Development of speed/trajectory measurement system using smart glasses for beginning or unskilled curlers

• Published in: Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Part P, Journal of sports engineering and technology Journal of sports engineering and technology, 2019-03, Vol.233 (1), p.145-159
• Main Authors: Lee, Sangcheol, Park, Sanghyuk, Kim, Taewhan, Kil, Sekee
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1754-3371; 1754-338X
• DOI: 10.1177/1754337118809864

In this study, a smart glasses measurement system was developed to provide real-time speed and trajectory information of the stone in curling. For beginners and unskilled or student athletes who do not have sufficient experience with curling or wheelchair curling, the speed and trajectory information aid in delivery of the stone. The system consists of a pair of smart glasses, tablet PC, gateway (type of small computer), and three speed and distance sensor blocks with a case that has two sensors using lasers to measure distance. The smart glasses and tablet PC display the speed and trajectory of the stone measured by three sensor blocks in real time, allowing the user to observe the condition of the stone immediately after throwing it. Experiments were conducted to confirm the accuracy of the speed and distance measurement of the developed system. Experimental results show that the maximum speed measurement error is approximately 0.0056 m/s and the maximum distance measurement error is approximately 8 mm. The developed system can be used by practicing athletes to collect information on the speed and trajectory of the stone, which varies based on the conditions of the arena including ice surface temperature, ice surface condition, air temperature, and humidity. The collected data can be used as basic information on ice friction, which is necessary for curling research. This system was developed to support Korean curling teams preparing for the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics and Paralympics.