Tracking the Game: How Technology Enables Better Decisions

With the grand finale of the European Soccer Championship fast approaching, I can’t help but draw a fascinating link to the world of RFID technology. Did you know that the latest generation of UEFA match balls includes a chip? This innovation is based on Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology.?

The "Connected Ball," often referred to as the "chip in the ball," significantly enhances decision-making accuracy at the UEFA 2024 European Championship. By transmitting its location and contact information 500 times per second, this advanced technology provides real-time data, ensuring more precise and reliable officiating during matches.?

Inside the ball, a sensor utilizing ultra-wideband (UWB) and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) communicates with a network of antennas installed around the pitch. Combined with artificial intelligence, this system measures the ball's position, speed, distance, and the exact timing of each touch.?

Next-level play

This technology brings numerous benefits to the game. It can detect handballs by sensing if the ball touches a player's hand. Offside decisions become super precise, measuring player positions down to the tiniest margins. Some fans might not be thrilled when a goal is disallowed because of a striker’s big toe being offside, but it shows just how accurate this tech is. And if the goal stands in the end, you get to celebrate twice!

How Do RAIN RFID and UWB Compare?

When it comes to advanced tracking technologies, RAIN RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) and UWB (Ultra-Wideband) both offer unique advantages and applications. Here’s a comparison to highlight their similarities, differences, and specific benefits:

Specific Benefits of RAIN RFID in Retail:?

• Item-Level Tracking: Ideal for item-level tracking and tracing in retail environments, allowing for accurate inventory management.?

• Bulk Reading: Capable of reading multiple tags simultaneously, which is crucial for tasks like cycle counting or shipment verification.?

• Cost-Effective: Passive RFID tags are inexpensive, making large-scale deployments more feasible.?

• Energy Efficient: Passive tags do not need batteries, reducing maintenance and operational costs.?

• Scalability: Easily scalable to cover large retail environments, from warehouses to store floors.?

Specific Benefits of UWB:?

• High Precision: Offers superior accuracy, suitable for applications needing exact location data.?
• Interference Resilience: Less affected by interference from other signals, ensuring reliable performance.?
• Fast Data Transmission: Capable of transmitting data quickly, useful for real-time applications requiring instant feedback.??

In summary, while RAIN RFID and UWB both provide valuable tracking solutions, RAIN RFID is particularly suited for retail applications involving item-level tracking with passive RFID tags and the need for bulk reading capabilities. UWB, on the other hand, excels in scenarios requiring high precision and fast data transmission, albeit at a higher cost and with more complex infrastructure requirements. Understanding these differences can help in choosing the right technology for specific applications.?

Just like the thrill of watching the final moments of the Euro Cup, choosing the right technology can be just as exhilarating. Whether it's ensuring the perfect goal stands or managing your inventory with pinpoint accuracy, understanding these advanced tracking technologies can make all the difference. Here's to innovation, making the game – and business – better for everyone!

This edition of the newsletter is written by Tom Vieweger . Want to learn more about RFID or Football? Then make sure to send him a message!