Sporting success for SESAME

An EPSRC-funded project will use wireless sensor-based systems with offline and real-time processing and feedback to bring sporting success to Britain.

SESAME (Sensing for Sport and Managed Exercise) will combine multiple video cameras with on-body sensors that measure factors such as arm angle, knee lift and body lean. The sensors use small, low-power electronics and wireless technology to collect the data.

These data are then transmitted to the coach who will be provided with a near-instant slow motion replay and an extensive amount of information for analysis of elite athletes and young athletes who have been identified as having world class potential.

The project involves groups from University College London, the Royal Veterinary College, the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff and Cambridge University.

‘Our aim is to use technology to help coaches, not replace them.’ said Dr Robert Harle, Cambridge University. ‘A key aspect of SESAME is to listen to coaches and understand their needs. Their input could help ensure that we develop technology tools which make a real impact on achievement by UK athletes in the future.