag numbers of the
tag read messages with the RFID tag number of the image capture
command. The timing system then generates the image capture command
responsive to the RFID tag number being identified within the RFID
tag read messages and receives the image capture message responsive
to the image capture command. The timing system then associates the
image data with the RFID tag number of the tag read messages; and
stores the image data in a database file associated with the RFID
tag number.
[0012] In another aspect, a system for automatically taking an
image of a participant in an event wherein a timing system is used
to determine a time of a passing a detection line on a route by a
participant having an RFID tag on the participant or an object
associated with the participant traveling along the route is
disclosed. The system includes a timing system having a processor,
a memory, a clock, and a data interface. The system further
includes an RFID tag reader system having a processor, a memory, a
clock, a communication interface for communicating with a timing
system, a radio frequency transceiver for wirelessly communicating
with the RFID tag, and one or more antenna coupled to the radio
frequency transceiver that are positioned proximate to the
detection line for communicating with RFID tags at one or more
monitored points passed by the participant. As the participant
approaches the detection line, the tag reader system transmits a
tag read request and receives one or more tag reads including an
RFID tag number for the RFID tag when the RFID tag is proximate to
one of the monitored points. Each of the RFID tag reads is time
stamped and transmitted over the communication interface to the
timing system in a tag read message including the RFID tag number
and at least a portion of the time stamped RFID tag reads. The
system also includes an image capture device configured for
capturing one or more images of one or more participants when in
proximity to one of the RFID tag reader monitored points, the image
capture device generating image data over a data interface
responsive to the capturing of the one or more images. The system
further has an image capture system having a processor, a memory, a
clock, a communication interface for communicating with the timing
system and an interface coupled to the image capture device for
receiving the generated image message, and creating an image
capture message including the image data, and transmitting the
image capture message over the communication interface to the
timing system. The timing system receives the tag read message from
the RFID tag reader system and the image capture message,
determines the identity of the participant from the RFID tag number
within the image capture message, associates the image data in the
image capture message with the identified participant, and stores
the image data in a database file that is associated with the
identified participant.
[0013] In still another aspect, a system for preordering the
automatic taking of one or more images of a participant in an event
wherein a timing system is used to determine a time of a passing a
detection line on a route by a participant having an RFID tag on
the participant or an object associated with the participant
traveling along the route is disclosed. The system has an image
capture preorder system having an interface for receiving a request
for a photograph and/or video of the participant prior to or during
an event along the route and transmitting the received request. The
system also includes a timing system having a processor, a memory,
a clock, and a data interface, communicatively coupled to the image
capture preorder system for receiving the transmitted request. The
timing system associates the participant with an RFID tag number
that will be worn by the participant during the event and generates
a command for capturing of one or more images associated with the
RFID tag number. The image capture command includes the RFID tag
number of the participant. Also included is an RFID tag reader
system having a processor, a memory, a clock, a communication
interface for communicating with a timing system, a radio frequency
transceiver for wirelessly communicating with the RFID tag, and one
or more antenna coupled to the radio frequency transceiver that are
positioned proximate to the detection line for communicating with
RFID tags at one or more monitored points passed by the
participant. As the participant approaches the detection line, the
tag reader system transmits a tag read request and receives one or
more tag reads including an RFID tag number when the RFID tag is
proximate to one of the monitored points. Each of the RFID tag
reads is time stamped, and transmitted over the communication
interface to the timing system a tag read message including the
RFID tag number and at least a portion of the time stamped RFID tag
reads. An image capture device configured for receiving an image
capture start command and capturing one or more images responsive
to receiving the image capture start command is also provided. The
image capture device generates image data over a data interface
responsive to the capturing of the one or more images. The system
utilizes an image capture system having a processor, a memory, a
clock, a communication interface for communicating with the timing
system, a first data interface coupled to the timing system for
receiving the image capture demand, and a second data interface for
generating the image capture start command responsive to receipt of
the image capture demand. A third interface is coupled to the image
capture device for receiving the generated image message, and
creating an image capture message including the image data, and
transmitting the image capture message over the communication
interface to the timing system. The timing system receives the tag
read message from the RFID tag reader system, compares the RFID tag
numbers of the tag read messages with the RFID tag number of the
image capture command. The image capture command is generated by
the timing system responsive to the RFID tag number being
identified within the RFID tag read messages. The timing system
receives the image capture message responsive to the image capture
command, associates the image data in the received image capture
message with the identified participant, and stores the image data
in a database file that is associated with the identified
participant.
[0014] Further aspects of the present invention will be in part
apparent and in part pointed out below. It should be understood
that various aspects of the disclosure may be implemented
individually or in combination with one another. It should also be
understood that the detailed description and drawings, while
indicating certain exemplary embodiments, are intended for purposes
of illustration only and should not be construed as limiting the
scope of the disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a typical STS system
configuration that is used to read a Race Bib Tag as it passes RFID
reader antennas (DS) that are mounted overhead and on the side of a
racecourse. The specific location of the antennas could be changed
to include any position that is deemed suitable for receiving the
Bib Tag signal from the tag according to one exemplary
embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 2 is a schematic drawing showing an RFID Timing System
using redundant RFID tag reader systems (TRS) each with multiple
RFID tag reader detection systems (DS) according to one exemplary
embodiment, according to a first exemplary embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the system architecture of
a timing system (STS) with integrated RFID tag read triggering
and/or laser detection triggering for capturing and associating a
photograph or video according to one exemplary embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 4 is schematic illustrating the layout of an event
course positioned image capture point having RFID tag readers
positioned for triggering the capture and association of a
photograph image or video of a passing participant according to one
exemplary embodiment.
[0019] FIG. 5 is schematic illustrating a second layout of a system
for an event course positioned at an image capture point having
RFID tag readers positioned for triggering the capture and
association of a photograph images or videos of two or more passing
participants according to one exemplary embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 6 is schematic illustrating a third layout of a course
positioned image capture point having RFID tag readers and a laser
detection system, each positioned for triggering the capture and
association of a photograph images or videos of passing
participants according to one exemplary embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 7 is schematic illustrating a third layout of a course
positioned image capture point having RFID tag readers for
participant identification and a laser detection system for
triggering the capture and association of a photograph images or
videos of passing participants according to one exemplary
embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 8 is a block diagram flow chart illustrating a process
for participant preordering of the capture and processing of event
photographic images and/or video by a participant in a timed event
according to one exemplary embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of a TS system using a
laser detection system in conjunction with an RFID tag reader for
detecting the passing of detecting a plurality of participants
passing a detection point in a timed racing event according to one
exemplary embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 10 is a flow chart and illustration for a timing system
using a laser detection system in conjunction with an RFID tag
reader for detecting an improved accurate time of passing of one or
more participants in a timed racing event according to one
exemplary embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a TS system using two
vertically spaced apart laser detectors tied to a single laser
detection system in conjunction with an RFID tag reader for
detecting the passing of detecting a plurality of participants
passing a detection point in a timed racing event according to one
exemplary embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of a TS system using a
two horizontally spaced apart laser detectors tied to a single
laser detection system wherein the two laser beams are angled
across the detection line as used in conjunction with an RFID tag
reader for detecting the passing of detecting a plurality of
participants passing a detection point in a timed racing event
according to one exemplary embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a specialized computer system
suitable for implementing one or more assembly or methods of
various embodiments as described herein.
[0028] It should be understood that throughout the drawings,
corresponding reference numerals indicate like or corresponding
parts and features.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0029] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and
is not intended to limit the present disclosure or the disclosure's
applications or uses.
[0030] In one embodiment a system for automatically taking an image
of a participant in an event wherein a timing system is used to
determine a time of a passing a detection line on a route by a
participant having an RFID tag on the participant or an object
associated with the participant traveling along the route is
disclosed.
[0031] The system include an RFID tag reader system configured for
communicating with the RFID tag and obtaining the RFID tag number
of the RFID tag in one or more RFID tag reads. Each RFID tag read
is time stamped, and transmitted over a communication interface a
tag read message including the RFID tag number.
[0032] An image capture device configured for capturing one or more
images of one or more participants when in proximity to one of the
RFID tag reader monitored points is also included. The image
capture device generates image data over a data interface
responsive to the capturing of the one or more images.
[0033] Also included is an image capture system configured for
communicating with the timing system and an interface coupled to
the image capture device for receiving the generated image message,
and creating an image capture message including the image data, and
transmitting the image capture message over the communication
interface to the timing system.
[0034] The system further includes a timing system configured for
receiving the tag read message from the RFID tag reader system and
the image capture message, determining the RFID tag number within
the tag read messages, associating the image data in the image
capture message with the identified participant, and store the
image data in a database file that is associated with the
determined RFID tag number.
[0035] The timing system is configured to activate the capture of
an image by the image capture device and the image capture device
is responsive to the timing system. The timing system is also
configured to provide the image capture system with the RFID tag
number and the image capture system is configured to include the
received RFID tag number in the image capture message.
[0036] The image capture system is coupled to the RFID tag reader
system. The RFID tag reader system and image capture system are
configured to activate the capturing of an image by the image
capture device when the RFID tag reader system has detected an RFID
tag. The image capture system is responsive to the RFID tag reader
system.
[0037] The RFID tag reader system is configured to provide the
image capture system with the RFID tag number and the image capture
system is configured to include the received RFID tag number in the
image capture message.
[0038] The image capture device is coupled to the RFID tag reader
system which is configured to activate the capturing of an image by
the image capture device when the RFID tag reader system has
detected an RFID tag.
[0039] The image capture system is configured for coupling to a
plurality of image capture devices, and is configured for
controlling the image capture by each image capture device. The
image capture system is coupled to the RFID tag reader system or
the timing system for receiving a command for capturing an image by
one or more of the coupled image capture devices.
[0040] At least one of the image capture system and the timing
system is configured to encrypt the image data prior to storing.
The timing system is configured to transmit the stored image data
along with the RFID tag number and an identification of the
encryption of the image data.
[0041] At least one of the image capture system and the timing
system is configured to compress the image data prior to storing.
The timing system is configured to transmit the stored image data
along with RFID tag number and an identification of the compression
of the image data.
[0042] The RFID tag reader detects a particular RFID tag number
approaching the detection line, and the image capture device is
activated to capture a video sequence of the participant associated
with the RFID tag number as they approach and pass the detection
line.
[0043] An image capture preorder system having an interface for
receiving a request for a photograph and/or video of the
participant prior to or during an event along the route and
transmitting the received request is provided. The timing system is
communicatively coupled to the image capture preorder system for
receiving the transmitted request and associating the RFID tag
number with the image capture request and generating a command for
capturing an image associated with the RFID tag number that
includes the RFID tag number.
[0044] The image capture device is configured for receiving an
image capture start command and capturing one or more images
responsive to receiving the image capture start command. The image
capture device generates image data over a data interface
responsive to the capturing of the one or more images. The image
capture system is configured for receiving the image capture
demand, generating the image capture start command responsive to
receipt of the image capture demand, receiving the generated image
message, creating an image capture message including the image
data, and transmitting the image capture message over the
communication interface to the timing system. The timing system is
configured to compare the RFID tag numbers of the tag read messages
with the RFID tag number of the image capture command. The image
capture command is generated by the timing system responsive to the
RFID tag number being identified within the RFID tag read messages.
The timing system is configured for receiving the image capture
message responsive to the image capture command, associating the
image data in the received image capture message with the
identified participant, and storing the image data in a database
file that is associated with the identified participant.
[0045] When the RFID tag reader detects a particular RFID tag
number approaching the detection line, the image capture device is
activated to capture a video sequence of the participant associated
with the RFID tag number as they approach and pass the detection
line.
[0046] The request includes an identification of one or more
requested image outputs for delivering of the captured image data
during and after the event. The timing system is configured to
transmit the stored image data for the particular RFID tag number
to each of the image outputs contained within the request during or
after the event responsive to said request.
[0047] In another embodiment, a system for preordering the
automatic taking of one or more images of a participant in an event
wherein a timing system is used to determine a time of a passing a
detection line on a route by a participant having an RFID tag on
the participant or an object associated with the participant
traveling along the route is disclosed. The system has an image
capture preorder system having an interface for receiving a request
for a photograph and/or video of the participant prior to or during
an event along the route and transmitting the received request.
[0048] The system also includes a timing system communicatively
coupled to the image capture preorder system for receiving the
transmitted request and associating the RFID tag number with the
image capture request, generating a command for capturing an image
associated with the RFID tag number that includes the RFID tag
number.
[0049] A RFID tag reader system configured for communicating with
the RFID tag and obtaining the RFID tag number of the RFID tag in
one or more RFID tag reads, time stamping each RFID tag read, and
transmitting over a communication interface a tag read message
including the RFID tag number is also provided.
[0050] The system further includes an image capture device
configured for receiving an image capture start command and
capturing one or more images responsive to receiving the image
capture start command. The image capture device generates image
data over a data interface responsive to the capturing of the one
or more images.
[0051] Also provided is an image capture system configured for
receiving the image capture demand, generating the image capture
start command responsive to receipt of the image capture demand,
receiving the generated image message, creating an image capture
message including the image data, and transmitting the image
capture message over the communication interface to the timing
system.
[0052] The timing system receives the tag read message from the
RFID tag reader system, compares the RFID tag numbers of the tag
read messages with the RFID tag number of the image capture
command. The image capture command is generated by the timing
system responsive to the RFID tag number being identified within
the RFID tag read messages. The timing system receives the image
capture message responsive to the image capture command, associates
the image data with the RFID tag number of the tag read messages,
and stores the image data in a database file associated with the
RFID tag number.
[0053] A method for automatically taking an image of a participant
in an event wherein a timing system is used to determine a time of
a passing a detection line on a route by a participant having an
RFID tag on the participant or an object associated with the
participant traveling along the route is disclosed
[0054] The method utilizes a RFID tag reader system for
communicating with the RFID tag; obtaining the RFID tag number of
the RFID tag in one or more RFID tag reads; time stamping each RFID
tag read and transmitting over a communication interface a tag read
message including the RFID tag number.
[0055] The method also uses an image capture device for capturing
one or more images of one or more participants when in proximity to
one of the RFID tag reader monitored points; and generating image
data over a data interface responsive to the capturing of the one
or more images and an image capture system: for receiving the
generated image message; creating an image capture message
including the image data and transmitting the image capture
message.
[0056] Also utilized is a timing system for receiving the tag read
message from the RFID tag reader system; receiving the image
capture message; determining the RFID tag number within the image
capture message; associating the image data in the image capture
message with the identified RFID tag number; and storing the image
data in a database file that is associated with the identified RFID
tag number.
[0057] The timing system is capable of activating the capture of an
image by the image capture device. The capturing of the image by
the image capture device is responsive to the timing system.
[0058] The timing system provides the image capture system with the
RFID tag number in the image capture system including the received
RFID tag number in the image capture message.
[0059] The image capture system receives an input from the RFID tag
reader system, and activates the capturing of the image by the
image capture device responsive to the received input from the RFID
tag reader system. The RFID tag reader system generates a message
to the image capture device that it has detected an RFID tag.
[0060] In the RFID tag reader system, activating the capturing of
the image by the image capture device when the RFID tag reader
system has detected an RFID tag and providing an image capture
command to the image capture device. At least one of the image
capture system and the timing system encrypts the image data prior
to storing. The timing system transmits the stored image data along
with the RFID tag number and an identification of the encryption of
the image data.
[0061] At least one of the image capture system and the timing
system: compresses the image data prior to storing; and the timing
system transmits the stored image data along with the RFID tag
number and an identification of the compression of the image
data.
[0062] The RFID tag reader detects a particular RFID tag number
approaching the detection line; and in the image capture device is
activated to capture a video sequence of the participant associated
with the RFID tag number as they approach and pass the detection
line.
[0063] Also provided is an image capture preorder system having an
interface for receiving a request for a photograph and/or video of
the participant prior to or during an event along the route; and
transmitting the received request. The timing system that is
communicatively coupled to the image capture preorder system
receives the transmitted request, associates the RFID tag number
with the image capture request; and generates a command for
capturing an image associated with the RFID tag number that
includes the RFID tag number.
[0064] The image capture device is configured for receiving an
image capture start command. The capturing of one or more images is
responsive to receiving the image capture start command and the
generating of image data over a data interface is responsive to the
capturing of the one or more images. The image capture system is
configured for receiving the image capture demand, generating the
image capture start command responsive to receipt of the image
capture demand, receiving the generated image message, creating an
image capture message including the image data, and transmitting
the image capture message over the communication interface to the
timing system. The timing system is configured for comparing the
RFID tag numbers of the tag read messages with the RFID tag number
of the image capture command. The image capture command is
generated by the timing system responsive to the RFID tag number
being identified within the RFID tag read messages. The timing
system receives the image capture message responsive to the image
capture command, associates the image data in the received image
capture message with the identified participant, and stores the
image data in a database file that is associated with the
identified participant.
[0065] The RFID tag reader is configured for detecting a particular
RFID tag number approaching the detection line. The image capture
device is configured for activating the capturing of a video
sequence of the participant associated with the RFID tag number as
they approach and pass the detection line.
[0066] The request includes an identification of one or more
requested image outputs for delivering of the captured image data
during and after the event, and wherein in the timing system,
transmitting the stored image data for the particular RFID tag
number to each of the image outputs contained within the request
during or after the event responsive to said request.
[0067] A method for preordering the automatic taking of one or more
images of a participant in an event wherein a timing system is used
to determine a time of a passing a detection line on a route by a
participant having an RFID tag on the participant or an object
associated with the participant traveling along the route is
disclosed. The method uses an image capture preorder system for
receiving a request for a photograph and/or video of the
participant prior to or during an event along the route; and
transmitting the received request and a timing system
communicatively coupled to the image capture preorder system for
receiving the transmitted request; associating the RFID tag number
with the image capture request, generating a command for capturing
an image associated with the RFID tag number that includes the RFID
tag number. The method also uses a RFID tag reader system for
communicating with the RFID tag, obtaining the RFID tag number of
the RFID tag in one or more RFID tag reads, time stamping each RFID
tag read, and transmitting a tag read message including the RFID
tag number. The method further uses an image capture device for
receiving an image capture start command, capturing one or more
images responsive to receiving the image capture start command, and
generating image data over a data interface responsive to the
capturing of the one or more images.
[0068] An image capture system is also used for receiving the image
capture demand, generating the image capture start command
responsive to receipt of the image capture demand, receiving the
generated image message, creating an image capture message
including the image data, and transmitting the image capture
message over the communication interface to the timing system.
[0069] The timing system is used for receiving the tag read message
from the RFID tag reader system, comparing the RFID tag numbers of
the tag read messages with the RFID tag number of the image capture
command, generating the image capture command responsive to the
RFID tag number being identified within the RFID tag read messages,
receiving the image capture message responsive to the image capture
command, associating the image data with the RFID tag number of the
tag read messages, and storing the image data in a database file
associated with the RFID tag number.
[0070] A system for automatically taking an image of a participant
in an event wherein a timing system is used to determine a time of
a passing a detection line on a route by a participant having an
RFID tag on the participant or an object associated with the
participant traveling along the route is disclosed. The system
includes a timing system having a processor, a memory, a clock, and
a data interface; a RFID tag reader system having a processor, a
memory, a clock, a communication interface for communicating with a
timing system, a radio frequency transceiver for wirelessly
communicating with the RFID tag, and one or more antenna coupled to
the radio frequency transceiver that are positioned proximate to
the detection line for communicating with RFID tags at one or more
monitored points passed by the participant. As the participant
approaches the detection line, the tag reader system transmits a
tag read request and receives one or more tag reads including an
RFID tag number for the RFID tag when the RFID tag is proximate to
one of the monitored points. Each of the RFID tag reads is time
stamped, and transmitted over the communication interface to the
timing system in a tag read message including the RFID tag number
and at least a portion of the time stamped RFID tag reads. An image
capture device configured for capturing one or more images of one
or more participants when in proximity to one of the RFID tag
reader monitored points, and generating image data over a data
interface responsive to the capturing of the one or more images is
also used.
[0071] An image capture system having a processor, a memory, a
clock, a communication interface for communicating with the timing
system and an interface coupled to the image capture device for
receiving the generated image message, and creating an image
capture message including the image data, and transmitting the
image capture message over the communication interface to the
timing system is provided. The timing system receives the tag read
message from the RFID tag reader system and the image capture
message, determines the identity of the participant from the RFID
tag number within the image capture message, associating the image
data in the image capture message with the identified participant,
and storing the image data in a database file that is associated
with the identified participant.
[0072] A system for preordering the automatic taking of one or more
images of a participant in an event wherein a timing system is used
to determine a time of a passing a detection line on a route by a
participant having an RFID tag on the participant or an object
associated with the participant traveling along the route is
disclosed. The system includes an image capture preorder system
having an interface for receiving a request for a photograph and/or
video of the participant prior to or during an event along the
route and transmitting the received request. The system also
includes a timing system having a processor, a memory, a clock, and
a data interface, communicatively coupled to the image capture
preorder system for receiving the transmitted request. The timing
system associates the participant with an RFID tag number that will
be worn by the participant during the event and generates a command
for capturing of one or more images associated with the RFID tag
number. The image capture command includes the RFID tag number of
the participant. Also included is an RFID tag reader system having
a processor, a memory, a clock, a communication interface for
communicating with a timing system, a radio frequency transceiver
for wirelessly communicating with the RFID tag, and one or more
antenna coupled to the radio frequency transceiver that are
positioned proximate to the detection line for communicating with
RFID tags at one or more monitored points passed by the
participant. As the participant approaches the detection line, the
tag reader system transmits a tag read request and receives one or
more tag reads including an RFID tag number when the RFID tag is
proximate to one of the monitored points. Each of the RFID tag
reads is time stamped, and transmitted over the communication
interface to the timing system in a tag read message including the
RFID tag number and at least a portion of the time stamped RFID tag
reads.
[0073] Also provided is an image capture device configured for
receiving an image capture start command and capturing one or more
images responsive to receiving the image capture start command. The
image capture device is adapted for generating image data over a
data interface responsive to the capturing of the one or more
images.
[0074] An image capture system having a processor, a memory, a
clock, a communication interface for communicating with the timing
system, a first data interface coupled to the timing system for
receiving the image capture demand, a second data interface for
generating the image capture start command responsive to receipt of
the image capture demand, and a third interface coupled to the
image capture device for receiving the generated image message, and
creating an image capture message including the image data, and
transmitting the image capture message over the communication
interface to the timing system is used. The timing system receives
the tag read message from the RFID tag reader system, compares the
RFID tag numbers of the tag read messages with the RFID tag number
of the image capture command and generates the image capture
command responsive to the RFID tag number being identified within
the RFID tag read messages. The timing system receives the image
capture message responsive to the image capture command, associates
the image data in the received image capture message with the
identified participant, and stores the image data in a database
file that is associated with the identified participant.
[0075] In one embodiment, a participant or third party places a
pre-order for having an image, images or video captured or taken of
a particular participant at one or more image capture locations on
an event course. In such cases, the preorder or registration system
provides the TS with instructions or a listing of RFID tag numbers
(such as bib numbers). The TS monitors those RFID tag numbers at
the various detection points on the course and initiates the
capturing of an image or video of the particular participant when
such participant's RFID tag number is detected at a desired image
capture location or point. In this manner, the image capture system
essentially is watching for and ensuring that it initiates the
capturing of images and video for those that pre-order such images.
This eliminates the need for participants to have to review and
order such images after an event. This also provides the ability
for third parties to monitor or track and obtain images and/or
video of a participant that they wish. Such images and video can be
provided directly to the third party designated system or display,
such as a broadcast network or webpage or mobile application,
immediately upon the capturing of the image or video, even while
the event is in progress.
[0076] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a typical STS system
configuration that is used to read a Race Bib Tag as it passes RFID
reader antennas (DS) that are mounted overhead and on the side of
an event course. The specific location of the antennas could be
changed to include any position that is deemed suitable for
receiving the Bib Tag signal from the tag according to one
exemplary embodiment. As shown in an exemplary embodiment of FIG.
1, a typical Timing System (TS) for detecting and timing of a
participant or object passing a detection point (P) by reading an
identification tag (TA) placed on the participant or object
(generally referred from hereon as a participant, but meaning both
a participant of an object) such as an RFID a Race Bib Tag of a
participant as the participant passes detection sensors (DS 1) such
as RFID detector antenna are mounted overhead and on the side of a
race course proximate to the monitored point MP. In some
embodiments the DS sensors are mounted under a mat or in a bollard.
The specific location of the detection sensors (DS 1) could be
changed to include any position that is deemed suitable for
receiving the Bib Tag signal from the tag according to one
exemplary embodiment.
[0077] FIG. 2 illustrates another RFID TS 200 having two spaced
apart RFID tag reading systems, each having a plurality of antenna
at a different spaced apart monitored point. In this application,
TRSF monitors with RFID antenna DS 1 monitored point MPF and TRSF+1
monitors with RFID antenna DS2 monitored point MPF+1 that is space
at a distance of DF+1 behind MPF.
[0078] FIG. 3 illustrates a timing system architecture having an
integrated RFID tag read triggering and/or laser detection
triggering for capturing and associating a photograph or video
according to one exemplary embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, in one
embodiment a TS has a new image/video interface and capturing
capability that enables the integration of image capture devices
(ICDs) that are controlled by an Image Controller (IC) or Image
Control System (IS) for integrating with the TS. The interface on
TS can be wired, wireless, USB, Ethernet, etc. A TS can support
multiple still or video image capture devices ICDs such as cameras
connected via various interfaces. For example, in one embodiment, a
single STS can received between 4 and 12 image inputs directly and
can support higher numbers such as 200 to 300 (such as 255) cameras
connected through remote TS devices using an TS interconnecting
protocol. A remote device could be another TS system at a different
timing/detection point such as at a different point along a
racetrack or an assembly line. For example, a race or assembly line
may have 5 timing points/detection points along the course or
assembly line. One or more ICDs for videos or photos can be placed
at one or more or all of each timing point and all such images can
be sent back a single TS system such as one at a finish line or
main TS system for displaying on image displays or for transferring
via a protocol to a webpage, mobile device or as may be desired by
the system operator. If a race, the race operator can display an
image of a particular participant so that the participant or
interested parties can see images of the participant passing a
particular detection point, such as the finish line, on a TS
announcement display, Kiosk, webpage, or mobile device, after the
participant finishes the race. The IC or IS can capture single
images as well as video streams and it synchronizes the capture
images to the RFID tag read.
[0079] When a RFID tag is read, an image is also captured and the
two are identified with a common RFID tag number. In other words,
the TS database has a field that contains a unique identifier that
is typically associated with a participant such as a bib or
contestant number. The RFID chip reads and any images or video are
all commonly associated and in some embodiments, the image is
associated with the RFID tag number of the associated RFID chip
read.
[0080] The image or video file itself has a file name that contains
a unique numeric entry that identified the image. For example, if a
race occurs on Jan. 20, 2011 at 11:05:23.014 am in St. Louis, Mo.
and the participant identification number (referred herein
generally as a bib number) is No. 25, and the number 25 is read by
a detection system at a start line, a photo can be captured of
participant No. 25 P25 and the "captured image file name" (CIFN)
for the image would be "photocap-012011-1105014-001-XX-STL." The
first part of this file name represents the type of file . . . in
this case a captured photo (photocap). In other embodiments, this
could be a "videocap" for a captured video or other type. The next
6 digits of the CIFN are the month, day, and year in 2 digit
representations. The next set of digits of the CIFN are
HH:MM:SS.MMM with the MMM representing milliseconds, for 1,000th of
a second timing accuracy, which is the time of the capture or could
be the time of the RFID tag read. As shown in this example, the
CIFN does not include colons such uses "-" as a delimiter. Of
course other delimiters are also possible.
[0081] The next entry in the CIFN is for the camera position or
camera identifier to uniquely identify which image capture device
captured the image or video. This is shown as a 3-digit field and
in one embodiment can include entries from 000 to 255, or more, or
could be for more or less digits.
[0082] The next two digits of the CIFN are an indicator for the
type of encoding and compression the file is using. Here this is
shown as a 2-digit value that can represent up to 99 types of
compression or encoding schemes, but other indicators are possible.
The final CIFN entry is a variable length string that may contain
any identifier for the event/race assigned by the user or STS
operator. In this example, the identifier is STL reflecting that it
was a St. Louis event.
[0083] In addition to static capture of photos and streaming video,
the herein describe how the TS with the integrated imaging
capability enables an event operator, participants, or third
parties such as the media or advertisers to such events to
subscribe to image/video events and to receive photos or image
streams in real time or subsequently. The described TS architecture
makes it possible to provide live video feeds to anyone who has
need for them. For example, if an event such as a race was being
broadcast by a sports television channel, the broadcast company
could receive photos or streaming video from the event.
[0084] In one exemplary embodiment, a plurality of image capture
devices for capturing single images or video (generally referred
herein simply as an image) with each being associated with a
different detection point.
[0085] The image capture devices are integrated with the
participant detection systems (DS) of an STS so that an image is
captured in coordination with a detection by a detections system
(DS) at its detection point. The DS can be an RFID tag reader,
laser detection system (LDS), or any other system that can detect
the presence of a participant or object within the view of the
image capture device (ICD), and can include, in some embodiments,
the ICD itself.
[0086] The captured image is tagged and transmitted to a STS and
stored, or at least a link/address/pointer is stored with the
detection info or user info. I would assume that each stored image
file can also be tagged as well as the user file including the
pointer, at least as an option. The image can be stored with a file
name that identifies it such that someone could see a list of file
names and know which file (image) they wanted to review. also store
a pointer within the user database record that points to the file
image. This allows the user to pull up the results for a race
participant and also view the images for that person.
[0087] FIG. 4 illustrates one exemplary on course layout of an
event course having image capture devices located behind an RFID
tag reader TRS monitored point MP. In this illustration, the
participant is detected by the RFID tag reader detectors DS 1 at
detection points DP1 and then later at DP2. The TRS detects the tag
and sends an image capture signal to the Image Control System (ICS)
that controls the image capture device ICD. As shown, a first image
capture IC1 is taken after the participant is detected by DS 1 and
TRS at DP1. A second image capture IC2 is taken after the TRS and
DS 1 detect the RFID tag at DP2. The ICS transmits the captured
images IC 1 and IC2 back to the TRS and/or the TS wherein the
images IC1 and IC2 are associated with the RFID tag numbers of the
RFID tag reads.
[0088] FIG. 5 illustrates a similar layout as FIG. 4, but having a
plurality of image capture devices ICD1 taking IC1, ICD2 taking
IC2, ICD3 taking IC3, ICD4 taking IC4, ICD5 taking IC5, ICD6 taking
IC6, and ICD7 taking IC7. Also shown are a plurality of runners Pa
and Pb, with each having a plurality of RFID tag reader or
detection system detection points DPAN and DPBN.
[0089] FIGS. 6 and 7 provide two additional TS layouts each having
a different architecture for image capture, but both using, in
part, a laser detection system for aiding in the triggering of the
image capture, in addition to the RFID tag reads and the TRS or TS
identification of the RFID tag numbers associated with each RFID
tag and participant.
[0090] FIG. 8 is a block diagram flow chart illustrating a process
for participant preordering system PRS. As shown, in block PRS, one
or more requests are received for preordering of images either
still or video. The request can include the identification of the
participant for which images are to be taken, the number of images,
the selection of the location for the images to be taken, and the
desired delivery system or method for such image delivery. The
delivery can be requested as being during an event or following an
event. The delivery sites or locations are shown, by way of
example, in FIG. 3 to include a local Kiosk, a website, a cell
phone, a tablet, or could include a broadcast channel such as a
network broadcast station. The PRS provides the request to the TS
for the planned capturing, processing and delivery of the preorder
images of the particular participant by RFID tag number as provided
in the request from the PRS. The TS can provide this information to
the RFID tag TN, to the image capture devices ICD, to the TRS, or
to the image capture system. The TRS receives an RFID tag detection
that is the RFID tag number of the request and can trigger the
capturing of the image of the particular participant by one or more
ICDs. Once the ICD takes the requested image or video of the
particular pre-identified participant based on the identification
by the RFID TRS, the captured images and the TRS tag reads with the
RFID tag numbers are provided to the TS where they are stored by
their RFID tag numbers. Subsequently, the TS transmits the stored
image data to an imaging system IS or to one or more outputs as
described above, or possibly back to the PRS.
[0091] FIG. 9 illustrates a TS system having a laser detection
system in conjunction with an RFID tag reader for detecting the
passing of detecting a plurality of participants passing a
detection point in a timed racing event according to one exemplary
embodiment. As shown, there can be a plurality of participants PN
(shown as PA, PB, PC, PD, and PE, each approaching the detection
point such as a finish line on course R. Each PN travels along a
separate path PTN (shown as PTA, PTB, PTC, PTD, and PTD). The
detection systems DS 1, DS2, DS3, and DS4 are RFID tag reading
antenna that are coupled to TRS and provide for reading of the RFID
tag of each PN. The DSN systems first detect the presence of the PN
at first detection point DPR1. As shown, each PN is spaced apart
and at a slightly different distance from the MP. As the PNs
traverse towards the finish line, their positions can change but
the DSN continue to read their RFID chips, obtain their times and
transmit the chip read data to the TS via the TRS. As shown each of
the PA, PB, PC, PD, and PE have moved to a second detection point
DPR2, then to a third detection point DPR3 and finally, a first PN
reaches the detection point DO. At this point, PA is shown to be in
the lead and breaks the laser beam at the detection point DO that
is provided by laser detector that is the combination of LD1 and
LD. LD1 provides a laser interrupt indicator back to laser detector
LD, which is shown in FIG. 9 as being combined with the TRS. The
TRS time stamps the receipt of the laser interrupt indicator the
same as it does the RFID tag reads. All RFID tag reads and the
laser beam interrupt time is sent to the TS.
[0092] Now, as shown in FIG. 10, the timing system, after having
receiving the multiple tag reads from the multiple RFID tags from
each of the participants, as well as a laser beam interrupt time,
determines the participants time for passing the detection point,
e.g., the finish line based on the laser beam interrupt time
establishing a highly accurate passing of the first PA at the
detection point. The process shown in FIG. 10 describes one
embodiment for determining the time of each PN during a single
laser interrupt event. Of course the laser detectors resent
themselves after the all of the PNs pass, and the process of FIG.
10 is repeated for each laser beam interrupt.
[0093] FIG. 11 illustrates a TS system using two vertically spaced
apart laser detectors tied to a single laser detection system in
conjunction with an RFID tag reader for detecting the passing of
detecting a plurality of participants passing a detection point in
a timed racing event according to one exemplary embodiment. As
shown, LD1 is positioned at a distance of d1 above the surface of
the ground, and LD2 is positioned at a higher distance of d2. In
this manner, accuracy of the laser detection at the detection point
can be increased and the sensitivity of such detection based on the
shape of the object or the height of the leading portion of the
object can be minimized.
[0094] FIG. 12 is another embodiment of a TS system using a two
horizontally spaced apart laser detectors LD1 and LD2 each coupled
to a single laser detection system LDS. In this exemplary
embodiment, the two laser detectors LD1 and LD2 are spaced apart by
a distance of d5 on opposing sides of the gantry on which they are
mounted and therefore on opposing sides of the detection point MP.
As noted the two ends of the LD1 and LD2 are spaced apart across
the course R at a distance of dL. The mated transmitters and
receivers of each LD1 and LD2 are also on opposite sides whereby
the two laser beams LB1 and LB2 are angled across the detection
line and cross in the middle at point MPX. In this manner, LDS
system and TS system can utilize the different time stamps for each
laser beam break of LB 1 and LB2 in determining the timing of the
crossing or passing at the detection point. Furthermore, such data
can be utilized to determine the first PN to pass the detection
line based on their location and the time difference between the
two laser interrupts.
[0095] The disclosed system utilizes the RFID tag readers TRS that
receive the information on a tag and then processing that tag read.
The TS uses the tag read to instruct either a still camera or a
video camera to record the participant associated with the RFID tag
read. In some cases, wherein it is possible to locate the
particular participant on the course and distinguish it from the
other participants, it is also possible to control or direct a
particular camera to take an image or tell a particular video
camera to record perhaps 5 seconds of video of a particular
specific participant, by focusing in on such participant. It is
also proved that the RFID tag reader TRS can detect a participant
at a distance before the participant comes within range of the
image capture device. In this manner, the present system can be
placed perhaps 100 to 200 feet in front of the finish line
detection point and the video capture can be activated for the
particular participant to take a video of that runner approaching
the finish line.
[0096] The present TS system can also provide for the taking of a
360 degree photo of the runner at the finish line, or approaching
the finish line. In such an embodiment, a plurality of camera (such
as 20 cameras) can be placed along the sides of the finish chute,
or perhaps in front and/or behind the finish line. Once the RFID
tag is detected for the particular participant that desires such an
image, 20 photos or video images can be captures from different
angles providing the ability to create a full 360 degree image or
video of the participant. In this embodiment, the participant can
preorder and receive pictures or video from all angles as they
finish a race.
[0097] The triggering of the capturing of images or video can be
done according to a variety of different RFID tag reads. Examples
of various processes are shown here, by way of example, and not
intending to be limiting:
[0098] a) Take X photo(s) from Camera(s) 1 . . . X at the first tag
read
[0099] b) Take X photo(s) from Camera(s) 1 . . . X at the Nth tag
read
[0100] c) Take X photo(s) Camera(s) 1 . . . X for every tag
read
[0101] d) Take X photo(s) Camera(s) 1 . . . X for every tag read
that occurs within Y seconds
[0102] e) Take X photo(s) Camera(s) 1 . . . X for every tag read
that occurs from Y to Z seconds
[0103] f) Take X photo(s) Camera(s) 1 . . . X for the last tag
read
[0104] g) Take X photo(s) Camera(s) 1 . . . X for the last tag read
plus Y seconds
[0105] h) Take X photo(s) Camera(s) 1 . . . X for the any tag read
that has a signal strength of X to Y
[0106] i) Take X photo(s) Camera(s) 1 . . . X for the any tag read
that has masked value or address of X to Y
[0107] j) Capture video from Camera(s) 1 . . . X at the first tag
read
[0108] k) Capture video from Camera(s) 1 . . . X at the Nth tag
read
[0109] l) Capture video from Camera(s) 1 . . . X for every tag
read
[0110] m) Capture video from Camera(s) 1 . . . X for every tag read
that occurs within Y seconds
[0111] n) Capture video from Camera(s) 1 . . . X for every tag read
that occurs from Y to Z seconds
[0112] o) Capture video from Camera(s) 1 . . . X for the last tag
read
[0113] p) Capture video from Camera(s) 1 . . . X for the last tag
read plus Y seconds
[0114] q) Capture video from Camera(s) 1 . . . X for the any tag
read that has a signal strength of X to Y
[0115] r) Capture video from Camera(s) 1 . . . X for the any tag
read that has masked value or address of X to Y
[0116] s) Capture video from Camera(s) 1 . . . X immediately until
X tag(s) are read or Y seconds have occurred
[0117] t) Capture video from Camera(s) 1 . . . X immediately until
a specific tag(s) are read or Y seconds have occurred
[0118] u) Capture video from Camera(s) 1 . . . X immediately until
a masked value or address for tag(s) are read
[0119] v) Capture video from Camera(s) 1 . . . X immediately until
told to stop reading
[0120] Where video is captured, the TS can start the video on an
early RFID chip read before the final timed RFID chip read is taken
and determined. In this way, the TS can activate the video capture
device to capture the video for a period of time before the
participant reaches the detection line. As such, any photos or
video for a particular participant can show them approaching the
detection line as well as the situation or other participants and
the relationship between the one participant and the others and the
detection line.
[0121] The TS system can store the image, images or video in a
database record for a given race participant. Such stored image
data is linked with all photos or videos for the participant and is
associated with the participant RFID tag number such as the bib
number. The ITS can generally use any number or data but often uses
bib numbers that correspond to RFID tag numbers for storage of
timing data. In other cases, it is simply the bib number, since the
RFID tag can be programmed to contain the specific bib number of
the participant. As such, the participant's times and image
information can be contained within the same database record within
the ITS. In addition, the ITS can send the image or video over the
TS NET or any connected network, and store it on a remote server in
the same physical location or at a location that is remote from the
TS and the event. The herein described image processing and
communication messages can be used for requesting and providing the
images and/or video based on a presubscription to such captured
data, or as requested or desired for display on a news broadcast,
or streamed for broadcasting on a network or other display device.
As also identified herein, the IT system and protocol messages use
a data identifier or format field for enabling and communicating
information related to the compression and/or encryption of the
images or video. The described process incorporates compression and
encryption, along with a software key code that can be used to
unlock the image and to decompress.
[0122] In other embodiments, the TS database can be accessing and
images or video retrieved based on the identification of the bib
number of the participant. This capability is the reverse of the
preordered or push server as described herein. Where a participant
pre-orders the capturing and providing of the images and/or video,
the TS processes the captured images or video according to the
instructions provided by the participant or third-party prior to
the capturing. Also as discussed, such a preorder system will
ensure that the TS system looks for and tracks the RFID tags of the
participants that pre-ordered to ensure that such images and video
are captured pursuant to such pre-order. The participant does not
have to review or request the providing of these preordered
images.
[0123] In one embodiment, a timing system provides for determining
a time of a passing at a reference line of a tracked tag associated
with an object/participant traveling along a route, capturing an
image of such passing, and integrating the captured image with the
determined time for the tracked tag.
[0124] The system includes a tag reader system having a processor,
a memory, a clock, a communication interface for communicating with
a timing system, a radio frequency transceiver for wirelessly
communicating with the tag, and one or more antenna coupled to the
radio frequency transceiver that are positioned at a first
monitored point at a first distance from the reference line, the
tag reader system transmitting a tag read request and receiving one
or more tag reads from the tag, and transmitting over the
communication interface a tag read message including at least a
portion of the received tag reads.
[0125] The system also includes an image capture device having a
processor, a memory, a communication interface for communicating
with the timing system, the image capture device capturing the
image of the object/participant associated with the tag responsive
to the transmitting of the tag read message by the tag reader, and
transmitting the captured image to the timing system.
[0126] The system further includes the timing system having a
processor, a memory, and a data interface, the timing system
receiving and storing the tag read message from the tag reader and
receiving and storing the captured image from the image capture
device, storing the captured image to correspond with the tag read
message, and transmitting the captured image over the data
interface in association with the tag read message.
[0127] In one embodiment, a TS has a new image/video interface that
uses a camera to capture images as well as video streams. The
interface on TS can be wired, wireless, USB, Ethernet, etc. An TS
can support multiple still or video image capture devices such as
cameras connected via various interfaces. For example, in one
embodiment a single TS can received between 4 and 12 image inputs
directly and can support higher numbers such as 200 to 300 (such as
255) cameras connected through remote TS devices using an TS
interconnecting protocol. A remote device could be another TS
system at a different timing/detection point such as at a different
point along a racetrack or an assembly line. For example, a race or
assembly line may have 5 timing points/detection points along the
course or assembly line. One or more image capture devices for
videos or photos can be placed at one or more or all of each timing
point and all such images can be sent back a single TS system such
as one at a finish line or main TS system for displaying on image
displays or for transferring via a protocol to a webpage, mobile
device or as may be desired by the system operator. If a race, the
race operator can display an image of a particular participant so
that the participant or interested parties can see images of the
participant passing a particular detection point, such as the
finish line, on a TS announcement display, Kiosk, webpage, or
mobile device, after the participant finishes the race. The VCIS
system can capture single images as well as video streams and it
synchronizes the capture images to the RFID tag read.
[0128] When a RFID tag is read, an image is also captured and the
two are identified with a common pointer to each other. In other
words, the TS database has a field that contains a unique
identifier that points to the photo or video image tied to a
particular chip read.
[0129] At the same time, the video file itself has a file name that
contains a unique numeric entry that identified the image. For
example, if a race occurs on Jan. 20, 2011 at 11:05:23.014 am in
St. Louis, Mo. and the participant identification number (referred
herein generally as a bib number) is No. 25, and the number 25 is
read by a detection system at a start line, a photo can be captured
of participant No. 25 P25 and the "captured image file name" (CIFN)
for the image would be "photocap-012011-1105014-001-XX-STL." The
first part of this file name represents the type of file . . . in
this case a captured photo (photocap). In other embodiments, this
could be a "videocap" for a captured video or other type. The next
6 digits of the CIFN are the month, day, and year in 2 digit
representations. The next set of digits of the CIFN is HH:MM:SS.MMM
with the MMM representing milliseconds, for 1,000th of a second
timing accuracy, which is the time of the capture or could be the
time of the RFID tag read. As shown in this example, the CIFN does
not include colons such uses "-" as a delimiter. Of course, other
delimiters are also possible.
[0130] The next entry in the CIFN is for the camera position or
camera identifier to uniquely identify which image capture device
captured the image or video. This is shown as a 3-digit field and
in one embodiment can include entries from 000 to 255, or more, or
could be for more or less digits.
[0131] The next two digits of the CIFN are an indicator for the
type of encoding and compression the file is using. Here this is
shown as a 2-digit value that can represent up to 99 types of
compression or encoding schemes, but other indicators are possible.
The final CIFN entry is a variable length string that may contain
any identifier for the event/race assigned by the user or TS
operator. In this example, the identifier is STL reflecting that it
was a St. Louis event.
[0132] In addition to static capture of photos and streaming video,
the herein describe TSIIS enables an event operator, participants,
or third parties such as the media or advertisers to such events to
subscribe to image/video events and to receive photos or image
streams in real time or subsequently. The described TSIIS
architecture makes it possible to provide live video feeds to
anyone who has need for them. For example, if an event such as a
race was being broadcast by a sports television channel, the
broadcast company could receive photos or streaming video from the
event.
[0133] In one exemplary embodiment, a plurality of image capture
devices for capturing single images or video (generally referred
herein simply as an image) with each being associated with a
different detection point.
[0134] The image capture devices are integrated with the
participant detection systems (DS) of an TS so that an image is
captured in coordination with a detection by a detections system
(DS) at its detection point. The DS can be a RFID tag reader, a
laser detection system (LDS), or any other system that can detect
the presence of a participant or object within the view of the
image capture device (ICD), and can include, in some embodiments,
the ICD itself.
[0135] The captured image is tagged and transmitted to a TS and
stored, or at least a link/address/pointer is stored with the
detection info or user info. I would assume that each stored image
file can also be tagged as well as the user file including the
pointer, at least as an option. The image can be stored with a file
name that identifies it such that someone could see a list of file
names and know which file (image) they wanted to review. This can
also store a pointer within the user database record that points to
the file image. This allows the user to pull up the results for a
race participant and view the images for that person.
[0136] The TS can provide via the protocol in the patent
application that we recently filed, the image based on a request or
otherwise to other systems and such image when provide is uniquely
associated with the participant and possibly also with a particular
tag read for that participant.
[0137] The TS system is suitable for use with the herein described
STIIS is an event communication system that provides real-time
statistics and event participant information to computing devices,
web sites, cellular phones, television displays and monitors, and
other types of communication devices. The capabilities of the TS
system include, but are not limited to the following: (1)
interfaces with existing TS timing systems to provide real-time
updates of participant information, images and video, on television
displays or monitors, (2) provides event clock screens that can
show the elapsed event time updated in real-time, (3) provides
real-time updates of times on participants at any point on the
event course, (4) provides detailed event statistics which are
updated in real-time, (5) includes event reports including, but not
limited to, total finishers, total males, total females, top 5 male
finishers, and top 5 female finishers, (6) provides real-time
updates to web sites with event participant results, (7) includes
search capabilities for locating individual or groups of
participants within an event, (8) provides the ability to generate
custom messages for event participants that are displayed as they
cross a detection point on the course, (9) includes the ability to
generate custom advertising messages that are shown on an event
related display such as an event clock, and (10) provides data
storage for event results which can be retrieved at any time during
the event.
[0138] When using a sport timing system (TS) using an integrated
communication system (ICS) for timing participants in sporting
event, the TS system and method makes it possible to view updated
participant information including, but not limited to, finish
times, bib numbers, and participant names on one or more large
displays. The TS system also displays a real-time event clock
display showing elapsed event time. In addition, the TS system
provides a real-time update screen of event results that can be
used by anyone who is providing event updates over a radio or
television station, or who is providing updates over a public
address system at the event site. The displays supported by the TS
system include flat-panel television screens or monitors that are
placed at a finish line or in an area where participants or
spectators can see the results. The information displayed on the
screens not only includes participant results, it also includes
custom messages for each participant, as well as advertising
messages from event sponsors. Messages and screen displays can be
customized by the user to utilize various font sizes, font types,
colors, and the placement of information on the screens.
Furthermore, the user can modify screen images to include custom
artwork and logos and that information will also be displayed as
event results are being updated on the television screens or
monitors. The TS system can also update a web site with event
results during the event, thus providing a communications tool for
publishing event information over the internet.
[0139] The TS system utilizes a network to receive messages coming
from an TS that may have one or more tag reader or participant
detection systems associated therewith. For example, an TS NET
communication system enables the sharing of participant and event
data among systems in support of sport timing ancillary systems and
applications. The TS system can receive messages from multiple
systems. Thus, numerous detection systems can be placed at many
locations on an event course and information from those systems can
be transmitted over a network connection to the TS system. The
network interface for the TS system can use a connected or
disconnected state-less connection, thus allowing guaranteed or
non-guaranteed information delivery, such as a TS NET network
interface.
[0140] As described herein, an TS system utilizes a network to
receive formatted text messages coming from a sport timing system.
There are two primary types of messages that can be used when
communicating with the TS system. The first type of message
provides the event participant information to the TS system. The
second type of message provides for time synchronization to make
sure that the TS system is using the same time standard as used by
the other TS and TS NET communicating systems at the event. The
message format for the TS system supports variable length messages
that can be customized by the user. The information can be
transmitted via numerous technologies including, but not limited
to, wired networks, wireless networks, satellite networks, cellular
networks, serial networks, or private networks. The messages can be
transmitted over any type of network communications protocol
including, but not limited to, TCP/IP or UDP, or as generally
defined herein by way of example as TS NET. The TS system listens
for messages on an IP address and socket number defined by the user
in a configuration screen. Once this has been done, the system
listens on the designated IP address and socket for inbound
messages. When a message is received, it is processed by TS.
Depending on the configuration of the TS system, real-time displays
may be formatted and updated with participant or event information.
In addition, web site updates may be completed, and reports may be
updated, email messages formatted and sent, text messages formatted
and sent, and images and videos transmitted and displayed by
display devices.
[0141] The message type indicator at the beginning of the
information packet determines the action taken by the TS system.
Participant specific messages will contain the ANNC indictor that
contains participant data/information. The end of each message or
information packet should always contain an end of message
delimiter, for example, as described herein an EOM "I" indicator to
ensure that the end of packet can be identified by the TS system.
In addition, the "I" character should be used to indicate the end
of each field within the information packet. There are no limits on
the length of a field within the information packet. Thus, the
system can transmit a significant amount of event and participant
information within a single message, and can include image and
video links or even files.
[0142] While the TS system was designed for sporting events, it
could be used for any number of other applications that may be
associated with multiple detection systems having to work
interactively together for a common purpose. Furthermore, while the
TS system will be described in conjunction with the current
embodiments, it will be understood that they are not intended to
limit the TS system to these embodiments. On the contrary, the
current design is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and
equivalents, which may be included within the spirit and scope of
the TS system
[0143] The TS system components include communications interfaces
that can include a pair mated datagram messages, a RQIMAGE
requesting an image and a STIMAGE message providing the requested
image, and wherein the announcement interface system formats the
provided image with the announcement system message, and transmits
the announcement system message including the image. In other
embodiments, the TS NET interfaces include a pair of mated datagram
messages including a RQIDIR message requesting a listing of
available images and a STIDIR message providing the requested
listing of available images, and wherein the announcement interface
system generates the RQIMAGE message responsive to the received
STIDIR message.
[0144] The TS NET interfaces can include a RQISTREAMON message
requesting an image stream be enabled and a RQISTREAMOFF message
requesting the image stream be disabled, wherein the requested
image stream is received over the first data interface and wherein
the announcement interface system formats the received image stream
with the announcement system message, and transmits the
announcement system message including the image stream.
[0145] In yet another embodiment, a method for communicating
real-time sporting event and participant announcement information
received from a sport timing system (TS), the method including
receiving, at an announcement interface system having a processor,
a memory, a first data interface communicating over the a stateless
packet data communication network with the sport timing system,
receiving a multicast datagram ANNC message including an
identification of the sport timing system and participant data
including a participant identifier for uniquely identifying each
participant in the sporting event and participant timing data. The
method also includes formatting, in the announcement interface
system, the received portion of the participant data into an
announcement system message having a predetermined data format. The
method further including transmitting, at a second interface of the
announcement interface system communicating with an announcement
system, the announcement system message including the participant
data, the participant identifier, and participant timing data.
[0146] The method can include transmitting over the first data
interface a datagram message RQIMAGE requesting an image from the
sport timing system, and receiving includes receiving a STIMAGE
message with the requested image, and wherein formatting includes
the received image in the announcement system message, and
transmitting includes the announcement system message including the
received image.
[0147] The method can also include transmitting over the first data
interface a datagram message RQIDIR requesting a listing of
available images from the sport timing system, wherein receiving
includes a STIDIR message with the requested listing of available
images, and transmitting at the announcement interface system
including the RQIMAGE message responsive to the received STIDIR
message.
[0148] The method can include transmitting over the first data
interface a datagram message RQISTREAMON requesting an image stream
over the data communication network and a RQISTREAMOFF message
requesting the image stream be disabled, wherein receiving includes
receiving the requested image stream over the first data interface,
wherein formatting includes the provided image stream with the
announcement system message, and transmitting the announcement
system message with the image stream.
[0149] One TS can access multiple TS files that are used within one
or more of the other multiple TS systems including the Chip or TS
Output File and the TS Database File. The file formats documented
below are subject to change, so please check with us periodically
for updates.
[0150] A TS system with a coupled participant detection system
monitors a detection point and collects the identification of the
detected participant and stamps a time of detection for each
participant. These are referred by way of example herein as
collecting participant and detection data including detection
times, which can be written as participant read information to a
text file. As described by way of example herein. a "chip" is a
timing chip that is associated with a participant in the sporting
event. A chip refers to the detection of at particular participant
by a particular detection system. While a chip refers generally to
an RFID chip and the reader is an RFID reader, those skilled in the
art would understand that the reference to an RFID chip or chip,
could be any type of tag reader or participant detection at a
detection point and still be within the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0151] A TS system or a user of such TS system can predetermine the
name and location for the TS OUTPUT FILE. This file is updated in
real-time by the TS system as the event progresses and it contains
the following information: Antenna#,Bib#,Bib#,"Time" The file
always uses a delimited format, shown here by example using commas
as the delimiters, and the time field can be any format, but is
shown in this example as having quote marks.
[0152] The exemplary format for the TS OUTPUT FILE is readable by a
spreadsheet or many third party programs, but other formats are
also possible. An TS system can ignore the Antenna # field for many
applications as the Antenna# field is often used internally by an
TS for uniquely identifying the actual equipment making the
detection. The Bib # field appears twice and this is not an
accident. This is repeated in this exemplary embodiment as several
third-party programs require this format when importing an event
timing data file. The final entry is the time of the chip read
which is in the format of "HH:MM:SS" or "HH:MM:SS.XXX." As shown in
this later example, the format for chip read times can be expanded
to include sub-second timing. TS NET communication systems and
methods should properly handle time values that may include tenths,
hundreds, or thousandths of a second.
[0153] In the TS system, the chip number is generally the same as
the bib number worn by the participant. Thus, for an event with
perhaps 500 participants, the Bib # field may contain a value from
1 to 500. For larger racing events, the Bib # field can be up to
99999 or even up to 500000 or so depending on the requirements as
the TS and TS NET systems will support these expanded field
lengths.
[0154] The following is a sample of a typical TS output file over
the TS NET using the HH:MM:SS format:
[0155] 0,41,41,"14:27:42"
[0156] 0,47,47,"14:27:44"
[0157] 0,39,39,"14:27:46"
[0158] 0,14,14,"14:27:48"
[0159] 0,32,32,"14:27:50"
[0160] Each TS is capable of detecting and reading a single chip or
participant multiple times as it approaches a timing detection
point. Thus, an output file may contain multiple entries for the
same chip/participant. The last entry is the final read on a chip.
For example, the following output file shows that a single chip was
read multiple times as the runner approached the finish line in an
event.
[0161] 0,32,32,"14:28:20"
[0162] 0,32,32,"14:28:21"
[0163] 0,32,32,"14:28:22"
[0164] In one exemplary embodiment, the output file only contains
one entry since most runners can pass through the detection point
in one second or less. However, if an event can have a number of
walkers, there may easily be 4 to 5 entries for the same timing
chip as the walker approaches and goes past the finish line.
[0165] As an TS system or detection system reads timing chips, the
TS system appends new data to the file and continues to do so
during the event. Thus, the file should not be modified or locked
while an event or event is ongoing. Such read files can be read
once the event is concluded, or while the system is not actively
reading timing chips, in order to minimize any negative impact to
system performance.
[0166] Each TS system coupled with a participant detection system
(PDS) can have a high-speed memory with a binary database that runs
in the memory and is updated very rapidly when the detection are
made such as when chips are being read. When this database is saved
to the disk drive, it is written to a text file using a delimited
format, such as delimited using commas. When using commas as the
delimiters, the file can be read by third-party programs without
having to build a complex database interface as such files are
common as known to those skilled in the art.
[0167] The following is a sample TS DATABASE file record:
[0168] 1,Jay_Cooper,
08:00:00,08:15:00,00:00:00,00:00:00,00:00:00,08:4
5:00,00:45:00,50,Half Marathon,M,Allentown,Team Cooper,50001,Club
Member,#76435,137
[0169] TS can have the ability to automatically write out the TS
DATABASE FILE during an event to a file name selected by the TS
user. For example, the TS can be specified to have a file written
to the disk every 30, 45, or perhaps 60 seconds. In addition to
writing the TS DATABASE FILE to the disk, TS can automatically
create multiple files that have a unique file name that is based on
the current date and time. By having multiple files on the disk,
any of the files can be accessed without a concern about TS
accessing those files again once they have been created. For
example, an TS system can write the database to the disk every 60
seconds with a unique file name. The TS system can specify the base
file name as TSDB.txt.
[0170] When TS writes the file, it creates a file with the
following name format:
[0171] TSDB20090501100502.txt
[0172] There can be multiple TS DATABASE FILES on the disk drive,
and there could be hundreds of files by the time the event
completes. Each of these files is essentially a unique snapshot of
the event results for that moment in time.
[0173] The following is the format for the database file:
[0174]
Bib#,Name,StartTime,Split1,Split2,Split3,Split4,FinishTime,Elaps
edTime,Age,Division,Gender,City,TeamName,ChipField,UserField1,UserField2,-
UniqueI D
[0175] The Bib # field can contain a value from 1 to 99999
depending on the version of the TS system in use.
[0176] The Name can contain the full name and is typically
formatted as FIRST NAME LAST NAME with no comma between the first
and last name, but may be formatted such as using an underscore or
the like. In some embodiments, it is undesirable for particular
characters, such as a comma, by way of example, not be included in
the name field due to their use as a delimiter where applicable.
When an TS system loads the database file, it can use particular
characters such as a comma to determine the individual fields.
Thus, such TS database delineation characters should not be used in
the Name field as such usage can cause TS to use the wrong fields
for the remaining entries on the line being read.
[0177] The following fields all contain a time based on the time of
day: Start Time, Split1, Split2, Split3, Split4, and Finish Time.
All of these fields are in the format HH:MM:SS or HH:MM:SS.XXX and
there are no quote marks.
[0178] The described format for chip read times can be expanded to
include sub-second timing. Any TS and/or TS NET implementations
should be implemented to properly handle time values that may
include tenths, hundreds, or thousandths of a second. Following is
one exemplary embodiment of a set of applicable TS data fields:
[0179] a) The Elapsed Time field is a calculated field that is
typically the Finish Time minus the Start Time. This field is in
the format HH:MM:SS or HH:MM:SS.XXX and there are no quote
marks.
[0180] b) The Age field can contain up to 3 digits typically
ranging from 1 to 100.
[0181] c) The Division field can contain a text entry that can be
up to 250 characters in length, although it is typically 20 or less
characters long.
[0182] d) The Gender field can contain a text entry that can be up
to 250 characters in length, although it is typically 1 character
with either an M or F entry.
[0183] e) The City field can contain a text entry that can be up to
250 characters in length, although it is typically 25 or less
characters long.
[0184] f) The Team Name field can contain a text entry that can be
up to 250 characters in length, although it is typically 25 or less
characters long.
[0185] g) The Chip field can be used, in some embodiments, to
include a text entry that is associated with a particular timing
chip. In some embodiments the Chip field can be up to 250
characters in length, although it is expected to be 6 or less
characters long.
[0186] h) The UserField1 field can contain a text entry that can be
up to 250 characters in length, although it is typically 25 or less
characters long. This field may be used by the software to contain
values related to team order for relay events. In some cases, the
TS user can place information in this field related to the TS
user's personal information such as emergency contact number.
[0187] i) The UserField2 field can contain a text entry that can be
up to 250 characters in length, although it is typically 25 or less
characters long. This is a second field that often contains
additional personal information about an event participant.
[0188] j) The UniquelD field can contain a text entry that can be
up to 250 characters in length, although it is typically 10 or less
characters long. This field is often used to track event-day
registration numbers or other unique values that identify an event
participant. TS can automatically insert a unique value in this
field during the rapid registration process in the software.
[0189] Not only can TS write this TS DATABASE FILE text file to the
disk drive, it can read it back in from the TS DATABASE FILE. Thus,
a TS DATABASE FILE can be created using this format and TS can read
it just fine. Any time fields that are created should be in the
HH:MM:SS or HH:MM:SS.XXX format with leading zeros on any times
that are less than 10. For example, if the time is 9:10 am, the
field should contain the entry 09:10:00 or 09:10:00:000. In most
cases, when creating a new file that can be loaded into TS, the
time fields should contain 00:00:00 or 00:00:00:000. However, if an
event has assigned start times, the start times can be loaded into
TS by using the StartTime field.
[0190] The TS can have a state-less network interface such as
provided by a user data protocol (UDP) system as used for outbound
and inbound messaging over a suitable communication network. The TS
and TS NET systems utilize these messages to include outbound
packets using TS and TS NET for READ and ANNOUNCE information, as
well as other data as described herein. In addition, an TS using TS
NET monitors the Internet connection for UDP TS NET messages from
other TS NET systems or third-party programs coupled to the same
communication network. This interface allows third-party programs
to be developed which can work within the TS architecture.
[0191] UDP packets as used by the present TS NET system provide a
very quick and relatively easy system to implement and from which
to build flexible and robust applications. While there are known
limitations for UDP packets, the describes application of the UDP
packets in the TS NET recognizes these limitations and adjusts the
design and applications accordingly whereby UDP provides a very
suitable solution for communicating between multiple TS systems as
well as sport timing auxiliary systems (TAS) in which auxiliary
applications can provide vertical applications utilizing the
information available within the TS NET system and methods.
[0192] The following includes the packet structure for all TS NET
supported UDP packets. TS NET can be configured to listen and send
on any socket ranging from 5000 to 9999. In addition, TS NET can be
set to send to a specific computer by using either the computer
name or its IP address. Furthermore, TS NET can send to all
computers on the network by using 0.255 as the last bytes in the IP
address. Of course in other systems and embodiments other broadcast
messaging address can also be used and still be within the scope of
the present invention. In this example, if the TS NET is set to
192.168.1.255, the TS NET sends messages as Broadcast packets. TS
NET message are sent as clear text contained within the UDP packet,
with fields separated by the "|" characters. |EOM| should always
come at the end of each message.
[0193] As noted, the TS NET network interface is configured for
stateless broadcast communications systems, such as UDP using a
broadcasting IP address indicator such as 255. The networking
interface can however support a variety of different types of
messages. These can include broadcast messages, multicast messages
and unicast messages, between and among various TS NET systems.
[0194] Broadcast TS NET messages are transmitted from the TS NET
interface over the stateless broadcast communication network with
no addressing as to the intended recipient as well as no
identification the TS NET system that is sending or sent the
message. As such, each of the Broadcast TS NET Messages can be read
by any listening TS NET device, and once received by that device,
the receiving TS system does not know which other TS system sent
the message. As will be discussed, these include, by way of
example, the ANNCM and TRSTART messages.
[0195] Multicast TS NET messages are transmitted from the TS NET
interface over the stateless broadcast communication network with
no addressing as to the intended recipient. However, these messages
include an identification of the sending TS system, e.g., FROM
identifier. These TS NET multicast messages can be read by any TS
NET system and once received by that TS system, the receiving TS
system knows which of the other communicating TS systems the
message originated. These include, by way of example, the ANNC,
ANNCL, READ, NOANNC, TSYNC, RSIG, and KREFRESH messages.
[0196] Unicast TS NET messages are transmitted from the TS NET
interface over the stateless broadcast communication network with
an identification of which the sending entity is (FROM identifier)
as well as an identification of the intended receiving TS system
(DEST or Destination identifier). These unicast TS NET messages are
essentially point to point messaging within a stateless broadcast
messaging communication system. Only the identified destination TS
NET system should receive these messages and they are ignored by
all other listening TS system. The receiving TS system knows that
the message was intended for its use and it knows the
identification of the sending TS. These include, by way of example,
the REANNC, RESEND, LOOKUP, STARTRFID, STOPRFID, COMMAND, RQIMAGE,
STIMAGE, RQIDIR, STIDIR, RQISTREAMON, and RQISTREAMOFF messages by
way of example.
[0197] It should be understood to those skilled in the art that
other broadcast, multicast and/or unicast messages can also be
developed as an application may require or benefit from the present
disclosure, and still be considered within the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0198] Announce Message (ANNC): The ANNC packet is sent by TS NET
to the network and can be captured by any device that is listening
on the network for UDP packets. The message indicates that TS can
have read a chip at the location indicated in the From field.
[0199] Packet length=variable size
[0200] Total fields=10
[0201] ANNC|FROM|BIB#|NAME|AGE|GENDER|CITY|TIME|PACKE T#|EOM|
[0202] The information in this TS NET packet comes from the TS
internal database. The packet # is a unique 3-digit value that
begins with 1 and continues to 999, after which it wraps around and
starts over at 1. This packet # can be used to ensure that all
messages are received. If a message is missing, a request can be
made to resent that packet. TS NET maintains a circular buffer of
past messages for this purpose.
[0203] Announce Message for Lap Events (ANNCL): The ANNCL packet is
sent by TS NET to the network and can be captured by any device
that is listening on the network for UDP packets. The message
indicates that TS can have read a chip at the location indicated in
the From field.
[0204] Packet length=variable size
[0205] Total fields=11
[0206] ANNCL|FROM|BIB#|NAME|AGE|GENDER|CITY|TOTAL LAPS|TIME|TEAM
NAME|PACKET#|EOM|
[0207] The information in this TS NET packet comes from the TS
internal database. The packet # is a unique 3-digit value that
begins with 1 and continues to 999, after which it wraps around and
starts over at 1. This packet # can be used to ensure that all
messages are received. If a message is missing, a resend of the
packet can be requested. TS NET maintains a circular buffer of past
messages for this purpose.
[0208] Re-Announce Message (REANNC): The REANNC packet can be sent
by TS NET to request a re-send of a particular packet.
[0209] Packet length=variable size
[0210] Total fields=5
[0211] REANNC|FROM|DEST|PACKET#|EOM|
[0212] When this TS NET message is used, the packet number should
be included as desired from the TS or TS NET buffer. The FROM and
DEST fields contain the IP addresses for the two systems.
[0213] No Announce Information (NOANNC): The NOANNC packet is sent
via the TS NET when a request was made for a packet that is not yet
available. For example, if TS NET can only send 100 packets, and a
system requests packet number 120, the system will generate the
NOANNC message in response.
[0214] Packet length=variable size
[0215] Total fields=10
[0216] NOANNC|FROM|0| |0|M| |100:00:00|Packet #|EOM|
[0217] The message returns the requested packet number with the
NOANNC header.
[0218] Announce Message Information (ANNCM): The ANNCM packet is
sent by TS NET or the Kiosk when a new message is received by an
input such as is entered by a participant or family member
requesting a specific participant's data be displayed on a Kiosk or
an Announcer screen.
[0219] Packet length=variable size
[0220] Total fields=4
[0221] ANNCM|BIB #|MESSAGE|EOM|
[0222] Read Message (READ): The READ packet is sent by TS NET to
the network and can be captured by any device that is listening on
the network for UDP packets. The packet is a real-time feed of any
reads that are occurring at the particular TS timing system.
[0223] Packet length=variable size
[0224] Total fields=6
[0225] READ|FROM|BIB#|TIME|PACKET #|EOM|
[0226] Packet number is a value that begins with 1 and goes to 999.
Once it reaches 999, it starts over again at 1. This packet number
is used to reference past messages in case a message is lost on the
network and a re-send is requested.
[0227] Additionally a separate READ message can be used that
includes the PARTICIPANTNAME field in lieu of the BIB#.
[0228] Resend Message (RESEND): The RESEND message is sent to any
TS system requesting that it re-send a past message. If a message
is lost over the network, a request to resend can be made for any
of the last 999 messages sent previously. TS NET maintains a buffer
with the past 999 messages. Once the 999 position is used, TS NET
starts over at position 1. Thus, TS NET is maintaining a circular
buffer of messages.
[0229] Packet length=variable size
[0230] Total fields=5
[0231] RESEND|FROM|DEST|PACKET #|EOM|
[0232] The Destination field is the TS system that should respond
to this request. This is the same name set in the TS Defaults for
"My Name" in the networking section. If a request is made for a
packet number that has not yet been used by TS NET, a packet
response starting with the BLANK field can be received.
[0233] Time Sync Message (TSYNC): The TSYNC message is sent using
TS NET to any TS system that is listening for Time Sync commands.
This is typically used by TS Remote to make sure the time on the
Remote laptop is the same as that on the TS system. There can
always be a slight delay in the network transmission, and as such a
0.25 to 0.5 second delay may be added to the time received using TS
NET to compensate for the delay.
[0234] Packet length=variable size
[0235] Total fields=4
[0236] TSYNC|FROM|TIME|EOM|
[0237] The FROM field is the name set in the TS Defaults as My
Name.
[0238] Time Sync Message (TRSTART): The TRSTART message is sent
using TS NET to the Kiosk to set the start clock for the event. The
start time can be set on a Kiosk using a command in the
Configuration screen. However, by sending this packet to the Kiosk,
the time can be set remotely from a TS system.
[0239] Packet length=variable size
[0240] Total fields=4
[0241] TSYNC|TIME|EOM|
[0242] Remote Signal Message (RSIG): The RSIG message is sent using
TS NET to any system that is listening for RSIG command. This is
typically used by TS Remote to make sure the connection over the
network is good to TS NET and also to verify that TS NET is
scanning and listening for remote entries.
[0243] Packet length=variable size
[0244] Total fields=4
[0245] RSIG|FROM|TIME|EOM|
[0246] The FROM field is the name set in the TS Defaults as My
Name.
[0247] Refresh KIOSK Message (KREFRESH): The KREFRESH message is
sent using TS NET to any system (typically a Kiosk) that is
listening for the KREFRESH command. This is typically used by TS
NET to send out all of the results in an event to the Kiosk. This
might be useful if the Kiosk re-booted or if the Kiosk was started
after results had already occurred in an event
[0248] Packet length=variable size
[0249] Total fields=10
[0250] KREFRESH|FROM|BIB#|NAME|AGE|GENDER|CITY|TIME|PA
CKET#|EOM|
[0251] The information in this TS NET packet comes from the TS
internal database. The packet # is a unique 3-digit value that
begins with 1 and continues to 999, after which it wraps around and
starts over at 1. This packet # can be used to ensure that all
messages are received. If a message is missing, a request that
packet be re-sent can be made. TS NET maintains a circular buffer
of past messages for this purpose.
[0252] Lookup Message (LOOKUP): The LOOKUP message allows a device
to request event information from another device. The identifier
may be any text. In most cases, the identifier will be a tag serial
number, event bib number, participant name, or perhaps a unique
identifier that refers to a particular type of information. For
example, if a TS systems needs to know the current duration of an
event, the LOOKUP message could be sent to a TS system that is
responsible for tracking the total event time. The identifier field
might contain the text entry "EVENTTIME" and this entry could be
used to indicate that the event duration is desired. The packet
number field is optional and if not used, the field could contain a
single space.
[0253] Packet length=variable size
[0254] Total fields=6
[0255] LOOKUP|FROM|DEST|IDENTIFIER|PACKET #|EOM|
[0256] Start RFID Message (StartRFID): The StartRFID message can be
sent to a TS system to indicate that it should start performing a
specific RFID function. If the function is to begin at a certain
date or time, the TIME field could contain that information. This
field could be used to initialize and start a remote RFID system so
that it begins to read tags. As also, as used here this is specific
to RFID readers. It should be understood to those skilled in the
art, that other reader or detection systems are possible and in
such embodiments, other messages can be developed or this message
can be adapted for their use. Other systems could include: laser
detection, video detection, etc. As such, this message could
alternatively be: StartDETECTOR, or StartLASER, or StartVIDEO. by
ways of examples.
[0257] Packet length=variable size
[0258] Total fields=7
[0259] StartRFID|FROM|DEST|FUNCTION|TIME|PACKET #|EOM|
[0260] Of course those skilled in the art will understand that when
other technology is used for the tag reader or participant
detection system, this message can be renamed and still be within
the scope of the present disclosure.
[0261] Stop RFID Message (StopRFID): The StopRFID message can be
sent to a device to indicate that it should start performing a
specific RFID function. If the function is to begin at a certain
date or time, the TIME field could contain that information. This
field could be used to initialize and start a remote RFID system so
that it begins to read tags. Other systems could include: laser
detection, video detection, etc. As such, this message could
alternatively be: StopDETECTOR, or StopLASER, or StopVIDEO. by ways
of examples.
[0262] Packet length=variable size
[0263] Total fields=7
[0264] StopRFID|FROM|DEST|FUNCTION|TIME|PACKET #|EOM|
[0265] Of course those skilled in the art will understand that when
other technology is used for the tag reader or participant
detection system, this message can be renamed and still be within
the scope of the present disclosure.
[0266] Command Message (COMMAND): The COMMAND message can be sent
to a TS system to request that a particular command be executed in
that TS system. The IDENTIFIER field may contain any text desired.
This field could be used to send any tag reader or participant or
tag detector command to a remote device. For example, if the
current battery charge level on a remote system needed to
determined, a Command message could be sent with the text
BATTERYSTATS in the IDENTIFIER field. The remote system would need
to have functions built in that can process the command.
[0267] Packet length=variable size
[0268] Totalfields=6
[0269] COMMAND|FROM|DEST|IDENTIFIER|PACKET #|EOM|
[0270] Request Image Message (RQIMAGE): The RQIMAGE message is sent
to a device to request that a particular image be returned. The
message is useful when interfacing with a system that contains
photographs or other pictures such as logos or artwork. The
IDENTIFIER field should contain a unique descriptor for the image
desired and may contain any text desired. Typically, this field
will contain a unique number for a participant in an event.
However, the IDENTIFIER could also contain a specific location on a
remote system where a file is located. The DATAFORMAT field may be
used to specify the format of the image to be sent, the type of
encryption used if any, and/or the type or amount of compaction. If
higher performance across a network is desired, this field might be
used to indicate that High compression is desired or that 8-bit
compression or compaction has been added. If security is required,
this could include encrypted with 128-bit encryption format. The
field may contain any text that is recognized by the system
designated as DEST. The PACKETSIZE field should contain a value
indicating the maximum packet size to send at one time. Given that
most images will contain more data than is able to be sent in a
single packet, this field may be used to control packet size, thus
tuning the network performance. The PSOCKET field is used when it
necessary or desired to have multiple packet streams being sent
simultaneously from the DEST. For example, the field could contain
7000 on one packet and 7001 on a different packet to indicate that
two streams are being used simultaneously.
[0271] Packet length=variable size
[0272] Total fields=9
[0273] RQIMAGE|FROM|DEST|IDENTIFIER|COMPRESSION|PACKE
TSIZE|PSOCKET|PACKET #|EOM|
[0274] Image Sent Message (STIMAGE): The STIMAGE message is sent
from a system responding to a request for an image, e.g., RQIMAGE.
The IDENTIFIER field should contain the unique descriptor for the
image that was requested and may contain any text desired.
Typically, this field will contain a unique number for a
participant in an event. However, the IDENTIFIER could also contain
a specific location on a given system where a file is located. The
DATAFORMAT field indicates the type of compression, encryption or
compaction used on the image or images when it was sent, as
discussed above. The PACKETSIZE field should contain a value
indicating the length of the portion of the image just sent. Given
that most images will contain more data than is able to be sent in
a single packet, this field will be used to indicate how many bytes
have been sent. The PSOCKET field contains a value indicating which
stream the information is being sent on. This may be used when it
necessary or desired to have multiple packet streams being sent
simultaneously from a system. For example, this field could be used
to send individual photos to different computers on a network at
the same time.
[0275] Packet length=variable size
[0276] Total fields=9
[0277] STIMAGE|FROM|DEST|IDENTIFIER|DATAFORMAT|PACKE
TSIZE|PSOCKET|PACKET #|EOM|
[0278] The DATAFORMAT message maybe something like: COMX2:ENC128:8
BIT, by way of example.
[0279] Request Image Library Contents Message (RQIDIR): The RQIDIR
message could be sent to a device to request that the names of all
images available be provided for that system. The message is useful
when interfacing with a system that contains photographs or other
pictures such as logos or artwork. The IDENTIFIER field should
contain a unique descriptor for the type of images desired or a
filter mask for the names or locations of images. For example, the
IDENTIFIER might contain the text entry *, or it might contain a
qualifier such as *.JPG is the user only wants to receive a list of
images that are in JPG format. Of course other qualifiers may be
used for other formats.
[0280] Packet length=variable size
[0281] Total fields=6
[0282] RQIDIR|FROM|DEST|IDENTIFIER|PACKET #|EOM|
[0283] Image Library Sent Message (STIDIR): The STIDIR message can
be sent to one or more systems as a response to an RQIDIR message
and it includes a list of images available. The FILELIST field will
contain a list of images in text format that are available. Each
image name will contain a carriage return line feed indicator at
the end of the name. If the list has been completely transmitted, a
final indicator at the end of the list will include an entry of EOL
followed by a carriage return line feed. This indicator means there
are no additional packets being sent and the entire list has been
provided.
[0284] Packet length=variable size
[0285] Total fields=6
[0286] STIDIR|FROM|DEST|FILELIST|PACKET #|EOM|
[0287] Request Image Stream On Message (RQISTREAMON): The
RQIDTREAMON message is by a TS system to request that a particular
image stream be enabled for a real-time video feed. The message is
useful when interfacing with a system that contains a camera
displaying live video. The IDENTIFIER field should contain a unique
descriptor for the image stream desired and may contain any text
desired. Typically, this field will contain a unique name for a
camera or video interface. However, the IDENTIFIER could also
contain a specific socket, URL, or other indicator that is a live
video stream. The DATAFORMAT field may be used to specify the
format to be used when sending the video stream, such as the type
of encoding, compression, encryption or compaction used on the
video stream as discussed above related to the images. If higher
performance across a network is desired, this field might be used
to indicate that High compression is desired. The field may contain
any text that is recognized by the system designated as DEST. The
PACKETSIZE field should contain a value indicating the maximum
packet size to send at one time. Since the video stream will
contain a great amount of information, the image stream can be
deconstructed into small packets that are sent across the network.
The PSOCKET field is used when it necessary or desired to have
multiple packet streams being sent simultaneously from the DEST.
For example, the field could contain 6000 on one packet and 6001 on
a different packet to indicate that two streams are being used
simultaneously. The TIMEOUT field can be used to indicate how long,
in seconds, the stream should be kept alive. If this value is set
to 0, the DEST will continue to send the stream until a
RQISTREAMOFF message is received.
[0288] Packet length=variable size
[0289] Total fields=10
[0290] RQISTREAMON|FROM|DEST|IDENTIFIER|DATAFORMAT|P
ACKETSIZEI|PSOCKET|TIMEOUT|PACKET #|EOM|
[0291] Request Image Stream Off Message (RQISTREAMOFF): The
RQISTREAMOFF message is sent by a TS system to request that a
particular image stream be disabled. The IDENTIFIER field should
contain a unique descriptor for the stream to be disabled. The
PSOCKET field can also be used to identify a particular socket, in
the event that multiple streams are being sent at the same
time.
[0292] Packet length=variable size
[0293] Total fields=7
[0294] RQISTREAMOFF|FROM|DEST|IDENTIFIER|PSOCKET|PACK ET #|EOM|
[0295] LASER Beam Break Message (LASBMBRK): The LASBMBRK message is
sent to a chip or remote system to let it know that a laser beam
has been broken at a particular location or laser monitored point
MPL. The LSOCKET value can be used to identify a unique socket on
the TRS or laser detection system (LDS). The IDENTIFIER can be used
to designate a location or identification of the particular LDS.
Typically, this value might be a number from 1 to 255. The TIME
field will contain a time value indicating when the laser beam
break occurred. The BUFFER may contain any other data may be
programmed to store and send.
[0296] Packet length=variable size
[0297] Total fields=8
[0298] LASBMBRK|FROM|DEST|LSOCKET|IDENTIFIER|TIME|BUFF ER|EOM|
[0299] LASER Beam On Message (LASBMON): The LASBMON message is sent
to a chip or remote system to let it know that a laser beam should
be enabled. The LSOCKET value can be used to identify a unique
socket on the TRS or laser detection system (LDS). The IDENTIFIER
can be used to designate a location or identification of the
particular LDS. Typically, this value might be a number from 1 to
255. The TIME field is optional and could contain a time value
indicating when you wish the laser beam to enable itself. If this
field is blank, the laser will immediately turn itself on. The
BUFFER may contain any other data may be programmed to store and
send.
[0300] Packet length=variable size
[0301] Total fields=8
[0302] LASBMON|FROM|DEST|LSOCKET|IDENTIFIER|TIME|BUFFE R|EOM|
[0303] LASER Beam Off Message (LASBMOFF): The LASBMOFF message is
sent to a chip or remote system to let it know that a laser beam
should be turned off. The LSOCKET value can be used to identify a
unique socket on the TRS or laser detection system (LDS). The
IDENTIFIER can be used to designate a location or identification of
the particular LDS. Typically, this value might be a number from 1
to 255. The TIME field is optional and could contain a time value
indicating when you wish the laser beam to disable itself. If this
field is blank, the laser will immediately turn itself off. The
BUFFER may contain any other data you wish to send.
[0304] Packet length=variable size
[0305] Total fields=8
[0306] LASBMOFF|FROM|DEST|LSOCKET|IDENTIFIER|TIME|BUFF ER|EOM|
[0307] LASER Beam Request Message (LASBMREQ): The
[0308] LASBMREQ message is sent to a chip or remote system to
request a particular function be executed. The function could
include any number of parameters such as configuring the time
necessary to trigger a Beam Break. Another use might be to request
a history of all beam breaks during the past 24 hours. The LSOCKET
value can be used to identify a unique socket on the TRS or laser
detection system (LDS). The IDENTIFIER can be used to designate a
location or identification of the particular LDS. Typically, this
value might be a number from 1 to 255. The BUFFER may contain any
other data may be programmed to store and send.
[0309] Packet length=variable size
[0310] Total fields=7
[0311] LASBMREQ|FROM|DEST|LSOCKET|IDENTIFIER|BUFFER|E OM|
[0312] In other embodiments, the packet formats can vary from that
described above and herein and still be within the scope of the
present disclosure. For example, some or all of the timing system
database fields can be sent when most of the packets are sent. In
such embodiments, this can allow applications to have all of the
data contained in a record in the database.
Operating Environment
[0313] Referring to FIG. 11, an operating environment for an
illustrated embodiment of the an RFID semiconductor chip and/or
remote transceiver is a computer system 700 with a computer 702
that comprises at least one high speed processing unit (CPU) 704,
in conjunction with a memory system 706 interconnected with at
least one bus structure 708, an input device 710, and an output
device 712. These elements are interconnected by at least one bus
structure 708. As addressed above, the input and output devices can
include a communication interface including an antenna
interface.
[0314] The illustrated CPU 704 for an RFID semiconductor chip is of
familiar design and includes an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) 714 for
performing computations, a collection of registers for temporary
storage of data and instructions, and a control unit 716 for
controlling operation of the computer system 700. Any of a variety
of processors, including at least those from Digital Equipment,
Sun, MIPS, Motorola, NEC, Intel, Cyrix, AMD, HP, and Nexgen, is
equally preferred but not limited thereto, for the CPU 704. The
illustrated embodiment of the invention operates on an operating
system designed to be portable to any of these processing
platforms.
[0315] The memory system 706 generally includes high-speed main
memory 720 in the form of a medium such as random access memory
(RAM) and read only memory (ROM) semiconductor devices that are
typical on an RFID semiconductor chip. However, the present
disclosure is not limited thereto and can include secondary storage
722 in the form of long-term storage mediums such as floppy disks,
hard disks, tape, CD-ROM, flash memory, etc. and other devices that
store data using electrical, magnetic, and optical or other
recording media. The main memory 720 also can include, in some
embodiments, a video display memory for displaying images through a
display device (not shown). Those skilled in the art will recognize
that the memory system 706 can comprise a variety of alternative
components having a variety of storage capacities.
[0316] Where applicable, while not typically provided on RFID tags
or chips, an input device 710, and output device 712 can also be
provided. The input device 710 can comprise any keyboard, mouse,
physical transducer (e.g. a microphone), and can be interconnected
to the computer 702 via an input interface 724 associated with the
above described communication interface including the antenna
interface. The output device 712 can include a display, a printer,
a transducer (e.g. a speaker), and be interconnected to the
computer 702 via an output interface 726 that can include the above
described communication interface including the antenna interface.
Some devices, such as a network adapter or a modem, can be used as
input and/or output devices.
[0317] As is familiar to those skilled in the art, the computer
system 700 further includes an operating system and at least one
application program. The operating system is the set of software
that controls the computer system's operation and the allocation of
resources. The application program is the set of software that
performs a task desired by the user, using computer resources made
available through the operating system. Both are typically resident
in the illustrated memory system 706 that may be resident on the
RFID semiconductor chip.
[0318] In accordance with the practices of persons skilled in the
art of computer programming, the present invention is described
below with reference to symbolic representations of operations that
are performed by the computer system 700. Such operations are
sometimes referred to as being computer-executed. It will be
appreciated that the operations that are symbolically represented
include the manipulation by the CPU 704 of electrical signals
representing data bits and the maintenance of data bits at memory
locations in the memory system 706, as well as other processing of
signals. The memory locations where data bits are maintained are
physical locations that have particular electrical, magnetic, or
optical properties corresponding to the data bits. The invention
can be implemented in a program or programs, comprising a series of
instructions stored on a computer-readable medium. The
computer-readable medium can be any of the devices, or a
combination of the devices, described above in connection with the
memory system 706. When describing elements or features and/or
embodiments thereof, the articles "a", "an", "the", and "said" are
intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements or
features. The terms "comprising", "including", and "having" are
intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional
elements or features beyond those specifically described.
[0319] Those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes
can be made to the exemplary embodiments and implementations
described above without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
Accordingly, all matter contained in the above description or shown
in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative
and not in a limiting sense.
[0320] It is further to be understood that the processes or steps
described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring
their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated.
It is also to be understood that additional or alternative
processes or steps may be employed.
* * * * *