Recent Trends in Sports Engineering

One of the emerging technologies that is used in sports engineering is machine learning. Datasets and algorithms play an important role in achieving the desired results in the field of sports engineering. We have lot of data and it plays a major role in talent identification, training and coaching, umpiring and scoring, analysis and insight generation, injury management and recovery, fan engagement, e-sports and betting, etc. The data we acquire through all of these is being trained and tested using available machine learning algorithms. The automation using artificial intelligence will be in place and it is in development, which will add more value to that data and its visualization for the audience. Qualitative research on various findings and works carried out around the world in terms of sports data and machine learning is analyzed to know the future of machine learning in sports engineering with all types of machine learning: supervised, semi-supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning. Machine learning leads to more progressive development in sports engineering, mainly in track and field, football, hockey and cricket, etc, and other applications like betting and e-sports are in demand for the future. Future developments on machine learning in sports engineering are discussed in this for further developments. By developing such solutions in the future, all sports enthusiasts will get benefits. Especially, athletes and coaches will benefit. Also, other aspects like fan engagement, injury, betting, manufacturing, and testing can also be achieved.

Goal-line decisions are more important decisions that should be made by the team of officials to provide a decision about the outcome of the action or event that takes place during the attempt to score, which will reward their efforts fairly both the side. The technologies that are associated with decision-making are hawk eye, video assistant referee or instant review system or video replay system, electronic timing system, electronic scoring system, and photo finish which is using some of the key technologies like Smart Balls, RFID, Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence and Computer Vision, Wearable Technology, and other sensors included in this solutions based on the need for various games and still growing. This work is carried out to look into the technologies involved in various games in this modern times. In this work, we are going to concentrate on all the games that are using goal-line decision-making technologies listed above. The qualitative research of various findings is analyzed, and the technological importance and roles are identified. We will also have a clear picture of how the game is becoming fairer with the help of various technologies and providing good and accurate decisions to the players around the world. The real effort of the players will be appreciated with the accurate data that is generated using the available technologies by the referee and organizers to the teams and fans. Nowadays, we have lot of technologies that can add value to the existing system.

Ball trajectory data is a crucial piece of information that must be accurately tracked for tennis professionals. High-end systems like hawk eye are crucial for precise tennis ball trajectory tracking. However, their high cost restricts their accessibility. As a more cost-effective alternative, a single camera can be used, but it poses challenges due to the tennis ball's small size and rapid movement. In this study, we propose a solution to the challenges faced by low-resource tennis analysis systems that utilize a single camera. Specifically, we introduce a heat map-based encoder–decoder network with skip connections, which learns the trajectory patterns of a tennis ball, tracks its high-speed movement, and produces dependable data. Additionally, we present a synthetic data generation technique that enhances model accuracy by a certain percentage through the generation of relevant data. The proposed model was trained using over 15 k frames and another 13 k + generated frames from various lighting conditions, camera angles, and court surfaces. The model's performance was assessed using frames captured in different conditions, yielding a precision of 98.2% and a recall of 91.4%.

Shuttlecock easily deviates from the actual path due to indoor stadium ventilation known as wind drift, which leads to enormous setbacks for elite players in the tournament. To understand the impact of environment and wind direction on wind drift and cross-ventilation, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis is performed in the urban environment. Tamil Nadu Physical Education and Sports University (TNPESU) Multipurpose stadium and campus are subjected to the CFD study and validated with field measurement data. The study is carried out for six wind resource configurations based on the wind rose and campus surrounding terrain. The velocity contour and area-average velocity are studied for the wind drift at the plane height of 1.5 m from the ground. The major stadium area has less wind drift, area-average velocity is between 0.7 and 1.7 m/s. The air change rate per hour (ACH) is measured to quantify the stadium ventilation, ranging from 1.6 to 2.6 h⁻¹, which is lower than the recommended rate. The ventilation is insufficient even though the TNPESU stadium is facilitated with lower wind drift.

Swimming is an internationally recognized and popular sport, swimming has evolved over the years with the inclusion of real-time analytics, body analysis, and a lot of cell- and body-level research around the world, but particularly in India, the amount of research on it is very minimal and with the popularity for the sport raising, it was apt for me to start research on it. To evaluate and compare physiological and body composition parameters among different ages and genders during one mesocycle in swimmers. The study involved a sample collection from 60 (n = 60) active national swimmers in the under 16 age categories of which 33 were male and 27 were female. Anthropometric measurements, body composition, and VO2 max parameters were analyzed by using universally accepted and used equipment for the purpose of tests such as anthropometry, body composition, lung capacity, etc., on athletes. Anthropometrical measurements are the basic measurements such as height, weight, BP, SPO2, etc. Body composition tests are conducted using the InBody 770. Spirometry test is used to conduct forced vital capacity. Post spirometry test a breath-by-breath analysis test (CPET) is conducted for VO2 max. The sample was further classified on the basis of their age and gender and a t-test was used for two independent samples in order to compare the classified groups. The statistical analysis was done with the help of software named IBM SPSS Statistics 20. From the study, we were able to conclude that parameters such as anthropometry, body composition, and lung functions play a vital role in the performance of an athlete depending on their age, gender, and training protocol, also working on these parameters would surely help them improve their performance.

This paper examines the respiratory performances of sportspersons from the perspective of thermodynamics. Performing in a comfortable environment not only widens the respiratory smoothness of athletes but also boosts their performance. By psychometric analysis of the air-conditioned stadium environment, the type and quality of air conditioning can be forecasted. A new term, metabolic respiratory efficiency (MRE) is introduced in this paper which formulates the ratio of respiratory workdone to the energy supplied through glucose by metabolism. The effect of limited and excess metabolic oxygen supply on the MRE has been observed and in context of this, the percentage of glucose required for smooth breathing process with beforesaid air condition is also assessed. To enhance convenience, the ambient is dehumidified without overcooling the temperature in most indoor stadiums. A comparison of all these parameters is made for a number of sports to analyse the dependence of performance on variations of respiratory conditions and the type of air conditioning system required for indoor air-conditioned stadiums for respective sports.

This study scrutinizes dehydration's impact on the physiological and cognitive performance of team athletes across diverse exercise intensities. Fourteen male team players (7 volleyball and 7 kabaddi) underwent assessments including anthropometrics, cognitive tests, and urine analysis before and after high- and moderate-intensity exercises. Significant findings revealed observable effects of dehydration on Maximum Heart Rate (Max HR), Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE), Urine Specific Gravity (USG), and Reaction Time among volleyball athletes. Kabaddi players exhibited significance in Max HR and RPE across both intensities. These outcomes underscore the influence of dehydration on physiological and cognitive aspects in team sports, emphasizing the need for tailored hydration strategies to optimize performance. This condensed abstract captures the study's focus on dehydration's impact on physiological markers and cognitive functions in volleyball and kabaddi players during varied exercise intensities, emphasizing the importance of customized hydration plans for performance optimization.

This research study investigates the use of the Navier–Stokes equations to examine a cricket ball's flight. The trajectory of the ball is of paramount importance in the game, influencing the strategies employed by both bowlers and batsmen. Understanding the aerodynamics of the ball's flight is crucial for improving performance and developing new techniques. The Navier–Stokes equations, which govern fluid dynamics, offer a promising approach for studying and predicting ball trajectories. This paper discusses the significance of cricket ball flight and provides a concise explanation of the relevance of the Navier–Stokes equations. It emphasizes the need to investigate the application of these equations in analyzing cricket ball flight. By identifying gaps in the existing literature, the present study establishes a foundation for further investigation. The accuracy and limitations of the equations in modeling cricket ball flight are thoroughly examined and compare the results with existing theories and models. Overall, this research demonstrates the potential of the Navier–Stokes equations in analyzing cricket ball flight, contributing to the understanding of the game's aerodynamics, and providing valuable insights for enhancing performance and developing new techniques.

Talent identification in sports is a process of identifying individuals with the potential to excel in a particular sport or athletic activity. It entails evaluating a range of psychological, technical, tactical, and physical characteristics in order to pinpoint those who have what is needed to excel in a given sport. Talent management involves strategic management, nurturing already existing talent, and providing support to optimize performance with a vision for long-term success. MCDM Techniques provide a solid framework for determining the best solution to a decision problem taking into account the alternatives and free of any bias. In this paper, we explore the use of MCDM techniques for Talent Identification and Management with a special focus on football. We compiled data of five different players from Europe’s Top 5 leagues using WhoScored and applied AHP and TOPSIS methods to rank and order attackers, defenders, and midfielders on multiple facets of their game. AHP helps to establish a structured and objective framework for determining the criteria and sub-criteria. TOPSIS is then used to rank these players on the basis of these criteria, thus providing valuable insights to clubs for talent identification and player selection in football. With sophisticated football strategies, and with an increasing number of players to pick from, it is becoming harder to distinguish them based on numbers. This study presents a feasible solution to address the issue by objectively evaluating all criteria in a scientific manner, in order to select the most qualified individuals.

Cricket, a professional sport with a rich history spanning 160 years, generates vast amounts of data that require effective analysis for accurate predictions. The conventional evaluation of batter performance in T20 cricket relies on strike rate and average, but these metrics fail to capture the intricacies and context of the game, resulting in a limited assessment of a batter's true value to the team's success. This research paper introduces two additional metrics, latency and acceleration, to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of a batter's performance in the T20 format. To demonstrate the efficacy of these metrics, the top 40 batters with the most runs scored in the Indian Premier League (IPL) are ranked using the proposed latency and acceleration metrics. The research identifies the best batter who consistently performed well, adapted to various match situations, and made significant contributions to the team's success. The incorporation of latency and acceleration addresses the limitations of relying solely on strike rate and average by considering contextual factors, providing a more comprehensive assessment of a batter's performance in T20 cricket matches. The research uniquely determines a player's caliber based on novel metrics not previously explored in other research findings, making it extremely useful. Furthermore, it enhances the understanding of the game, facilitates effective player selection, and empowers teams to make informed decisions based on a batter's true impact on team success.

This study compared muscle activity in 10 male medium-fast bowlers using electromyography during two different approaches: front-on and side-on. Five upper body muscles were selected for analysis: anterior deltoid, pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi, trapezius, and triceps brachii. Ten male medium-fast bowlers (aged 22.5 ± 3.19 years, height 176.78 ± 9.14 cm, weight 69.9 ± 8.7) were recruited for the study. Root Mean Square (RMS) values were calculated to measure muscle activation. The researchers compared the EMG signals of two groups using a t-test. While no statistically significant differences were found, trends emerged. Front-on bowlers exhibited higher RMS values for the anterior deltoid, trapezius, and triceps brachii, suggesting increased muscle activation. Conversely, the pectoralis major and latissimus dorsi displayed higher RMS values for side-on bowlers. The observed differences may be attributed to the range of motion required for each approach. The front-on approach involves shoulder alignment exceeding 200° during foot impacts, potentially necessitating greater muscle activation for accuracy. Despite the lack of statistical significance, the differences in muscle activation highlight the potential influence of the bowling approach on upper-body muscle activity. Further research is needed to confirm these results and explore their implications for bowling performance and injury prevention.

This study aimed to examine upper body muscle engagement during the forehand smash in table tennis using two different racket coverings—inverted and short-pimpled. Seven male university-level table tennis players (mean age 20.12 ± 2.38, height 164.9 ± 7.5 cm, weight 67.5 ± 5.2 kg) with adequate playing experience participated. Approval was obtained from the research committee, and participants were ensured to be physically fit. Electromyographical signals were recorded from four upper body muscles (Biceps Brachii, Triceps Brachii, Trapezius, and Anterior Deltoid). Root Mean Square (RMS), an EMG signal variable, was analyzed for maximum muscle involvement. Paired t-test method compared muscle activation with both racket coverings, using mean and standard deviation for descriptive statistics. While none of the muscles exhibited a significant difference in activation levels, Biceps Brachii and Trapezius showed higher RMS values with the Inverted covering, whereas Triceps Brachii and Anterior Deltoid had higher RMS values with the short-pip covering. Despite the forehand smash's offensive significance, its accuracy control remains challenging, particularly within a designated target area, as highlighted in previous studies citing the superior spin production of inverted rubber over pimpled rubber.

Tennis is one of the few ball sports where the playing surface is routinely shuffled to make the game engaging for both the fans and the players. These surfaces exhibit different characteristics and present their own challenges, thus demanding different playing strategies from the players. Another key element influencing the ball's trajectory is undoubtedly the imparted spin. Used appropriately, it can raise the shot's error margin while simultaneously affecting the event of bounce. The current study aims to visualize the trajectory of a tennis ball for various kinds of imparted spins on different playing surfaces. This needs an understanding of the various aerodynamic forces in operation while the ball is in flight and the court's behavior that manipulates the trajectory on impact. The numerous parameters in play can be collectively altered to vary the shot placement along and across the court, the bounce of the ball and the time the opponent player gets to return the shot. We investigate and elaborate on the effect each of the parameters has on the ball's trajectory. Understanding this physics can provide valuable insights to the players and coaches in terms of precise shot execution and playing strategies.

The Q-angle, representing the angle formed between the patellar tendon and the quadriceps muscle, holds considerable significance in understanding knee biomechanics. This study focuses on the Q-angle in female athletes, recognizing their heightened vulnerability to knee injuries due to anatomical, joint laxity, and muscle strength differences. Specifically, the research targets female athletes who are engaged in volleyball, weightlifting, and boxing, comparing them to non-athletic counterparts (N = 17, age = 19 ± 3). The investigation aims to correlate Q-angle values with anthropometry, body composition parameters, foot posture, and functional tests. Anthropometric variables such as height, weight, thigh circumference, limb length, and waist-hip ratio are measured alongside body composition parameters utilizing dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The Foot Posture Index-6 (FPI-6) is employed to categorize foot types, encompassing criteria like talar head palpation and calcaneal angle. Bilateral differences in Q-angle among athletes are explored, with statistical analyses performed using independent T-tests and Pearson correlations. Surprisingly, the study reveals no significant difference in both right leg Q-angle (p = 0.67) and left leg Q-angle (p = 0.30) between athletes and non-athletes. Notably, negative correlations emerge between right-leg Q-angle and bone mineral content (BMC), total bone mineral density (BMD), and hip BMD in volleyball and boxing athletes, while weightlifters exhibit no such correlations. Pronated foot posture demonstrates a significant association with right leg Q-angle (r = 0.508^*) and left leg Q-angle (r = 0.514^*), additionally, negative correlations surface between right-leg Q-angle and functional tests. In conclusion, this study clarifies the link between knee biomechanics and athletic performance in female athletes by offering detailed insights into the delicate interplay of Q-angle with body composition, and postural parameters.

Walking, jogging, or leaping can be done with exceptional plantar comfort thanks to modern athletic footwear. On the other hand, a perceptual illusion is produced when harmful plantar loads cause minimal felt plantar discomfort. This leads to insufficient impact-moderating behavior and subsequent injury. Sports footwear goods are in high demand due to the notable increase in physical activity. The footwear business has had to increase product variety, shorten timeframes for product development, and offer customized goods in order to stay competitive. To measure the functionalities of athletic footwear, evaluations are essential in product development, developing prototypes, biomechanics, and other domains. These include the mitigation of impact forces during motion, traction, and motion control. In this work, the level of optimum athletic performance was determined for certain Indian-based footwear brands. Five athletic footwears from some of the leading Indian footwear manufacturers were selected for slip risk assessment studies in an athletic activity flooring. Shore A hardness was measured with the help of a durometer for all the athletic footwear selected for the study. The heel tread contact area of all the athletic shoes was also determined prior to the questionnaire survey and athletic evaluation by the participants. The evaluation was performed on the flooring of a badminton court. The participants were asked to wear the five selected athletic footwears and then perform their practice session accordingly. Their responses were recorded which included the attributes from footwear comfort, slipping probability and ease of athletic effectiveness. On the basis of these feedback, the most optimum footwear outsole tread pattern was shortlisted.

The current work investigates the impact of nutrients intake on athletic performance through the Fibonacci wavelet approach. The Athlete’s performance is influenced by the nutrients intake in his diet. The governing nutrient, metabolism, and performance equations are transformed into algebraic equations. The Fibonacci wavelet method is used to solve achieved nonlinear coupled equations. The nature of the Athlete’s performance is analyzed graphically for a scale of various values of physical parameters. The Fibonacci integral operational matrix is used to solve the achieved nonlinear equation and it has been used for the first time to solve problem related to sports engineering.

The absence of advanced analytical tools has been a major obstacle in the world of ball badminton, a traditional sport. The lack of real-time data and valuable insights has long impeded players, coaches, and spectators. This paper introduces an innovative system aimed at transforming the ball badminton experience, enhancing player performance, engaging spectators, and providing valuable tools for coaches and fans through real-time insights and dynamic performance visualizations. This approach involves developing a system, preferably an application, to track the movement of the player and measure position, acceleration, and speed using computer vision and predicting tactics to assist during training, tracking the short trajectory of the ball to assist during practices for improvement, displaying live statistics such as player stats (points won, errors, aces), match progress (scoreboard), and historical data (head-to-head records) to provide context and analysis during the match, besides assisting the umpire in making decisions. Benefits to the viewers are the display of real-time statistics, fan engagement through quizzes on the sport, and result prediction. Coaches can use it to make strategic decisions, players to review their performance, and fans to gain deeper insights into the match. Additionally, it employs a markerless motion capture system, which relies on deep learning for human position estimation and computer vision techniques. To transform pixel data into court coordinates and enable the measurement of parameters like distance covered, court positioning, and average player speeds for ball badminton players, the methodology relies on the inverse perspective mapping method. One of the algorithms applied in this context is the Lucas-Kanade optical flow algorithm, which aids in player tracking and position estimation, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the technology. The technology will track player movements and tactical insights with great precision. The accuracy of the system’s visuals and data is intended to considerably help to a better comprehension of the game. We aim to improve player performance, captivate spectators, and provide vital tools for players, coaches, and fans by providing real-time insights and dynamic performance visualizations.

For many years, perhaps even from the inception of the game itself, cricket players and spectators have been drawn to the aerodynamic properties of a cricket ball. We have compared the lift force and drag with observations. The Detached Eddy Simulation model (DES) has been used to provide a 2D numerical simulation of a cricket ball. DES was effectively used to simulate the cricket ball's lift and drag forces at various ball speeds, seam angles, and roughness heights. This study focuses on the computational fluid dynamic simulation of the cricket ball in the flow field. The flow field at different roughness angles 45° to 90° with a gradient of 15°, roughness heights in a range of 0.1 to 1 mm, and three bowling velocities of 32.77,35.55, and 45.55 m/s have been computationally analyzed. Aerodynamic forces were obtained using numerical analysis, while boundary layer separation sites were obtained through analysis. The aerodynamics of a cricket ball were proven by comparing the boundary layer separation width and asymmetry to the drag and lift forces.