The technology behind smart courts
Smart Court is a boon to the badminton game. Courts are equipped with a network of sensors and cameras strategically positioned across the court. These sensors, along with the camera, work together to acquire a large number of data points in real-time. The main components of a smart court are:
Motion sensors: This sensor has a very important role in the game as these are fixed on the floors; they check movements, record data on footwork, and track speed and location.
Shot tracking sensors: These shot tracking sensors are often installed on the net or around the court to track shuttlecock trajectories, shot velocity, and impact points.
High-Speed Cameras: To check the high-quality video analysis, cameras are strategically placed around the court to record matches and training sessions.
Data Analytics Software: A robust software platform interprets data collected by sensors and cameras to provide extensive insights and visualizations of player performance on the court.
How did this tracking technology work?
Importantly, their tracking technology is built on triangulation principles, with visual pictures and time data taken from high-speed cameras strategically placed throughout the stadium; the cameras are calibrated and synchronized before each game.
Cameras are frequently situated high above the courts so that they can capture the ball's trajectory with minimal impediments.
Although there have been some disagreements over its line calling accuracy (up to 3.6 mm inaccuracy), it has generally proven reliable except in a few edge instances.
Notable examples and brands
Several crucial companies are leading the smart court technology, developing equipment that has revolutionized the way badminton is played and analyzed globally. Here are some of the notable examples that are included in this technology:
Playsight: One of the best examples is Playsight, which is a platform that offers smart court technology. It provides multiple cameras, motion sensors, and an interactive touchscreen, which ultimately revolutionized how badminton (or other sports) plates, are analyzed and coached, making it a fixed solution by turning sports courts into pro platforms. It records video, provides real-time video analysis, and captures all practices, live streams, games, and tournaments without any cable or network equipment.
Playsight offers networked cameras that track and record all action on the court or rink. Every time its performance improves after any sports it witnesses. There is one thing about it: the more sports it watches, the more accurate the tracking becomes. Everything is geared towards providing you with the finest video experience possible.
Wingfield: Another example of a smart court is Wingfield, which converts traditional courts into smart playing fields, providing the most dynamic experience unimaginable. The AI-based tracking system comes with a variety of sensors that track player movements and shot locations. The data is processed to provide insight into performance, allowing participants to monitor their development over time. Wingfield monitors player movements, shuttlecock trajectory, and other parameters, allowing for performance analysis.
Key Benefits of Smart Courts
It is important to understand the key benefits of smart courts and how they affect players performance:
Performance analysis: Smart Court collects data and offers players and coaches a detailed view of their performance. It helps them to improve their game and strength by analysing their movement patterns, shot accuracy, and rally dynamics.
Injury prevention: Monitoring player movements results in recognizing inappropriate tactics or overuse of specific muscle groups, which can result in injury. Early detection enables immediate intervention and corrective training.
Tactical Insights: A detailed analysis of shot placements and rally patterns enables players to develop better strategies and anticipate opponents' moves. This tactical advantage can be crucial in competitive matches.
Objective evaluation: Unlike traditional coaching approaches, which rely heavily on subjective observations, Smart Courts provide objective data, ensuring more accurate and unbiased evaluation.
The Future of Smart Courts in India
The implementation of smart courts in India has the potential to completely change badminton player training and development. With the country's wealth of talent and growing interest in the sport, these upgraded courts can offer Indian players the tools they need to compete at the highest levels on a global scale and improve their game.
Sports academies, clubs, and training centres that invest in smart court technology may see a considerable improvement in coaching quality and player performance. Furthermore, collaborations with technology businesses and sports organizations can help accelerate the adoption of these advances, ensuring that Indian badminton remains at the forefront of the global sports scene.
These courts can have a significant impact on the evolution of badminton by providing extensive performance information, injury prevention insights, and tactical advantages. For India, adopting this technology might be a game changer, propelling its players to unprecedented heights on the global stage.