The optimization of the RFID system for the identification of sportsmen in mass races

The optimization of a standard UHF RFID system for identification of sportsmen in mass races was proposed, realized and verified. The work was based on a system study that identified the main reasons of system failures. The proposed and realized improvements were focused on a development of more efficient and directive antennas for both the reader and the transponder and on an optimization of their location and orientation. The used propagation model turned out to be able to describe the existing fading phenomena and to predict the received signal levels anywhere in a 5 m wide finishing corridor. The optimized RFID system was tested in a standard outdoor operation, the results showed 100% identification reliability.