Permanent RFID Timing System in a Track and Field Athletic Stadium for Training and Analyzing Purposes
The article discusses the issue of using timing systems based on radio frequency identification for mass running events. It suggests that such devices as “transponders, tags or just chips” (Woellik, Mueller and Herriger 202) can be very useful for accurate measurements. Those devices that use ultra-high frequency have the potential to detect and measure the results of those sportsmen who seem to pass the detection line simultaneously. Such transponders allow making measurements in a comfortable way without using manual clocks or other old-fashioned things. Moreover, there are numerous companies that have already started production of these devices. They state that “the technology’s real advantage lies in its ability to work even in harsh and challenging environmental conditions” (“How Our RFID Chip Timing Systems Work”). They make them liquid and pressure resistant. However, these technologies require wired networking, WIFI or other kinds of connection that can transmit the data to the computer.
The article also suggests that these technological innovations may be fixed not only on the bodies of sportsmen, but also to the running track of a stadium. This allows minimizing costs because the lifetime of the device is usually limited to the duration of the event, and get more accurate measurements regarding all the participants. Therefore, the authors focus on analyzing alternative ideas about using such technologies and different requirements for installation and hardware setup of RFID. The authors state that such usage may be useful for coaches who “can measure an athlete’s performance and adjust the training plan accordingly” (Woellik, Mueller and Herriger 202). They also have perfect chance to compare precise times and distances of every participant.
I think that the main strength of the article is the fact that it refers to the innovation and technologies in sport. The use of such things can make the entire process of getting results of sporting events more accurate and easier. The article also contains suggestion about the alternative use of the devices that may economize funds and lead to significant benefits for coaches and sportsmen. The article also contains information regarding the required installation work and all the measurements that should be taken into account for such modernization of the running track. Moreover, the authors researched on the issue where the device should be located on the body of an athlete in order to be the most reliable and accurate. The weakness of the article is in the limited information about the current use of RFID devices in the sports and their positive impact on the fairness of the results. Also, there is little information regarding the previous research on such transponders. The analysis is limited to only two runners, while the authors suggest that the RFID system can detect the results of more than two participants who arrive at a detection line at the same time.
I agree that such technological progress is very helpful for coaches. From now on, coaches are not required to use a manual clock or alternative timing systems that may distract them or show inaccurate results. In this case, high-tech does not mean anything complex (“IPICO Sports Race Timing Systems”). Coaches have got a chance to adjust the programs for their athletes just as it is required by their results. Such timing system will also signify the status of the sporting event in the future.
Works Cited
How Our RFID Chip Timing Systems Work. IPICO Active Network, n.d. http://www.ipicosports.com/how-it-works/
IPICO Sports Race Timing Systems. IPICO Active Network, n.d. http://www.ipicosports.com
Woellik, H., Mueller, A., Herriger, J. Permanent RFID Timing System in a Track and Field Athletic Stadium for Training and Analyzing Purposes. Procedia Engineering 72 (2014): 202-207.
